Gunnuhver Hot Springs
Witness Iceland's raw geothermal power at Gunnuhver, featuring its largest mud spring and dramatic steam vents. A primal introduction to volcanic land...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, dramatic steam
Gunnuhver Hot Springs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, dramatic steam
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Iceland's raw geothermal power at Gunnuhver, featuring its largest mud spring and dramatic steam vents. A primal introduction to volcanic landscapes.
"A unique place with boiling hot water, a strong smell of sulphur, and amazing views!"
👃 Embrace the Sulfur Smell
The strong smell of hydrogen sulfide is intense but part of the experience! It's a sign of powerful geothermal activity.
🧥 Dress for Fierce Winds
The wind can be very strong here. Layer up with windproof clothing for a more comfortable visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Mud Pool
Central geothermal area
Witness Iceland's largest mud spring erupting with boiling water and steam. A truly primal display of Earth's power.
Wooden Walkway
Circumnavigating the geothermal area
Safely explore the bubbling pools and steaming vents, getting up close to the geological marvels.
Folk Tale of Gunna
Informational signs around the area
Learn the chilling legend of the spirit Gunna, said to haunt these very hot springs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Geothermal Wonders
Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👃 Embrace the Sulfur Smell
The strong smell of hydrogen sulfide is intense but part of the experience! It's a sign of powerful geothermal activity.
🧥 Dress for Fierce Winds
The wind can be very strong here. Layer up with windproof clothing for a more comfortable visit.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Free parking is available, making it a convenient stop, especially after arriving at KEF airport.
🚶♀️ Stay on the Path
The wooden walkways are there for your safety. Do not stray from marked paths near the hot springs.
Tips
from all over the internet
👃 Embrace the Sulfur Smell
The strong smell of hydrogen sulfide is intense but part of the experience! It's a sign of powerful geothermal activity.
🧥 Dress for Fierce Winds
The wind can be very strong here. Layer up with windproof clothing for a more comfortable visit.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Free parking is available, making it a convenient stop, especially after arriving at KEF airport.
🚶♀️ Stay on the Path
The wooden walkways are there for your safety. Do not stray from marked paths near the hot springs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are impressed by the raw power and unique geological spectacle of Gunnuhver Hot Springs, calling it a 'unique place' and a 'great experience.' The accessibility with free parking and toilets is a plus. However, the intense sulfur smell is a significant factor that some find overwhelming, though many acknowledge it as part of the authentic geothermal experience.
"We just landed at KEF airport, picked up our rental car, and drove southwest to this remote part of Iceland. Get ready for your first taste of what an volcanic island is all about. The underground is hissing with boiling water, the wind is fierce and cold, and the volcanic landscape is a joy to behold. You will recognize that this is not just another remote part of the world. Take in the sea, birds, blue sky, and fresh scents, and you will have started with a great intro to Iceland. Next, go to Grindavik for lunch. Enjoy!"
Morten Kristensen
"Unique place! This place has free parking and free toilets. Recommend to visit but be prepared that this place has very strong smell of hydrogen sulfide."
Tanea Jarovlea
"Great experience. Water is boiling hot and a strong smell of sulphur. Amazing view!"
anirban chakraborty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gunnuhver Hot Springs is conveniently located about 30 minutes southwest of Keflavik Airport (KEF). After picking up your rental car, it's a straightforward drive. The road leading to the springs is partly gravel with some potholes, so drive cautiously.
Public transport options directly to Gunnuhver are limited. It's best visited with a rental car, especially if you're exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Yes, Gunnuhver is a great stop on a day trip exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is easily accessible from Reykjavik. It's often combined with other nearby attractions.
Nearby attractions include the Bridge Between Continents, Reykjanes Lighthouse, Krýsuvík geothermal area, and Lake Kleifarvatn.
