Best for
Fire-and-ice contrast
Glacier near Europe's most powerful hot spring.
Deildardalsjokull (Deildardalsjökull) Glacier Iceland: Western Highlands
A small glacier in Iceland's western highlands, near the famous Deildartunguhver hot spring—where fire and ice coexist in close proximity.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
West Iceland
Near Deildartunguhver hot spring area.
Deildardalsjökull is a small glacier in Iceland's western highlands, in the same broad region as Deildartunguhver—Europe's most powerful hot spring. This juxtaposition of glacial ice and geothermal heat is quintessentially Icelandic. While the glacier itself draws few visitors, the surrounding area is rich with natural attractions including Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, historic Reykholt, and the vast Langjökull ice cap nearby.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
The glacier itself is in highland terrain with no facilities. The broader Borgarfjörður area is well-served by paved roads. Check weather and road conditions before heading to higher elevations.
Sources to check
Access
Highland terrain
No direct trail—explore Borgarfjörður instead.
Pro tip
Visit Langjökull instead
Nearby and much more accessible with tours.
What to Expect
- A small glacier in highland terrain above the valley
- Geothermal activity and steam vents in the broader area
- Remote location with no visitor facilities at the glacier
- Striking contrast of glacial ice near boiling hot springs
- Mountain streams fed by glacial meltwater flowing to Borgarfjörður
- Views across the western highlands toward Langjökull ice cap
Nearby Attractions
- Deildartunguhver—Europe's most powerful hot spring
- Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls
- Historic Reykholt and Snorrastofa cultural center
- Langjökull glacier ice tunnel tours (30 min drive)
- Víðgelmir lava cave near Húsafell
- Borgarnes Settlement Centre and waterfront town
How to Get There
- The Borgarfjörður area is about 100 km from Reykjavik
- Deildartunguhver is accessible via paved Route 50
- The glacier itself requires highland travel above the valley
- Consider visiting Langjökull for a more accessible glacier
- Borgarnes and Reykholt offer good bases for the area
Best Time to Visit
- Summer for highland access (July–August)
- The Borgarfjörður area is accessible year-round
- Deildartunguhver and waterfalls are great in any season
- Check highland road conditions before attempting access
- Combine with Langjökull ice tunnel tour for glacier experience
Planning help
Deildardalsjokull (Deildardalsjökull) Glacier FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.