Geothermal Park
In Hveragerdi, Iceland .
More places to visit in Hveragerdi
Discover more attractions and things to do in Hveragerdi.
Horticultural School and Botanical Gardens
Hveragerdi’s Horticultural School, founded in 1939 , is the oldest in Iceland and a leader in teaching sustainable agriculture. The botanical gardens next door flourish thanks to geothermal heating, showcasing exotic flowers, fruit trees , and Iceland’s renowned tomatoes year-round. Visitors can explore greenhouses filled with tropical plants, and guided tours reveal the science behind geothermal-powered cultivation. The school frequently offers workshops in composting, plant breeding, and eco-friendly gardening. Seasonal festivals celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage and bring together growers and food lovers. The site also includes an arboretum with rare trees, as well as outdoor art installations. School staff and students are happy to share tips for growing food in cold climates. The gardens are a peaceful retreat, popular for picnics and quiet walks. New hybrid flower varieties created here have been exported across Europe, demonstrating Icelandic innovation.
Hveragerdi Earthquake Center
The Hveragerdi Earthquake Center brings Iceland’s dramatic geology to life with interactive exhibits and real-time seismic monitoring. Opened after the 2008 earthquake , the center features a simulator that lets visitors feel the power of a real quake. Displays explain the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and why Hveragerdi is one of the most seismically active areas in the country. A preserved ground fissure from the 2008 quake is viewable under glass. The center regularly welcomes researchers and school groups interested in earth sciences. Educational films and hands-on activities make the science accessible for all ages, while guides share personal stories of living with earthquakes. Workshops teach about emergency preparedness and resilience. Hveragerdi’s position on the boundary of two tectonic plates gives the center global scientific significance. The facility also hosts public lectures and temporary exhibitions on related natural phenomena, keeping content fresh for return visitors.
Reykjadalur Hot Springs
Reykjadalur, or "Steam Valley," is renowned for its geothermal river , where travelers can bathe outdoors amid wild Icelandic scenery. The hike to the hot springs leads past steaming vents , bubbling mud pools, and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you’ll encounter rare arctic flora nourished by the valley’s warmth. The temperature of the river changes along its length, letting visitors find their ideal soaking spot. Local guides often share folklore about trolls and hidden people said to live among the hills. Reykjadalur is accessible year-round, and the rising mist creates a magical atmosphere at sunrise and sunset. The trailhead is only a short walk from Hveragerdi’s center, making it a favorite escape for both locals and tourists. Many say a soak in the river is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s volcanic energy firsthand. The area is also a habitat for rare bird species and colorful wildflowers.
Stone and Mineral Museum
The Stone and Mineral Museum in Hveragerdi features an extraordinary collection of Icelandic minerals , crystals , and volcanic rocks from around the country. Highlights include glittering geodes, colorful agates, and meteorite fragments from famous Icelandic falls. The museum’s educational panels explain how volcanic forces shape the island’s geology and why Hveragerdi is a mineral-rich area. Visitors can touch samples and even buy locally sourced gems and jewelry in the shop. The museum regularly hosts geology workshops and school tours, making earth sciences exciting for all ages. A special section covers the role of minerals in geothermal energy production and local construction. Temporary exhibits sometimes feature fossils or archaeological discoveries from the region. The staff are passionate collectors and love to share stories behind the rarest specimens. Its central location makes it an easy and rewarding stop for anyone interested in Iceland’s natural history.