Reykjanes Peninsula

Where Fire Shapes the Land

Reykjanes is one of Iceland’s youngest regions — geologically speaking — and it shows. Volcanic eruptions, including the recent activity near Sundhnúkagígar, have shaped the raw lava fields and eerie beauty that surround you here. It's a reminder that Iceland is always becoming — always alive.

In fact, this area once felt so alien that NASA trained Apollo astronauts here in the 1960s, preparing them for lunar landscapes. Walking across Reykjanes today still feels like stepping onto another planet — minus the space suit.

Highlights of Reykjanes - The Responsible Way

Kleifarvatn is a great place to start. This deep, brooding lake sits in a volcanic fissure between steep hills and feels like a secret, even though it's just minutes from Reykjavík. Adventurous divers come here to explore underwater hot springs — a surreal experience you’ll only find in Iceland.

Just beyond is Krýsuvík, a geothermal wonderland where steam hisses, mud bubbles, and the Earth quite literally breathes. The smell of sulfur? Part of the charm. Stick to the marked walkways and let the steam wrap around you — this is raw geothermal power, Iceland-style.

The Blue Lagoon – Yes, It's Worth It

It may be world-famous, but the Blue Lagoon still delivers. With its iconic milky-blue water, mineral-rich mud masks, and volcanic surroundings, this geothermal spa is the kind of experience that stays with you. We recommend booking in advance — it’s popular for a reason — or, for something more secluded, check into the Silica Hotel or Retreat Hotel for private lagoons and pure calm.

Grindavík – A Town of Resilience

Nearby lies Grindavík, a tight-knit fishing village that faced sudden evacuation during the seismic events of 2023. But the town is returning — slowly, steadily, and with strength. Visiting Grindavík today offers a humbling look at nature’s power and the resilience of Icelandic communities.

Brimketill – Nature’s Ferocious Pool

Just ten minutes from Grindavík is Brimketill, a naturally carved lava pool on the coast. It’s stunning — especially when waves crash over the rock edges — but unpredictable. Best admired from the safe viewing platform above. This is Icelandic nature at its wildest: beautiful, moody, and best approached with respect.

Gunnuhver – The Ghost in the Steam

A little farther along the coast, you’ll find Gunnuhver, one of Iceland’s largest and most dramatic geothermal vents. Legend has it a ghost named Gunna was trapped here, and standing near the roaring steam clouds, you might just believe it. Stay on the boardwalks, feel the heat under your feet, and enjoy the thrill — no ghost-hunting required.

The Bridge Between Continents

Nowhere else in the world can you walk between continents — except here. The Bridge Between Continents lets you cross from the North American plate to the Eurasian one in just a few steps. It’s simple, symbolic, and strangely moving. A reminder that Iceland sits at the meeting point of worlds — geologically and otherwise.

Why Reykjanes Belongs on Your Iceland Itinerary

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a reminder that you don’t have to go far from the airport to find Iceland’s magic. Here, lava fields stretch endlessly, steam rises from the ground, and tectonic forces shape the horizon. But it's also a region of stories — of resilient towns, ancient legends, and nature that still writes its own rules.

So take your time. Stay a night. Wander, soak, and listen. Because the land is speaking — and on Reykjanes, it has a lot to say.