Top 10 Sights You Can’t Miss on the Iceland Laugavegur Trail

iHiking the Laugavegur Trail is the adventure of a lifetime in Iceland. This famous 34-mile trek from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk offers a little bit of everything that makes Iceland unforgettable: steaming geothermal areas, vibrant mountains, black sand deserts, lush valleys, and glacial rivers. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or exploring the Laugavegur Trail for beginners, there are sights along this trail that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our rundown of the top 10 must-see spots, complete with tips and fun facts to help you make the most of this incredible journey!

1. Landmannalaugar – The Start of Your Journey

The stunning rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar display a natural palette of colors, offering one of Iceland’s most picturesque and surreal landscapes. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Start your hike in Landmannalaugar, a geothermal wonderland known for its colorful rhyolite mountains. Here, you’ll see mountains that shift from red to pink, yellow to green, all thanks to the volcanic minerals in the rock.

Tip: Don’t miss the natural hot spring here! A quick dip in the steaming waters is the perfect way to kick off your adventure.

2. Laugahraun Lava Field

The unique landscape of the Laugahraun Lava Field combines rugged volcanic rock with vibrant mountain views, making it a must-see for adventurers exploring Iceland’s highlands.

The Laugahraun lava field, formed by an eruption over 500 years ago, is a unique and eerie landscape. The dark, craggy lava contrasts beautifully with the vibrant hills surrounding it, creating a scene straight out of a fantasy novel.

Fun Fact: The name “Laugahraun” means “lava field of pools,” referencing the nearby hot springs.

3. Mt. Bláhnúkur – The Blue Peak

Mt. Bláhnúkur, or The Blue Peak, offers a stunning contrast to Iceland’s colorful rhyolite hills, making it a captivating sight for those trekking through Landmannalaugar.

Bláhnúkur, or “Blue Peak,” is a popular detour along the trail and offers panoramic views of Landmannalaugar and beyond. This colorful mountain gets its bluish tint from volcanic ash and minerals, and it’s one of the best places to capture the trail’s stunning landscape.

Tip: If you’re up for a challenge, the hike to the top takes about 1-2 hours. Expert tour guides in Iceland often recommend it for the view!

4. Graenagil Canyon – The Hidden Gem of Iceland Laugavegur Trail

The famous Graenagil, or “Green Gorge,” is a narrow canyon with walls that seem to glow green from the moss and minerals within. It’s a hidden gem along the Laugavegur Trail in Iceland, showcasing Iceland’s vibrant volcanic colors up close. 

Tip: Take your time here to snap some photos! This canyon is perfect for nature photographers and anyone looking to capture Iceland’s unique landscape.

5. Hrafntinnusker – A Geothermal Playground

The geothermal wonderland of Hrafntinnusker offers adventurers a unique blend of green plains, snowy peaks, and volcanic terrain, capturing Iceland’s diverse and stunning landscapes.

As you make your way to Hrafntinnusker, you’ll come across steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and sulfur-streaked hills. Interestingly, this area feels like stepping onto another planet, with geothermal activity everywhere you look.

Fun Fact: Hrafntinnusker is known for its obsidian, a natural volcanic glass. Additionally, the Icelandic word “hrafntinna” actually means “raven’s stone.”

6. Álftavatn Lake – Laugavegur Trail Breathtaking View

Álftavatn, or “Swan Lake,” is a tranquil spot that offers breathtaking views over a shimmering lake surrounded by green valleys. Undoubtedly, it’s also one of the primary camping areas on the trail, providing a perfect place to rest and take in the scenery.

Tip: Set up camp here and enjoy the sunset over the lake for an unforgettable evening.

7. Mælifellssandur Black Desert

The haunting beauty of Mælifellssandur Black Desert offers a surreal experience for explorers, with its volcanic sands and misty atmosphere embodying Iceland’s wild, untamed landscapes.

Moreover, walking through Mælifellssandur feels like you’re on another planet. This expansive black sand desert stretches as far as the eye can see, with the green slopes of Mælifell Mountain rising in the distance.

Fun Fact: This desert was created by volcanic ash and sand, giving it that stark, alien look.

8. The Emstrur Valley

Camping in the breathtaking Emstrur Valley, surrounded by stunning mountains and the untouched beauty of Icelandic wilderness.

The Emstrur Valley provides a lush, green break from the barren landscapes. Here, you’ll find winding rivers, dramatic cliffs, and, if you’re lucky, views of Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers in the distance.

Tip: Make a quick stop at the Emstrur hut to rest and refuel. The valley views here are phenomenal!

9. Markarfljót Canyon

The braided rivers of Markarfljót Canyon weave through volcanic sands, creating a mesmerizing and intricate landscape that highlights Iceland’s dynamic natural beauty.

Markarfljót Canyon is one of the trail’s hidden gems. Indeed, this steep, rugged canyon offers a fantastic view of the winding river below. It’s a challenging section of the trail, but the dramatic landscapes are worth every step.

Fun Fact: The canyon was carved by glacial rivers, shaping the landscape over thousands of years.

10. Þórsmörk – The Valley of Thor

Þórsmörk, the legendary Valley of Thor, invites explorers to experience its breathtaking beauty, with sprawling plains, winding rivers, and majestic mountain views. A true Icelandic paradise for nature lovers.

The trail ends in Þórsmörk, a lush valley surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Named after Thor, the Norse god of thunder, Þórsmörk is one of Iceland’s most beloved hiking areas, with trails winding through dense birch forests and glacial rivers.

Tip: Spend an extra day exploring Þórsmörk! The area has several additional trails, including the popular Fimmvörðuháls trail.

Ready for a Fun Adventure in Iceland?

The Laugavegur Trail offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing Iceland’s best landscapes. So if you’re ready to tackle this journey, Local Adventures is here to help! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking to explore the Laugavegur trail for beginners, our expert tour guides in Iceland ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-planned adventure. Book your spot with Local Adventures today and prepare to make memories on one of the world’s most spectacular trails!