Explore Iceland with Stracta Hótel Mosfell
Stracta Hotel Mosfell is perfectly situated in the charming town of Hella, right in the heart of southern Iceland. Our location makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s stunning natural wonders, from thundering waterfalls and dramatic glaciers to volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches.
From the hotel’s doorstep, you can easily reach iconic attractions such as Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Eyjafjallajökull, and the Golden Circle, as well as hidden gems like the Caves of Hella and Ægissíðufoss. Whether you’re seeking adventure, breathtaking scenery, or a tranquil escape, the surrounding area offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
The Caves of Hella
Distance: ~1 km / walking distance
What is it: Historical caves
Description: Ancient man-made caves carved into sandstone cliffs. Some date back to before the Viking settlement and are steeped in mystery and folklore.
Ægissíðufoss Waterfall
Distance: ~5 km / 8 min drive. Also nice hike from the hotel.
What is it: Waterfall
Description: A picturesque local waterfall on the Ytri-Rangá river, known for salmon fishing. A peaceful stop just outside Hella with easy access.
LAVA Centre (Hvolsvöllur)
Distance: ~12 km / 10 min drive
What is it: Interactive museum
Description: A modern, interactive exhibition about Iceland’s volcanoes and earthquakes. Learn about eruptions, seismic activity, and the island’s fiery geology.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Distance : ~35 km / 25 min drive
What is it: Waterfall that you can walk behind
Description: One of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls, famous for the trail that lets you walk behind the cascading water curtain. Stunning at sunset.
Gljúfrabúi Waterfall
Distance: ~35 km / 25 min drive
What is it: Hidden waterfall
Description: A magical waterfall tucked inside a narrow canyon, just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss. Visitors can step inside the gorge for an intimate view of the cascade.
Skógafoss Waterfall
Distance: ~60 km / 45 min drive
What is it: Waterfall
Description: A mighty 60-meter waterfall with a wide cascade. A staircase beside it leads to sweeping views from the top. Rainbows are common in its mist.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Distance: ~90 km / 1.5 hrs drive
What is it: Geyser & geothermal field
Description: Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5–10 minutes. The area also features bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and colorful hot springs.
Þingvellir National Park
Distance: ~120 km / 1 hr 45 min drive
What is it: National park and UNESCO site
Description: The site of Iceland’s first parliament and the meeting point of two tectonic plates. Visitors can walk between the rift and enjoy Icelandic history and geology.
Hekla Volcano
Distance: ~50 km / 45 min drive (viewpoints)
What is it: Volcano
Description: Known as the “Queen of Icelandic Volcanoes,” Hekla has erupted more than 20 times. Visible from afar, it has a long history in Icelandic culture and folklore.
Eyjafjallajökull Volcano
Distance : ~40 km / 30–35 min drive
What is it: Volcano / glacier
Description: The glacier-capped volcano that erupted in 2010. Visitors can see it from viewpoints along the south coast or explore nearby museums and farms that tell its eruption story.
Þórsmörk Valley
Distance: ~60 km / 1.5–2 hrs by 4×4 or super jeep tour
What is it: Valley and hiking paradise
Description: Surrounded by glaciers and rugged peaks, Þórsmörk is one of Iceland’s best hiking destinations. Popular trails lead through birch forests, rivers, and volcanic ridges.
Landmannalaugar
Distance: ~100 km / 2 hrs by 4×4 or super jeep tour
What is it: Geothermal area in the highlands
Description: Known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and natural hot springs. A favorite spot in the highlands for hiking, photography, and bathing in geothermal pools.
Vestmannaeyjar Archipelago
Distance: ~1 hour drive to the harbor + 30 min ferry
What is it: Island archipelago
Description: A cluster of volcanic islands off the south coast. Rich in birdlife, puffins, and dramatic lava formations. The largest island, Heimaey, has a vibrant fishing village.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Distance: ~70 km / 55 min drive
What is it: Glacier tongue
Description: An outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull. A popular spot for guided glacier hikes and ice climbing, offering a chance to step directly onto ancient ice.
DC-3 Plane Wreck
Distance: ~75 km / 1 hr drive + 45 min walk
What is it: Abandoned plane site
Description: The remains of a U.S. Navy DC-3 plane that crashed on the black sand in 1973. The eerie wreckage is a hauntingly beautiful photo location.
Dyrhólaey
Distance : ~80 km / 1 hr drive
What is it: Coastal headland
Description: A rocky promontory with a giant sea arch, lighthouse, and puffin nesting sites in summer. Offers spectacular panoramic views over black beaches and cliffs.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Distance: ~80 km / 1 hr drive
What is it: Black sand beach
Description: Famous for its jet-black sand, towering basalt columns, and roaring Atlantic waves. The Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise dramatically from the ocean.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Distance: ~95 km / 1.5 hrs drive
What is it: Waterfall
Description: One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. Gullfoss cascades in two dramatic stages into a rugged canyon, creating powerful mist and rainbows on sunny days.