When is the best time to visit?

Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.

Is this place wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.

Do I need to book in advance?

Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.

Iceland/south-iceland

Mælifell

Maelifell is a remarkable natural wonder in Highlands. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one …

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At a Glance

Visit time

1–2 hours

Best season

July–September (4WD required)

Access

Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.

GPS

63.7996, -18.9386

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About

About Mælifell

Maelifell is a remarkable natural wonder in Highlands. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Iceland one of the world's most unique destinations. From its geological formations to its rich biodiversity, this site offers an unforgettable experience.

One of Iceland's most surreal landscapes — a vivid green cone in a black desert that looks like it belongs on another planet.

Background

History & Background

Maelifell 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.

Maelifell is a remarkable natural-wonder in Iceland. Maelifell is a remarkable natural wonder in Highlands. This breathtaking natural attraction showcases the diverse and dramatic landscapes that make Ic... Mælifell is a perfectly conical volcanic mountain rising from the ash deserts of the southern Highlands like a green icecream scoop. The mountain is covered entirely in bright green moss — Grimmia moss — which thrives in the wet, cool conditions of t. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

Mælifell is a perfectly conical volcanic mountain rising from the ash deserts of the southern Highlands like a green icecream scoop. The mountain is covered entirely in bright green moss — Grimmia moss — which thrives in the wet, cool conditions of the Highland interior. The contrast between the vivid green of the mountain and the black ash plain of Mælifellssandur stretching to every horizon makes Mælifell one of Iceland's most photographed landscapes. It is only accessible via F-road 210 (Fjallabak route), requiring a 4WD vehicle in the summer months. The mountain is too steep to climb safely but can be circled on foot in around an hour.

Local Legend

The Troll of Maelifell

An ancient tale speaks of a troll who once roamed Maelifell. 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