Welcome to the land of fire and ice, where nature’s raw beauty is on full display. Iceland is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience this is through hiking. Whether you’re staying in Ísafjörður, Stykkishólmur, Hvítá in Borgarfjörður, Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, Drangshlíð in south Iceland, or Hrífunes close to Vík, there are countless trails waiting for you to explore. Here’s a guide to some of Iceland’s most scenic and picturesque hiking trails.
Hornstrandir Nature Reserve
If you’re staying in Ísafjörður, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This remote and untouched wilderness offers breathtaking views, dramatic cliffs, and abundant wildlife. The hike to Hornbjarg cliff is particularly popular, offering panoramic views of the surrounding fjords. Make sure to bring your camera, as the scenery is truly spectacular.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
For those based in Stykkishólmur, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase Iceland’s diverse landscapes. The trail to the Snæfellsjökull glacier is a highlight, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the black sand beaches, lava fields, and charming fishing villages along the way.
Húsafell and the Hvítá River
Hvítá in Borgarfjörður is a great base for exploring the Húsafell area and the Hvítá River. The hike to the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls is a must-do, offering stunning views of the cascading water and surrounding lava fields. For a more challenging hike, consider the trail to the Langjökull glacier, where you can explore ice caves and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Skaftafell National Park
If you’re staying in Klettasel in Hof in Öræfi, Skaftafell National Park is a must-visit. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The trail to Svartifoss waterfall is particularly popular, offering stunning views of the basalt columns and surrounding landscape. For a more challenging hike, consider the trail to the Kristínartindar peaks, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.
Fimmvörðuháls Pass
For those based in Drangshlíð in south Iceland, the Fimmvörðuháls Pass is a must-do hike. This challenging trail takes you through a variety of landscapes, including lush valleys, volcanic craters, and glaciers. The hike offers stunning views of the Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull glaciers, as well as the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Landmannalaugar
If you’re staying in Hrífunes close to Vík, the Landmannalaugar area is a must-visit. The area offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The trail to the Brennisteinsalda volcano is particularly popular, offering stunning views of the surrounding rhyolite mountains and geothermal areas. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs after your hike.
For those looking to explore these stunning hiking trails, we recommend booking a tour with Troll Expeditions. They offer a variety of tours that cater to all levels of experience, ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, Iceland’s diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to explore some of the most scenic and picturesque hiking trails in the world.