Reykjanes Peninsula is not one of the most popular parts of Iceland. In fact, it is the nearest region from the capital Reykjavik yet it is ignored. Tourists are interested in taking up trips to South Iceland, Golden Circle & some also go to North Iceland as well.
Funny thing is, everyone knowingly or unknowingly comes on Reykjanes Peninsula at least twice when they are in Iceland because well, Keflavik Airport is located on this peninsula.
There is no reason to ignore this region because the Reykjanes Peninsula is SO BEAUTIFUL! Everyone should visit Reykjanes. Here are a few things I explored in a day’s time on the peninsula.
Watch my complete video on Reykjanes Peninsula
1. Bridge Between Continents
This sounds different, right? It IS different. Where in the world can you cross a bridge to go from one continent to another? (I know Istanbul, okay?) I am talking about Continental plates.
The fissure between the North American Plate & Eurasian Plate is clearly visible here. When you walk on this small, pretty bridge, you walk from one continental plate from another. I had different adrenaline while doing it. Wear a windproof jacket here because it is always windy near the Bridge Between Continents.
2. Kleifarvatn, Reykjanes peninsula
Whenever I talk about Iceland, lakes are something that comes naturally to my mind. Kleifarvatn is the largest lake on Reykjanes peninsula & one of the largest & deepest lakes of Iceland.
The best thing about Kleifarvatn is that you will find few to none tourists in this region. The roads are in great condition & the weather changes every 5 minutes. It is also an excellent area for photographers. The road that runs along the lake provides unique frames for pictures.
Kleifarvatn is also one of the lakes where you can snorkel & scuba dive. Just look for a good adventure company & enjoy diving in one of the least dived lakes!
3. Seltún Geothermal Area, Krýsuvík
Just 3 km away from Kleifarvatn, you can visit Seltún Geothermal Area. It is a well-paved track for visitors to see the beautiful Geothermal phenomenon in the region.
You can see many things in the same region: Boiling mud pits, spectacular colors, steam coming out of Earth, random snowfall & of course, the world’s largest blowing steam vent.
It is a must-visit place in Reykjanes peninsula for everyone & especially for photographers!
4. Blue Lagoon
Who doesn’t know about Blue Lagoon? In fact, it is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland that people know around the world. Blue Lagoon is not a natural phenomenon. It is a man-made pool but it is fantastic.
Blue Lagoon is also located on the Reykjanes peninsula. It is highly recommended that you book your slot way in advance from their website. It is a fantastic attraction & everyone should definitely visit it at least once whenever they are in Iceland. I spent an entire day at the Blue Lagoon & the feeling was amazing.
The water used in the pools is Geothermal hence it is full of rich minerals like silica & sulfur. The water temperature is kept between 37 – 40 C which makes it accessible (and practical) even in Winter. In Geothermal sense, Reykjanes Peninsula is highly active hence Blue Lagoon is sitting at the perfect location.
5. Different Landscapes
Iceland is all about nature. All about landscapes, shades & colors. I can confidently say that Reykjanes peninsula is one of the most diverse regions of Iceland. This diversity makes it beautiful & one of the many reasons why you should visit the region. We rented a car from Blue Car Rental because they are the cheapest & the best when it comes to the quality of cars.
Fun fact: Thousands of mini earthquakes happen in Reykjanes peninsula throughout the year. The chance that there will be an earthquake when you visit the region is high. The chance that you will feel that earthquake is next to none.
Pictures: Parichay Mehta
Check out more regions of Iceland:
South Iceland | The Golden Circle | North Iceland | West Iceland | West Fjords
Want to know the budget of my Iceland trip? Here you go!
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