Fjallabak Nature Reserve

Introducing Fjallabak Nature Reserve

The Fjallabak Route (F208) is a spectacular alternative to the coast road between Hella and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It passes through the scenic nature reserve to Landmannalaugar, an area of rainbow-coloured rhyolite peaks, rambling lava flows, blue lakes and hot springs which can hold you captive for days. Much of the route is along (and in!) rivers and therefore unsuitable for 2WD vehicles.

The star attractions around Landmannalaugar are: Laugahraun, a convoluted lava field; the soothing hot springs 200m west of the Landmannalaugar hut; multicoloured vents at Brennisteinsalda; the incredible red crater lake Ljótipollur; and the blue lake Frostastaðavatn, just over the rhyolite ridge north of Landmannalaugar. Bláhnúkur, immediately south of Laugahraun, offers a scree scramble and fine views from the 943m peak.

Ferðafélag Íslands’ hut (854 1192 Jul-Sep; sb Ikr2200) at Landmannalaugar accommodates 78 people on a first-come, first-served basis, and books up quickly with tour groups and club members. Others will probably have to use the camping ground (camp sites per adult Ikr700), which has toilet and shower facilities.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009