Reykjanes Peninsula: Iceland's Volcanic Gateway

The Reykjanes Peninsula is the first piece of Iceland most travellers see — Keflavík International Airport sits at its northern tip. Most people drive straight to Reykjavík and miss the peninsula entirely, which is a mistake. Reykjanes is where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge breaks the surface — the boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates runs through it, and the resulting volcanic activity has been particularly dramatic since 2021. Several eruptions have occurred in the Svartsengi volcanic system; lava flows have threatened and occasionally reached Grindavík town.

Before visiting: Check road.is and vedur.is for current access conditions. Eruption-related closures can affect the Blue Lagoon, Grindavík, and the surrounding roads with little notice.

Getting There

Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is on the northern Reykjanes Peninsula. Arriving drivers simply head south and west rather than east to Reykjavík.

By car from airport: The peninsula circuit begins directly from the Route 41 junction near Keflavík. No additional travel required.

By car from Reykjavík: Approximately 50km southwest via Route 41 and Route 43.

Blue Lagoon

Iceland’s most visited attraction. The milky-blue geothermal spa at Svartsengi has a capacity of several thousand visitors per day and consistently sells out in peak season.

Entry approximately ISK 9,990–25,990 depending on package as of 2026. Includes silica mud mask and one drink. Book at bluelagoon.com — book at least 3–4 weeks in advance in summer. The spa has been evacuated due to nearby volcanic activity on multiple occasions since 2023. Always confirm it’s open before travelling.

The water is a byproduct of the Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Temperature approximately 37–39°C. The milky colour comes from silica. Despite the commercialisation it remains a genuinely impressive bathing experience.

Gunnuhver Geothermal Area

Iceland’s largest hot spring, on the southwestern tip of the peninsula near Reykjanestá lighthouse. A dramatic field of boiling mud pools and steam vents — the hissing is audible before you reach it. Wooden walkways keep visitors safely back from the scalding pools. Entry free. Allow 30–45 minutes.

The lighthouse at Reykjanestá is Iceland’s southwesternmost point. Below the lighthouse, the ruins of Iceland’s first lighthouse (destroyed by an earthquake in 1906) are visible.

Bridge Between Continents

A pedestrian bridge spanning a rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates on the Reykjanes Ridge. Geologically dramatic; visually modest — it’s a small bridge over a fissure. Entry free. Certificate of crossing available from a nearby dispenser (approximately ISK 1,500). Worth a 20-minute stop if passing; not worth a dedicated trip.

Kleifarvatn Lake

Iceland’s largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula, formed in a volcanic fissure. Surrounded by black lava desert with no visible inflows or outflows — the lake drains through underwater fissures. After the 2000 earthquake the water level dropped significantly as fissures opened. A haunting landscape. Reachable via Route 42. Free.

Krýsuvík Geothermal Area (Seltún)

A multicoloured geothermal field of boiling mud pots, sulphurous vents, and iron-red earth on the Krýsuvíkurbjarg cliffs area. Boardwalk paths. Entry free. Allow 30 minutes.

Keflavík Town

Often bypassed but worth a brief stop — the town has a stronger connection to Iceland’s musical culture than most (Bjork and many other Icelandic musicians grew up here). The Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum (Rokksafn Íslands) covers Icelandic rock history. Entry approximately ISK 1,500 adult.

Where to Stay

Northern Light Inn — The most convenient hotel if you want to be close to the Blue Lagoon and the airport. Doubles from approximately ISK 45,000–65,000. Northern lights viewing area on site.

Keflavík Airport hotels — Multiple hotels within 10 minutes of the airport terminal: Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina, Hotel Berg, and others. Practical for early flights. Doubles from approximately ISK 28,000–42,000.

Grindavík guesthouses: Note that Grindavík has been heavily affected by volcanic activity — check current access and openings before booking accommodation here.

Where to Eat

Fiskmarkaðurinn (Keflavík) — Good fish restaurant in Keflavík harbour. Mains approximately ISK 3,200–5,500.

Blue Lagoon restaurant: The Lava Restaurant is part of the Blue Lagoon complex. Mains approximately ISK 4,500–7,000. Convenient if you’re spending the day at the spa.