Reykjanes Peninsula is characterized by immense lava fields, volcanoes, and strong geothermal activity. The magnificent Blue Lagoon is located at the Reykjanes Peninsula and is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland. The rest of the area, however, is not as popular with tourists which is surprising as there are so many unusual sights worth seeing. The best way to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula is definitely with car. We have listed down top things to do and see in Reykjanes Peninsula.
Blue Lagoon
What makes Blue Lagoon so special? This geothermal spa has silky blue sea water which is rich with minerals such as silica and the area is surrounded by endless lava fields. The Blue Lagoon is only a 15-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport and a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík. The Blue Lagoon is definitely a must-stop for those who visit Iceland.
Brimketill Lava Rock pool
Brimketill is a small, naturally carved pool, by marine erosion, at the lava shore edge west of the town of Grindavík. This place is close to Gunnuhver hot spring and is definitely worth the stop. It's not recommended for people to take a swim there since conditions can be dangerous and waves can easily break over the pool, there are sharp and slippery rocks around it.
Bridge between continents
Have you ever had the opportunity to walk between continents? If the answer is no, you have the chance to do it (geologically speaking) at Reykjanes. The Bridge between two continents is at the very end of the Reykjanes Peninsula and was built as a symbol for the connection between Europe and North America.
According to geological theories, the Eurasian and North American fleets are drifting apart from each other at Reykjanes. When the plates diverge, linear fractures, which is known as fissure form due to stresses that are created by the tension that builds up as the plates move away from each other.
Gunnuhver
Gunnuhver is named after a ghost and it's an active geothermal area of mud pools and steam vents. You will be able to enjoy an amazing view and see the steam explosions from the underground hot spring.
One (Hot) tip: don't try to touch the hot springs as it is extremely dangerous!
Garðskagi
At Garðskagi which is at the tip of the peninsula, you can take a walk on the white beach on a good summer day and enjoy the sea view from the two lighthouses that are there. There is also a museum and a coffee house there with a beautiful ocean view.
This is the best spot in the area to see the Northern lights during winter nights.
The Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll
If you are a music fan, you must visit The Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' roll, which is only a 5-minute drive away from Keflavík International Airport. The museum has a collection about the history of pop and rock music in Iceland and contains a timeline of the history of Icelandic music in Iceland from 1830 to the present day.
The museum contains a small cinema where you are able to watch numerous documentaries about Icelandic music. There is also a sound lab where guests can go wild and try out guitars, bass, electric drums, and sing in a designed singing room.
WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIALS FOR A ROAD TRIP TO THE WESTFJORDS IN ICELAND?
