Landmannalaugar (the name translates as “Countryman’s Bathing Pool”) is a scenic hot springs area in southern Iceland, accessible by bus during summer. Seasoned hikers will want to take the 37-mile Landmannalaugar Trail, which stretches from the springs to Þórsmörk, crossing some incredibly varied and unforgettable scenery spanning ice-capped mountains, black-stone deserts, rocky lava fields, and glacial river valleys. Given the terrain, it’s not exactly a stroll in the park, especially as you have to carry your own food supplies and extra clothing, but there are bunkhouses and campsites along the way. Be sure to pack warm clothing for the evenings, a map and compass for directions, and also some waterproof outerwear for bad weather and wading through glacial rivers.
