National parks in North Iceland

Bárðarbunga, is a stratovolcano located under Vatnajökull, Iceland's most extensive glacier. The second highest mountain in Iceland, 2,009 metres (6,591 ft) above sea level, Bárðarbunga is also part of a volcanic system that is approximately 200 kilometres (120 mi) long and 25 kilometres (16 mi) wide.

Hólmatungur is an expanse of rich vegetation in the Jökulsárgljúfur area, and there are many beautiful columnar rock formations to be found there. The footpath between Hljóðaklettar and Hólmatungur, alongside Jökulsá á Fjöllum, is among the most beautiful in Iceland. The waters of countless streams bubble up in Hólmatungur, which then tumble over ledges into Jökla. Here you will also find Gloppuhellir cave in Gloppa, which is a very special natural creation.

Vatnajökull National Park is vast in size and covers more than 13% of Iceland. Despite a large part of the national park being underneath the icecap of the glacier Vatnajökull its landscape is diverse, predominantly due to the interplay of volcanic activity and glaciers. Jökulsárgljúfur is an area that takes its name from a canyon carved out by river Jökulsá á Fjöllum. Within this area is Ásbyrgi; surrounded by horseshoe-shaped cliffs and also the location of Ásbyrgi visitor centre and a large camp site. Also within Jökulsárgljúfur are waterfall Dettifoss and crater plugs Hljóðaklettar, both a must see for every visitor in the north. Central volcano Askja and highland oasis Herðubreiðarlindir are further up in the highlands. To get there requires a 4x4 transport. They are best accessed by road 901 and then F905. Two small fords need to be crossed on this way. Alternative route is through road F88 but then two fords that need extreme caution need to be crossed. More information about the National park is at the webpage: www.vatnajokullnationalpark.is  

Lake Mývatn is a veritable paradise for birdwatchers and there is a highly diverse birdlife to be found both on the waters of the lake itself and on its shores. Many waders and marsh dwellers make their home there, but Mývatn is probably best known for its unique duck species composition. During the summer months there are more species of duck gathered in and around its waters than anywhere else on the planet. Mývatn and its wetlands are protected as a nature reserve (The Mývatn-Laxá Nature Conservation Area). It is registered as one of the internationally important wetlands, along with the Laxá river which flows out of the lake.

This dramatic canyon, Jökulsárgljúfur, was formed by the actions of water, fire and ice. Enormous, catastrophic glacial bursts are believed to have carved out the deep ravines and rocky basins, the most famous of which is Ásbyrgi.The Hljóðaklettar outcrops are the cores of ancient volcanoes, revealed when the river swept away all the loose volcanic material.The waterfalls on the River Jökulsá á Fjöllum, Selfoss, Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss and Réttarfoss are powerful and impressive.The Hólmatungur district is an area of contrasts: crystal clear streams and bubbling brooks cross the land before emptying into the raging, chocolate-coloured torrent. A delicate balance of flora and fauna thrives under the protection of cliffs and scree slopes.

Ásbyrgi is one of Iceland’s most remarkable natural wonders and a highlight of Vatnajökull National Park. The distinctive horseshoe-shaped canyon is surrounded by towering cliffs reaching up to 100 metres in height and filled with lush woodland, creating a peaceful oasis in the heart of North Iceland. Part of the Jökulsárgljúfur area of the national park, Ásbyrgi is renowned for its unique landscape, rich birdlife and tranquil atmosphere.  According to Icelandic folklore, the canyon was formed by the hoofprint of Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse, while scientists believe it was shaped by powerful glacial floods thousands of years ago. A variety of hiking trails lead visitors through the canyon and to viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscape. The area is well equipped for visitors, with a visitor centre, campsite, shop and one of Iceland’s most scenic golf courses, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.  Ásbyrgi is also one of the key attractions along the Diamond Circle.

Kverkfjöll is a volcanic mountain range on the northern edge of Vatnajökull glacier and one of the most remote and fascinating destinations in the Icelandic Highlands. Named after the dramatic gorge carved by Kverkjökull glacier, the area is renowned for its striking combination of ice, fire and geothermal activity. One of Iceland’s most active high-temperature geothermal areas is located in the western part of Kverkfjöll, where steaming vents, hot springs and colourful geothermal formations create an extraordinary landscape. The contrast between the geothermal area and the nearby glacier makes Kverkfjöll one of the country’s most unique natural environments. The area offers a variety of hiking opportunities, including routes through rugged volcanic terrain and to viewpoints overlooking glaciers and mountain peaks. Access is by mountain roads that are generally open only during the summer months, making a visit to Kverkfjöll a true Highland adventure.  More information about the National Park is at the webpage: www.vatnajokullnationalpark.is

Hljóðaklettar in the canyon Jökulsárgljúfur is a distinctive cluster of columnar rock formations standing at the entrance to Vesturdalur, down by the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River. The columns lie at all angles and it’s an entertaining exercise for one's imagination to interpret their patterns. The road to Hljóðaklettar (862) is closed over the winter months.