Hveravellir
A vibrant geothermal wonderland in Iceland's remote highlands, featuring bubbling springs and a natural bathing pool.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Hveravellir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant geothermal wonderland in Iceland's remote highlands, featuring bubbling springs and a natural bathing pool.
"It steams and whistles and smokes and bubbles that it is a real pleasure."
🚗 4x4 Recommended for F35
The F35 road to Hveravellir is rough. A 4x4 is essential for a smoother, safer journey.
💍 Remove Jewelry Before Soaking
The strong mineral content in the hot springs can damage silver jewelry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bubbling Geothermal Pools
Main geothermal area
Witness the earth breathe steam, whistle, and bubble in this vibrant geothermal wonderland.
Soothing Natural Hot Spring
Designated bathing area
Regulate your perfect temperature in the natural hot spring, a unique highland oasis.
Remote Highland Landscape
Kjölur Plateau
Experience the raw, remote beauty of Iceland's highlands, a truly alive and breathtaking environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Highlands Access & Vehicle Choice
Hot Spring Etiquette & Facilities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4x4 Recommended for F35
The F35 road to Hveravellir is rough. A 4x4 is essential for a smoother, safer journey.
💍 Remove Jewelry Before Soaking
The strong mineral content in the hot springs can damage silver jewelry.
💰 Fee for Hot Spring Use
A small fee (around 500 ISK) is requested for using the hot pond and facilities.
🥾 Explore Short Hiking Trails
Discover the geothermal area via established short hiking trails for a full experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4x4 Recommended for F35
The F35 road to Hveravellir is rough. A 4x4 is essential for a smoother, safer journey.
💍 Remove Jewelry Before Soaking
The strong mineral content in the hot springs can damage silver jewelry.
💰 Fee for Hot Spring Use
A small fee (around 500 ISK) is requested for using the hot pond and facilities.
🥾 Explore Short Hiking Trails
Discover the geothermal area via established short hiking trails for a full experience.
💧 Regulate Your Bathing Temp
Use the two pipes in the hot pond to mix hot and lukewarm water for your ideal temperature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hveravellir is lauded as an incredible, unique, and peaceful geothermal area in the remote Icelandic Highlands. Visitors appreciate the active bubbling and steaming features, as well as the opportunity to bathe in the natural hot spring with adjustable temperatures. The drive on the F35 is considered challenging but rewarding.
"Very nice geothermal area in the middle of the Highlands on the F35. It steams and whistles and smokes and bubbles that it is a real pleasure. From Selfoss 160 and from Blöndous 113km, partly good gravel, driving time very weather and vehicle dependent. Developed by small visitor center; several shorter hiking trails are established. Some hot springs where you can splash around. Overnight stay possible at campsites and some rooms. Good food!"
Thorsten Mundi
"Incredible place, very nice spot."
Noé
"Unique place. I was here twice and I would come again if I am in Iceland.
Peaceful, quiet and secluded."
AZ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hveravellir is located on the F35 road, also known as the Kjölur route, in the Icelandic Highlands. This road is unpaved and can be challenging, so a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended. The drive is weather-dependent and can take several hours from major towns like Selfoss or Blönduós.
The F35 road is typically only open during the summer months, usually from late June to early September, depending on snow conditions. Always check road conditions before you travel.
While technically possible in ideal summer conditions, it's not advisable. A regular car will struggle with the rough terrain, potentially leading to damage or getting stuck. A 4x4 offers much better clearance and stability.
Driving time varies greatly depending on your starting point and road conditions. From Selfoss, it's about 160 km, and from Blönduós, it's about 113 km. Expect the journey to take several hours, especially with stops to admire the scenery.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided trips to Hveravellir, often as part of longer highland tours. This can be a good option if you don't have a suitable vehicle or prefer not to drive the F-roads yourself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a fee for using the hot pond and facilities, typically around 500 ISK per person. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the area.
Hveravellir has a visitor center, a campsite, and basic facilities. Showers might not be readily available or clearly marked, but restrooms are usually accessible.
You can walk around the geothermal area without paying, but access to the hot pond and other amenities requires the entrance fee.
Hveravellir is generally accessible when the F35 road is open during the summer. The visitor center and facilities usually operate during daylight hours. It's best to check locally for specific times.
If you plan to stay overnight at the campsite or in the rooms, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as options can be limited.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hveravellir is known for its active geothermal area with steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and fumaroles. You can also bathe in the natural hot spring, explore short hiking trails, and enjoy the remote highland scenery.
Most visitors spend 1-3 hours exploring the geothermal area and enjoying the hot spring. If you're camping or hiking, you could easily spend longer.
Absolutely! The unique geothermal landscapes, vibrant colors, and steam create incredible photographic opportunities. Drone photography is also popular here, with permission.
Wear layers suitable for changeable highland weather. Bring swimwear and a towel for the hot spring, and sturdy walking shoes for exploring the geothermal area and trails.
Yes, there is a campsite available at Hveravellir for overnight stays. It's a popular spot for those on highland road trips.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Hveravellir offers food services, including waffles and other light meals. While the waffles are described as dessert-sized and nice, don't expect them to be a full meal.
It's always a good idea to bring some snacks and drinks, especially if you're planning a longer visit or hiking. There are limited food options available.
The food options are typically simple and geared towards travelers, such as waffles, coffee, and perhaps some basic hot meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire geothermal area is a photographer's dream, with steaming vents, colorful mineral deposits, and bubbling pools. The aerial views from a drone are also spectacular.
Yes, drone photography is allowed at Hveravellir, but you must obtain permission from the owners beforehand.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The steam rising from the pools can also create dramatic effects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive highland landscapes and geothermal features. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Beyond drone usage, be mindful of the fragile geothermal environment. Stick to marked paths and avoid disturbing the natural features.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Adventurers
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Kjölur Route (F35)
Along the F35, Hveravellir is a key stop, offering a unique geothermal experience amidst the vastness of the highlands. The drive itself is an integral part of the adventure, offering panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, glaciers in the distance, and a profound sense of isolation. Be prepared for a slow pace and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Consider carrying extra fuel, food, and water, as services are scarce in this region.
The Hveravellir Geothermal Area
The main attraction for many is the natural hot spring, where visitors can bathe and relax. A unique feature is the ability to regulate the water temperature by mixing water from two pipes – one very hot and one lukewarm – allowing you to find your perfect comfort level. It's a truly unique experience to soak in these natural waters surrounded by such a dramatic and remote environment. Be aware that the water has a high mineral content, which can affect jewelry, so it's advisable to remove any silver items before entering the pool.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit