Top 8 things to do in reykjanes
Explore the beauty and excitement of the Reykjanes peninsula, where fire and ice meet to make a landscape that is unlike any other.
This volcanic peninsula is a traveler's dream, complete with geysers, hot springs, craggy cliffs, and black sand beaches.
The latest volcano activity in Meradalir on the Reykjanes peninsula (August 3rd, 2022) is a spectacular sight to behold.Update: (August 22nd, 2022)The Meradalir Volcano has not shown any sign of activity since August 21, 2022.
Read on for information about the new volcanic eruption in Iceland as well as crucial safety instructions.
We cover everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable journey to the Geldingadalir eruption site, as well as the most recent information.
1. The optimal route to the eruption site depends on the wind directionand weather at the moment. We will constantly update Best hiking routes
2. Ensure you have the necessary equipment, dress for the conditions, and pay attention to weather forecasts.
Be aware that the weather conditions can change quickly.
This is rugged terrain, so sturdy hiking boots are required.Carry water and a healthy snack with you. Bring a headlamp and make sure you have a fully charged mobile phone.
3. Children under the age of 12 are not allowed to enter the eruption site.
4. You can only pick from Parking P1 or Parking P2 at the moment.
The parking cost is 1000 ISK, or around $8, and it can be paid online at Parka.is.
You must select the appropriate payment site P1 or P2.
Parking lot GPS: 63.866516, -22.316042
At the parking lots, there are signs with instructions.
The transaction is good for 24 hours.
5. There is gas pollution in the area, and it could congregate since the land is lower than other areas of the land nearby.Since the volcano's smoke is extremely polluting and could result in very serious illness or even death, it must be avoided.
6. The "old" lava from the 2021 volcano is still extremely hot, brittle, and dangerous to walk on.
DO NOT WALK ON IT, PLEASE!
Likely, search and rescue teams won't be able to save or assist those who risk traveling into the "old" lava field from 2021 if some accidents happen.
There are a variety of trekking trails and pathways to select from to get to the eruption site.
The hike is at least 7 kilometers (about 4,5 miles) in length, with an inclination of around 300 meters (0.1 miles), making the roundtrip distance about 14 kilometers (9 miles).
Gravel, lava fields, uneven terrain, and steep hills are all obstacles on the pathways.The hike itself can last at least
4-5 hours.
Path A is the main path to the new eruption and is 7km long (one way) (4.5mil) and provides views of the old crater from the Fagradalsfjall eruption in 2021.
It takes about 2 hours one way.The hike to the eruption site is long and difficult and goes through some rough terrain.
See the information about parking and a map of the local routes below.
Path B is more challenging than Path A.
It was a second or supplementary path to the eruption site in 2021, but now it is hardly ever used.
If the wind is blowing the gases across path A, it might be an alternative option.
Path: C via Langihryggur
is about 4 km long (one way) and provides views of the crater from the front.
Path: C via Nátthagi
is much shorter and easier to trek.
It is around 2 km (one way), and from there you may observe recently created lava but not the crater itself.
From the parking areas, this trail only leads to the lava field's edge.
The guidelines for drone operations in the eruption zone are listed below.
1. Drones are not permitted to fly higher than 120 meters (394 feet) above the ground, and they must always yield to manned aircraft.
2. Drones may not be flown outside of the operator's line of sight (BVLOS).
3. Any damage the drone may do is the operator's responsibility.
Additional specifications are in place for commercial drones, such as registration requirements.
You can get more details about drone flights in the area here
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa and the most visitedattraction in Iceland.
It has been named one of the 25 most significant wonders of the world by the National Geographic, and it was also included in a list of the best spas in the world.
Besides to being one of the most popular attractions in Iceland, the Blue Lagoon also has a unique history.
Here, we'll talk about its history and why it's so special.
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal pool with mineral-rich water.
The power plant that generates the heat for the Blue Lagoon was constructed first, and it uses Iceland's volcanic landscape to produce the heat.
The runoff from the facility is then used to heat the water.
