Brennisteinsalda

Brennisteinsalda is an 855-meter volcanic peak in Landmannalaugar with slopes displaying red, green, black, and yellow colors created by iron and sulfur mineral deposits. These hues come from layers of colored lava visible from different angles as you walk around the mountain.

The volcano is part of Iceland's southern region and experienced its most recent eruption in 1961, which altered the surrounding landscape. This volcanic activity shaped the geological features visible today.

The name Brennisteinsalda comes from Icelandic words meaning sulfur wave, reflecting the sulfur-rich deposits that cover the mountain's surface.

The Laugavegur hiking trail provides access to the mountain, with marked paths leading you through the colored rhyolite hills and geothermal areas. The routes are clearly marked and easy to follow, even though the terrain is uneven in places.

In front of the mountain stretches an obsidian lava field that creates a sharp contrast with the multicolored slopes and steam-emitting vents. This smooth black rock tells of an older volcanic phase and forms a striking geological composition.

GPS coordinates: 63.98091,-19.09554

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:42