Adventurous 4-Day Highlands Hiking Tour to Strutur Trail with Reynisfjara Beach from Reykjavik

The second day of adventure begins with an exploration of the enchanting Alftavatn lake area. For this day, you'll hike approximately seven to eight hours, having 13.5 miles (21.8 kilometers) of trail.

As you journey deeper into the Icelandic Highlands, you'll find yourself venturing off the beaten path, leaving behind the familiar comforts of roads and civilization.

As you traverse this rough terrain, watch for the graceful presence of swans and waterfowl, adding a touch of wildlife to your trek. The tranquil lakes and serene rivers are often home to these magnificent creatures.

Your hike will then take you through the awe-inspiring Eldgja fissure, a geological wonder that stretches for 25 miles (40 kilometers), showcasing the power and majesty of volcanic forces. It is one of the longest volcanic canyons in the world from an explosive eruption centuries ago.

Alongside the trail, you'll be captivated by the Svartahnuksfjoll ridges, aptly named the "black mountains" for their striking and darkened appearance.

The highlight of your day awaits as you reach the Strutslaug geothermal pool. Strutslaug offers a natural geothermal hot spring where you can unwind and soak in the soothing waters. The experience is nothing short of magical, as you immerse yourself in the relaxing embrace of the Earth's geothermal energy.

Please note that this geothermal pool has no dressing rooms or facilities, emphasizing the untouched nature of the area. But fret not, as you won't encounter tourist crowds in the area because of the remote location.

From Strutslaug, the group will trek for around 1.5 hours to reach the Strutur hut. As you settle in the hut, surrounded by the untamed landscapes and the memories of the day's adventures, you'll prepare dinner with the group before retiring for the night.

The third day of your hiking tour in the Highlands of Iceland opens with a beautiful view of the surrounding vistas of Strutur. Before leaving the mountain hut, you'll enjoy a simple breakfast and prepare lunch packs with your guide and the rest of the group.

Your trek continues by crossing over the small mountain ridge known as Vedurhals. Mountains and volcanoes of different elevations await you in this area of the Highlands region.

From the mountain passes, the scenery will turn dark and moon-like upon reaching the vast expanse of Maelifellsandur. Here, you'll find yourself surrounded by striking black sands with volcanic origins.

Amidst the dark plains, you'll encounter the intriguing Slysaalda ridge, a place steeped in the rich history of hidden outlaws and the tragic events of 1868 that your guide will discuss. This desolate yet enchanting terrain holds stories of a bygone era, where tales of survival and hardship echo through the centuries.

En route to the Hvanngil valley, you may be treated to a splendid view of the imposing Maelifell mountain, a natural wonder that dominates the horizon. However, you'll have even more opportunities to admire this majestic peak on the final day of your tour.

Your day's trek culminates as you reach the Hvanngil valley. The Hvanngil hut, your resting place for the night, awaits you on one side of the valley. Hvanngil valley has a rich history as a grazing area and resting stop for sheep farmers.

In the past, Icelandic farmers would gather their flocks here during the annual sheep round-up, a vital event in rural life. The valley provided ample grazing land and a peaceful haven for both the farmers and their herds.

Like the previous nights, your group will prepare a delicious dinner before calling it a night. Don't forget to gaze outside to see the fantastic landscapes of the Highlands under the midnight sun.

Your hike today covers 11 miles (18 kilometers) of trail for seven hours.

On the final day of your summer multi-day tour in the Icelandic Highlands, you'll rise to the warm embrace of breakfast, knowing that your unforgettable adventure is drawing to a close.

Before bidding farewell to this remote wilderness, there's one last opportunity to capture the magic with your camera. Take a moment to snap some photos, immortalizing your Highlands experience in vibrant pixels.

Today, you'll set aside your hiking gear for a thrilling off-road excursion as a 4x4 vehicle arrives to whisk you away on the journey back to the Holaskjol Highland Center. It's a chance to savor the scenic landscapes one last time from a different perspective.

As you traverse the mountain road of Maelifellssandur, you'll make a stop at the mysterious Maelifell mountain. This solitary peak is a testament to the rugged beauty of the Icelandic Highlands. With its lush green surroundings and contrasting black sands, Mount Maelifell is a striking masterpiece of nature.

Your journey continues, leading you through diverse landscapes, with the black sands stretching out around you and moss-covered hills as a backdrop. The panoramic views of the imposing Myrdalsjokull glacier provide a fitting finale to your Highlands adventure.

Upon your arrival at the Holaskjoll Highland Center, you'll take a well-deserved break to reflect on your incredible journey. It's a moment to cherish the memories you've created and the breathtaking landscapes you've explored.

Before reaching the bustling Icelandic capital, your knowledgeable guide will treat you to brief stops at the charming Vik village, the dramatic Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall. These locations offer a chance to savor the awe-inspiring Iceland's South Coast with its craggy cliffs, cold waters, crashing waves, and volcanic sands.

As the four-day tour draws to a close, you'll return to your hotel in Reykjavik, bringing with you an unforgettable time in the land of fire and ice.