Things to Do in Hveragerdi

Hveragerði is built directly on geothermal hotspots and sits in one of Iceland's most volcanically active zones, with steaming vents visible throughout the town.

The town's name means 'hot spring garden' and it has been a centre for greenhouse horticulture since the early 20th century, growing tropical fruits and vegetables using geothermal heat.

Hveragerði experienced a magnitude 6.5 earthquake in 2008 that caused significant damage but the town rebuilt and remains a testament to Icelandic resilience.

The nearby Reykjadalur valley ('steam valley') features a natural hot spring river where you can bathe in warm water surrounded by mountains and geothermal activity.

Hveragerði is only 45 km from Reykjavik but feels worlds away, making it an ideal day trip or 1-2 night escape from Iceland's capital.

Local geothermal companies have operated since the 1920s and the town supplies much of Iceland's fresh produce year-round using renewable heat energy.