Fjallabak
Fjallabak Nature Reserve is a vast protected wilderness in the central Icelandic highlands, encompassing colourful rhyolite mountains, geothermal hot springs, v…
About
About Fjallabak
Fjallabak Nature Reserve is a vast protected wilderness in the central Icelandic highlands, encompassing colourful rhyolite mountains, geothermal hot springs, volcanic craters and the famous Landmannalaugar area. The Laugavegur trekking trail — one of the world's great long-distance hikes — begins here. The reserve's vivid, multi-coloured landscapes of red, orange, yellow and green are unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Hike or drive through Iceland's most surreal landscape — pink, red and green volcanic mountains with steaming hot springs on every ridge.
Background
History & Background
Fjallabak has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
Fjallabak is one of the most interesting natural attractions in highlands of Iceland.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Fjallabak Nature Reserve is a vast Highland area in central Iceland protecting the dramatic volcanic landscape between Landmannalaugar and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. The reserve covers 470 square kilometres of rhyolite mountains in vivid pink, red and green, obsidian lava flows, geothermal hot springs, black sand plains and glacier tongues. It is crossed by the Laugavegur hiking trail — Iceland's most famous multi-day trek — which runs from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk through the reserve. The landscape here is among Iceland's most surreal: coloured mountains, steam vents, black obsidian gleaming in the sun, and highland lakes reflecting multicolour ridges.
Local Legend
The Troll of Fjallabak
An ancient tale speaks of a troll who once roamed Fjallabak. The troll was caught by the rising sun while traveling home and turned to stone, becoming part of the landscape. Local people say you can still see the troll's silhouette in the mountain formation, forever frozen as a reminder to respect the power of daylight.
Experiences
Tours Near Fjallabak
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Off-Peak Visit
Visit Fjallabak during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
✦ Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
✦ Changing Light
Fjallabak looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
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Frequently Asked Questions
Location
📍 Location
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