The Road to Reykholt via Nesjavellir – A Scenic Detour Worth Taking

While most travelers choose the Hellisheiði route when driving from Reykjavík to Reykholt, there is another road that many consider one of the most beautiful drives in Iceland. The route through Nesjavellir and along Lake Þingvallavatn offers dramatic landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and a unique glimpse into Iceland’s remarkable natural beauty.

This approximately 27-kilometer route winds its way from Hólmsheiði through the Hengill geothermal area and down to Lake Þingvallavatn. Along the way, lava fields, green valleys, steaming geothermal vents, and crystal-clear water compete for your attention. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the area is also popular for hiking and cycling.

The Hengill area itself is one of Iceland’s most popular outdoor recreation destinations. Named after Mount Hengill, an active volcanic system, the region stretches between the South Coast Road and Lake Þingvallavatn. It is famous for its geothermal activity, with steam vents, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools scattered throughout the landscape. Located on an active volcanic belt, the area also experiences frequent earthquakes. For nature lovers, it is a true paradise filled with hiking trails, spectacular mountain views, and unique geological features.

The journey begins in Reykjavík by following Route 1 eastbound. Shortly after passing Rauðavatn, turn left onto Route 435, known as the Nesjavellir Road. The atmosphere changes almost immediately. Traffic fades away, replaced by lava fields, mountains, and a sense of tranquility that feels surprisingly far removed from the capital.

Although the road is paved, it is worth noting that it is both narrow and winding. As it climbs through the lava fields, panoramic views begin to open up across vast highlands and mountain ranges. On a clear day, visibility stretches for miles, and Reykjavík slowly disappears into the rearview mirror.

One of the first things visitors notice along this route is the geothermal activity. As you approach Nesjavellir, columns of steam rise from the earth, showcasing the powerful natural forces that shape Iceland. Here you will find the Nesjavellir Geothermal Power Plant, one of the country’s largest geothermal facilities, supplying hot water and energy to much of the capital region.

Soon after, one of the highlights of the drive comes into view. Lake Þingvallavatn, Iceland’s largest natural lake, spreads out beneath the surrounding mountains. The lake constantly changes character depending on the weather and light conditions—sometimes calm and mirror-like, other times dark blue and dramatic beneath a cloudy sky.

This is a route best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Several viewpoints along the way invite travelers to stop, take photographs, or simply appreciate the silence. During summer, the area is rich with birdlife, while autumn paints the moss and heathland in beautiful shades of red and gold.

The road continues along the northern shores of Lake Þingvallavatn before joining Route 36 and entering the historic Þingvellir area. If time allows, a stop at Þingvellir National Park is highly recommended. Few places in Iceland combine history and nature so beautifully.

Even if you decide not to stop, there is plenty to see from the car. The road passes alongside the impressive cliffs of Almannagjá, where you are literally driving between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Shortly afterward, you will pass the historic Þingvallakirkja church and Þingvallabær, the white buildings with green roofs situated beside the Öxará River.

As the road crosses the bridges through Þingvellir, you can also look down into the crystal-clear fissures of Silfra and Nikulásargjá, better known as Peningagjá. It is not uncommon to see divers and snorkelers exploring the famously clear glacial waters that have made Silfra world-renowned.

From Þingvellir, the journey continues toward Laugarvatn. As you descend from Laugarvatnsfjall, the village appears on your left. Approaching the town, you can often see steam rising from the geothermal area by the lake, home to Laugarvatn Fontana. The road also passes the historic old regional school, a distinctive red building that has become one of the landmarks of the village.

Beyond Laugarvatn, the drive continues into Biskupstungur. The landscape becomes increasingly green and rural as you make your way toward Reykholt.

Once you enter Biskupstungur, the pace naturally slows. Traffic is light, the air feels fresh, and the views across rivers, farmland, and distant mountains create a sense of calm that is difficult to find elsewhere. It is often at this point that travelers realize they are no longer simply heading somewhere—they have already arrived in vacation mode.

And when Reykholt finally comes into view, the journey itself has become part of the experience. All that remains is to check in, settle into your room or cottage, and enjoy everything that awaits—peaceful surroundings, beautiful nature, and perhaps a relaxing soak in a hot tub under the open Icelandic sky.

In our next blog, we will explore the third route to Reykholt, through the beautiful Mosfellsdalur valley, before taking a closer look at the many wonders that Reykholt and its surrounding area have to offer.