Hveragerdi

The Basics

The Hveragerdi hot springs range from hissing steam vents and gurgling puddles of mud to pools so hot that locals use the water to boil eggs and bake bread in a ground oven. Along with bathing in the naturally heated Laugaskard swimming pool and enjoying an organic-clay foot bath, the area around Hveragerdi also offers prime terrain for hiking, surrounded by lush forests along the banks of the Varma river.

Located on Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1), Hveragerdi is a common stop on bus tours making their way along the southern coast. You can also visit on a specialized hiking–and–hot springs guided tour from Reykjavik.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Hveragerdi is a must-visit for nature lovers.

• Hiking and riding trails stretch from the town throughout Olfusdalur valley, into the Hengill volcanic area, and all the way to the Nesjavellir geothermal area and Thingvellir.

• There are plenty of restaurants and shops in town, so you can spend a whole day here.

• The South Iceland Information Center is located in town.

How to Get There

Hveragerdi is around a 50-minute drive along the Ring Road from Reykjavik. If you are using public transport, take bus 3 from Reykjavik to Mjodd, then change to bus 51; the trip will take around an hour and a half. Alternatively, skip the hassle by joining a tour that includes round-trip transportation.

When to Get There

Geothermal heat is the catalyst for the fields of flowers you will see if you visit in summer, which earned the town the nickname “the blossoming town.” An annual flower exhibition takes place on the last weekend in June, displaying the best of Icelandic horticulture. On the other hand, soaking in a hot spring while snow falls around you makes a winter visit just as appealing.

Quake 2008

In 2008, Hveragerdi gained a new hot spring, created during a powerful earthquake. This quake is subject of the town’s fascinating Quake 2008 exhibition, which examines its causes and impact and offers the chance to experience an earthquake measuring 6 on the Richter Scale in a simulator.

Ways to explore

Hveragerdi itself is a small town, although the greenhouses and thermal spas attract some travelers. Many minibus and private tours visit the area to experience the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River and the surrounding valley on foot, on horseback, or by Jeep, buggy, or all-terrain vehicle (ATV). The Geothermal Park Hveragerdi draws sightseers, while the zipline, Iceland’s longest, entices thrillseekers on half-day trips from Reykjavik. While Hveragerdi isn’t technically part of the classic Golden Circle route, a number of Golden Circle tours include a stop here.

Accessibility

Hveragerdi is not a good choice for travelers with mobility issues, due to its difficult terrain.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Waterproof phone case, towel, insect repellent (in summer)

What to wear

Even in summer, a windproof and waterproof jacket is an Iceland must. Pack or wear a swimsuit if you want to go into the hot springs.

Not allowed

Disregarding advice from the experts. Follow your guide’s instructions carefully; the water in the geothermal park is hot enough to boil an egg, and definitely no place for a dip.

Address

Hveragerdi is about a 30-mile (48-kilometer) drive southeast of Reykjavik.

Driving

Hveragerdi is on Route 1, the Ring Road that circles the country. From downtown Reykjavik, get on Route 49, the main road that runs through the center of the city. Drive past the National Museum of Iceland, bear east out of town, then turn right onto Route 1 southbound.

Public transportation

You really need your own wheels or a tour to effectively explore the Hveragerdi area. But the 51 bus runs regularly from the Mjódd bus terminal in the outskirts of Reykjavik to destinations including Hveragerdi town.

Best times to visit

Hveragerdi is a daylight destination unless you’re hunting the northern lights, so be sure to head there in the morning or afternoon.

Best days to visit

If you want to avoid the crowds, visit on the weekdays, especially in the summer.

Best months to visit

Soaking in a hot spring is a great activity during Iceland’s cool summers, but it’s especially magical in winter, with the snow around you. Just note that the zipline is closed in winter.

Special events

On a long weekend in August, this hothouse town celebrates its flowers with the Blooming Days festival, featuring floral displays, art, and music.