Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers some of the most breathtaking and picturesque hiking trails in the world. Whether you’re staying at our hotel in Ísafjörður, Stykkishólmur, Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, Drangshlíð in south Iceland, or Hrífunes close to Vík, you’ll find an array of stunning trails to explore. Here are some of the most scenic hiking trails that you shouldn’t miss during your visit.
One of the most iconic hiking trails in Iceland is the Laugavegur Trail. This 55-kilometer trek takes you through a diverse landscape of hot springs, glaciers, and volcanic deserts. Starting from Landmannalaugar and ending in Þórsmörk, the trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and challenging terrain. Make sure to allocate 4-5 days to fully experience this trail.
If you’re staying at our hotel in Ísafjörður, consider hiking the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. This remote and untouched area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including Arctic foxes and numerous bird species. The trails here are less marked, so it’s advisable to go with a guide from [Troll Expeditions](https://www.troll.is).
For those based in Stykkishólmur, the Snæfellsjökull National Park offers a range of hiking options. The most popular trail is the ascent to the Snæfellsjökull glacier, which inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Guests staying at our Hvítá in Borgarfjörður location should not miss the Glymur Waterfall hike. Glymur is Iceland’s second-highest waterfall, and the trail to reach it is both scenic and adventurous. The hike involves crossing rivers and navigating through caves, making it a thrilling experience for any hiker.
If you’re near Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, the Skaftafell National Park offers several trails that cater to different skill levels. The Svartifoss Waterfall trail is a must-see, featuring a stunning waterfall surrounded by dark basalt columns. For a more challenging hike, consider the Kristínartindar Mountain trail, which offers spectacular views of the Vatnajökull glacier.
Visitors to Drangshlíð in south Iceland should explore the Fimmvörðuháls Pass. This trail connects Skógar and Þórsmörk and takes you past 26 waterfalls, including the famous Skógafoss. The hike is about 22 kilometers long and can be completed in a day, but it’s advisable to start early to fully enjoy the scenery.
Lastly, if you’re staying at Hrífunes close to Vík, the Reynisfjara Beach and Dyrhólaey Peninsula offer some of the most dramatic coastal hikes in Iceland. The black sand beaches and towering basalt columns create a surreal landscape that is perfect for photography and exploration.
No matter where you’re staying, Iceland’s diverse and stunning landscapes offer hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. Make sure to plan your hikes in advance and consider booking a tour with [Troll Expeditions](https://www.troll.is) for a guided experience. Happy hiking!