Frostastaðavatn Lake
About Frostastaðavatn Lake
Frostastaðavatn is a highland lake in the Fjallabak area of South Iceland, just north of Landmannalaugar on the F208. At roughly 2.6 km² and 572 m above sea level, it is the largest lake in this corner of Fjallabak, ringed by rhyolite hills and the dark, jagged Námshraun lava field that runs right down to its shore.
Most travelers see it first from Frostastaðaháls, the low ridge the F208 climbs between Landmannalaugar and the lake. From the crest, you look straight down on the water with the lava edge pushing into it, and it's one of the easiest viewpoints in the area to reach. The lake is also a quiet trout-fishing spot in summer.
Frostastaðavatn is only about 4 km by road from the Landmannalaugar hut area, so it fits easily into a day there. The F208 runs along its shore, and a few kilometers north of the lake a side track climbs to Ljótipollur, the red crater lake. Hikers can also walk over the ridge from Landmannalaugar or climb Suðurnámur for a wider view of both.
Getting here takes a 4x4, since the F208 and the other highland roads into Fjallabak open only in summer, usually from around late June. Plan on about 3.5 hours from Reykjavík, and check the road conditions map before setting out. Half an hour at the ridge viewpoint is enough for most visitors, longer if you walk the shore.
Good to know
Where is Frostastaðavatn?
Frostastaðavatn is in the Fjallabak highlands of South Iceland, about 4 km by road north of Landmannalaugar. The F208 highland road runs right past it.
How big is Frostastaðavatn?
The lake covers roughly 2.6 km² and sits at about 572 m above sea level. It is the largest lake in the Landmannalaugar area.
How do you get to Frostastaðavatn?
Drive the F208 toward Landmannalaugar; the lake lies beside the road just north of the Landmannalaugar turnoff. A 4x4 is required, and the road is open only in summer.
Can you hike from Landmannalaugar to Frostastaðavatn?
Yes. You can walk over the Frostastaðaháls ridge from Landmannalaugar to the lake, and Suðurnámur, the mountain just north of the hut area, gives a wide view over it.
Can you fish in Frostastaðavatn?
Yes. The lake holds trout and is fished in summer, but you need a valid fishing permit before casting a line.
When can you visit Frostastaðavatn?
Visit between late June and early September, when the F208 is usually open. In winter, the highland roads are closed and the area is snowbound.
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