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Welcome to the vicinity of Hengill - stage two of The Volcanic Way

As you reach the vicinity of Hengill, you will start noticing steam rising from hills, mountains, and even within the town of Hveragerði. The faint sulfuric smell goes almost unnoticed by locals who, for centuries, have put Earth’s heat to good use. Visit the Geothermal exhibition at Hellisheiði Geothermal power plant, relax in the warm river of Reykjadalur valley, or enjoy a walk at the Geothermal Park. Going deeper, a cave tour into the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel will bring you underground and up close to Earth's volcanic veins.

Activities - Hengill

Accommodation - Hengill

Learn about Geothermal energy

Located in the Hengill area, the Geothermal Exhibition is situated inside the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant – Iceland’s largest geothermal plant. Visitors see first-hand how we harness the power of the Hengill volcanic system to produce electricity and hot water.

Learn about the plant’s production and distribution, geology, and sustainable and renewable energy. We welcome visitors to chat with our knowledgeable staff, explore interactive displays, and enjoy stunning views of mountains and moss-covered lava fields.

Volcanic Wisdom

Did you know that the Hengill volcanic system stretches over 60 km and has erupted nine times during the Holocene? This fascinating area lies at the junction of the West Volcanic Zone and the South Iceland Seismic Zone. The area is characterized by faults formed during a series of eruptions. Hengill is home to Iceland’s second-largest geothermal area.

Geothermal areas display a stunning array of colors as water bubbles, and mud boils against a rhyolite backdrop. Vivid hues are found in high-temperature areas like Fjallabak Nature Reserve, Kerlingarfjöll, and Hveravellir, while lowland spots such as Hveragerði's Geothermal Park and the geothermal fields at Hengill and Geysir are also captivating.

What's that peculiar smell? It's hydrogen sulfide, often compared to rotten eggs, but some people find it quite intriguing!

The Stages of The Volcanic Way

1. Fagradalsfjall
Located in Reykjanes Peninsula, a captivating geological wonderland where the raw power of nature is on full display.
2. Hengill
As you reach the vicinity of Hengill, you will start noticing steam rising from hills, mountains, and even within the town of Hveragerði.
3. Hekla
Hekla has been dubbed the Queen of Iceland’s volcanoes. The one that has erupted most frequently in recent years;
4. Eyjafjallajökull
Eyjafjallajökull is an ice-capped volcano that famously erupted in 2010, its ash cloud affecting air traffic widely in Europe.
5. Eldfell
One fateful night in 1973, the people of Westman islands woke up to a volcanic eruption at the edge of the town.
6. Katla
The vicinity of Katla is recognized by its vast black sands. While the volcano itself is hiding under thick layers of ice, its surrounding glacier, Mýrdalsjökull, is a majestic sight.
7. Lakagígar
The vast lava fields of the Lakiagígar region can seem otherworldly. Two significant volcanic eruptions produced these mystical landscapes:
8. Öræfajökull
Vatnajökull glacier is everpresent as you explore the easternmost part of The Volcanic Way. Its highest peak is Öræfajökull, a stratovolcano at Vatnajökull's southern edge
Frequently asked questions
Questions and answers for anyone traveling The Volcanic Way