Private Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark Tour
The Reykjanes peninsula is a 2,000 km² (772 mi²) area characterized by various formations of palagonite tuff, pillow lava, and basaltic lava flows shaped by volcanic activity during interglacial periods, mostly in the last 11,500 years. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge rises above sea level on this peninsula and it is lined with four volcanic systems from SW to NE, containing craters, faults, open volcanic fissures, large and small lava shields, and high-temperature geothermal fields. Fisheries have long been a lifeline of the locals, with fishing towns and villages along the black sanded coastline, some even dating back centuries.
In 2015, Reykjanes was recognized as a Global Geopark by UNESCO for its geological heritage in connection with the area's natural and cultural heritage. UNESCO Global Geoparks have sites and landscapes of international geological significance, managed with a holistic concept of education, protection, and sustainability.
Options
1-3 passengers
1-3 passengers
Pickup included
What's included in Private Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark Tour
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Garðskagi is the outermost point of the Reykjanes peninsula, with two lighthouses standing that bear the same name Garðskagaviti. The smaller lighthouse further out, white and red striped, is the older one built in 1897, and the newer and taller one standing further in was built in 1944. The older one is the second oldest lighthouse in Iceland after Reykjanesviti lighthouse, and also the second oldest concrete building, while the newer lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Iceland. This is a very popular place to visit due to the unique 360° view the lighthouses offer. On sunny days you can see all the way to the Snæfellsjökull glacier on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, Esja mountain hovering over the Reykjavik Capital Area, and surrounding mountain rows. Garðskagi is also the home of varied sea bird species and some days you can even spot seals and whales playing, from the dock of the Old Lighthouse Café.
Hvalsneskirkja
Hvalsneskirkja is a beautiful black church and among our favorites. Built 1886-1887 with basal lava blocks collected from the surrounding region and the interior crafted from driftwood that locals collected from the nearby shoreline, it along with its graveyard was preserved in 1990 due to age and its uniqueness. This has been a church estate from 1200, but this is the first church to stand outside of the graveyard. The colorful tower makes this church very popular for photography.
The picturesque yellow-colored Stafnesviti lighthouse stands on the headland Stafnes and was built in 1925. It overlooks the scenic rocky coast of Básendar, a former market town, and old fishing and trading post which was the largest royal fishery at the time. Since before the 16th century it was the biggest fishery in the area until 1799 when a powerful storm swept over. This caused the worst flood ever to happen in the area, named Básendaflóð. The flood destroyed all buildings and changed the shoreline forever, killing only one woman.
Inclusions
- Private transportation
- Knowledgeable & experienced English speaking driver-guide
- Pickup & drop-off within the Reykjavik Capital Area
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Parking Fees
- Food & drinks (your private driver-guide can recommend stops for refreshments during the tour)
- Gratuities
- Entry or admission fees to activities outside of the itinerary
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
