The green crown of Mælifell

by Gerry van Roosmalen

Amid Iceland's endless black sand plains, a green giant suddenly rises: the Mælifell. At 791 metres high, this volcanic cone towers above the lava landscape of the Mýrdalssandur like an oasis. The mountain is covered with bright green moss that, in contrast to the black ash and debris around it, looks almost otherworldly. Above it, a bright blue sky curves, intensifying the explosion of colours.

Mælifell formed some 10,000 years ago, under the glacial ice of the giant Mýrdalsjökull. Only when the ice retreated was this perfectly shaped cone left behind. The mountain is of volcanic tuff, formed by explosive eruptions under the ice - a powerful remnant of Iceland's fiery heart.

This photogenic mountain is only accessible in summer via rugged F roads, such as the F210. The route takes you right through riverbeds, past black deserts and green oases. Those who brave the adventure will be rewarded with a surreal landscape found nowhere else on earth.

This photograph captures the magic of Iceland in a single moment: raw nature, pronounced contrasts, and a landscape that seems to be in constant motion. An ode to the power and beauty of Icelandic nature.
The Maelifell