In the Land of Fire and Ice, you will find many hot springs. Some are still in their original form in nature, whilst others are being utilized at geothermal pools. When it comes to Deildartunguhver you’re dealing with both worlds.
In this article, we tell you everything there is to know about this hot spring and the significant role it plays in its surroundings. So, without further ado, here’s why you should (and probably will) take a dip in Deildartunguhver Hot Spring.
What to Look Forward to at Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
Deildartunguhver is an incredibly interesting hot spring. Visitors can visit the site in its natural form, where it holds the title of Europe’s highest-flowing hot spring, flowing at a rapid pace of 180 liters per second.
The water is a consistent 97 degrees Celsius, so whilst you can view and admire Deildartunguhver in its natural form, it’s impossible to take a dip in it there, and danger railings ensure that visitors keep a safe distance.
If you want to take a dip in Deildartunguhver’s water, you’ll need to visit Krauma Geothermal Pool where the water from the hot spring is used and cooled down with the help of glacial water from Iceland’s smallest Ice Cap called Ok. But this is not the only way Deildartunguhver Hot Spring is used. In fact, Deildartunguhver water is used for heating homes within a 60-kilometer radius; from Borgarnes to Akranes.
Where is Deildartunguhver in Iceland?
Deildartunguhver is located in Reykholtsdalur near Borgarnes in West Iceland. It’s just an hour away from the capital city of Reykjavík, which makes it a great day trip. But it’s also located conveniently close to the Ring Road making it the ideal stop along a Ring Road road trip.
Getting to Deildartunguhver Thermal Springs
Visitors essentially have two options when it comes to visiting Deildartunguhver:
Get There Via a Tour
Numerous tour operators and guides on the island will be able to take you to Deildartunguhver, whether via one of their existing tour packages or a private tour customized around your request.
Get There Via Your Own Transport
This will always be our preferred method of traveling on the island. Not only is it extremely convenient, but you’ll always be in full control of your time and itinerary. Getting to Deildartunguhver with your own transport is easy. Just get onto the Ring Road, turn off on Route 50 and you’re there!
How Much Time Do You Need at Deildartunguhver Thermal Springs?
Most people spend no more than 30 minutes at Deildartunguhver. That’s why we recommend adding it as a stop to your road trip itinerary.
Other Things to Do & See Near Deildartunguhver
Whether you decide to make Deildartunguhver a day trip or a stop along a road trip, these are a few things to add to your itinerary whilst in the area:
- Krauma
- Kleppjarnsreykir Village
- Husafell
- Hraunfossar Waterfall
- Vidgelmir Cave
- Haafell Goat Farm
- Snorrastofa Cultural and Medieval Centre
Is Visiting Deildartunguhver Worth it?
Deildartunguhver makes for an impressive sight. This alone makes a stop there worth it. But add on the importance it has in the area, whether you enjoy it as heating in a local home or enjoy a dip in the Deildartunguhver water at Krauma – Deildartunguhver’s impact can be felt for many kilometers.
We usually recommend renting a campervan in Iceland for your Ring Road road trip. This way you take care of both transport and accommodation and can enjoy incredibly economical stays by camping in comfort. If you want to make Deildartunguhver one of your stops along the way, we suggest that you book a spot at Hverir Campground.
It’s conveniently located, so you can get to Deildartunguhver and enjoy the rest of what the area has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning that Ring Road adventure with Deildartunguhver ready to impress along the way.