Things to do and places to wander
Heiðmörk Nature Escape
Heiðmörk is like Reykjavík’s backyard wilderness - a wide stretch of forest, lava fields, and quiet trails just minutes from the city. Over the past decades, more than four million trees have been planted here, and today you can wander through woodlands growing in the middle of ancient volcanic terrain. If you enjoy birdlife, you’re in luck: around 60 wild species have been recorded in the area, especially around lakes like Elliðavatn. Hike or bike the well-marked trails, go fishing (with a permit) or ride horseback across lava landscapes. One of the most striking sights is Rauðhólar, the "Red Hills," formed about 5,000 years ago when lava met water and exploded into pseudocraters that now glow rust-red from oxidized iron. And in winter, when the sky is clear and the city glow fades behind you, Heiðmörk becomes a great place to look for the northern lights.
High Ground
Southeast of Reykjavík, Bláfjöll ("Blue Mountains") is best known for its ski area, one of Iceland's main winter sports destinations. But the landscape offers more than slopes. In summer, marked hiking trails wind through moss-covered lava fields with wide views across the volcanic plateau and surrounding peninsula. Below ground lies Leiðarendi, a lava tube formed by flowing magma thousands of years ago. Guided tours take you into the cave to see its rock formations and learn how these volcanic passages were created.
Volcano Power
About 20 minutes from Reykjavík on the road toward the South Coast, Hellisheiði is one of the world's largest geothermal power stations. The on-site Geothermal Exhibition explains how Iceland uses underground geothermal energy to generate electricity and hot water for the capital region. Interactive displays and audio guides walk you through geothermal energy and local geology, and projects like Carbfix, which stores CO₂ by turning it into stone underground. The immersive Agndofa art installation gives you a clearer picture of how Iceland quite literally runs on nature. There's also a café and shop stocked with local products.
Riding & Hiking the Volcanic Backcountry
Southeast of Reykjavík, the Green Belt opens into wide lava fields and quiet backcountry shaped by volcanic forces. Horse farms offer guided rides across moss-covered terrain and along peaceful lakes, where the steady pace of the Icelandic horse connects you to centuries of rural tradition. Marked hiking trails weave through forests and over open ridges, offering views of the capital and surrounding mountains. For a faster pace, guided ATV tours follow rugged gravel tracks across black lava landscapes, reaching panoramic viewpoints that reveal the contrast between raw nature and the nearby city.
How to get to the Green Belt
By Bus
Public transportation is limited, so it is recommended to travel by car or an organised group tour.
It is possible to take the number 5 bus to Selvað, and walk from there to Heiðmörk.
Reykjavík City Card makes travel cheaper with unlimited bus rides across the greater Reykjavík area. Choose between 24, 48 or 72 consecutive hours from the moment you activate your card.
By Car
Parking areas are typically located near the main attractions, providing easy access to walking trails and points of interest.
