3 Best Sights in The Highlands, Iceland

More than just a hotel, the Highland Base lies just shy of the geothermal gems of Kerlingarfjöll and is a destination in its own right, especially if you're looking for a meal, a bed, or a relaxing warm-water soak in one of Iceland's top bathing experiences. Its on-site Highland Baths take advantage of local geothermal activity and have been built beside the Ásgarðsá river with blissful views. There's also a cold plunge pool and sauna, plus a bar. You'll need to bring your own swimwear and towels. Hotel guests have access to the baths as part of their stay while general admission for nonguests is ISK 3,900.

This historic oasis at the halfway point of the Kjölur route is also one of Iceland's best-known geothermal areas, featuring the luminous Bláhver hot spring and a silica-encrusted fumarole called Öskuhólshver (Screaming Spring). A highlight of the Kjölur route, Hveravellir has mountain cabins with modern private rooms, sleeping-bag accommodations, and a service center with a restaurant, plus access to a geothermal pool for bathing. Trails in the area lead to some unexpected treasures, such as the Þjófadalir hidden valley. Stay on the boardwalks while exploring the hot springs.

On the other side of a narrow ridge from Öskjuvatn lake, Víti (meaning “hell”) was formed during the same 1875 eruption. With its milky-blue warm water, it's both a visual treat and a potential opportunity to take a dip in a geothermal pool of mineral-rich water. The trail down to the water is steep and can be slippery, so exercise caution and ask the local park rangers if the water is suitable for bathing—in recent times its acidity level has been high and its temperature on the cool side. Beware of gravel and rocks falling from the sides. The hike to the Víti crater is around 3 km (2 miles) from the Vikraborgir car park, along the same trail leading to Askja and Öskjuvatn.