Fjallabak, an area in the Icelandic highlands North of Hekla and Mýrdalsjökull, has been a protected nature reserve for nearly fifty years. Within this reserve lie some of Iceland’s most extraordinary and unique landscapes, including Landmannalaugar, Hrafntinnusker, Torfajökull, and Rauðfossafjöll—all places of remarkable beauty and geological wonder.
The region sits at high elevation, ranging from just under 500 meters above sea level to well over 1,000 meters, featuring countless hues, vast lava fields, glacial lakes, and striking peaks. It is the highlands distilled into their purest form.
Numerous hiking trails crisscross the area, with the most famous being Laugavegur—the 55 km trail running from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. One could say the region is only truly accessible to ordinary travelers for about three months, from mid-June to mid-September. During this short window, careful planning and dedicating enough time are essential to experience Iceland at its finest: raw, cold, yet above all breathtakingly beautiful.
Photos & text : Páll Stefánsson
Fjallabak : 28/01/2026 – A7C R – A7R IV- RX1R II / FE 1.4/24mm GM, FE 1.2/50mm GM, FE 2.8/100mm GM
