Langisjor

Langisjor lies in a trough between the Fogrufjoll ridges south-west of Vatnajokull, about twenty kilometres long and rarely more than two wide, and its water is a deep blue that is unusual in a country where most highland lakes are grey with glacial silt. The ridges around it are covered in moss over dark rock. It is remote enough that it went unrecorded until the nineteenth century, which is remarkable for a lake this size in an inhabited country. It was drawn into Vatnajokull National Park when the park was enlarged in 2011, ending long-running proposals to divert water from the area for hydro schemes.

What's there

• A twenty kilometre trough - narrow water between two ridges.
• Blue rather than glacial grey - unusual for a highland lake here.
• Mossed ridges of Fogrufjoll - green over dark rock on both sides.
• Protected in 2011 - brought into the national park, ending diversion plans.

When to go

July to early September while F235 is open. A full day.

Practical notes

This is a long drive on rough track for a view, with nothing to do at the end but walk. There is a hut and nothing else - no fuel, food or signal. The weather here can shut the road at short notice. Wind on the ridges is constant.

Nearby

Eldgja is south; Landmannalaugar lies west along F208.

Key facts