Set in the quiet town of Hvolsvöllur, the Hvolsvöllur Walking Festival offers an invitation to traverse Southern Iceland’s richly varied landscapes—where shockingly green moss carpets meet volcanic ash, and rivers push forward with restless energy. Over the course of several days, hikers experience trails ranging from gentle forested paths to rugged highland routes, each demanding respect for the elements and rewarding with expansive views of glaciers and lava fields.

The festival’s routes vary in length and difficulty, typically spanning from 5 to 20 kilometers per day, with elevation gains averaging between 100 to 400 meters. Paths often wind through spruce and birch stands, their branches swaying as if observing your progress, before opening up to panoramic vistas where glaciers loom quietly in the distance. The terrain shifts frequently—soft earth and roots underfoot lead to gravel stretches and occasional volcanic rock formations daring you to focus on balance and foot placement.

This event suits a broad spectrum of walkers: casual enthusiasts will find approachable routes with manageable ascents, while seasoned hikers can challenge themselves on longer, steep segments that test endurance and agility. Each day requires sensible pacing; hydration is key as exposed sections reveal wide skies that can quickly change from sun to sudden drizzle or wind.

Footwear should be sturdy and broken-in, ideally waterproof to handle wet soil and occasional stream crossings. Layered clothing is essential—wind and temperature fluctuations can be pronounced. Start early to maximize daylight, especially outside the high summer months, and bring snacks that keep your energy steady during the steady push forward.

While the festival foregrounds the physical journey, it’s impossible to ignore the elemental dialogue between hiker and Icelandic wilderness. Rivers carve paths defiant and loud, birches stand firm despite wind’s relentless tests, and the land itself balances between creation and erosion, fiercely itself and demanding respect.

Preparation tips focus on practical safety and comfort: pack a daypack with essentials, keep electronics dry, and inform yourself about weather forecasts to adjust plans accordingly. Navigational aids—maps or GPS devices—strengthen confidence on less marked routes.

The Hvolsvöllur Walking Festival is an accessible yet authentic way to engage with Iceland’s southern wilds. It’s not just a series of hikes; it's a paced conversation with a landscape that watches, dares, and rewards those willing to keep steady footing.