Steamiest Valley on the Island Island: A Scorching Hot Spot
H які довоSelected as a unforgettable spot for foreigners who fancy unusual places, the geothermally-energized town of Hveragerði in Iceland guarantees an extraordinary experience. The stunning hot river bathing in the nearby Reykjadalur Valley is merely the tip of the iceberg.
Before you even reach the enchanting Reykjadalur, you'll notice the steam rising from afar, hinting at the powerful geothermal energy of the area that is part of the central volcano Hengill's system. The sight is both captivating and mystical. Inside the town, you'll find restaurants such as Ölverk that serve aromatic pizza and beer brewed through geothermal energy, making your meal a truly unusual culinary adventure.
Hveragerði also boasts a geothermal park showcasing boiling hot pools and greenhouses where fresh strawberries, flowers, and even bananas grow thanks to the geothermal warmth. Additionally, the town attracts artists, who find inspiration and settling ground here. Take a walk along "The Walk of the Artists" or visit the LÁ Art Museum to immerse yourself in modern art and relax on the sun terrace of the museum's charming café.
The town's tiny waterfall, Reykjafoss, is often overlooked but is a gem worth visiting. You'll find it on the way to the parking lot from which the popular hiking trail to the hot river begins. The café in the parking lot offers a panoramic view, delicious cake, and a cozy spot to enjoy some coffee before or after your hiking adventure.
The trail to the hot springs within Ölfus Municipality is roughly 3.5 kilometers long (one way takes about an hour) and is now well-developed and signposted, making it easy for hikers of all skill levels to navigate. The route is breathtaking, featuring rushing waterfalls, steaming hot springs, and a spectacular view of the colorful mountains. However, a word of warning—the beginning of the trail can be steep, so you'll have to earn that relaxing dip in the river.
Upon reaching the bathing area with wooden footbridges and changing facilities, take a seat in the warm, soothing water, surrounded by the picturesque green hills. It's almost like being in the Shire of Lord of the Rings. As you wade in the warm water, keep an eye out for the steam rising from the geothermal activity, and listen to the calming sounds of nature.
In the end, a note about accessibility. Hveragerði is located about 45 kilometers east of Reykjavík, offering the perfect combination of peace and quiet along with the convenience of city amenities nearby. Hveragerði showcases the power of sustainable living through its extensive use of geothermal energy. Exploring this unique town will undoubtedly provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience, leaving you with memories to cherish forever.
- The steam rising from afar, hinting at the powerful geothermal energy of the Hengill central volcano system, is a captivating and mystical sight before you even reach the Reykjadalur Valley.
- In Hveragerði, restaurants such as Ołverk offer an unusual culinary adventure with aromatic pizza and beer brewed through geothermal energy.
- The geothermal park in Hveragerði showcases boiling hot pools and greenhouses where unique produce like strawberries, flowers, and even bananas grow, thanks to the geothermal warmth.
- At Reykjafoss, a tiny waterfall often overlooked, you'll find a panoramic view, delicious cake, and a cozy spot to enjoy coffee before or after your hiking adventure in the Ołfus Municipality.
