Explore
Explore Iceland with Hotel Loa
The location of Hotel Loa is one of its greatest advantages. We are situated in the small, charming town of Hvolsvöllur, right in the heart of southern Iceland.
From our doorstep, you can easily access some of Iceland’s most iconic attractions, including waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, the surrounding area offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
From Hotel Loa to the East and West
How to Use the Map
- For your convenience, we’ve created a Google map highlighting attractions around Hotel Loa. Click on the “View larger map” icon to open it in Google Maps.
Each attraction is also described below, complete with a number that corresponds to its location on the map for easy reference.
If you need additional guidance, feel free to ask reception.
Vestmannaeyjar Archipelago (1)
- Vestmannaeyjar Archipelago: A stunning group of volcanic islands off Iceland’s southern coast, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Heimaey: The largest island features Eldfell, a volcano you can hike for breathtaking views.
- Puffins: A prime spot to see adorable puffins in their natural habitat (from April to September).
Gljúfrabúi Waterfall (2)
Gljúfrabúi Waterfall: Hidden away behind a cliff, this enchanting waterfall near Seljalandsfoss is a true Icelandic gem.
Access: You can walk behind the waterfall for a unique perspective, but be prepared to get a little wet!
Surrounding Nature: The lush green surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall (3)
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, known for its beauty and the unique experience of walking behind it.
360° Views: You can take a trail that leads behind the waterfall for spectacular views from every angle.
Best Time to Visit: Visit during sunset or sunrise for stunning light conditions and fewer crowds.
Eyjafjallajökull (4)
Eyjafjallajökull Volcano: This famous volcano erupted in 2010, causing global travel disruptions but also captivating visitors with its dramatic landscape.
Hiking: You can hike around the base of the volcano, enjoying views of glaciers, valleys, and nearby waterfalls.
Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Centre: Learn about the eruption and the area’s history through informative exhibits and displays.
Thórsmörk (5)
Þórsmörk Valley: A stunning wilderness area surrounded by glaciers, mountains, and rivers, perfect for adventurous hikers.
Hiking: The Laugavegur trail and other routes offer spectacular views of volcanoes and glaciers, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
Road Access: The road is rugged and requires a 4×4 vehicle, as it’s often unpaved and crosses rivers. Guided tours are available for a safe journey.
Landmannalaugar (6)
Landmannalaugar: A stunning geothermal area in Iceland’s highlands, known for its colorful rhyolite mountains and hot springs.
Hiking: Explore various trails, including the famous Laugavegur, which leads through lava fields, geothermal spots, and vibrant landscapes.
Road Access: The road is rugged and requires a 4×4 vehicle, as it’s often unpaved and crosses rivers. Guided tours are available for a safe journey.
Seljavellir Geothermal Pool (7)
Seljavellir Geothermal Pool: A hidden gem nestled in a scenic valley, offering a natural outdoor pool heated by geothermal water.
Location: The pool is surrounded by stunning mountain views and is located near the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
Access: A short hike (about 20 minutes) through a valley leads you to the pool. The walk is scenic and relatively easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
Skógafoss (8)
Skógafoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s largest and most iconic waterfalls, with a drop of 60 meters and a width of 25 meters.
Viewpoints: You can get up close to the waterfall or hike a staircase to a viewpoint for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Rainbow Magic: On sunny days, Skógafoss often creates beautiful rainbows, making it a perfect spot for photos
Sólheimajökull (9)
Sólheimajökull Glacier: A stunning outlet glacier of the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, known for its striking blue ice and dramatic landscape.
Glacier Hiking: Guided tours are available, allowing you to safely explore the glacier, walk on its surface, and experience its crevasses and ice formations.
Access: The glacier is easily reachable by car and is a popular stop along the south coast of Iceland.
Wrecked DC-3 Plane (10)
Wrecked DC-3 Plane: The iconic wreck of a U.S. Navy DC-3 aircraft, which crashed on Sólheimasandur beach in 1973, remains a fascinating sight.
Location: The wreck is located about 4 km (2.5 miles) from the main road, and reaching it requires a 45-minute walk across a vast black sand desert.
Photography Spot: The abandoned plane, set against the stark landscape, offers a unique and eerie photo opportunity.
Dyrhólaey (11)
Dyrhólaey: A majestic promontory offering stunning views of the coast, black sand beaches, and the powerful Atlantic Ocean.
Lighthouse: At the top, you’ll find a charming lighthouse, which adds to the scenic beauty and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Puffin Watching: During the summer, Dyrhólaey is a great spot for puffin sightings as they nest on the cliffs.
Reynisfjara Beach (12)
Reynisfjara Beach: A famous black sand beach near Vík, known for its dramatic basalt columns, towering sea stacks, and powerful waves.
Basalt Columns: The beach features unique hexagonal basalt formations, which are a popular attraction for photographers and nature lovers.
Caution: Be careful of the strong waves, which can be unpredictable and dangerous. Always stay a safe distance from the water.
Yoda Cave (13)
Yoda Cave: A fascinating rock formation near the village of Vík, shaped like the face of the iconic Star Wars character, Yoda.
Hidden Gem: This cave is not widely known, making it a quiet and peaceful spot for those seeking a unique photo opportunity.