The water used at the Blue Lagoon has a variety of dissolved minerals, such as chloride, natron, and nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, and silica.
It does wonders for your skin, and some believe that it's because of the presence of blue-green algae and bacteria.
The algae, which are responsible for the water's creamy blue color, additionally contribute to the appearance of the lagoon when it blooms.
The water of the Blue Lagoon is geothermal, originating from the earth's core and flowing to the surface scorching at 240° Celsius.
But don't worry, by the time it reaches
the Blue Lagoon, it has cooled
down to a warm, luxurious heat
at 39 degrees Celsius
(102.2 degrees Fahrenheit).
Keeping you warm and cozy even on the coldest winter days and making it the ideal bathing temperature.
The Blue Lagoon's history dates back to 1976. It was formed as the result of the excess water from the geothermal power plant Svartsengi, which was drilling for hot water and steam. The water that the plant takes from the ground is then pumped into Icelandic houses for heating.
Unfortunately, the water in the Blue Lagoon contains a variety of dissolved minerals that are mixed with seawater.
This water is not suitable for use as a home heating system because it would damage the pipes. Instead, it is used to heat freshwater that is then pumped into Icelandic houses' radiators.
The excess water was poured into the lava field, called Illahraun, ("Evil Lava")
believed to be from a volcanic eruption that happened in 1226.
When the silica in the water, cooled down it began to form a layer that prevented the water from infiltrating the ground. This then created the natural water feature known as the Blue Lagoon.
In 1981, Valur Margeirsson was the first person to swim in the Blue Lagoon after getting permission from the plant's chairman to swim in the lagoon.
He had Psoriasis and after trying the water, he soon realized that it could help his skin.
He gave the water the name Blue Lagoon, and the name stuck. The water in the Blue Lagoon had been known to contain algae, which can help improve the appearance of one's skin.
The first public bathing facilities in Iceland were opened in 1987. Initially, the facility was used by people with skin problems.In addition to having a great bathing culture, Iceland also has a variety of natural hot springs and swimming pools.
The people of Iceland immediately started visiting the Blue Lagoon after it was established. It was very close to Reykjavik and was an ideal choice for those who are looking for a relaxing bathing experience.The water at the Blue Lagoon is incredibly safe to swim in.
It doesn't contain chemicals, and the natural minerals it contains have been proven to be very beneficial for people's skin.The water in the Blue Lagoon will renew itself completely within 48 hours. This means that you can be sure that you're bathing in a clean and warm pool every time.
Located just 15 kilometers from Keflavik International Airport, the spa is a therapeutic wonder for airport recovery or as a relaxing setting to bid farewell to the country.
Getting to the Blue Lagoon can be done either by car or on a public bus.
The best way to reach the facility is to take the Blue Lagoon shuttle bus from either Keflavik airport or Reykjavik.
GPS 63.879495, -22.449456
In the lagoon, all guests are treated with a silica mud mask.
Guests can additionally use the facility's hair conditioner in the shower.
The staff at the Blue Lagoon can help you find the perfect bath salts, body lotion, foot scrub, hand cream, and home treatment sets.
They also have a variety of other products such as makeup removers, eye cream, and lip balm.
The various benefits of using the natural water feature include its
anti-aging properties.
The skincare line of the Blue Lagoon is made from sustainable materials.
Reykjanestá is the most south-western tip of the Reykjanes peninsula, near the Keflavik airport and the Blue lagoon.
Geothermal springs, steaming lava fields, a fog of steam rising from the ground, a massive lighthouse, and the proximity to the ocean give Reykjanes a unique atmosphere.
It's easy to find and offers the chance to walk through landscapes that look straight out of a fantasy movie.
Reykjanes peninsula is along the Mid-Atlantic Rift where the North American and the Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart.
Due to its active volcanic and extreme geothermal activities, the entire region is constantly characterized by eruptions and earthquakes.
Although there have been no recorded instances of violent eruptions in the area for 500 years, earthquakes are still common.
