Get the Most out of Your Visit to Seltún Geothermal Area

Seltún Geothermal Area has so much more to offer than the hot springs and boiling mud pots along the boardwalk. To really experience the beauty of this geothermal area I recommend to go on a hike.

Seltún is a typical tourist stop where people make a short stop. The majority of the visitors take a short walk on the boardwalk and then go back to their car. Which is fine. Nothing wrong with that. But to make the most of your visit you should walk beyond the boardwalk and explore a larger part of the area.

I’ve tried a relative long hike in the area but don’t really recommend it without someone who knows the area a little bit. As the trail isn’t well marked, it’s very tricky to find the right way. A very good alternative is to walk up the mountain to the left of the boardwalk. There is a trail you can follow. If you go all the way up to the top you will be rewarded with beautiful views in all directions. The mountains and lakes in the far and the colourful ground and mountain sides all around you.

Reykjanes Peninsula Is an Overlooked Gem

Seltún Geothermal Area is located on Reykjanes Peninsula and is in only about 45 min drive from Reykjavík. Reykjanes peninsula is a much overlooked area among our visitors and locals alike. Which is a shame but on the other hand it also means you will be avoiding big crowds. Which in my opinion is always a huge plus when out enjoying nature. 

Lake Kleifarvatn

I love the drive to Seltún from Reykjavík as it’s very scenic, no matter the season. First the lava fields that are covered in thick moss. Then the beautiful winding road along Lake Kleifarvatn with its gorgeous surrounding mountains and cliffs. Absolutely love it. Never gets old.

I always get the urge to constantly take some photos when on that drive. There are some really good viewing points by the lake. Here you can stop and capture the stunning nature all around. So there is no need to put yourself in danger by stopping in the middle of the road to take a picture. And believe me, that can be a dangerous act in Iceland. There are some tourists that actually have died by doing that! No picture is worth that risk if you ask me.

Shortly after you pass the lake, you will reach the Seltún geothermal area on your right. I don’t know how often I have just driven by this area. Driven by without giving it a second though what it really has to offer. The thing is, until recently, I was among these locals who underestimated Reykjanes Peninsula. It’s only in the past three years or so that I have really begun to explore it. And oh my did it surprise me! I live in Hafnarfjörður which is on the outskirts of the capital area right next to the peninsula. The proximity makes it very convenient for me to explore. Therefore it’s a bit embarrassing to admit I haven’t given it a real attention before. Being so close to it and all. But hey, better late than never. Right?

Hiking in Seltún Geothermal Area

So anyways. During my search for beautiful hiking trails close to Reykjavík, I stumbled on a very interesting trail description in a book of mine which led me to Seltún. It can be debated if the trail description was unclear or if I just didn’t read it thoroughly enough. A little bit of both I guess. But either way, I did three attempts this summer and still didn’t find a good way to close the circle! 

Ok, to my defence, the ground was covered in snow during my first attempt and therefore I couldn’t really see any trails. Second of all the trail is not well marked and actually not marked at all in some places. So, the conclusion is that it wasn’t totally my fault. Or at least that is what I choose to believe! I haven’t given up tho, so stay tuned for the details when I finally figure this one out.

Mount Hverfjall is a Great Hiking Option

In one of these attempts of mine, I climbed Mount Hverfjall. Hverfjall is a small mountain to the left of Seltún. This small mountain (or hill) is a great alternative to the other hike I did. Actually I think it covers the most beautiful part of the area. It’s not as diverse as if you did a longer hike but still a great option. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful views in all directions if you climb all the way to the highest point. The mountains and lakes in the far and the colourful ground and mountain sides all around you. Totally worth it. Follow the trail where the wooden platform ends. Down the hill, cross a small stream and then up the hill. The hike back and forth is about 2km/1,2mi. A bit steep but quite short.

Please Be Careful

One last thing. When hiking in geothermal areas it is EXTREMELY important to be careful. Careful of where you put your feet down so you don’t get burned AND so you don’t damage anything. The environment is very sensitive and therefore it is crucial to keep this in mind. We all want to leave the places we visit without a trace so others will also be able to enjoy them. Right?

Are you interested in learning more about what to see and do on Reykjanes Peninsula? Visit this site for further information and ideas:

Visit Reykjanes

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Until next time!