| Kerlingarfjöll | |
| Map: | Iceland |
| Elevation: | 14770NaN0 |
| Elevation Ref: | [1] |
| Location: | Iceland |
| Coordinates: | 64.65°N -34°W |
| Type: | Central volcano |
Kerlingarfjöll (pronounced as /is/) is a 14770NaN0 tall volcanic massive in Iceland situated in the Highlands of Iceland near the Kjölur highland road.[1] It is usually regarded as part of a large tuya fissure system of 100km2 in the southern portion of the Hofsjökull volcanic system, although is about in diameter itself, and is between 68 and 350 thousand years old predating some of the activity in the rest of the system.[1] [2] 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.[2] Minerals that have emerged from the hot springs also color the ground yellow, red and green.
The area was known formerly for its summer ski resort, but this was dismantled in 2000. Since 2000, Kerlingarfjöll has been operated as a highland resort, offering accommodation and food services to guests in the area.[3]
On March 17 in 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.[4]
There are various half-day and one-day hiking trails in the area.[5]