Reykjanes Peninsula
A Unique Experience
Reykjanes Peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark and part of the European and Global Geopark network.
The peninsula, with its diversity of volcanic and geothermal activity, is well suited to be a Geopark as it is the only place in the world where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is visible above sea level.
The nature on the Reykjanes peninsula is unique and since November 2015 it is known as Reykjanes Unesco Global Geopark.
The peninsula exists where the North Atlantic ridge rises from the ocean. Here you can find 100 different craters, caves and lava fields, a variety of bird life, astonishing cliffs, high geothermal activity, and black sand beaches. Below are a few selections of interesting geothermal hotspots and attractions located in this area.
The peninsula is very accessible all year round and distances between places are not long as many places of interests are only a 5-20 minutes drive from the Keflavik international airport and within an hour’s drive from the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik.
Take a look at some of the highlights in the region. Some of the sites are marked as geosites within the Reykjanes Unesco Global Geopark. These sites have are of a great significance to the Geopark and part of the geological and cultural stories of the area.
To learn more visit the Reykjanes official travel guide visitreykjanes.is
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The peninsula inhabits a population of 28.000 in six main settlements, each with its own character and activities on offer. Learn more.
Reykjanes Peninsula
A Geological Wonder
Visitors to Iceland who arrive via Keflavik International Airport on the Reykjanes Peninsula may be somewhat surprised by the landscape that greets their eyes as they touch down in Iceland for the very first time. A seemingly endless, green-grey moss-topped lava field blankets the peninsula for as far as the eye can see, and it is this strange and rather other-worldly sight that is your first glimpse of the land of fire and ice.
The area is close to Reykjanes lighthouse and is collectively named Gunnuhver after a female ghost that was laid there. She had caused great disturbance until a priest set a trap for her and she fell into the spring about 400 years ago.
Learn more.
