Kerlingarfjöll () is a tall volcanic massif in Iceland situated in the Highlands of Iceland near the Kjölur highland road. The volcanic origin of these mountains is evidenced by tholeiite basalt deposits, the numerous hot springs and rivulets in the area, as well as red volcanic rhyolite stone most marked near the two caldera.
On 17 March 2017, it was reported that the Kerlingarfjöll Mountains and geothermal area were being turned into a nature reserve. Although parts of the place already had protection, a whole are to be under the protection of the state of Iceland. There have been thoughts of using the hot springs as a geothermal power plant. The area is popular with hiking and the tourists.
There are various half-day and one-day hiking trails in the area.
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File:Kerlingarfjöll west.JPG|Kerlingarfjöll as seen from the Kjölur road.
File:Kerlingarfjöll valley.JPG|Valley in the Kerlingarfjöll area with geothermal activity.
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See also
- Geography of Iceland
- Iceland plume
- Loðmundur, a mountain in Kerlingafjöll
- Volcanism of Iceland
- List of volcanic eruptions in Iceland
- List of volcanoes in Iceland
References
External links
- Hiking routes in Kerlingarfjoll
- Description and links to hiking tours