reykjanes
Kleifarvatn Lake South Shore
About Kleifarvatn Lake South Shore
Iceland's deepest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula, surrounded by volcanic landscapes and hot springs. Shaped by volcanic activity, glacial erosion, and the forces of wind and water over millennia, this natural attraction draws visitors who come to witness landscapes found nowhere else. The area provides excellent opportunities for photography, hiking, and connecting with Iceland's pristine wilderness. Kleifarvatn is Iceland's third-deepest lake at 97 metres, yet it has no visible river or stream flowing out. The water drains through underground fissures in the volcanic bedrock — and after a major earthquake in 2000, the lake suddenly shrank, losing nearly half its water as new cracks opened beneath. Over the following years it slowly refilled. The lake's dark waters, surrounded by barren lava fields and steaming geothermal vents, give it an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere. It feels like a place where Iceland's volcanic forces are still very much alive. Visitor Information: This site is located in the Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland. As a natural wonder, it provides visitors with a distinctive experience of Iceland's remarkable natural and cultural heritage. What to Expect: - A unique natural wonder experience in one of Iceland's most scenic regions - Opportunities for photography and exploration - Connection to Iceland's natural landscape and cultural heritage - Accessible during the main tourist season (June-September) - Can be combined with other nearby attractions in the Reykjanes Peninsula Best Time to Visit: The site is most accessible during summer months (June-August) when daylight hours are longest and weather is mildest. However, each season offers its own unique character — winter brings possible Northern Lights, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds. Nearby: Explore other attractions in the Reykjanes Peninsula to make the most of your visit to this beautiful region of Iceland.
🐉 The Bridge Between Continents
The Reykjanes Peninsula sits directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia slowly pull apart. Local folklore interprets this geological reality through myth, telling of two giant brothers who each claimed one side of the great rift. They agreed to place a bridge between their lands so they could visit each other, but their constant pulling apart keeps widening the gap. A footbridge near Sandvík symbolically spans the rift today, allowing visitors to "walk between continents." The legend beautifully merges geological science with the Icelandic tradition of explaining natural phenomena through stories of giants and supernatural beings.
📖 History of Kleifarvatn Lake South Shore
This site in the Reykjanes Peninsula has captivated visitors and locals alike throughout Iceland's history. The natural formations here were shaped over thousands of years by the forces of volcanism, glaciation, and erosion. Early settlers recognized the unique beauty of this place, and it features in various historical accounts and folklore. Iceland's natural wonders have been described by travelers since the medieval period, with some of the earliest written accounts appearing in the sagas and geographic treatises of the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, This site continues to draw visitors from around the world who come to witness the extraordinary landscapes that make Iceland one of the most geologically diverse places on the planet.
✈️ Why Visit
A deep, mysterious lake with no outlet, surrounded by volcanic craters and steaming hot springs.
💡 Did You Know?
After the 2000 earthquake, Kleifarvatn suddenly lost 20% of its water when underground fissures opened beneath it.
Key Facts
Depth: 97 metres (Iceland's 3rd deepest lake)
No visible outlet — drains through underground fissures
Water level fluctuates with seismic activity
Surrounded by lava fields and geothermal areas
Excellent trout fishing
💎 Hidden Gems
Off-Peak Visit
Visit this attraction during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
this attraction looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
🚗 Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.