Mountains
Rhyolite
Colorful volcanic mountains in pink, green, yellow, and blue
Landmannalaugar: Colorful Mountains & Hot Springs
Landmannalaugar
Updated February 5, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
A highland valley famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs — the starting point of the legendary Laugavegur Trail.
Region
South Iceland (Highlands)
Best time: Late June – Early September
Landmannalaugar is a highland valley famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains in shades of pink, green, yellow, and blue. Natural hot springs for bathing sit at the base of the Laugahraun lava field. As the starting point of the Laugavegur hiking trail to Þórsmörk, it draws hikers from around the world. Accessible only in summer via F-roads requiring 4x4 vehicles.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-05
Highland F-roads require 4x4 vehicles. No fuel or shops — bring all supplies. Weather can change rapidly at altitude. Check road openings at road.is before driving.
Sources to check
Hot Springs
Natural pool
Free bathing at the base of Laugahraun lava field
Best Season
Late Jun–Sep
F-roads open mid-summer only
Access
F-roads (4x4)
Highland roads requiring 4x4 vehicles
Hiking
Laugavegur Trail
Starting point for Iceland's most famous multi-day trek to Þórsmörk (55 km)
Camping
Highland Hut
Mountain hut and campsite operated by FÍ with basic facilities in summer season
Key Highlights
Colorful Rhyolite Mountains
Stunning volcanic landscape in shades of pink, green, yellow, and blue
Natural Hot Springs
Free bathing pool where hot and cold water mix at the lava field base
Laugavegur Trailhead
Starting point of the famous 55 km trek to Thorsmork
Laugahraun Lava Field
A dramatic black obsidian lava field contrasting with colorful peaks
Brennisteinsalda
One of Iceland's most colorful mountains, a short hike from camp
Highland Wilderness
Vast, remote landscape far from any town or settlement
How to Get There
- Highland F-road access only — requires a 4x4 vehicle or summer bus service
- Reykjavik Excursions and Trex operate daily summer buses from Reykjavik (4 hours)
- Two main routes: F225 from the west or F208 from the north, both requiring river crossings
- Approximately 190 km from Reykjavik, but the last 50 km is slow highland driving
- Do NOT attempt in a standard rental car — you risk voiding insurance and getting stuck
Best Time to Visit
- Late June to September: Only period when F-roads are open and buses operate
- July-August: Best weather, all trails fully snow-free, natural hot springs at ideal temperature
- Late September: Autumn colors transform the rhyolite mountains, but cold nights (-5°C possible)
- October-May: Completely inaccessible — roads closed, area snowbound
- Early July: Laugavegur Trail typically fully clear of snow for through-hiking to Þórsmörk
Planning help
Landmannalaugar FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.