Gunnuhver Hot Springs
Witness Iceland's raw geothermal power at Gunnuhver, with bubbling mud pools, powerful steam vents, and a dramatic coastline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos
Gunnuhver Hot Springs
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Iceland's raw geothermal power at Gunnuhver, with bubbling mud pools, powerful steam vents, and a dramatic coastline.
"Smelly geothermal hot spring with beautiful landscapes and colors. Truly memorable!"
👃 Embrace the Smell
The strong sulfur odor is intense but temporary. It's part of the unique geothermal experience! :nose:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
While boardwalks are present, uneven terrain exists. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bubbling Mud Pools
Main geothermal area
Witness the earth's raw power with vibrant, bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. A truly otherworldly sight!
Steam Vent Spectacle
Boardwalk loop
Walk right through the mist of powerful steam vents for incredible photo opportunities and a visceral experience.
Dramatic Coastline
Adjacent to geothermal area
Explore rugged cliffs and rocky shores offering breathtaking views of the North Atlantic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Aroma
Time Your Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Naturally occurring hot springs
👃 Embrace the Smell
The strong sulfur odor is intense but temporary. It's part of the unique geothermal experience! :nose:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
While boardwalks are present, uneven terrain exists. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Seeking recommendations for one day of our trip...
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The steam vents and colorful mud pools offer incredible, unique photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
⏰ Allow Extra Time
Don't rush! Many visitors suggest 2-3 hours to explore fully. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
👃 Embrace the Smell
The strong sulfur odor is intense but temporary. It's part of the unique geothermal experience! :nose:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
While boardwalks are present, uneven terrain exists. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The steam vents and colorful mud pools offer incredible, unique photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
⏰ Allow Extra Time
Don't rush! Many visitors suggest 2-3 hours to explore fully. :clock1:
🚗 Free Parking Available
Ample parking is available, making it an easy stop on your Reykjanes Peninsula tour. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by Gunnuhver's raw geothermal power, with its bubbling mud pools and impressive steam vents offering unique photo opportunities. The dramatic coastline adds to the scenic beauty. While the intense sulfur smell is a common point of mention, most find it a memorable and worthwhile aspect of the experience, especially given the free access and ample parking.
"Really cool stop with really three different things to see, the hot springs and geyser (I think you would call it that), lighthouse, and a dramatic rocky coastline with cliffs! Just awesome!
We were a little pressed for time but in hindsight we could have easily spent 3 hours here. Plan accordingly, you won’t be disappointed!"
Jon Rodriguez
"Smelly geothermal hot spring with beautiful landscapes and colors. They can shoot up very high creating an amazing photo opportunity. There are multiple parking spots around here. There is also a bridge to directly cross one of the hot spring pools. It was a very memorable visit (besides the lingering odor of rotten egg) and we even spotted a rainbow!"
Der lucslui
"easy stop to see epic hot springs steam vents. short loop boardwalk takes you right thru the steam for great photo opt."
Anita einarsson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gunnuhver is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. It's easily accessible by car, typically a short drive from Keflavík International Airport or Reykjavík. Follow signs for the geothermal area. :car:
While many Reykjanes Peninsula tours include Gunnuhver, it's also a popular self-drive destination. You can easily visit independently. :world_map:
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Gunnuhver. The site is well-marked and has dedicated parking areas. :car:
It's challenging to visit without a car as public transport is limited. Renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended. :bus:
Yes, Gunnuhver is near other Reykjanes Peninsula highlights like the Bridge Between Continents and the Reykjanesviti lighthouse. :compass:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Gunnuhver Hot Springs is completely free to visit. Parking is also complimentary. :moneywithwings:
Gunnuhver is open 24/7, year-round, as it's a natural geothermal area. :hourglassflowingsand:
No booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime. :ticket:
Stay on marked paths and boardwalks for your safety. Do not touch the hot springs or mud pools. :warning:
The main boardwalk loop is generally accessible, but some areas may have uneven terrain. :wheelchair:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the hot springs, steam vents, and surrounding coastline. Some recommend 2-3 hours. :stopwatch:
Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. Layers are recommended as Icelandic weather can change quickly. :coat:
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available at Gunnuhver. Plan accordingly before your visit. :toilet:
No, swimming is not permitted in Gunnuhver. The waters are extremely hot and dangerous. :no_swimming:
The distinct smell is due to sulfur emissions from the geothermal activity, often described as rotten eggs. :nose:
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk loop offers fantastic views of the steam vents and mud pools. The coastline also provides dramatic backdrops. :camerawithflash:
The steam can sometimes obscure views, but the vibrant colors and dynamic landscape make for stunning shots. :iphone:
Daytime offers the best natural light. Consider visiting on a slightly overcast day for softer light and more dramatic steam. :sunwithface:
Stay on the designated paths and boardwalks. While you can get close to the steam, do not approach the hot pools directly for safety reasons. :warning:
Look for rainbows forming in the steam, especially after rain. The contrast of the steam against the rugged landscape is also striking. :rainbow:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no facilities like restrooms or playgrounds, the free admission and parking make it an easy and budget-friendly stop. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no amenities on-site. The nearby dramatic coastline also offers opportunities for exploration, adding to the adventure.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's a perfect spot for a quick, impactful experience that showcases Iceland's volcanic nature without requiring a significant time commitment. The visual spectacle and the unique sensory experience make it a memorable part of any day trip around the peninsula.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Gunnuhver's Geothermal Power
The area features multiple distinct geothermal features, including the main hot springs, mud pools, and fumaroles (steam vents). The steam can rise quite high, creating dramatic visual effects, especially when the wind catches it. Many visitors note the strong, pervasive smell of sulfur, which is a signature characteristic of geothermal areas worldwide. Despite the odor, the visual spectacle and the feeling of being in such a geologically active place are highly memorable.
Beyond the immediate geothermal features, the surrounding landscape is rugged and dramatic, with volcanic rock formations and a rugged coastline. This makes Gunnuhver more than just a hot spring visit; it's an immersion into Iceland's powerful natural forces. The free access and ample parking make it an easily accessible and impactful stop for anyone exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Photography Tips for Gunnuhver
Consider the lighting conditions. While daytime offers good visibility, overcast days can enhance the moodiness of the steam and make the colors pop. If you're lucky enough to catch a rainbow in the steam, it's a truly magical photographic moment. Be mindful of the steam itself; it can fog up your lens quickly, so having a lens cloth handy is essential.
Don't forget the surrounding coastline. The dramatic cliffs and the vastness of the ocean provide a stunning backdrop that complements the geothermal activity. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to showcase the raw, untamed beauty of this Icelandic landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit