Hekla

One of Iceland's most famous and historically active volcanoes, whose eruptions shaped medieval European mythology and Icelandic history. The mountain offers demanding but rewarding climbs with panoramic views of the interior highlands and geothermal activity visible from the summit.

Things to do

• Summit Trek to Hekla — Climb the 1,491 m volcano on a challenging 5–6 hour round-trip hike with views of the barren interior and past eruption craters.
• Hekla Visitor Centre — Learn about the volcano's eruption history, medieval legends, and geological significance through exhibits at the base of the mountain.
• Hiking the Hekla Caldera Rim — Walk the crater's edge for geological close-ups and views into the volcanic depression without ascending to the summit.
• Photography of Lava Fields — Capture the distinctive dark lava formations and moss-covered volcanic plains surrounding Hekla against Iceland's stark highland landscape.
• Geothermal Feature Exploration — Observe steam vents and warm ground around the volcanic slopes, evidence of ongoing geothermal activity beneath the surface.

Food to try

• Icelandic Lamb Stew (Kjötsúpa) — Slow-cooked lamb with root vegetables and barley, a warming traditional dish essential after a demanding mountain hike in the interior.
• Fresh Trout from Mountain Streams — Locally caught Arctic char or brown trout from cold mountain waters, often grilled simply with butter and herbs at nearby guesthouses.
• Rye Bread Baked in Geothermal Heat — Dense, slightly sweet Icelandic rye bread traditionally baked using hot springs near volcanic areas, offering a unique local experience.
• Smoked Lamb (Hangikjöt) — Thinly sliced smoked lamb, an Icelandic delicacy often served as part of a traditional cold plate at local restaurants and farms.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Weather and Volcanic Conditions — Mountain conditions change rapidly; check forecasts, bring waterproof gear, and be prepared to abandon the summit attempt if visibility or wind becomes dangerous.
• Hekla's Medieval Reputation — Locals historically associated Hekla with the entrance to Hell due to medieval eruptions; understanding this folklore enriches appreciation of the volcano's cultural significance.
• Leave No Trace in the Interior — The fragile highland ecosystem recovers slowly; stay on marked paths, pack out all waste, and avoid disturbing the rare vegetation and geothermal features.