Reserva Natural de Fjallabak

Fjallabak Nature Reserve covers around 470 km² of Iceland’s southern highland interior, encompassing some of the most visually stunning landscapes in the country. Formed primarily from rhyolite — which weathers into extraordinary shades of red, orange, yellow, green, and purple — the terrain is unlike anything else in Iceland, with hot springs, lava fields of black obsidian, and mountain lakes scattered throughout.

The reserve is best known as the setting for Landmannalaugar, a popular highland base with natural hot spring bathing, the starting point of the famous Laugavegur multi-day hiking trail, and the trailhead for day hikes such as Bláhnúkur and Brennisteinsalda. The sheer density of geological marvels within a relatively compact area makes it extraordinary.

Fjallabak is accessed via F208 and F225 highland roads, requiring a 4×4 and open typically late June to September. Highland buses connect Reykjavík to Landmannalaugar in summer for those without a suitable vehicle. The area has camping facilities and a staffed hut at Landmannalaugar. Weather can change rapidly — come prepared for all conditions even in summer.