reykjanes
Eldvörp
About Eldvörp
Eldvörp Crater Row is a volcanic fissure system made up of multiple eruption craters formed during medieval eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The crater chain stretches across a lava field landscape shaped by tectonic movement along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The eruptions that created Eldvörp occurred during the Reykjanes Fires in the 13th century, a volcanic period that produced several eruption systems across the peninsula. Today the area offers visitors an opportunity to walk through a raw volcanic environment where crater formations and lava flows clearly illustrate Iceland’s ongoing geological activity. Eldvörp is often visited together with nearby volcanic and geothermal sites such as Fagradalsfjall eruption areas, Gunnuhver geothermal field, and the Reykjanes power plant region.
🐉 Hiking area: Yes
Eldvörp formed during a powerful volcanic period known as the Reykjanes Fires when eruptions opened long fissures across the peninsula. The crater row remains one of the clearest visible reminders of Iceland’s position on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
📖 History of Eldvörp
Eldvörp formed during volcanic eruptions in the 13th century as part of the Reykjanes Fires, a period of intense volcanic activity across the peninsula. These eruptions created crater rows and lava fields that still define much of the region’s landscape today.
✈️ Why Visit
Walk the lava trail between ancient craters with the geothermal power station at Svartsengi nearby — a raw demonstration of Iceland living on top of its heat source.
💡 Did You Know?
Eldvörp's craters are part of the same volcanic system responsible for the Blue Lagoon's water. The geothermal plant at Svartsengi taps energy from within the same lava field.
Key Facts
Eldvörp Crater Row is a volcanic fissure system made up of multiple eruption craters formed during medieval eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The crater chain stretches across a lava field landscape shaped by tectonic movement along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The eruptions that created Eldvörp occurred during the Reykjanes Fires in the 13th century, a volcanic period that produced several eruption systems across the peninsula. Today the area offers visitors an opportunity to walk through a raw volcanic environment where crater formations and lava flows clearly illustrate Iceland’s ongoing geological activity. Eldvörp is often visited together with nearby volcanic and geothermal sites such as Fagradalsfjall eruption areas, Gunnuhver geothermal field, and the Reykjanes power plant region.
Formation period: 13th century eruptions
Geology: Mid-Atlantic Ridge fissure system
Region: Reykjanes Peninsula volcanic zone
Nearby: Grindavík
Nearby: Gunnuhver geothermal area
Nearby: Fagradalsfjall eruption sites
Hiking area: Yes
💎 Hidden Gems
Crater row hiking landscape
Visitors can walk along sections of the crater chain through untouched lava field terrain.
Explore one of the most accessible volcanic fissure systems on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Part of the Reykjanes Fires eruption system
The crater row formed during medieval eruptions known as the Reykjanes Fires.
Experience the geological history of Iceland’s active volcanic peninsula.
Near recent eruption areas
Located close to the modern eruption systems near Fagradalsfjall.
Combine historic crater formations with Iceland’s newest volcanic landscapes.
🕐 Best Time
Accessible year-round and best visited during daylight for photography and views of the surrounding lava landscape.
🚗 Access
Located along Road 425 on the Reykjanes Peninsula with parking and a short walking path to the bridge.
⏱ Duration
15–25 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eldvörp an active volcano area?▾
Eldvörp formed during historic eruptions and lies within an active volcanic zone on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Can you hike around Eldvörp?▾
Yes. The area is suitable for short hikes across lava fields and crater formations.
Is Eldvörp near Grindavík?▾
Yes. Eldvörp is located close to Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
📍 GPS Location
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