Elevation
1,682m (5,518 ft)
Flat-topped tuya formed under glacial ice.
Herdubreid (Herðubreið) Mountain Iceland - Queen of Mountains Guide
A flat-topped tuya formed in a subglacial eruption, called the "Queen of Icelandic Mountains" for its perfect symmetrical shape, rising from the remote Ódáðahraun lava desert.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
Northeast Highlands
1,682m (5,518 ft) · Queen of Icelandic Mountains
Herðubreið is a distinctive flat-topped tuya (table mountain) formed during a subglacial volcanic eruption during the last Ice Age. Standing at 1,682 meters, it has been called the "Queen of Icelandic Mountains" for its perfectly symmetrical shape. Located in the remote Ódáðahraun lava desert in the northeast highlands, it is surrounded by stark black lava fields, with the lush Herðubreiðarlindir oasis at its base providing a striking contrast.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Herðubreið is in a remote highland area requiring 4x4 access. Highland roads are only open mid-summer. Always check road conditions and weather before traveling.
Sources to check
Best for
Highland adventure
Remote wilderness, unique geology, and the Herðubreiðarlindir oasis.
Access
4x4 required
Highland F-roads open late June to early September only.
What to Expect at Herðubreið
- Summit elevation of 1,682m (5,518 ft) with a prominence of approximately 1,060m above the surrounding Ódáðahraun desert
- First ascent on June 22, 1908, by a team of German geologists led by Hans Reck
- Distinctive tuya (table mountain) formed by a volcanic eruption beneath glacial ice during the last Ice Age
- The lush Herðubreiðarlindir oasis at the mountain's base fed by glacial springs—a stark contrast to the black lava desert
- Campsite facilities at Herðubreiðarlindir with basic amenities for overnight stays (wardens present mid-summer)
- Historical connection to the 18th-century outlaw Fjalla-Eyvindur who reportedly survived a winter in a cave here
Nearby Attractions
- Askja caldera and Víti crater lake
- Ódáðahraun lava desert (Iceland's largest)
- Drekagil canyon and highland campsite
- Holuhraun lava field from the 2014-2015 eruption
- Kverkfjöll ice caves and hot springs at the glacier edge
How to Get to Herðubreið
- Located in the northeast highlands; primary access via Route F88 from Mývatn (approx. 100 km) or Route F910 from Askja
- A modified 4x4 vehicle with high clearance is mandatory—standard rental cars are prohibited on F-roads
- River crossings on F88 (Lindaá and Jökulsá á Fjöllum) may be required; water levels vary with glacial melt
- Highland roads F88 and F910 typically open late June to early September—check road.is daily before departure
- No fuel, mobile coverage, or services for 100+ km in any direction—carry all supplies, extra fuel, and a satellite communicator
- Trailhead parking at Herðubreiðarlindir is well-marked; the oasis campsite serves as the base for summit attempts
Best Time to Visit Herðubreið
- July: The most reliable month—F-roads fully open, 24-hour daylight, warmest temperatures averaging 8-12°C
- Early August: Still excellent conditions; oasis wildflowers in full bloom; campsite wardens present
- Late June: F88 may just be opening—check road.is daily; lingering snow on summit approach
- Late August–early September: Roads begin closing; nights getting darker; weather increasingly unpredictable
- October–May: Completely inaccessible due to snow, ice, and F-road closures; no winter access
- Summit attempts are best on calm, clear mornings in July when scree slopes are driest
Planning help
Herðubreið FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.