Hveragerði is a town and municipality in the south of Iceland, 45 km east of Reykjavík on Iceland's main ringroad, Route 1. The river Varmá runs through the town. With an area of 9 square kilometers, Hveragerði is the third smallest municipality in Iceland by size. Wikipedia
May to September: Best weather for hiking and hot spring bathing.
October to April: Fewer tourists, more peaceful—plus a chance to see Northern Lights and soak in warm water surrounded by snow.
By car: About 45 minutes from Reykjavík via Route 1 (Ring Road).
By bus: Regular bus service connects Hveragerði to Reykjavík and other nearby towns.
It’s often visited as a day trip, but staying overnight offers more time for hikes and relaxation.
Geothermal Park (Reykjadalur Hot Springs Area): A beautiful valley where you can hike up to a natural hot river and bathe in the warm stream.
Geothermal Exhibition and Greenhouses: Learn how locals harness geothermal energy to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers year-round.
Earthquake Experience in the Shopping Center: A small exhibit simulating the 2008 earthquake that hit the area.
Laugaskarð Swimming Pool: A lovely local pool with hot tubs and steam baths powered by natural heat.
Hike to Reykjadalur (Steam Valley) — a 3 km moderate hike leads you to a hot river perfect for bathing.
Visit local greenhouses, some of which grow bananas and tomatoes using geothermal heat.
Try geothermal baking — some spots offer the chance to see bread baked underground in hot soil.
Explore art galleries, as Hveragerði has a growing arts and crafts scene.
Ride Icelandic horses, with several nearby stables offering tours.
Stroll through the town’s bubbling mud pots and steam vents — visible right in the town center!
Guesthouses and boutique hotels with geothermal spas or hot tubs.
Farm stays and cottages offer a more rural experience.
Camping and glamping options are available during warmer months.
Enjoy restaurants and cafés offering dishes made with local, greenhouse-grown ingredients.
Try:
Hot spring-baked rye bread with smoked trout
Lamb stew or arctic char
Freshly made pastries and geothermal-roasted coffee
Vegan and organic options are also widely available, thanks to the town’s greenhouse culture.
Hveragerði is deeply connected to the earth’s geothermal energy—not just for power, but as part of daily life.
Locals are proud of their self-sufficient agriculture and eco-conscious lifestyle.
It’s a quiet, community-driven town, popular with artists, nature lovers, and wellness seekers.
Despite being close to the capital, it offers a very different, natural rhythm.
Bring good hiking shoes and a swimsuit — even if you’re not staying overnight.
The Reykjadalur trail can be muddy or icy — check trail conditions before setting out.
Respect geothermal areas — the ground can be unstable and boiling water is just under the surface.
It’s a great first or last stop on a South Coast road trip.