On my bucket list for years, Landmannalaugar doesn't disappoint in the slightest! The colors and shapes of the mountains are iconic and even more beautiful in reality than in pictures. However, I recommend taking the highland bus, as driving your own car is impossible depending on the weather conditions.
A marked circular route that is relatively easy to follow leads along its base through the Grænagil Gorge, to the Laugahraun lava field and past the fumaroles and mud pots at Brennisteinsalda volcano over the Laugavegur back to Landmannalaugar. A more challenging circular walk leads from the hut in Landmannalaugar, via Litla Brandsgil Gorge, Mount Skalli and past Brennisteinsalda back to Landmannalaugar.
Landmannalaugar has long attracted me with its splendid colors and the shapes of its mountains. Now that I was finally there, the reality surpassed any images I had ever seen. A kaleidoscopic play of yellow, red and greenish-gray awaited me.
To get to Landmannalaugar safely and comfortably, I recommend taking the highland bus. The weather in Iceland can be treacherous and taking the bus will save you unnecessary worries.
On site you will find a well-marked and relatively easy circular route that takes you through the impressive Grænagil gorge, over the mystical Laugahraun lava field, past the smoking fumaroles and mud pots of the Brennisteinsalda volcano. It is a circular route that always brings you back to the starting point in Landmannalaugar.
For the more adventurous among you, there is a more challenging circular hike. This leads from the cozy hut in Landmannalaugar over the Litla Brandsgil gorge and the mountain Skalli - and of course you can't miss a stroll past Brennisteinsalda.
My personal highlight was the climb to Brennisteinsalda. Imagine climbing up through steaming clouds of sulfur gases and seeing this volcano towering before you in all its colors. And yes, it has an unusual shape! The short detour to the summit is definitely worth it - the view is simply indescribable.
On the way you will repeatedly come across wooden posts and large, stacked stone towers. These are important, especially in fog, because they show you the way. However, there is one thing you should avoid: don't build your own cairns. They are important landmarks and cultural assets in Iceland.
If you follow the Laugavegur trekking trail, you will also reach Hrafntinnusker, an impressive mountain that rises up to 1141 meters into the sky. A landscape characterized by volcanic sand and shiny obsidian awaits you here. Another highlight is the ice cave, which, despite collapsing a few years ago, is still an impressive destination for a short hike.
Translated by Google •
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