Seltun is a geothermal area in Iceland located close to Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon.  Here are a few things to do in Seltun;

  • Mud Pots and Fumaroles
  • Krysuvik Geothermal Area
  • Seltun Hot Springs

Reykjavik is within an hours driving distance of Seltun but you could also stay at a hotel in nearby Grindavik.

Seltun Iceland – Unknown Icelandic Beauty

The Seltun geothermal area is an incredibly unique and picturesque landscape.  As a matter of fact, I’d describe it as a colorful version of Geysir but without the tourists.  For this reason, it’s likely you’ll have the whole geothermal area to yourself.  Finally, there are very few tours to Seltun, the main tour is a helicopter ride over it.  Check out other hidden wonders of Iceland on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Seltun Geothermal Area

Seltun Iceland - Krysuvík

Seltun is short for Seltunshverir and is a geothermal area full of mud pots and fumaroles.  The area is extremely colorful due to mineral deposits from geothermal solutions.  Seltun is extremely quiet for Icelandic attractions which makes it more enjoyable, having the place to yourself.  Personally I enjoyed Seltun more than the famous Geysir, it’s more beautiful with the colors and mountainside views and you see the same bubbling mud pots.  In fact, all Geysir has that Seltun doesn’t is the geyser which erupts every 5 minutes.

 

Krysuvik Geothermal Area

Seltun Iceland - Seltún Krysuvík Geothermal Area

Seltun is also known as Krysuvik geothermal area, however, they’re the same place.  You can walk around Seltun Krysuvik in about 30 minutes therefore it’s perfect for a short walk.  In addition, there’s a safe boardwalk to follow around the area.  Seltún is located on the side of a mountain so the weather can be pretty wild, I experienced, sun, snow, rain and wind in the 30 minutes I visited!

Be sure to allow more time if you wish to stop for active mud pot and fumaroles photography.

Seltun Krysuvik Panoramic

Seltun Krysuvík

The view from the top of Seltun boardwalk warrants a visit by itself!  You’ll see a panoramic of the uniquely colored landscape as well as a river winding through it.  If you’re driving to the Blue Lagoon on a day trip from Reykjavik, I highly recommend Seltun as a small detour.  On this detour you’ll also pass Kleifarvatn Lake, Eldborg and the town of Grindavik.


Seltun Parking

There is complimentary parking at Seltun adjacent to the start of the boardwalk.  Additionally, it’s highly likely there will be lots of spaces as Seltun Iceland is a hidden wonder of Iceland.

Kleifarvatn Lake

Kleifarvatn Lake, Iceland

As you drive from Reykjavik to Seltun you’ll pass the incredibly beautiful Kleifarvatn Lake.  As well as Seltun Iceland, Kleifarvatn Lake is another hidden wonder of Iceland.

 

How to get from Seltun to the Blue Lagoon

Seltun Iceland - road trip

From Seltun I headed south towards Grindavik and the Blue Lagoon.  As you head south you’ll pass some incredible scenery.  Watch out for any lakes or melted snow at the side of the road as you can use this to make wonderful reflection photography of the surreal landscape.  Finally, it’s a short drive to the Blue Lagoon.

The Blue Lagoon