Laugavegur Trail

Laugavegur

One of the world's most celebrated multi-day hiking trails, stretching 55 kilometers through Iceland's most colorful and geologically diverse landscapes from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. Hikers traverse rhyolite mountains, glacial rivers, and moss-covered lava fields while staying at mountain huts along the route.

Things to do

• Landmannalaugar Hot Springs — Soak in natural geothermal pools surrounded by rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains at the trail's southern starting point.
• Crossing Glacial Rivers — Wade through braided glacial rivers filled with meltwater from surrounding ice caps, a defining challenge of the trek.
• Exploring Moss-Covered Lava Fields — Hike across surreal black lava formations blanketed in thick Icelandic moss near the midpoint of the trail.
• Þórsmörk Wilderness Valley — Reach the northern terminus at this protected valley nestled between three glaciers offering views of Eyjafjallajökull.
• Mountain Hut Stays — Experience community dinners and overnight stays at basic but comfortable mountain refuges operated along the route.
• Hrafntinnusker Ridge Views — Ascend to this exposed ridge offering panoramic vistas of colorful mountains and surrounding Iceland highlands.

Food to try

• Mountain Hut Lamb Stew — Hearty Icelandic lamb and root vegetable stew served at trail lodges, designed to refuel hikers after long days.
• Fresh Trout from Mountain Streams — Locally caught Arctic char or brown trout prepared simply at mountain huts, often the highlight of evening meals.
• Rúgbrauð (Dark Rye Bread) — Dense, slightly sweet Icelandic rye bread traditionally cooked in geothermal heat, available at huts and starting points.
• Icelandic Dairy and Cheese — Sharp Icelandic cheeses and creamy dairy products served at mountain lodges as part of packed lunches or dinners.
• Svið (Sheep Head) — Traditional Icelandic dish sometimes offered at hut dinners, representing authentic local cuisine for adventurous eaters.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Mountain Hut Booking — Reserve accommodation well in advance as huts fill quickly during summer season; cancellations are common so flexibility helps.
• Leave No Trace Ethics — Icelanders take environmental stewardship seriously—pack out all waste and stay on marked trails to protect fragile moss and vegetation.
• Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes — Icelandic highlands experience sudden shifts from sunshine to storms; locals expect hikers to carry waterproof gear regardless of forecast.
• Shared Meals and Social Custom — Mountain hut dinners are communal affairs where hikers from different groups share tables and stories—engaging respectfully is part of the experience.