Nesjavellir Geothermal Area
Geothermal landscape in the Hengill volcanic system near Nesjavellir.
About
About Nesjavellir Geothermal Area
Geothermal landscape in the Hengill volcanic system near Nesjavellir.
See natural geothermal activity in the wider Hengill landscape near Nesjavellir.
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Photo Gallery
Background
History & Background
The Nesjavellir geothermal landscape is part of the active Hengill volcanic system, where faults, hot ground and steam vents reveal heat close to the surface. Modern geothermal development in the area led to the construction of Nesjavellir Power Station, but this record represents the natural geothermal surroundings rather than the industrial facility itself.
The wider Nesjavellir area contains geothermal surface features associated with the Hengill volcanic system. It is distinct from the Nesjavellir Power Station record: this entry represents the natural geothermal landscape around the site. Visitors should stay on established roads and paths because geothermal ground can be unstable and dangerously hot.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Nesjavellir lies in the active Hengill volcanic system near Þingvallavatn. Steam vents and hot ground occur across the surrounding landscape, while the nearby power station uses the same underground heat for energy production. Visitors should stay on established roads and paths because geothermal ground can be unstable and dangerously hot.
💡 Did You Know?
Nesjavellir power station provides hot water for Reykjavík — the water is pumped 30 km through insulated pipes.
Local Legend
The Hidden People of the South
According to Icelandic folklore, the hills and rock formations of South Iceland are home to the huldufólk — the hidden people. These beings live in a parallel world, invisible to most humans, but occasionally revealing themselves to those with the gift of sight. Farmers in the region have long respected certain rocks and hills, refusing to disturb them for fear of angering the hidden people. Stories tell of those who built roads through huldufólk dwellings suffering misfortune until the paths were rerouted. Even in modern Iceland, road construction projects have been altered to avoid disturbing known huldufólk sites, reflecting a respect for tradition that persists in this ancient landscape.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Best Time of Day
Visit this attraction during golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for the most beautiful light.
Iceland's low-angle sunlight creates long shadows and warm colors that transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary ones.
✦ Local Knowledge
Ask locals for their favorite nearby spots — Icelanders are friendly and love sharing recommendations.
The best experiences often come from local tips about lesser-known viewpoints, cafés, or hidden natural features.
✦ Weather Changes
Don't leave if the weather is bad — wait 15 minutes and it often changes dramatically.
Iceland's rapidly changing weather can transform a gray scene into a spectacular display of light and clouds in minutes.
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Location
📍 Location
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