Iceland is a country of extraordinary natural beauty, where volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls create some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” Iceland boasts some of the most breathtaking views of active and dormant volcanoes. These volcanic landscapes are often surrounded by unique geological features, creating otherworldly vistas that attract nature lovers, adventurers, and photographers alike. If you’re looking to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of volcanoes in Iceland, here are some of the best spots to find the most stunning volcanic views.
1. Eyjafjallajökull Volcano
Perhaps one of the most famous volcanoes in Iceland, Eyjafjallajökull is a massive ice-covered volcano located in the southern part of the island. Eyjafjallajökull gained global notoriety for its 2010 eruption, which disrupted air travel across Europe for several weeks. However, beyond its eruption, this volcano is a stunning natural wonder, offering some of the most dramatic volcanic views in the country.
The best place to witness Eyjafjallajökull’s grandeur is from Þórsmörk, a valley nestled between glaciers and surrounded by towering mountains. The views of Eyjafjallajökull from this area are absolutely breathtaking, with the volcano’s ice-capped peak rising high above the landscape. In addition to the volcanic views, Þórsmörk offers a wealth of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding wilderness, adding to the overall experience of the site.
You can also get close to the volcano’s base by visiting Seljalandsfoss, a stunning waterfall located at the foot of the volcano. From here, you’ll be able to witness Eyjafjallajökull towering in the background, creating a striking contrast between the flowing waterfall and the snow-capped volcano.
2. Hekla Volcano
Known as one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, Hekla is often referred to as the “Gateway to Hell” by locals due to its fiery eruptions over the centuries. Hekla’s eruptions have been recorded as far back as the 9th century, and while it’s currently dormant, the volcano remains an iconic feature of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
Hekla stands majestically in the southern Highlands of Iceland, and the best views of the volcano can be enjoyed from nearby Hekla’s Summit. While climbing to the summit requires a serious hike, it rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic terrain, including lava fields, glaciers, and distant mountains. The stark contrast between the lava plains and the snowy peaks of the mountain is visually stunning, making this one of Iceland’s most remarkable volcanic landscapes.
For those who prefer a more accessible view, the volcano can also be seen from Route 26, a scenic road that runs through the southern part of Iceland. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to enjoy the expansive views of the lava fields that have been shaped by Hekla’s eruptions. The landscape surrounding Hekla is unique, with patches of green moss, black volcanic rocks, and the looming silhouette of the volcano itself creating a mesmerizing scene.
3. Mount Fagradalsfjall
The eruption of Mount Fagradalsfjall in 2021 caught the attention of the world, as it was the first volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula in nearly 800 years. The eruption was a spectacular display of molten lava and glowing fissures, offering an up-close view of volcanic activity that few places on Earth can offer.
Fagradalsfjall is located near Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, making it easily accessible for visitors looking to witness the power of an active volcano. The eruption site is only about 40 minutes from the capital, and the landscape surrounding the volcano is a mix of rugged lava fields, steam vents, and lava rock formations. Visitors can hike up to the viewing areas, where they will be treated to breathtaking views of the ongoing volcanic activity (depending on the current status of the eruption).
Even after the eruption subsided, Fagradalsfjall remains an extraordinary place to visit, as the volcanic landscape is still being reshaped by ongoing geological processes. The land around the volcano is slowly healing, with vibrant green moss and plants beginning to reclaim the area, creating a striking contrast against the blackened earth.
The views of Fagradalsfjall are best during the summer months when the weather is milder and the hiking trails are more accessible. The surrounding area is also home to stunning valleys, streams, and cliffs, offering visitors a chance to explore both the volcanic terrain and the scenic beauty of Iceland.
4. Askja Volcano
Located in the remote central highlands of Iceland, Askja is a caldera formed by a massive eruption that occurred thousands of years ago. The Askja volcano is a fascinating geological feature, with a large crater lake—Öskjuvatn—that sits at the bottom of the caldera. This stunning lake is surrounded by jagged volcanic mountains and the rugged landscape of the Highlands, making it one of the most striking volcanic views in Iceland.
To reach Askja, visitors need to embark on a journey through the rough and remote interior of Iceland, which can be challenging. However, the rewards are immense. The views of Askja’s crater lake, set against the backdrop of volcanic peaks and steaming vents, are nothing short of spectacular. During the summer months, the area is accessible by 4×4 vehicles and offers visitors the chance to witness Iceland’s volcanic history up close.
Askja also holds historical significance, as it was once used as a training ground by NASA astronauts in the 1960s to prepare for the moon landing, due to its similarity to the lunar surface. The unique combination of volcanic scenery and the area’s historical importance makes Askja a must-see for those with a passion for volcanoes and Iceland’s geological wonders.
5. Kilauea (Not Iceland, but a Global Connection)
Although not located in Iceland, Kilauea is another remarkable volcano whose breathtaking views are worth mentioning. As one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea’s eruptions offer a rare opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kilauea offers some of the most stunning volcanic landscapes, including molten lava flows, craters, and smoke billowing into the air.
Though not in Iceland, the volcanic activity and lava flows of Kilauea have similarities to Iceland’s eruptions. If you’re interested in the raw power of volcanoes, Kilauea offers a thrilling experience. Its eruptions, though different in location, offer many similarities in terms of their volcanic formations and the chance to experience lava up close.