Iceland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, where volcanoes, glaciers, and rugged terrain create an otherworldly experience. One of the country’s most striking landmarks is Mælifell Mountain, a perfectly shaped green cone that rises dramatically from the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier’s black volcanic sands. Its unique appearance and remote location make it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
The Enchanting Beauty of Mælifell
Mælifell Mountain stands at 791 meters (2,595 feet) tall and is covered in vibrant green moss during the summer months. This striking color comes from the mountain’s volcanic surface, which turns lush when exposed to moisture. Surrounded by vast black deserts of volcanic ash, Mælifell looks like something from another planet, making it a dream location for photographers and travelers looking for an untouched natural wonder.
The area around Mælifell is part of Katla Geopark, an expansive region filled with glaciers, rivers, and lava fields. The contrasting landscapes—from the icy expanse of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier to the dark volcanic plains—make the journey to Mælifell an unforgettable adventure.
How to Get to Mælifell
Reaching Mælifell is an adventure in itself. Located in the Icelandic Highlands, the mountain is accessible only by 4×4 vehicles during the summer months, as the roads leading to it are rugged and often covered with glacial rivers. The most common route follows F-road trails, such as F210 or F232, both of which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For those unfamiliar with off-road driving in Iceland, joining a guided super jeep tour is highly recommended. These tours ensure a safe and exciting journey while allowing travelers to fully experience the dramatic beauty of the highlands.
Things to Do Around Mælifell
1. Hiking and Exploration
While Mælifell itself does not have an established hiking trail, climbing to the top is possible for experienced hikers. The ascent provides stunning panoramic views of the highlands, including the nearby Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. The surrounding landscape also offers fantastic opportunities for short hikes, where travelers can explore lava fields, hidden hot springs, and glacial rivers.
2. Visit the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Mælifell sits near Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, one of Iceland’s largest ice caps. A trip to this glacier allows visitors to see breathtaking ice formations, deep crevasses, and even Katla Volcano, which lies beneath the ice. Adventurous travelers can also take part in glacier hikes or snowmobile tours for an unforgettable experience.
3. Experience the Remote Icelandic Highlands
The area around Mælifell is one of the most remote and untouched regions in Iceland. Travelers can enjoy complete solitude, surrounded by the raw beauty of the highlands. Nearby attractions include Eldgjá Canyon, a massive volcanic fissure, and Laki Craters, which offer insight into Iceland’s dramatic volcanic history.
Mælifell Mountain is one of Iceland’s most magical and remote destinations. With its surreal landscape, vibrant green moss, and surrounding glaciers, it captures the essence of Iceland’s rugged beauty. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature photographer, or a traveler seeking unique experiences, a visit to Mælifell promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Icelandic Highlands. 🌋✨
