south-iceland · Iceland
Reykjadalur
About Reykjadalur
Reykjadalur — 'Steam Valley' — is a geothermal valley accessible by a 3 km hiking trail where you can bathe in a natural hot river running through the hillside above the town of Hveragerði.
Photo Gallery
History & Background
The hot river in Reykjadalur is one of Iceland's most unusual natural bathing spots — a natural river with geothermal springs feeding it at varying temperatures, allowing bathers to find their preferred spot. The valley was severely damaged in a 2008 earthquake that hit the Hveragerði area with a 6.3 magnitude tremor, opening new fissures and dramatically changing the geothermal activity in the valley.
Did You Know?
- ✔Name means 'Steam Valley'
- ✔Natural hot river for bathing — no facilities
- ✔3 km hiking trail each way from Hveragerði
- ✔Water temperature varies — hottest near the springs
- ✔Valley dramatically reshaped by the 2008 South Iceland earthquake
Tours Near Reykjadalur
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
No specific tours found for this attraction.
Browse Iceland Tours →About Reykjadalur
Reykjadalur ('Steam Valley') offers one of Iceland's most unique bathing experiences — soaking in a naturally heated river in a geothermal valley just 45 minutes from Reykjavík. The 3 km trail from Hveragerði climbs through a geothermal landscape of steaming vents and boiling mud pots before reaching the warm river. Wooden screens provide basic changing areas, and the river has different temperature zones. It is completely free to visit, making it a popular day trip from the capital.
History & Background
The hot river in Reykjadalur is one of Iceland's most unusual natural bathing spots — a natural river with geothermal springs feeding it at varying temperatures, allowing bathers to find their preferred spot. The valley was severely damaged in a 2008 earthquake that hit the Hveragerði area with a 6.3 magnitude tremor, opening new fissures and dramatically changing the geothermal activity in the valley.
Story & Folklore
Reykjadalur — 'Steam Valley' — offers something unique in Iceland: a natural hot spring river where you can bathe in the wild, for free. The 3-kilometre hike from the trailhead near Hveragerði follows the riverside through geothermally heated terrain — steam vents, sulphur deposits and boiling pools beside the path — before reaching a designated bathing section where the river maintains a perfect 40°C. Changing rooms (for which 'changing screens' is a generous description) mark the bathing area. The hike itself is attractive: the steam rising from the valley on cool mornings is beautiful. On summer weekends the bathing spot can be crowded; a weekday morning arrival ensures the experience feels closer to wilderness.
Visitor Information
Best Time
Year-round, trail can be muddy in spring
Duration
Why Visit
Completely free — just requires a 3km hike
Did You Know?
Trail passes boiling mud pots and steam vents
Legends of Reykjadalur
Reykjadalur has been part of Icelandic folklore for generations. Local tales speak of hidden people (huldufólk) and other supernatural beings who inhabit the area. According to tradition, this place deserves respect and visitors should be mindful of the ancient spirits who call it home.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
Steam Patterns
Watch how the steam patterns change with wind direction and temperature throughout the day.
On cold mornings, the steam is most dramatic, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that photographs beautifully.
Mineral Colors
Notice the vivid colors around the geothermal features — yellow sulfur, red iron oxide, and green algae.
These colors represent different minerals deposited by the hot water, creating a natural palette unique to each hot spring.
Bubbling Mud Pots
If present, the bubbling mud pots are mesmerizing to watch — each bubble is a small volcanic event.
The mud is created by acidic steam breaking down the surrounding rock, and each site has a unique bubbling rhythm.
Practical Information
Best Time
Year-round, trail can be muddy in spring
Duration
2–3 hours (including hike)
Access
Near Hveragerði, 45 minutes from Reykjavík. 3 km uphill hike from trailhead parking.
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to touch the geothermal water?▾
Never touch geothermal water unless at a designated bathing area. Water temperatures can exceed 100°C and cause severe burns.
Can I visit geothermal areas year-round?▾
Yes, most geothermal areas are open year-round. The steam is even more dramatic in cold winter weather.
Do I need to stay on boardwalks?▾
Yes, always stay on marked paths and boardwalks. The ground near geothermal features can be thin and unstable.
