Capital Region Hiking & Trekking Guide 2025

A spectacular city coastal walk along Reykjavik's seafront from the Seltjarnarnes lighthouse peninsula along the harbor, past Harpa Concert Hall, through the Old Harbour, past Nauthólsvík beach, and continuing to Laugardalur. The trail passes the Sun Voyager sculpture and offers constant views of Mt. Esja across the bay.

An easy loop trail through Heiðmörk reserve's most dramatic feature — the Rauðhólar (Red Hills) pseudocrater cluster. These 50+ rust-red volcanic cones formed when lava flows over a wetland caused explosive steam eruptions, creating a surreal mini-landscape of hollowed craters and red volcanic earth.

A surprisingly wild riverside walk through Reykjavik's backyard salmon river valley, just 10 minutes from the city center. The Elliðaár river flows through birch forests and lava fields, and in late summer (August-September) Atlantic salmon can be seen leaping up the Elliðaárfoss waterfall — an astonishing sight so close to a capital city.

A magical walk through a centuries-old lava field park in the heart of Hafnarfjörður, transformed by generations of careful planting into a garden of hidden paths, mossy lava tunnels, and hidden corners supposedly inhabited by Iceland's hidden elves (huldufólk). The unique atmosphere and proximity to Reykjavik make it an excellent short excursion.

The wooded hillside below Perlan museum is covered in Iceland's only significant urban forest, planted as a reforestation project since the 1950s. A network of paths winds through birch woodland with views over the city and down to Nauthólsvík beach. A perfect short walk combining nature with a visit to Perlan at the summit.

A coastal walk to the tip of the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, ending at the Grótta lighthouse and geothermal pool. The walk offers views of Mt. Esja, Reykjavik skyline, and the open Atlantic, with outstanding birdwatching along the shoreline. The small geothermal pool at Grótta is a local secret hot tub.

The river valley behind Mosfellsbær town, 15 minutes from Reykjavik, offers gentle walking along the Varmá geothermal river through birch woodland and open moorland. The valley leads to Þingvallavatn Lake and connects to the Golden Circle area, making it a great half-day escape from the city.