Everybody visiting Iceland sees a part of the Reykjanes (pronounced Reyk-ee-ness) Peninsula, as that is the place the Keflavík Worldwide Airport is situated. Additionally, you will discover Iceland’s hottest vacationer attraction, the Blue Lagoon, on the Reykjanes Peninsula. But there’s a lot extra to see that the majority guests miss. It is extremely straightforward to incorporate a day journey or embody the Reykjanes Peninsula in your Iceland itinerary.
Sadly, the Reykjanes Peninsula is usually neglected by guests touring the Golden Circle or the South Coast. Don’t make that mistake! If you’re questioning if visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula is price it, I’ll let you know completely sure! There’s loads to see and do on the Reykjanes Peninsula and its proximity to the worldwide airport and capital metropolis of Reykjavik actually make it a must-visit vacation spot.
On this put up I’ll let you know why to go to the Reykjanes Peninsula, one of the best issues to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula (with a map of these locations), and find out how to manage a one-day itinerary for visiting the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Why Go to the REykjanes Peninsula
Reykjanes means “steamy” and this volcanic space on the southwesternmost tip of Iceland options loads of geothermal fields, historical craters, and fissures that make it stay as much as its title. The Reykjanes Peninsula can also be residence to the Geldingadalur Volcano, the positioning of Iceland’s most up-to-date volcanic eruptions.
The Reykjanes UNESCO International Geopark covers the Reykjanes Peninsula, the place the Mid-Atlantic Ridge rises above sea degree and you’ll see the boundary between the tectonic plates. Its barren panorama has been in comparison with the moon and was used as a army base for the U.S. till not too long ago.
On the Reykjanes Peninsula, it is possible for you to to absorb the view from the highest of a lighthouse, go to seashores, stroll throughout the bridge between two continents, and see highly effective steam vents and geothermal scorching pots. You may also see the most recent land formations in Iceland on the Geldingadalur volcano lava fields.
If you happen to choose man-made sights, in fact, there’s the well-known Blue Lagoon, in addition to the Viking Museum, and the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll. Learn on for a full record of issues to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula with a one-day (or extra) itinerary, full with a map and ideas.
Attending to the Reykjanes Peninsula
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It’s straightforward so as to add a day journey to the Reykjanes Peninsula to a visit to Reykjavik or the South Coast of Iceland. You’ll need a full day to slot in every part on this itinerary, probably even extending it to 2 days relying on how a lot time you wish to spend on the Blue Lagoon or the lava fields.
Or, you could possibly break up this up into two days on your arrival day and departure day. Whenever you arrive, hit the Blue Lagoon after which see a couple of extra of the sights. Then in your departure day see when you can go to the Lava Tunnel and one other sight, relying on whenever you flight departs.
Most arriving flights land early within the morning and you want to kill time anyway earlier than checking into your resort or Airbnb. Additionally, most departing flights to the U.S. depart within the late afternoon so you’ll be able to slot in a go to and end on the airport.
If you’re renting a automotive on the airport on your go to to Iceland, it’s straightforward sufficient to discover the Reykjanes Peninsula. Nevertheless, in case you are basing your self out of Reykjavik with out a automotive, you will want to enroll in a tour.
If you happen to guide a tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula with Hidden Iceland utilizing promo code WE3TRAVEL, you’ll save 10 p.c.
I’ve completed a little bit of each. The primary time I visited the Reykjanes Peninsula it was a part of a small group tour that included websites in Reykjavik and a drop-off on the airport. Nevertheless, due to others’ earlier drop-off instances at KEF airport, I didn’t get to see every part. So once I returned to Iceland to discover Snaefellsnes and the West Fjords, I made a decision I needed to see what I missed in Reykjanes as properly. Plus it was good to go to this space when it wasn’t snow-covered this time round!
This time I took a non-public three-to-four-hour tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula. I had stayed in a single day in Reykjavik on my final evening and wanted to rearrange for a FlyBus or switch to the airport anyway so I crammed my downtime with seeing just a little bit extra of Iceland earlier than flying residence.
