Reykjanestá

Background

History & Background

The Reykjanestá coast has long been important for navigation, fishing and geological observation. Iceland's first lighthouse was built in the Reykjanes area in 1878, with the present Reykjanesviti tower completed in 1908 after seismic activity affected the original site. The surrounding shore is now part of Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark and includes internationally important examples of volcanic and coastal geology.

Reykjanestá is the outer southwestern tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula and one of the clearest places to experience the meeting of Iceland's volcanic geology and the North Atlantic. The coastal landscape around Valahnúkur, Valbjargargjá and Valahnúkamöl has been shaped by both eruptions and relentless marine erosion. Reykjanes Geopark describes Valahnúkur as an eroded hill made from palagonite tuff, pillow lava and breccia, while Valahnúkamöl is a broad berm of large rounded boulders built by powerful waves and storms. Offshore lies Eldey, a steep volcanic island that is an important seabird breeding site and a striking landmark from the coast. The wider Reykjanestá area also includes Iceland's oldest lighthouse tradition at Reykjanesviti and the geothermal landscape around Gunnuhver, making this one of the strongest concentrations of natural and cultural attractions on the peninsula. Visitors should treat the coastline with particular caution. The cliffs are actively eroding, Atlantic surf can be violent and geological movement has created new cracks around Valahnúkur. The path onto Valahnúkur has been closed, and both Visit Reykjanes and Reykjanes Geopark have warned visitors to keep clear of visible cracks and cliff edges. Stay on established viewing areas and never approach the surf for photographs.