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The Volcanic Way is a way to explore South Iceland and Reykjanes, focusing on volcanoes and their surroundings. Eight major volcanoes lead the way, telling you the story of how they shaped the land and its people.

 

What to expect on The Volcanic Way

Distance: ~700 km. one-way or ~1200 km. round-trip

Roads: Mostly paved lowland roads with a 90 km/ speed limit

Towns: 17 towns and villages that become more spread out as you go further east.

Elements: Hot springs, lava fields, new and old volcanoes, black sand beaches, sub-glacial volcanoes, volcanic islands, basalt columns, lava beaches

Season: Year-round

Duration: Take your time. The Volcanic Way should be enjoyed slowly. We recommend at least one day for each of the eight stages of the way.

Expect volcanic landscapes, peaceful places, good food, friendly people, fascinating history, and unforgettable outdoor activities! Check out each stage of the way and start planning your volcanic journey!

The stages of The Volcanic Way

Fagradalsfjall
Located in Reykjanes Peninsula, a captivating geological wonderland where the raw power of nature is on full display. This rugged landscape, adorned with lava fields, geothermal hotspots, and secluded beaches, offers an unforgettable adventure for all.
Hengill
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.
Hekla
Hekla has been dubbed the Queen of Iceland’s volcanoes. The one that has erupted most frequently in recent years; rises 1,491 m over sea level and can be seen from long distances in South Iceland. Despite Hekla's frequent eruptions, this is a fertile farming region where people have lived since the Viking age or possibly longer.
Eyjafjallajökull
Eyjafjallajökull is an ice-capped volcano that famously erupted in 2010, its ash cloud affecting air traffic widely in Europe. Up close, the eruption caused flash floods and spewed ash over nearby farms and villages for over a month.
Eldfell
One fateful night in 1973, the people of Westman islands woke up to a volcanic eruption at the edge of the town. It was the first-ever volcanic eruption within a town in Iceland, forcing almost the entire population of the Westman islands to abandon their homes.
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. Katla erupted at least twenty times from the year 930 until 1918, producing the characteristic ash, or black sand, people so long to see.
Laki
The vast lava fields of the Lakagígar region can seem otherworldly. Two significant volcanic eruptions produced these mystical landscapes: The Eldgjá eruption in the year 934 and the Laki eruption in 1783-84. Now covered by thick moss, the lava fields are bright green when it rains but adorn a grey hue on dry days.
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. Ever since the volcano erupted in 1362, the surrounding region has been called Öræfi, which roughly translates to Wastelands.
FAQ - Volcanic Way
Questions and answers for anyway travelling The Volcanic Way.

The Volcanic Way with Chris Burkard

 

Mountains with memories

Let these eight volcanoes lead you through geological history, from new basalt lava fields in Reykjanes to ancient gabbro mountains such as Vestrahorn by Höfn. As you travel along The Volcanic Way, you will find opportunities to relax in geothermal pools, try out thrilling glacier activities next to sub-glacial volcanoes, experience complete darkness in underground caves, and hike, bike, or ride horses in volcanic landscapes. To help prepare for your journey, check out our map of The Volcanic Way. Look for the heart icons to find places personally recommended by locals.

Open map in full screen

 

Take it slow - Travel with purpose

The Volcanic Way is a slow-travel approach to a region filled with popular tourist attractions. Instead of rushing from one ‚instagrammable‘ highlight to another, we invite you to slow down and truly take it all in. Without missing the must-see spots along the way, you will also visit quieter places, get in touch with nature and participate in the local culture.

By learning about local cultures, choosing local produce and vendors, and spending more time in less-visited areas, you contribute to sustainable tourism. See if you can support a local cause, lend a hand, or clean the environment during your trip. Even your smile can help spread joy, leaving a positive vibe that continues to live long after you return home.

We, the locals, designed The Volcanic Way for you: The curious traveler who seeks a deep connection with nature and wants to feel the rhythm of local culture.