Finest Issues to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula
Listed here are the highest sights and sights on the Reykjanes Peninsula. I’m itemizing these within the order that you’d go to every attraction when you have been planning a one-day Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary from Reykjavik. This might begin on the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel on the best way to Reykjanes and end with a calming soak on the Blue Lagoon. Clearly this could possibly be reordered relying on what you most wish to go to and any time constraints.
Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel
The Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel is likely one of the longest and greatest in Iceland, plus it’s straightforward to get to as it’s simply half-hour from Reykjavik. Excursions run roughly one hour and depart on the hour from 9 am to five pm. This lets you get an early begin and slot in a full day on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
You’re going to get to see the interior workings of a volcanic eruption as you stroll via a lava tube created 5200 years in the past in the course of the Leitahraun volcanic eruption. Helmets and lamps are offered however it’s best to gown warmly and put on sturdy footwear to stroll over uneven and generally moist surfaces.
E-book a tour of the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel
Seltun Geothermal Space and Kleifarvatn Lake
If you’re visiting the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa from the airport, you’ll be able to swing by the Seltun geothermal space and Lake Kleifarvatn afterward. Nevertheless, in case you are ranging from Reykjavik, cease on the Seltun geothermal space after your Lava Tunnel tour.
Kleifarvatn Lake is likely one of the deepest lakes in Iceland and the biggest on the Reykjanes peninsula. It’s a stunning spot to {photograph} due to the volcanic panorama and lava fields surrounding the lake. There’s even a perception {that a} “Loch Ness Monster-like” big worm and a medium-sized whale stay within the lake.
Simply down the road, you will see that the Seltún Geothermal space. This space options mud pots and scorching springs which are simply accessible from the car parking zone alongside a boardwalk. Once I visited within the winter this space was snow-covered and I didn’t get to see the attractive colours that this geothermal space is known for.
Geldingadalur Volcano
It isn’t a protracted stroll to the sting of the lava area that was created by the current eruptions of the Geldingadalur Volcano (additionally known as Fagradalsfjall á Reykjanesi). Nevertheless, it’s a for much longer and tougher hike if you wish to go nearer to the place the eruptions occurred.
The volcano isn’t actively erupting on the time of this writing, so there isn’t any lively lava flows or eruptions to view. That is all the time topic to alter so I might encourage you to go to the Secure Journey web site earlier than you embark to examine hazard ranges as a consequence of gases, climate, landslides, or falling rocks, and so forth.
If you happen to do determine to stroll all the best way out to the place the lava was erupting (if it restarts), that hike will take not less than a few hours, plus time spent taking within the view and expertise. Subsequently it could be arduous to slot in every part on this itinerary and also you may want to separate your go to into two days or skip a few of the sights.
E-book a guided volcano hike or guide a helicopter volcano viewing tour
Grindavík
It is sensible primarily based on location to go to the Blue Lagoon subsequent. Nevertheless, I nonetheless assume it’s good to finish the day with a calming soak after a day stuffed with exploring and climbing. This fashion you additionally don’t must rush your time. Nevertheless, whenever you go to is as much as you. You may also go to the Blue Lagoon in your arrival or departure day and save your Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary for its personal day.
Whether or not you go to the Blue Lagoon or not, Grindavík is a cute fishing city close to the Blue Lagoon. On this small city, you’ll find climbing trails, swimming services, and even one among Iceland’s greatest golf programs.
That is additionally a very good cease for lunch. In Grindavík fishing village you will see that a number of good eating places, corresponding to Salthúsið Restaurant, Bryggjan restaurant (nice lobster soup), or Papas restaurant (strive the lobster pizza!)
Whereas in Grindavík, additionally cease by the Brimketill naturally carved pool within the lava on the shore edge west of city. You possibly can take a small set of stairs from the car parking zone all the way down to a viewing platform. Simply beware that waves can virtually attain the car parking zone so the steps can get slippery and you may get soaked.
