Steamiest Valley Found Within Island Territory
Experience the Sizzling Wonders of Hveragerði, Iceland
Hveragerði, a tongue-twisting gem east of Reykjavik, boasts an awe-inspiring fusion of natural beauty and cultural delights. Here's what makes this place a must-visit!
First off, the town's northerly location sits atop a geothermal haven, putting it in the heart of Iceland's Central Volcano, Hengill. This geothermal energy playground offers tantalizing experiences, like dining at eateries serving up dishes cooked and baked using geothermal energy – imagine biting into a pizza or sipping a brew beer all brewed using geothermal magic!
One such restaurant is Ölverk, dishing out delicious pizza and beer that leaves you pondering, "Is this even real life?" But the geothermal delights don't end there. Head to a geothermal park to gaze upon bubbling hot pools or stock up on fresh strawberries or flowers grown in geothermally heated greenhouses, even bananas!
Art enthusiasts, have no fear. Hveragerði caters to your interests too. Stroll down the "Walk of the Artists" and visit the LÁ Art Museum, featuring ongoing exhibitions on modern art. You can even unwind on the museum's sunny terrace in a cozy café.
Don't forget the iconic waterfall in town; it's a sight to behold. For a hidden gem, check out the tranquil Reykjafoss waterfall nestled along the trail to the parking lot leading to the popular hike to the hot river. And don't forget to grab a cup of joe and a decadent slice of cake at the café overlooking the valley.
Now, let's talk about the pièce de résistance – the hike to the hot springs within the Ölfus Municipality. This breathtaking 3.5-kilometer trek through mesmerizing landscapes leads to a geothermally heated river perfect for a warm soak, making your swim in the riverbed feel like lounging in the Shire of Lord of the Rings. The journey's end features wooden footbridges, changing facilities, and a panoramic view of mountainous vistas with extraordinary colors.
It's important to note that while the bathing experience is a highlight regardless of the temperature outside, you'll need to brave the walk back, potentially with wet hair. A handy tip: always carry a hat, no matter the season. The scenic view on the way back makes the extra effort worthwhile.
Beyond Hveragerði's boundaries, neighboring Selfoss offers cultural attractions such as the Tree and Art gallery, a haven for fans of contemporary Icelandic artistry. Other activities include visiting the Grodurhusid Food Market, immersing yourself in local culture in a modern greenhouse setting, and taking a dip in the geothermally heated Laugaskard swimming pool.
With its unique blend of geothermal energy, natural wonders, cultural experiences, and artistic flair, Hveragerði promises a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts, science buffs, and culture vultures alike. So pack your bags and explore this hidden gem in Iceland!
- Hveragerði, known for its geothermal haven atop the Central Volcano, Hengill, offers tourists the unique experience of dining at restaurants like Ölverk, where all dishes are cooked using geothermal energy.
- The geothermal park in Hveragerði is an amazing spectacle, filled with bubbling hot pools and geothermally heated greenhouses that produce fresh strawberries, flowers, and even bananas.
- Art enthusiasts can appreciate modern art exhibitions at the LÁ Art Museum in Hveragerði, followed by a relaxing coffee break on the museum's sunny terrace.
- Reykjafoss, the iconic waterfall in town, and the tranquil Reykjafoss waterfall hidden along the trail to the hot river, are must-see sights in Hveragerði.
- A hike to the hot springs within the Ölfus Municipality, featuring a warm soak in a geothermally heated river, offers adventure-travelers an amazing and breathtaking experience like lounging in the Shire of Lord of the Rings.
