4.5
(27)
378
riders
29
rides
Mountain biking around Vífilsstaðavatn offers diverse terrain within a protected nature reserve, characterized by its central lake and the surrounding Vífilsstaðahlíð hillside. The area is integrated into the larger Heiðmörk nature reserve, which features volcanic craters, red hills, lava fields, and forests. Dedicated cycling paths provide access to these varied landscapes, catering to different skill levels. The region provides both scenic rides and potentially more challenging terrain for mountain bikers.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.8
(5)
24
riders
37.8km
03:04
400m
400m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
26
riders
30.4km
02:15
280m
280m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(3)
19
riders
16.4km
01:19
160m
160m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
13.1km
01:12
260m
260m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
riders
52.2km
02:59
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Just a few minutes from Reykjavik, Vífilsstaðahlíð is an oasis of wooded hills perfect for walking or cycling. Its trails offer sweeping views of the bay and the capital. The site takes its name from Vífilsstaðir, an old farm mentioned in the Viking sagas. Today, amidst tranquil nature and historical remains like the old tuberculosis hospital, it is a place where sport and history go hand in hand.
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From the airport to your hotel in Reykjavik Reykjavik International Airport (also known as Keflavík International Airport or Flugstöð Leifs Eiríkssona Airport) is located about 50 kilometers southwest of the city center and has only one terminal. Just two kilometers from the city center is the small Reykjavíkurflugvöllur Airport, which, however, is only used for domestic flights within Iceland. There are several options for getting from Keflavík Airport in Reykjavik to your hotel in central Reykjavik: Transfer by bus, taxi, or rental car. Option 1 Flybus: The Flybus airport transfer operates between Keflavík Airport and the BSÍ bus terminal in central Reykjavik. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and departure times are coordinated with flight arrivals, so these buses usually offer convenient connecting services. A Flybus Airport Transfer can be booked from around €27, making it the cheapest way to get to Reykjavik. Although tickets can be purchased at the airport, Flybus recommends booking in advance to guarantee a seat on the bus. You have two options when booking tickets: Flybus Standard: This ticket drops you off at the BSÍ bus terminal, about 500 meters south of the famous Hallgrímskirkja church. Advance booking of this ticket is recommended (tickets start at €26). Flybus Plus (Hotel Pick Up): This ticket drops you off at a few selected hotels and other bus stops in Reykjavik. Please note that this journey can take up to 30 minutes longer depending on the location of your hotel. For the Flybus Plus, we strongly recommend booking tickets in advance (tickets start at €32).
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As of August 18, 2025: Iceland experienced its twelfth volcanic eruption in just over four years. On the sparsely populated Reykjanes Peninsula, southwest of Reykjavik, the earth opened up again on Wednesday, July 16. Since Tuesday, August 5, no more lava has been escaping from the eruption fissure located approximately seven kilometers northeast of Grindavik. Volcanologists believe it is highly likely that the eruption has ended for the time being. The temporarily closed campsite in the town of Grindavik is now freely accessible again.
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On January 31, 1951, a Douglas DC-3/C-47A-10-DK of Flugfélag Islands (now Icelandair) (aircraft registration TF-ISG) crashed while attempting to land in Reykjavík. The crew had aborted an approach due to poor visibility. Some debris was discovered the following day in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 18 kilometers from the airport. All 20 passengers and crew were killed.
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Really impressive in the old lava fields
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Located just minutes from the city center, this domestic airport connects the capital with other regions of Iceland and Greenland. It should not be confused with Keflavík International Airport, which handles most international flights. Routes to Akureyri, Ísafjörður, and Egilsstaðir depart from here, providing a quick way to shorten distances on the island.
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https://www.youtube.com/shorts/CneH6mUISe0 There are two circuits, the cheapest one being €230. In July and August, it's reminiscent of an African pool frequented by hundreds of living beings in search of water. If you look, you'll find a couple or three free, uncrowded hot spring areas in the middle of nowhere. I respect all tastes, but I assure you that you won't see me there, not even as a guest, no matter how many miles I've logged.
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One of Iceland's most beautiful thermal baths is located right in the capital city. Its location in a commercial area near the small Kársnes harbor in Kópavogur takes some getting used to, but the rather austere surroundings aren't visible from the complex itself. Even the parking lot is shielded from the commercial area by a grass-covered wall. The exterior facade of the Sky Lagoon's modern main building is designed in traditional Icelandic style, with herringbone turf. The public area features a beautifully furnished restaurant. Access to the bathing area is via a cave-like entrance.
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There are over 30 mountain bike trails in the Vífilsstaðavatn area. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, with 16 easy trails and 17 moderate trails, ensuring choices for various skill levels.
The mountain bike trails around Vífilsstaðavatn are categorized as either easy or moderate. There are 16 easy routes, perfect for beginners or a relaxed ride, and 17 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge. There are no difficult trails listed in this area.
Yes, the Vífilsstaðavatn area offers several family-friendly options, particularly among the 16 easy-graded trails. The general cycling paths around Vífilsstaðavatn Lake are suitable for families, providing a tranquil environment and scenic views. For a specific easy route, consider the Búrfellsgjá Lava Fissure loop from Garðabær, which is 10.2 miles (16.4 km) long.
The Vífilsstaðavatn area, being part of the Heiðmörk nature reserve, generally welcomes dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a leash to protect the diverse birdlife and vegetation. Check local signage for any specific restrictions on individual trails.
Mountain biking around Vífilsstaðavatn offers diverse landscapes, including picturesque lake views, forested sections, and unique lava fields. The area is integrated into the larger Heiðmörk nature reserve, which features volcanic craters like Burfell and the red hills of Rauðholar, providing a varied and scenic backdrop for your ride.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Vífilsstaðavatn are circular. For example, the Helgafell – Hvaleyrarvatn Lake loop from Garðabær is a popular moderate circular route, and the Forest Path loop from Garðabær also offers a circular experience through wooded areas.
The area around Vífilsstaðavatn Lake is well-equipped with facilities, including a sheltered area near the parking lot. You can typically find parking conveniently located close to the main access points for the trails.
While riding, you'll encounter the tranquil Vífilsstaðavatn Lake itself, and the trails often traverse beneath the beautiful Vífilsstaðahlíð hillside. The broader Heiðmörk nature reserve, which the area is part of, features volcanic craters and lava fields. The nearby Vífilsstaðir, a historic sanatorium now a nursing home, is also a local landmark.
The trails around Vífilsstaðavatn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, which includes lake views, forested paths, and lava fields, as well as the variety of options for both easy and moderate rides.
While the region is accessible, specific public transport options directly to the trailheads may vary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules from nearby towns like Garðabær or Kópavogur, as many routes start from these areas, such as the Búrfellsgjá Lava Fissure loop from Kopavogur.
The area around Vífilsstaðavatn Lake provides some basic amenities such as benches and informational signs. For cafes, pubs, or more extensive facilities, you would typically need to visit nearby towns like Garðabær or Kópavogur, which are common starting points for many of the trails.
The best time for mountain biking in Vífilsstaðavatn is generally during the warmer months when trails are clear of snow and ice. While the region offers year-round outdoor activities, trail conditions can vary significantly in winter. Always check local weather and trail reports before heading out, especially outside of peak season.


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