Highlands · Iceland
Kerlingarfjöll
Kerlingarfjöll is a dramatic geothermal mountain range in the central Highlands, with steaming valleys, boiling mud pools and hillsides stained vivid orange, yellow and green by hydrothermal activity.
About Kerlingarfjöll
Kerlingarfjöll is a dramatic geothermal mountain range in the central Highlands, with steaming valleys, boiling mud pools and hillsides stained vivid orange, yellow and green by hydrothermal activity.
History & Background
The mountains are named after a legendary troll woman called Kerling — 'the old hag' — who according to folklore was petrified by sunlight while crossing the Highlands with her family of trolls. The area sits on one of Iceland's most intense geothermal systems. Mountains reach 1,477 meters and the range is one of the few places in Iceland where snow-capped peaks, colorful rhyolite hills and steaming vents all exist in one view.
Key Facts
- ✔Named after a petrified troll woman in local legend
- ✔One of Iceland's most intense geothermal areas
- ✔Mountain peaks up to 1,477 meters
- ✔Located on the Kjölur highland route
- ✔Mountain hut and campsite available for overnight stays
