Hella, a peaceful town located along Iceland’s southern coast, is one of the best bases for exploring some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. Set beside the tranquil River Ytri-Rangá and surrounded by open countryside, rugged volcanoes, and shimmering glaciers, Hella offers an ideal blend of serenity and adventure. Whether you’re planning a self-drive route, guided tour, adventure expedition, or a relaxed holiday immersed in Icelandic nature, Hella provides easy access to major destinations like the Golden Circle, Landmannalaugar, Hekla Volcano, Þórsmörk Valley, and the entire South Coast.
Hella (pronounced “Het-la”) is a small yet charming town founded in 1927 and known for its fishing heritage, farms, and volcanic landscapes. With a population of around 900, it offers visitors a calm environment with all essential services such as hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and tour operators. Its strategic location on the Ring Road (Route 1) makes it a perfect stopover for travelers exploring Iceland’s south.
While many visitors pass through Hella on their way to waterfalls or highland adventures, staying here reveals a deeper experience—authentic countryside living, star-filled night skies, geothermal pools, and close proximity to both famous tourist attractions and hidden natural gems..
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Hekla, often referred to as the “Gateway to Hell” in the Middle Ages, is one of Iceland’s most active and impressive volcanoes. Standing 1,491 meters high, it is visible from many spots around Hella. Guided super jeep tours take travelers close to the volcano, offering dramatic views of lava fields, ash layers, and rugged landscapes. Hekla's history of eruptions has shaped much of the surrounding countryside.
One of Iceland’s most colorful and breathtaking natural areas, Landmannalaugar is famous for its rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains, geothermal hot spring pools, lava fields, and hiking trails. Departing from Hella, travelers can join super jeep tours or self-drive (in summer) into this magnificent highland region. Popular hikes like Brennisteinsalda and Bláhnúkur offer unforgettable views.
Just 30 minutes from Hella, Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, thanks to a pathway that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. In summer, the surrounding wildflowers add charm, while winter turns the area into a magical icy landscape.
Another iconic site near Hella, Skógafoss is a massive waterfall plunging 60 meters into a misty pool below. Rainbows frequently appear on sunny days. Adventures include climbing the staircase to the viewing platform or beginning the Fimmvörðuháls trek from this point.
This remote valley surrounded by glaciers and volcanic ridges is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Super jeep tours from Hella cross rivers and navigate rough highland terrain to reach Þórsmörk’s dramatic viewpoints and birch forests.
Hella is a great base for exploring the Golden Circle highlights, including:
Many travelers prefer staying in Hella to enjoy countryside peace after a day of sightseeing.
This river is globally known for salmon fishing. Visitors can enjoy guided fishing trips or simply walk along the serene riverbank at sunset.
The area surrounding Hella is filled with lava formations dating back thousands of years. Some guided tours visit caves created by eruptions of Hekla and other nearby volcanoes.
Hella is one of the best departure points for Icelandic super jeep adventures. These tours access rough highland terrain unreachable by normal cars, including volcanic craters, geothermal valleys, and glacier edges.
Icelandic horses are known for their strength, calm nature, and unique tölt gait. Riding tours around Hella offer beautiful countryside views and a peaceful travel experience.
From September to April, guided aurora hunts are popular. With minimal light pollution, Hella is an excellent location to view the northern lights dancing across the sky.
Hella is close to several geothermal pools, including the Secret Lagoon and Laugaland Pools. Some hotels also feature geothermal hot tubs overlooking the countryside.
Hella provides easy access to black sand beaches, powerful waterfalls, and glaciers along Iceland’s dramatic South Coast, making it ideal for day trips.
Travelers can choose from comfortable hotels, countryside guesthouses, cozy cabins, and farm stays. Many accommodations offer private hot tubs, mountain views, and local breakfast options featuring Icelandic dairy, bread, and smoked meats.
Warm weather, midnight sun, and full access to the Highlands. Ideal for hiking and photography.
Beautiful fall colors and the start of Northern Lights season. Fewer crowds.
Snowy landscapes, ice caves, and prime aurora viewing opportunities. Great for winter tours.
Longer days, mild weather, and blooming landscapes. A peaceful season with fewer tourists.
Hella is known for its countryside setting, views of Hekla Volcano, access to the Highlands, fishing rivers, and proximity to major South Iceland attractions.
Hella is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Reykjavik by car via the Ring Road.
Yes, Hella has low light pollution, making it an excellent location for northern lights viewing from September to April.
Absolutely. Hella is one of the closest towns to Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, with many super jeep tours departing from the area.
Nearby attractions include Hekla Volcano, Landmannalaugar, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Þórsmörk Valley, and the Golden Circle.
Hella is more than just a stopover—it is a gateway to the most breathtaking landscapes in Iceland. From towering volcanoes to geothermal valleys, powerful waterfalls to scenic highlands, the region offers endless adventures for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking thrilling super jeep tours, peaceful nights under the Northern Lights, or easy access to Iceland’s top attractions, Hella provides the perfect blend of comfort, nature, and exploration. Staying here ensures you enjoy quieter surroundings, authentic Icelandic culture, and immediate access to Iceland’s south, highlands, and Ring Road wonders. For an unforgettable Iceland adventure, Hella is a destination you should not miss.
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