Revel in the Geological Wonders of Reykjanes

Enjoy everything from an erupting volcano to the Blue Lagoon

The Reykjanes Peninsula is home to a striking, dramatic landscape comprising lava fields, geothermal waters, hot springs and lava caves. Now, since March 2021, visitors can witness an erupting volcano spewing rivers of hot magma, after a short hike or a helicopter ride.

Reykjanes’ hottest new attraction

During the evening of 19^th March, 2021, a volcanic eruption began in a valley called Geldingadalur, behind the Fagradalsfjall mountain. Dubbed a ‘tourist eruption’ due to the location and ease of access, visitors can embark on a hike using a rugged walking path. Or, for those after an aerial view, followed by a stop on the ground, helicopter flights are available as well. There is truly nothing like getting close to an eruption, feeling the heat of the magma and marvelling at the power of the Earth.

More geological thrills

The Krýsuvík geothermal area is popular among geology buffs and hikers. Gurgling mud pools bubble from the yellow, red, and orange clay-like earth, intertwined with dancing steam and hot springs. The many walking paths allow you to feel lost in the outer space-like atmosphere and the region gives you a great sense of Iceland’s raw, natural geothermal energy, which powers much of the island.

Cross the Mid-Atlantic Ridge

Another unique attraction travellers can visit is the bridge where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge crosses Iceland, the meeting point of the Eurasian and North American plates. The small footbridge is a symbolic site that connects the two plates, and it offers visitors an impressive view of the ridge.

The most soothing geothermal wonder

The Blue Lagoon draws visitors from around the world to soak in its soothing milky-blue waters amid a dreamlike atmosphere. There’s a reason why this is one of the most visited spots in all of Iceland. The heated water is heavenly at any time of year. Enjoying the steamy air, while soaking in the healing, mineral-rich, warm waters during the summer is a lovely experience, especially on sunny days. In the winter, a visit to the Blue Lagoon is both eerie and wonderful; watching as snow falls from dark night skies or as the Northern Lights dance over it, while lounging in its warm waters, is sublime.

Explore volcanic craters

If you are looking for interesting hiking opportunities, Reykjanes has you covered. Stóra-Eldborg, which is considered the most beautiful crater in the southwest of Iceland, is an ideal hike in this geothermal region. It’s 50 metres high with a 30-metre-deep crater. There is a well-maintained trail, that leads to the top. Another area of note is the Stampar crater series, a row of craters covering 4km². You can walk along a trail through the 2,000 year-old craters, seeing lava fields, a geothermal zone with sand dunes and the nearby sea coast.

The Reykjanes peninsula is a diverse region of Iceland and it’s worth spending time exploring some of the unique nature and geological wonders of the area.