Gunnuhver, Iceland

Gunnuhver, the largest geothermal mud pool in the country. But be warned: this place is not only hot and steamy, but also haunted by the angry ghost of a witch!

Gunnuhver is located in the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, a stunning area of volcanic landscapes, craters, lava fields, and hot springs. The mud pool itself is a sight to behold, measuring 20 meters across and constantly spewing dense clouds of steam at a scorching 570°F. The surrounding rocks are also colorful and beautiful, painted with shades of orange and blue by the minerals in the water.

But Gunnuhver is more than just a natural wonder. It is also the site of a legend that dates back to the 18th century. According to the story, there was an old woman named Gudrun, or Gunna for short, who lived in a small community on the peninsula. She was disliked by most people, who suspected her of being a witch because she always had something brewing in her pot.

One day, a judge named Vilhjalmur Jonsson visited Gunna and got into an argument with her over some land rights. He left without paying her what he owed her, and she cursed him for his injustice. The next day, the judge was found dead, with bruises and wounds all over his body. The villagers blamed Gunna's ghost for his death, and she didn't stop there. She continued to haunt and terrorize the peninsula, causing accidents and misfortunes.

The locals tried to get rid of Gunna's ghost, but nothing worked. They even asked a priest for help, but he refused to deal with such a dangerous spirit. It was only after they got him drunk that he agreed to give them some advice. He told them to leave a ball of twine with a loose end near Gunnuhver, hoping that Gunna's ghost would grab it and follow it into the mud pool.

The plan worked. Gunna's ghost fell for the trap and was dragged into the boiling pit by the twine. She was trapped there forever, and the mud pool was named after her: Gunnuhver, or Gunna's hot spring. Some say that she is still there, clinging to the edge of the pool and trying to escape. The steam that rises from Gunnuhver is said to be her breath, and the rumbling noises are her screams.

If you dare to visit Gunnuhver, you can see it from several wooden platforms that offer a safe view of the geothermal area. But be careful: sometimes the steam can engulf you and make you lose your way. And don't forget: Gunna's ghost might still be lurking around, waiting for her revenge.

Gunnuhver is a fascinating place that combines natural beauty and supernatural mystery. It is one of the most haunted places in Iceland, and one that you should never visit alone!