Landmannalaugar

Twisting glacial rivers, hills the colour of burnt sienna and secret natural hot springs for mid-hike bathing; the landscape of Landmannalaugar is like another planet. This unique geological area within Iceland’s untamed highland interior is a prime spot for hikers, as the way-marked Laugavegur trail passes through.

The Landmannalaugar is an area of geological beauty where milky blue glacial rivers cut through the protected valley. It is one of Iceland’s most striking landscapes because the rhyolite minerals of the hills tinge them in sepia tones and a vast spectrum of colours. It sits on the edge of the Laugahraun lava plain which was formed during the eruption of a nearby volcano around 1477.

The reason it is called “the people’s pool” is because this valley is home to several naturally heated hot springs. Local Icelanders have been bathing in these pools for centuries, and these days they offer respite for those hiking the Laugavegur trail.