Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s most spectacular highland destinations, a geothermal wonderland set in the heart of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve where mountains of rhyolite rock paint the landscape in surreal swirls of pink, purple, green, gold, and rust. This kaleidoscopic terrain, sculpted by volcanic activity and painted by mineral deposits, creates a landscape that feels more like an alien planet than anywhere on Earth, with steam rising from hot springs scattered among the technicolor hillsides.

The area is the starting point for the legendary Laugavegur Trek, one of the world’s most celebrated multi-day hiking routes, which winds 55 kilometers through lava fields, glacial valleys, and highland desert to the forest oasis of Thorsmork. Even day hikers will find plenty of rewarding trails, including the popular loop through the Brennisteinsalda rhyolite mountains, where every turn reveals a new combination of impossible colors. After a day of hiking, nothing compares to soaking in the natural geothermal pool where warm water from underground springs mixes with a cool mountain stream.

Pro tip: A 4x4 vehicle with high clearance is essential to reach Landmannalaugar, as the access road includes several unbridged river crossings. If you are not comfortable with highland driving, book a seat on the scheduled highland bus service from Reykjavik, which runs daily during summer. Arrive early in the day to secure a good campsite spot near the hot spring.