Gunnuhver / Gudrun’s Geysir
This geothermal space options effervescent mud swimming pools and steaming fissures. The most important characteristic is the Gunnuhver mud pot. Legend has it that this was named for a ghost who attacked folks and shook the homes, which a neighborhood reverend was capable of do away with by forcing her into the mud pot.
Once I visited the primary time, this space was lively however not almost to the extent that it’s right this moment. At the moment, Gunnuhver shoots excessive into the air and the spray blows throughout the viewing platform, so take care together with your digicam and put on a raincoat. If you happen to go to within the winter, additionally be careful for ice on the boardwalks due to the spray.
There are two totally different parking heaps and strolling paths to entry Gunnuhver. Count on to spend round quarter-hour taking on this space. From there, you’ll be able to select to stroll over to the Reykjanes Lighthouse.
Reykjanes Lighthouse / Reykjanesviti
The first lighthouse inbuilt Iceland was erected right here in 1778. Nevertheless, it collapsed a couple of years later as a consequence of earthquakes. The current lighthouse was constructed within the early 1900s and stands roughly 69 meters above sea degree and is 26 meters excessive. You possibly can’t climb this lighthouse, however you’ll be able to stroll up the hill to the lighthouse and benefit from the view from there.
Valahnúkamöl / Eldey
A brief drive previous the Reykjanes Lighthouse will carry you to the Valahnúkamöl. This mountain was shaped from a volcanic eruption. This rugged, but scenic spot can also be a very good probability to be taught in regards to the dividing line between the 2 continents and the way it travels from the ocean and cuts via Iceland.
When you have time, you’ll be able to climb the cliffs, however it’s price not less than taking a stroll alongside this shoreline. The jagged rocks jutting from the water give proof of the realm’s turbulent formation.
Within the distance, you’ll be able to see Edley Island. This 77-meter-high rock protrudes out of the ocean about 15 kilometers south of the Peninsula. You’ll need a very good lens or binoculars to see it clearly, however right this moment the island is residence to the biggest Gannet colonies on the planet.
The Nice Auk, a now-extinct chook species, had additionally made its residence on a skerry close to Eldey. The skerry sank into the ocean following volcanic exercise in 1830 and the final Nice Auk was killed in 1844 for a Danish pure historical past collector – which is greater than ironic. At the moment you’ll be able to see a sculpture of a Nice Auk from artist Todd McGrain from his “Misplaced Chook Undertaking” on the shore beneath Valahnúkur.
Plan on spending not less than an hour exploring the shoreline and the cliffs.
Bridge Between Two Continents
The Eurasian and North American plates are shifting aside at a few fee of two centimeters per 12 months. On the Reykjanes Peninsula, you’ll be able to stroll throughout the “Leif the Fortunate” bridge, named after Icelandic explorer Leif Erikson. This Bridge between the Continents connects these two plates.
Right here you’ll be able to cross the 60-foot-long bridge or stroll via the sandy soil of the Alfagja rift valley between two continents. It isn’t so much to take a look at however the idea of standing between continents is intriguing, therefore why folks additionally prefer to snorkel or dive between the continents in Thingvellir Nationwide Park.
Hvalsneskirkja Sandgerdi
Sandgerði is a fishing group on the northern tip of the peninsula. You’ll find many vacation homes and a reasonably stretch of shoreline. If you happen to get pleasure from trying out a few of Iceland’s scenic church buildings, then you’ll want to make a cease at Hvalsneskirkja (FYI – kirkja means church in Icelandic.) This black stone church was inbuilt 1885-1887.
At the moment you’ll be able to go to the church and well-maintained cemetery, however the church could or might not be open to guests with out an appointment.
Gardur / Gardskagi
Gardur, which implies backyard or yard, was named after the earthen partitions that when indicated boundaries between native properties. At the moment it’s maybe most well-known for being the hometown of the lead singer for Of Monsters and Males.
You may also go to the Gardur Peninsula Historic Museum and see the Gardskagi Lighthouse. The Gardskagi Lighthouse was inbuilt 1944 and is the tallest lighthouse in Iceland. You should buy a ticket within the heritage and maritime museum subsequent door and climb to the highest to absorb the view from the balcony. Additionally it is residence to 2 reveals in regards to the Northern Lights and Icelandic Whales.
