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Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
1h Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
2.9km
out and back
Elevation gain
90m
Type of route
Out and back
Maximum altitude
742 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
Yes
Popularity
Moderate
Region
Highlands
Start point
64.68330, -19.30118
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

Kerlingarfjöll is a majestic volcanic massif that rises to an altitude of 1,488 meters at the summit of Snækollur. The hike to the hot spring follows the river through a charming canyon and takes about 30 minutes. It leads to the only thermal pool in Kerlingarfjöll where swimming is possible.

The pool can accommodate about ten people and the water temperature ranges from 36 to 38 °C. After more demanding hikes in the mountains, this walk is a most enjoyable activity at the end of the day to relax your muscles.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring Hike

Difficulties of the hike

The trail leading to the hot spring is well marked and easy.

What you'll love

  • A well-deserved, relaxing bath: Bathe in natural thermal waters at the ideal temperature (36-38 °C) for a unique experience in the heart of the Highlands.
  • Its remarkable accessibility makes it a perfect hike for the end of the day or for families with children.
  • Enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere far from the crowds of Iceland's more popular tourist sites.

Practical information

Access

Take Route 35 (formerly F35), then follow the F347. These F-roads are only accessible in the summer and require a 4WD vehicle. The route is straightforward with no fords, so it is accessible to any 4WD vehicle.

See the section on driving in the Highlands for more information.

Kerlingarfjöll
Kerlingarfjöll
Thermal river
Thermal river
Kerlingarfjöll hot spring
Kerlingarfjöll hot spring
Kerlingarfjöll hot spring
Kerlingarfjöll hot spring
Kerlingarfjöll hot spring
Kerlingarfjöll hot spring
Kerlingarfjöll canyon
Kerlingarfjöll canyon
Kerlingarfjöll
Kerlingarfjöll

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/iceland/kerlingarfjoll-hot-spring/