The final approach to Gunnuhver Hot Springs involves a gravel road that can have some deeper potholes. Drive slowly and carefully.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gunnuhver Hot Springs offers free admission and free parking, making it an accessible natural wonder.
Gunnuhver Hot Springs is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
No, tickets are not required as entry to Gunnuhver Hot Springs is free. You can visit spontaneously.
Yes, there are free public toilets available at the Gunnuhver Hot Springs site.
The main geothermal area is accessible via a wooden walkway, which can be navigated by many, but uneven surfaces and wind might pose challenges.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see Iceland's largest mud spring, bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and a dramatic volcanic landscape. The air is filled with steam and the distinct smell of sulfur.
Yes, the smell of hydrogen sulfide (sulfur) is very strong and noticeable. It's a characteristic of geothermal areas and a sign of the earth's activity.
The springs are named after a local ghost named Gunna, who was said to haunt the area and cause mischief after dying of starvation. A priest reportedly exorcised her spirit into the hot spring.
You can walk quite close to the hot springs and steam clouds via the designated wooden walkway, which allows for safe viewing of the geothermal activity.
You'll witness a raw volcanic landscape with steaming vents, mud pools, and barren earth, showcasing Iceland's geological power.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic steam plumes rising from the mud pools, the stark volcanic terrain, and the textures of the bubbling mud. The contrast between the steam and the sky is often striking.
Yes, as long as you stay on the designated wooden walkways. Be mindful of steam obscuring your view and slippery surfaces.
Use a faster shutter speed to freeze the steam's movement or a slower one for a more ethereal, wispy effect. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections and enhance colors.
Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. Always check current rules and restrictions before flying, especially in natural areas.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and enhance the colors of the landscape and steam.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Ensure children stay on the designated walkways at all times, as the ground is unstable and hot. Dress warmly in layers, as the wind can be quite strong. The free parking and toilets make it a convenient stop. Consider it a great, quick introduction to Iceland's volcanic nature before heading to other attractions.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Bridge Between Continents and the Reykjanes Lighthouse for a full day of exploration. The free entry and parking are a bonus for budget-conscious travelers.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Capture the dynamic movement of the steam, the textures of the mud pools, and the vastness of the geothermal field. Early morning or late afternoon light can add depth and mood to your shots. Remember to protect your gear from the steam and wind.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of Geothermal Activity
Visitors can observe the raw power of the Earth as water boils and mud bubbles vigorously. The constant hiss and steam create an otherworldly atmosphere. It's a stark reminder of the dynamic forces that shape Iceland's unique landscape. The strong smell of sulfur is an integral part of this experience, signaling the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas released from the Earth's interior.
Walking along the wooden boardwalk allows you to get relatively close to these geothermal phenomena. It’s important to stay on the designated paths for safety, as the ground can be unstable and extremely hot. The visual and olfactory experience at Gunnuhver offers a profound connection to Iceland's geological heart.
Local Legends and Folklore
To quell her haunting, a priest was called to perform an exorcism. The tale goes that Gunna's spirit was driven into the bubbling hot spring, where she remains to this day. This story contributes to the dramatic and somewhat eerie ambiance of the geothermal area, making it more than just a geological site but a place with a rich cultural narrative.
These folk tales are often shared through informational signs around the site, providing visitors with a glimpse into Iceland's rich history of storytelling and its connection to the natural world. It’s a fascinating aspect that complements the visual spectacle of the hot springs.
Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula
Beyond Gunnuhver, the peninsula boasts other significant sites. The Bridge Between Continents allows you to symbolically walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The Reykjanes Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline, and the Krýsuvík geothermal area presents more steaming vents and colorful mineral deposits. Lake Kleifarvatn adds a serene contrast with its vast, dark waters.
Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula provides a comprehensive understanding of Iceland's geological activity. The diverse landscapes, from geothermal fields to dramatic coastlines, make it a rewarding area to discover, with Gunnuhver serving as a powerful introduction to its raw, untamed beauty.
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