Rauðaskál

Rauðaskál is a beautiful red-colored crater in an area that resembles a Martian landscape. After climbing to the edge of the crater, you can truly enjoy the stunning views of the inland landscape of South Iceland. Notable landscape features include the Hekla volcano and the interesting Hestalda mountain.

You can reach this spot via an unnumbered road; there is a parking area below Rauðaskál, from where you head upwards to the edge of the crater. The path is long but doesn’t have any difficult sections. It is only steep in places, and the climb will take you about 30 minutes. You can then walk all the way around the crater.

Rauðaskál is not a particularly popular spot, which is a bit of a shame because, even though the south of Iceland boasts countless natural wonders, this crater holds its own among them. On the other hand, it’s a good thing because you won’t be bothered by crowds of tourists in the area.

To reach the parking area below the crater, a 4WD vehicle is required, but there are no fords, and the route is not difficult.