Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/valleys/reykjadalur

Content updated: 2026-09-10

This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](<https://www.iceland.org/valleys/reykjadalur>). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article.

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# Reykjadalur: plan the hot-river walk before the bath

Reykjadalur above Hveragerði is a geothermal hiking destination with a bathing section in the river. The walk and current access conditions come first when planning a visit.

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

## Check whether the trail is open

The [Visit Hveragerði walking map](<https://www.visithveragerdi.is/_files/ugd/1c2300_384c2ec8d2484eab8acd72c5929215a3.pdf>) gives 3.5 km to the hot river, about an hour on its estimate. Returning the same way makes roughly 7 km of walking before adding bathing time. The map is undated; use it for route orientation and check current signs and conditions.

Visit South Iceland explicitly warns that the Reykjadalur trail can close and directs visitors to [SafeTravel](<https://safetravel.is/>) for its status. Check before driving to the start and follow the signs on arrival. Warm water does not make the approach reliably accessible through winter or after damaging weather.

## The whole geothermal area is not a bathing pool

The regional guide describes only part of the river as suitable for bathing. Stay on the marked paths through the geothermal ground and use the designated river access. Do not enter a hot spring, mud pool or an unfamiliar section because it resembles the bathing river in a photograph.

## Leave room for the return walk

Treat this as a hiking outing that includes a bath: carry walking layers, a towel and a way to keep dry clothes dry. Allow time to walk back and change before your next reservation. If a full walk does not fit the weather or your group, choose a bathing facility reached by road instead; the [Hveragerði guide](<https://www.iceland.org/cities/hveragerdi>) covers the nearby town.

## Sources and nearby guides

Sources checked September 10, 2026: [Reykjadalur valley](<https://www.south.is/en/place/reykjadalur-valley>).

[Compare Iceland’s valleys](<https://www.iceland.org/valleys>)

Planning help

## Questions about Reykjadalur: plan the hot-river walk before the bath

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

**Can I visit Reykjadalur whenever the weather feels mild?**

Check the actual trail status. Visit South Iceland says the route can close and directs visitors to SafeTravel for current notices.

**Can I bathe in any hot water in the valley?**

No. Only part of the river is described as suitable for bathing. Follow designated access and stay on paths through the geothermal area.

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).