Access: It’s a short walk from the village, but be prepared for a bit of climbing to get the best view of the cave’s distinctive shape.
Þakgil (14)
Þakgil: A hidden gem located near Vík, Þakgil is a beautiful valley surrounded by steep cliffs and volcanic landscapes.
Camping and Hiking: Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Þakgil offers a campsite and several hiking trails with stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and the ocean.
Road Access: The road is rugged and requires a 4×4 vehicle,
Vik (15)
Vík: A charming coastal village on Iceland’s south coast, known for its stunning landscapes and proximity to key natural attractions like Reynisfjara Beach.
Views: From the village, you can enjoy incredible views of the ocean, Dyrhólaey, and the dramatic cliffs surrounding the area.
Folk Museum: Visit the Vík í Mýrdal Folk Museum to learn about the local history, culture, and the challenges of life in this remote coastal region.
Eldhraun lava field (16)
Eldhraun Lava Field: One of the largest lava fields in the world, created by an eruption in the 18th century, covering a vast area of Iceland’s south coast.
Scenic Landscape: The field is covered with a thick layer of moss, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Accessible Route: You can easily drive through the lava field along the Ring Road, offering an incredible view of the rugged terrain and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Hrunalaug Hot Spring (17)
Hrunalaug Hot Spring: A serene, natural hot spring located near the village of Flúðir.
Hidden Gem: It’s a smaller, more secluded hot spring, offering a peaceful experience compared to more popular spots like the Blue Lagoon.
Access: A short walk from the nearby road leads to the hot spring, where you can enjoy warm waters surrounded by beautiful nature.
Secret Lagoon (18)
Secret Lagoon: Located in Flúðir, this natural geothermal pool is one of Iceland’s oldest and most relaxing hot springs.
Natural Setting: Surrounded by lush greenery and bubbling hot springs, the lagoon offers a serene and authentic Icelandic experience.
Less Crowded: Compared to the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon is a quieter alternative.
- https://secretlagoon.is/
Gullfoss Waterfall (19)
Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most famous and powerful waterfalls, located in the Golden Circle. It drops 32 meters into a deep canyon, creating a stunning sight.
Viewing Platforms: There are several platforms around the waterfall offering different perspectives, including a close-up view where you can feel the mist.
Seasonal Beauty: Gullfoss is spectacular year-round, with ice and snow creating a magical winter scene or lush greenery in summer, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Strokkur Geyser (20)
Strokkur Geyser: A powerful, erupting geyser located in the Geysir geothermal area, known for its regular eruptions every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water up to 30 meters in the air.
Nearby Geysers: While Strokkur is the most active, the Geysir geothermal area also has other geysers and hot springs worth exploring.
Photographic Opportunity: Be ready with your camera! Strokkur’s eruptions are brief but dramatic, offering a perfect moment for a spectacular photo.
Thingvellir National Park (21)
Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Þingvellir is where the first Icelandic parliament was founded in 930 AD, making it a historically significant location.
Geological Wonders: The park sits on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Diving and Snorkeling: For adventurous travelers, the Silfra Fissure offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving, where you can float between two continents.
Hot River Reykjadalur (22)
Reykjadalur: Known as “Steam Valley,” this geothermal area is famous for its hot springs and stunning hiking trails.
Hiking: A moderate hike of about 45 minutes to an hour takes you through a beautiful valley, with steam rising from hot springs along the way.
Hot River: The highlight is the warm river where you can relax and soak in the natural geothermal waters surrounded by picturesque scenery.
Lava center (23)
Lava Center: An interactive museum located in Hvolsvöllur, offering fascinating exhibits on Iceland’s volcanic activity and geology.
Educational Experience: Learn about the formation of Iceland, volcanic eruptions, and the power of geothermal energy through multimedia displays and models.
Family-Friendly: The Lava Center is an excellent stop for all ages, providing a fun and educational experience.
Travel Tips for Iceland
Pack for All Weather Conditions
Iceland's weather can change rapidly. Always have layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear, regardless of the season.
Stay Safe on Roads
Icelandic roads, particularly gravel ones, can be tricky. Drive cautiously, adhere to speed limits, and watch out for sheep. Avoid off-road driving—it’s illegal and harms the environment.
Respect Nature
Iceland’s landscapes are fragile. Stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and never take rocks, moss, or plants as souvenirs.
Be Prepared for Expensive Food
Eating out can be pricey, we know. This is why our restaurant provides affordable prices. Check out our menu.
Tap Water is Safe:
Iceland’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout your trip.
Don’t Miss Hot Springs:
From famous spots like the Blue Lagoon to hidden gems in the countryside, soaking in a geothermal pool is a must.
Book Accommodations Early
Tourism is popular, and accommodations can fill up quickly, especially in summer. Secure your stays in Hotel Loa and book it in advance.
Summer vs. Winter Travel
In summer, enjoy the midnight sun and access to highland areas. In winter, marvel at the northern lights but prepare for shorter days and icy conditions.
Join Iceland Academy!
Ready to prepare for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure? This incredible resource provides fun and practical advice to help you make the most of your trip. Learn how to:
- Pack smart and stay warm.
- Capture the Northern Lights.
- Embrace Icelandic food culture.
- And much more!
