Get Active in South Iceland

Adventures on Our Doorstep

Northern Lights Cabin is surrounded by some of the best outdoor activities in Iceland — from mountain hikes and geothermal valleys to Icelandic horse riding and river kayaking.

The area around Grímsnes and the Golden Circle is not just about famous waterfalls and geysers. It is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Within an hour of the cabin you can summit a mountain with a volcanic crater lake on top, bathe in a naturally heated river, ride an Icelandic horse through wildflower meadows, or paddle a kayak past curious seals on the South Coast.

Below are seven of our favourite activities — five mountain hikes of varying difficulty, plus horse riding and kayaking options. Each guide includes distances from the cabin, trail details, practical tips, and our personal recommendations from years of exploring.

Hiking

Mountain Trails & Hot Springs

Five hikes ranging from easy family walks to full-day geothermal adventures — all starting within an hour of the cabin.

Hiking · Moderate

Búrfell (536 m)

A móberg mountain with an ancient crater lake on the summit and panoramic views over Þingvallavatn, Hekla, and Eyjafjallajökull. A rewarding half-day hike close to the cabin.

~15–20 min drive Read guide
Hiking · Easy–Moderate

Laugarvatnsfjall

The mountain above Laugarvatn village with the 6 km Lions Club ring trail, Snorrahaug viewpoint, and the hidden Gullkista. Family-friendly routes with lake and mountain views.

~10–15 min drive Read guide
Hiking · Easy–Moderate

Hestfjall (~320 m)

A mountain almost surrounded by water and the epicentre of the South Iceland earthquakes of 2000. Views stretch to over 20 churches and all the way to the Westman Islands.

~25–30 min drive Read guide
Hiking · Hot Spring

Reykjadalur Hot River

A 3 km hike through bubbling mud pots and fumaroles near Hvergaerði to a naturally hot river where you can bathe. Bring a towel and swimsuit — this is a must-do Iceland experience.

~50 min drive Read guide
Hiking · Geothermal

Nesjavellir Geothermal

A geothermal wonderland on the flank of Hengill volcano — bright orange earth, hissing fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and a hot-river bridge, all above Þingvallavatn lake.

~45–55 min drive Read guide
More Adventures

Horse Riding & Kayaking

Two of Iceland's most iconic activities, both available within an easy drive of the cabin.

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Horse Riding · 5 Farms

Icelandic Horse Riding

Meet the Icelandic horse and try the famous tölt gait. Our guide covers five farms within an hour of the cabin — from short family rides at Efstidalur to multi-day tours with Eldhestar.

15–70 min to farms Read guide
Kayaking · 3 Operators

River & Sea Kayaking

Whitewater rapids on the Hvítá river, peaceful lagoon paddles past curious seals at Stokkseyri, and quiet flatwater on Lake Laugarvatn. Options for every experience level.

15–50 min to put-ins Read guide
Planning Your Adventures

Tips from Your Hosts

Practical advice from years of exploring the trails and activities around our cabin.

What to Bring

  • Layered clothing: Icelandic weather changes fast. Bring a waterproof outer layer, warm fleece, and a base layer even in summer.
  • Sturdy footwear: Hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for mountain trails. Waterproof is strongly recommended.
  • Swimsuit and towel: You will need them for Reykjadalur hot river and the cabin hot tub after your hike.
  • Water and snacks: Most trailheads have no facilities. Bring plenty of water and energy snacks.

Suggested Activity Days

  • Morning hike + afternoon soak: Búrfell or Laugarvatnsfjall in the morning, hot tub at the cabin in the afternoon.
  • Reykjadalur day trip: Drive to Hvergaerði, hike to the hot river, bathe, and return. Allow 4–5 hours total.
  • Horse riding + Golden Circle: Morning ride at Efstidalur, then continue to Geysir and Gullfoss in the afternoon.
  • Kayaking + South Coast: Paddle at Drumbo in the morning, then drive to Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.