The view from the top of this hill is amazing, as it offers spectacular views of the coastline of the island , Eldey Island, Karlinn (the man) and the surrounding area.
When you reach the end of your climb, you can also visit the Valahnúkamöl boulder ridge.
This area is made up of around a thousand square feet of thick rounded stones.
Karlinn ("the man"), a 50-60 m high seacliff which is located near the Valahnjúkur peninsula.
This area is made up of an eroded volcanic plug.
It's very popular with tourists due to its beautiful views and the unremitting waves that constantly hit the rock.
The Gunnuhver geothermal region is located in the southwest section of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
This natural feature is unique because the groundwater in the region is made up of boiling seawater at temperatures soaring over 300 degrees Celsius (570F).
The steamy area has an eerie atmosphere and an incredible sulfur vapor appearing like you stepped onto another planet.
A legend tied with an eerie ghost, which disappeared about 400 years ago but is still believed to be visible in the steam.
According to legend, around 400 years ago, a woman named Guðrún lived on the peninsula in a small house owned by a lawyer named Vilhjálmur Jónsson.
She was having a hard time paying her rent, and her landlord took her cooking pot as payment. Angered by her situation, She threatened to starve herself until the pot was returned.She refused to give up, and she eventually died of hunger.
The men who were carrying her coffin at her funeral suddenly noticed that it grew lighter.
And when they were digging her grave, they heard a whisper,
“Ekki þarf djúpt að grafa, ekki á lengi að liggja.”
(“No need to dig deep, no plans to lie long.”)
The next day, The body of her landlord was found mutilated,
and everyone who heard the whisper believed that the ghost killed him.
Unfortunately, the angry poltergeist continued to haunt the area.
She killed his wife as well, and the haunting continued to drive the locals crazy.
The issue continued to haunt the area until the arrival of a priest named Eirikur.
The locals asked him to help, and he came up with a plan.
The priest gave the locals a ball of yarn, and they were told to leave
the end of the yarn where the ghost was known to haunt.
And then walk with the ball to the nearest hot spring and throw it into it.
The ghost of Gunna would pick up the end of the yarn to find them,
and when it was thrown into the hot spring, it took the ghost with it.
The hot spring was named after the legend as Gunnuhver, or "Gunna's Hot Spring".
Some people believe that the ghost of the woman did not fall into an infernal pit.And through the mists, it is still possible to see the ghost of Gunna fighting to escape.
The issue continued to haunt the area until the arrival of a priest named Eirikur.
Follow the designated path at all times.
Two ramps can be accessed from the area.
One is located near Gunnuhver, while the other is on a silica hill (Kísilhóll).
The sound of powerful explosions and the smell of mixed gases can be heard throughout the region.
It features a variety of natural features such as the massive mud pool, steam vents, and also Reykjanes Power Plant that harnesses some of this clean energy
Krýsuvíkurbjarg (also known as Krísuvíkurberg, or Krýsuvíkurberg) are 40m high and 15 kilometers long sea cliffs, that are known to attract thousands of seabird couples every year.
It is like a fairytale, as hundreds of thousands of fulmar, guillemots, razorbills, peewits and puffins, are very friendly to any visitors causing most people to be able to get right up close to them.
The Krysuvikurbjarg cliffs are located on the southern shore of the Reykjanes peninsula.
You can easily reach the cliffs by driving along road 427 (Sudurstrandarvegur).
The access to the cliffs is approximately 19 kilometers from Grindavik or 38 km from Þorlakshofn, be on the lookout as the signpost can easily be overlooked.
The route is relatively easy to drive, but to reach this area, you have to cross a small stream and the road can get very muddy.
If the weather conditions are good, you might not need a 4x4 vehicle to reach the cliffs.
GPS: 63.834692, -22.092453
The history of Krysuvikurbjarg cliffs is very interesting.
The cliffs are made of solid materials that have been molded by the Atlantic Ocean's powerful force for thousands of years.
The cliffs were formed due to the layers of molten rock that accumulated on top of one another during various eruptions trough time.
