Reykjadalur Valley Hot Spring River

## Overview Reykjadalur Valley — whose name translates to "Steam Valley" — is one of Iceland's most beloved natural geothermal bathing destinations. Located in the municipality of Sveitarfélagið Ölfus in southwestern Iceland, just a short drive from the town of Hveragerði, this remarkable valley features a geothermally heated river where warm water flows freely through a stunning volcanic landscape. The hot spring river sits at approximately 64.032°N, 21.227°W, nestled in the Hengill volcanic system, one of Iceland's most active geothermal areas. Unlike many of Iceland's commercial hot spring facilities, Reykjadalur offers a completely free, wild bathing experience in a naturally heated river. The geothermal activity in the Hengill area has been ongoing for thousands of years, with hot water rising through fissures in the volcanic bedrock and mixing with cold glacial stream water. This creates sections of the river with varying temperatures — some areas comfortably warm for soaking, others too hot to enter. The valley is dotted with steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and sulfurous fumaroles that hint at the powerful geothermal forces beneath the surface. Hveragerði, the nearest town, is sometimes called the "Hot Spring Town" and is well known throughout Iceland for its geothermal greenhouses and seismic activity. The 2008 earthquake that struck the area actually altered some of the geothermal features in Reykjadalur, changing the flow and temperature of certain hot spots in the valley. ## Directions 1. From Reykjavík, drive southeast on Route 1 (the Ring Road) for approximately 45 kilometers (about 40 minutes) to the town of Hveragerði. 2. In Hveragerði, follow signs toward Reykjadalur. Head north through the town on Breiðamörk street, which leads to the trailhead parking area at the mouth of the valley. 3. Park at the designated Reykjadalur trailhead parking lot (GPS: approximately 64.022°N, 21.218°W). The parking area can fill up quickly during summer months, so arriving early is recommended. 4. From the trailhead, follow the well-marked hiking path into the valley. The trail is approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) one way, with a moderate elevation gain of around 150 meters. Allow roughly 45 minutes to one hour each way. 5. The trail follows the river upstream, passing steaming vents and hot springs along the way. The main bathing area is located where wooden boardwalks and simple changing screens have been installed along the riverbank. ## What to Expect The hike into Reykjadalur is a scenic and moderately challenging walk along a well-trodden trail. Along the way, you'll pass dramatic steam vents, boiling mud pots, and small hot springs — a vivid reminder that you're walking through an active geothermal zone. The landscape is lush and green in summer, with grassy hillsides and wildflowers contrasting against the rising steam. At the main bathing area, simple wooden boardwalks and privacy screens have been set up to help visitors change. The river itself varies in temperature depending on where you sit — closer to the geothermal inflows the water can be very hot, while areas where cold stream water mixes in are more comfortable for bathing. Most bathers find a sweet spot where the temperature is pleasantly warm, typically between 35–40°C (95–104°F). The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy hiking shoes or boots are strongly recommended. Bring a towel, swimsuit, and a bag for carrying your belongings on the hike. There are no facilities (restrooms, shops, or changing rooms) at the trailhead or along the trail beyond the basic wooden screens at the bathing site. The valley is accessible year-round, but conditions vary significantly by season. Summer (June–August) offers the longest daylight hours and the most comfortable hiking conditions, though it is also the busiest time. In winter, the trail may be icy or snow-covered, and shorter daylight hours require careful planning. The contrast of soaking in a warm river surrounded by snow-dusted hills is, however, an unforgettable experience for those prepared for the conditions. As with all wild geothermal features, exercise caution around boiling water, steam vents, and unstable ground near fumaroles. Stay on marked paths and avoid touching or entering water that appears to be boiling or excessively hot.