You may also go to the Previous Gardskagi Lighthouse, which is now residence to a cute café and occasional store. If you happen to make a purchase order, you’ll be able to climb up the ladders to the highest of this lighthouse as properly and get a pleasant perspective of the coast and the taller lighthouse.
Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll
When you have just a little extra time on the Reykjanes Peninsula earlier than catching a airplane or heading again to Reykjavik, try the Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll in Keflavik close to the airport.
The museum was opened in April 2014 to cowl the story of rock and pop music in Iceland from 1930 to the current. Company obtain a pill and headphones to be taught and listen to extra about every of the artists, together with Sigtryggur Baldursson (the drummer of Sugarcubes), Björk, Sigur Rós, Of Monsters and Males, and Hljómar. The museum additionally has a sound lab the place guests can check out an electrical drum package, guitar,bass guitars, and keyboards.
Viking World Museum
If Icelandic music isn’t your jam, perhaps Vikings are. Households particularly will benefit from the Viking World Museum. Right here you will see that a full-size reproduction Viking ship (that really sailed to America) and reveals about Nordic mythology. Youngsters particularly will get pleasure from dressing up as a Viking and looking out on the animals exterior.
We loved this museum far more than the Saga Museum in Reykjavik. I might mark it as a should do in case you are touring with youngsters or you may have a selected curiosity in Vikings, exploration, or Nordic mythology.
Blue Lagoon
I’ve spelled out all my explanation why I didn’t love the Blue Lagoon, however I perceive that for a lot of a visit to Iceland isn’t full with out a dip within the well-known milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon. It might be an effective way to finish the day of exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula. Simply be ready for crowds, a hefty price ticket, and a business atmosphere.
You possibly can go to the Blue Lagoon and discover the Reykjanes Peninsula all in someday since I might normally advocate budgeting two-to-three hours on the Blue Lagoon. Nevertheless, it might make sense to separate them up. For instance, go to the Blue Lagoon whenever you arrive in Iceland and you might be drained and jet-lagged to kill time earlier than you’ll be able to examine into your lodging. Then, discover extra of the Reykjanes Peninsula earlier than flying out in your departure day.
Map of Reykjanes Peninsula and Factors of Curiosity
Map supply: Google My Maps
Reykjanes Peninsula 1-Day Itinerary
As I’ve outlined above, it’s straightforward to go to the Reykjanes Peninsula in a single day journey from Reykjavik. Relying in your pursuits, I would go away Reykjavik round 8 am and plan to return within the night. If you’re self-driving, it helps to have a 4 wheel drive automotive to navigate a few of smaller, gravel roads and parking heaps on Reykjanes, which can have massive potholes, however the primary roads are simply navigated, as are many of the foremost roads in Iceland. Following are the sights within the order they need to be visited in response to this itinerary. I’ve included approximate time spent at every cease, not together with journey time between sights.
- Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel (1 hour)
- Seltun Geothermal space (half-hour)
- Geldingadalur Volcano (1 to three hours)
- Grindavik (1 hour for lunch)
- Gunnuhver geothermal space and Reykjanes lighthouse (45 minutes)
- Valahnúkamöl cliffs and coast (1 hour)
- Bridge Between Two Continents (half-hour)
- Hvalsneskirkja (church) (quarter-hour)
- Gardur Lighthouse (45 minutes)
- Icelandic Museum of Rock and Roll or Viking World Museum (select 1 — 1-2 hours)
- Blue Lagoon (2-3 hours, plan on having dinner right here earlier than returning to Reykjavik)
The place to Keep on the Reykjanes Peninsula
There are a selection of small motels on the Reykjanes Peninsula, in addition to quite a lot of chain motels close to the airport. I might advocate Lodge Berg, which additionally has a rooftop scorching tub and gives free airport transportation.
Extra Iceland Journey Suggestions
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