The various layers of lava and magma that are visible on the cliffs are represented by different colors.
These materials represent different periods in the geological history of the region.
There are not many places in Iceland where boats can land and access the land.
During the 17th century, the Turks invaded the country and abducted hundreds of people and sold for slavery.
One of the landing places they used was at the Krysuvikurberg.The steps leading to this area were referred to as the Bandits path or (Ræningjastígur).
According to folklore, a group of people got into a violent confrontation with one another before they were saved by a priest.
The priests reportedly saw them approaching and sent them a spell to protect their people.
Reykjavik is a great city for enjoying some fresh air and nature.
The capital has a great selection of public parks, offering beautiful scenery to enjoy while taking in the glorious views of Mount Esja or enjoying some peace.
The following guide will help you get familiar with the best public parks in Reykjavik.
The first lighthouse in Iceland was constructed on Valahnjúkur in 1878.
In 1905, it was damaged by earthquakes and waves, and it was considered a risk that it could fall into the sea.
The old lighthouse was demolished with an explosion on April 16th, 1908.In 1907-1908,
a new lighthouse was built on Bæjarfell hill in Reykjanes.
The Reykjanes lighthouse has two sets of lights that flash continuously for around 30 seconds.
It also has an antenna that's designed to receive and transmit data from the DGPS signals.
It has a radio beacon and a carved concrete and rock structure inside it.
It stands 69 meters (226 ft) above sea level and has a light signal height of 26 meters (85 ft).The lighthouse was designed by architect Frederik Kjørboe and engineer Thorvald Krabbe
One of the most prominent lighthouses in Iceland can be found on Garðskagi.Actually, they are two!
The older one was regarded as one of the best in the country due to its low position.
However, it was also prone to get damaged due to the waves.In 1944, a new lighthouse was constructed on Garðskagi.
It measures 28 meters tall, making it the highest lighthouse in Iceland.
The town of Gardur, which means "garden or yard," took its name from one of the several mud walls that used to mark the boundaries between nearby properties.
It is also known as "Gardur," and it was given to Steinunn Gamla by Ingolfur Arnarson, the first settler in Iceland, according to the Book of Settlement.
The shorter lighthouse, built in 1897, stands 12.5 meters high and 3.25 meters wide on each side.
It was recognized for many years as one of Iceland's best lighthouses.
The mist that is frequent offshore in this location did not disturb its beams.
But as the cliff that served as its basis began to deteriorate over time from the powerful ocean waves, it was eventually considered unsafe to enter.
Two decades later its foundations were strengthened to allow it to function as a bird observatory, which is not surprising given the abundance of birds in the area.
The newer and taller lighthouse constructed in 1944, is a cylindrical concrete tower that's 28 meters tall, making it the highest lighthouse in Iceland.
It offers a magnificent 360-degree lookout platform where you can enjoy the view of the area.
The area is famous for its amazing midnight sun in the summer and breathtaking views of the Northern Lights in winter.
The Seltún geothermal area in Iceland's Krísuvík region is characterized by colorful steam-driven eruptions and hot springs.
These important high-temperature green hills are also painted in vibrant colors such as red, yellow, blue, and white.
This magical area is only half an hour's drive from the capital city Reykjavik.
Seltùn is one of Iceland's most important geothermal areas, due to many study opportunities through a great variety of features.
The main area of this region is a fascinating hot spring field, mud pools, and steaming ground.
The various colors of the sulfur, such as red, yellow, green, brown, silver, and blue mix in the mysterious steam and create an out-of-this-world experience.
It sure is like landing on another planet.
The location is relatively large, with a well-kept boardwalk winding up through the geothermal fields to two viewing platforms.
You'll notice the sulfurous scent of the steam vents and the hot springs in addition to instructional signs about the area's different geology.
Sulfide won't be harmful to your health, but if you breathe it in heavily, it could give you headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
Hikers can locate a meandering trail leading to the top of the vast steaming vent; the view of the ocean and geothermal areas from the summit is breathtaking.
