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The Blue Lagoon & Surrounds
South West of Reykjavik are the lava fields of the Reykjavik peninsula – a hot spot for some of the most dramatic views on any Iceland tour. The ReykjanesPeninsula is a UNESCO Global Geothermal park and one of the more densely populated areas of the Island with a population of nearly 30,000 people. This area gives an early indication of the rugged and impressive terrain which the country offers. The area is home to the famous Blue Lagoon which is one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal pools – here we have options with a private pool, so you do not have to join the crowds who seek the healing powers of the Blue Lagoon on their own holiday in Iceland. The pools run at around 38 degrees and is surrounded by dramatic caves and lava fields. Many people use the grey silt to condition their skin and it is renowned to cure many skin disorders due to its rich mineral content.
The area is also home to the iconic Reykjanesviti Lighthouse which is an icon on the island and deemed to be of architectural and historic importance. The original version was destroyed in an earthquake in 1887 and the current version was rebuilt in around 1907 – we can provide guided tours of this area or explore it all under your own steam.
To the east of the peninsula is the Reykjanes Nature Reserve which is around 300 sq kms in size and one of Iceland’s largest nature reserves. The area is famed for its incredible bird life on the bird cliffs, the crater lakes including the stunning Kleifarvatn Lake, the lave formations and geothermic fields. The other area which is considered one of Iceland’s best bird watching areas is the magnificent Krisuvikurbjarg sea cliffs which are a natural wonder and stretch several kilometres, rising up vertically up from the sea – once again we recommend seeing these from one of our luxury Iceland boat cruises or yacht charters. During the Summer this is swarmed by approximately 9 different species and approximately 60,000 birds which come here to nest.
Included within the peninsula is Two Continents Bridge which is believed to be the divide between Europe and North America. The bridge spans 50ft between both the Eurasian and North American Tectonic plates – everything in Iceland revolves around volcanic activity, which is a humbling fact ensuring you never forget nature is in control here.
The Peninsula is also home to the Lake Kleifarvatn which is about 10sq km and is the third largest lake in the Peninsula and the largest in the Reykjanes Peninsula. The lake has no visible entry or exit point as the water is believed to be fed from below. The lake and area surrounding it offers endless hiking opportunities and changes significantly throughout the different seasons – once again reiterating that no matter when you travel to Iceland there will be something magical to see.
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