Landmannalaugar Campsite
Landmannalaugar
About This Campsite
A remote Highland campsite in Landmannalaugar surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains and natural geothermal hot springs.
Details
Landmannalaugar Campsite is located in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve in Iceland’s central Highlands and is one of the most popular destinations for hiking and geothermal bathing in the interior of the country. Surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and steaming valleys, the campsite offers a unique overnight experience in one of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes. The campsite serves as the starting point for the famous Laugavegur hiking trail connecting Landmannalaugar with Þórsmörk and Skógar. Visitors can also explore nearby hiking routes such as Brennisteinsalda, Bláhnúkur, and the Laugahraun lava field directly from the campsite area. A natural geothermal bathing pool located beside the campsite provides a relaxing experience after hiking through the surrounding mountains. Because of its remote Highland location and minimal light pollution, Landmannalaugar is also an excellent place to experience midnight sun conditions in summer and northern lights later in the season.
🌿 Environment & Surroundings
Landmannalaugar lies within the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and is known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, geothermal activity, lava fields, and highland valleys. The landscape includes steaming vents, mineral-colored slopes, black lava formations, and wide Highland plateaus shaped by volcanic forces. Nearby glaciers such as Torfajökull influence the region’s geothermal activity and mountain scenery.
📍 Nearby Attractions
Laugavegur Hiking Trail
One of Iceland’s most famous multi-day hiking routes beginning at the campsite.
Brennisteinsalda Mountain
Colorful geothermal mountain known for steam vents and mineral slopes.
Bláhnúkur Peak
Popular hiking summit offering panoramic Highland views.
Laugahraun Lava Field
Historic lava flow surrounding the campsite area.
Hrafntinnusker Highland Area
Obsidian-rich mountain landscape along the Laugavegur route.
👻 Folklore & Local Stories
The Torfajökull volcanic system surrounding Landmannalaugar has long been associated with Icelandic folklore describing hidden people (huldufólk) believed to live within colorful mountains and lava formations. Because of the region’s geothermal steam and unusual landscape colors, early travelers often described the area as otherworldly. Highland crossing routes such as Fjallabak were traditionally considered challenging journeys, and travelers sometimes told stories of mysterious lights and strange sounds heard across the mountains during long interior crossings.