The Top 5 Hidden Natural Gems in Iceland You Can Explore with a Rental Camper

Brúarhlöð Canyon

A significant proportion of visitors to Iceland make it to the Golden Circle, but only a tiny percentage of them call in at Brúarhlöð Canyon as well. Yet, it’s less than a 15 minute drive from Gullfoss waterfall – they both form part of the Hvitá River. That’s a pity, for this gorgeous canyon has much to recommend it. The milky blue water is offset photogenically by the charcoal grey of the gorge’s breccia walls. Take a hike to explore the surrounding countryside and take in the view. Alternatively, book a kayaking trip to experience the power of the water.

Grænihryggur Ridge

You’ll need a 4x4 campervan and also be visiting during the summer months, but getting into the Icelandic highlands is a tempting prospect if so. While Landmannalaugar acts as a magnet for intrepid travellers, you don’t have to stray far from the People’s Pool into the surrounding mountains to sense that you’ve found a hidden gem. Try the hike along the Grænihryggur Ridge to lose the crowds and discover the phenomenal colours that are created thanks to the area’s varied mineral content. The vivid hues of this particular ridge are incredible.

Hellulaug

Hot springs are littered across the Icelandic countryside but the chance to find one off the beaten track is worth clocking up some miles. Set your sights on the remote Westfjords where you’ll encounter Hellulaug. Out in the open, you won’t find stylish changing rooms; you can always change in your van. Also absent are the luxurious touches that characterise upscale geothermal spas such as the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon or Forest Lagoon. Instead, this is a back to nature experience on an intimate scale – if you’re lucky enough to find it empty then you’ll also be delighted to learn that it’s free.

Gunnuhver Hot Springs

Compared to the crowds that frequent the Haukadalur Valley in the hope of seeing Strokkur geyser erupt, Gunnuhver is relatively overlooked. It’s strange too, as it’s located on the Reykjanes peninsula just a short drive from Keflavik Airport. The place is home to Iceland’s largest mud pool, which measures an impressive 20 metres in diameter, and is unique in the country as being fed by seawater. Steaming vents give the area an ethereal beauty. The legends that are associated with Gunnuhver – including that of a female trapped ghost – contribute to its mystical air.

Aldeyjarfoss Waterfall

Flanked by basalt columns and tumbling into a circular plunge pool, Aldeyjarfoss is one of North Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls. It receives relatively few visitors as it is situated off the beaten track and reached on an F-road, so you’ll need a 4x4 campervan and be travelling in summer. Nevertheless, it is absolutely worth the effort. Follow the road along the banks of the Skjálfandafljót River; after crossing the bridge it’s about 6km to your destination, the jewel of the Bárðardalur Valley. You’ll do the last stretch on foot, but it’s a breathtaking place. 

 Which of these five hidden gems excites you the most? Perhaps you should aim to visit all of them in your Konvin camper van?