Why the Reykjanes Peninsula is the Perfect Day Trip from Reykjavik

It boasts geology worthy of UNESCO recognition

Iceland is located on the boundary of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a reason for its many volcanoes and abundant geothermal energy. These plates are drifting very slowly apart, so slowly, in fact that you can’t see or feel the movement. The Reykjanes peninsula sits right on top of this tear in the landscape. At the Bridge between Continents, you can stand with one foot in either continent with the boundary right beneath you.

The whole area was designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2016 in recognition of its exceptional geological significance. In the region there are two must-see areas of geothermal activity: Seltún-Krýsuvík and Gunnuhver. Easily accessible via wooden boardwalks, you’ll have the opportunity to witness mud pools, fumaroles and hot springs in a landscape spattered by sulphur and other minerals.

Its long coastline is delightfully diverse

With water on three sides, you’re never far from the ocean. Though the unpredictable weather means this isn’t a place for swimming or even paddling, there are numerous places where it’s enjoyable to take a walk – be sure to take care close to cliff tops and stay beyond the reach of the waves.

From the rounded, worn stones of the ridge that forms Valahnúkamöl to Stóra-Sandvik whose black sand beach is backed by grassy dunes there’s a variety of landscapes to explore. At Brimketill, the powerful Atlantic waves smash into the lava sending white water high into the air. They have created a dramatic stretch of coastline pockmarked by round pools.

Historic landmarks litter the peninsula

One of the greatest joys of a day trip to Reykjanes is the chance to find peace and solitude in this sparsely populated region. There are numerous locales, especially in winter, where you can find yourself alone, surrounded by nature. In addition, there is a slew of historic structures that also fly under the radar.

For instance, seek out the black form of Krýsuvík church; built in 1857, it now forms part of the National Museum. In contrast, the stone church at Hvalsnes, consecrated in 1887, is still in use today. The wood used to fit out its interior was all salvaged from the nearby coastline. Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s oldest lighthouse is another historic structure worth checking out, as are the pair at Garður.

Bird watching opportunities abound

Reykjanes has some of the best winter birdwatching opportunities in Iceland. For instance, at Ósar, the large sandy mudflat attracts wading birds; it’s also known for its flocks of ducks including common eiders. Gyrfalcon also spend the colder months here, and it’s also a good place to spot skuas. Harlequin ducks typically prefer to stay out at sea, but you can sometimes catch a glimpse of them from Hafnir harbour.

The wild and windswept bird cliffs also offer the promise of sightings. From spring to autumn, seabirds come to this part of iceland to nest and breed and the cliffs of the peninsula teem with species such as kittiwakes, fulmars, guillemots and cormorants. Inland, spots like lakes Kleifarvatn and Grænavatn also deliver.

It’s a good place to connect with the nation’s cultural heritage

Norse settlers first put down roots in Iceland in the 9th century. At Viking World in Reykjanesbaer, visitors can inspect the Íslendingur (the Icelander), a replica of a ship excavated in Norway. In 2000, it made a successful voyage to New York, reminding the world that Leifur Eirkisson had made a similar journey a thousand years earlier.

Music is another important aspect of Icelandic culture and again, it’s well represented in Reykjanes. The Museum of Icelandic Rock and Roll makes an interesting detour if you’re looking for an indoor attraction. Meanwhile in fine weather, fans of Will Ferrell will want to check out the Volcano Man keyboards he played in the Eurovision movie. Find them close to Reykjanesviti.

The Blue Lagoon is the ideal wind down spot

At the end of your day’s sightseeing, you can opt to soak in the warm water of the Blue Lagoon. This luxurious spa actually owes its existence to its neighbour, the Svartsengi Power Station; when its waste water wouldn’t drain away because of the silica creating an impermeable surface, the idea for this fabulous geothermal baths started to form.

More than three decades on, it’s as popular as ever and a must-do for day-trippers to the Reykjanes peninsula. The mineral-rich water will feel like a real indulgence as you ease yourself into it and sip a drink from the bar. In winter, book late in the day and you might even see the Northern Lights dance across the sky.

You won’t face a long journey back to the city

On a lengthy drive, the anticipation of what’s to come keeps travellers buoyed up at the thought of what’s to come; the same can’t usually be said for the return trip. The drive back to Reykjavik, particularly if it’s in the dark, can feel like wasted time, and in winter, the idea of a long drive in snowy or icy weather won’t appeal to many. But if that trip is from Reykjanes, then this won’t apply.

The peninsula is quickly reached from the Icelandic capital – Keflavik Airport is only a 45 minute drive and nowhere’s much more than an hour away from the city. It’s this convenience that makes the Reykjanes peninsula an ideal choice for Reykjavik-based tourists. Not only are there myriad things to do and see, you don’t have to go very far out of your way to find them.

No matter what time of year you plan to stay in Reykjavik, a visit to the Reykjanes peninsula makes sense. We think it’s the perfect day trip from the city, but don’t take our word for it – come and find out for yourself.