Reykjadalur Hot River and Bathing Pools
Reykjadalur Hot River and Bathing Pools
Reykjadalur (Steamy Valley) lies north of Hveragerdi. This lush green valley is peppered with hot springs set among the colorful mountains behind the town.
Do as the locals do and bathe in one of the many hot pools in a small river there. You’ll need hiking boots, bathing suit and towel, together with the right outdoor clothing, including wind and rainproof gear.
From road 1, proceed through the town to the river Varma and without crossing the bridge, follow the road upstream.
Where it forks just outside the town, bear left and continue driving to the end of the road, where you'll find a car park.
The hike to the bathing spot takes 60-70 minutes along a marked hiking trail. The trail can get muddy and involves a climb of about 250m. In the winter months, the conditions can be very difficult and therefore not recommended, particularly from November to March.
The hot springs are not fenced off in this area and walkers should stick to the trail for safety reasons and avoid damaging the vegetation.
It is worth continuing beyond the bathing area to a cluster of steaming hot springs at the head of the valley.