Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark

“It is a land-born, highly volcanic counterpart of the Mid-Atlantic Spreading Ridge”

Celebrating Earth Heritage

At first glance, Reykjanes’ fascinating landscape seems to come straight from a science fiction movie. Geologists explain this by its location at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift away from each other. Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, located in southwest Iceland near the capital, Reykjavik, is a dynamic landscape where new crust is constantly being created. Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, the most recent occurring in the 14th century, are part of the region's geological story. The Reykjanes Peninsula features a rift volcanic system with a fissure swarm that stretches across the land, forming volcanic craters, lava fields and fissure eruptions. As one of Iceland’s most active volcanic regions, Reykjanes also boasts remarkable geothermal activity, including hot springs, geysers and mud pools. The Gunnuhver mud pools offer visitors a unique encounter with the region's geothermal activity. Located near Reykjanes Lighthouse, Gunnuhver is named after a female ghost, Gunna, who, according to legend, terrorised the area until a priest trapped her, causing her to plunge into the boiling mud pools. These pools form when steam from a boiling geothermal reservoir condenses and mixes with surface water, creating acidic conditions due to the presence of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, that transform fresh lava into clay. Among the Gunnuhver group, the largest mud pool spans an impressive 20 meters and boils vigorously, offering visitors a mesmerising glimpse of the Earth's power. For those seeking vibrant colours and dynamic geothermal activity, Sog is a must-visit location. Located southwest of Trölladyngja, Sog is defined by fluvial gullies and ridges showcasing intense high-temperature alteration of the bedrock. The site features an array of steam vents, small hot springs and bubbling mud pools, creating a mesmerizing landscape shaped by geothermal energy. The lowland areas of the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark are largely covered by lava fields, where vegetation struggles to establish itself. However, resilient moss blankets the lava surfaces, creating a striking green contrast against the otherwise barren landscape. The region is predominantly flat, its highest point reaches just 391 meters. The Reykjanes Peninsula, a geologically young part of Iceland, represents the volcanic counterpart of the North Atlantic Ridge. This is where two tectonic plates, the North American and Eurasian, diverge at a steady rate of 2.5 cm per year, resulting in a fascinating interplay of geological forces that continuously reshape the landscape. Recognised as one of the IUGS 100 Geological Heritage Sites, it stands as a remarkable testament to the planet's ever-changing nature.

Characteristics

Designation date
2015
Country(ies)
Transnational
No
Area (ha)
81,800
Population
29,100
Density
36
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