Fagradalsfjall

Fagradalsfjall shot to global headlines in March 2021 when it erupted for the first time in 800 years, beginning a series of spectacular volcanic events on the Reykjanes Peninsula that continued through 2022 and 2023. The resulting lava fields and new cinder cones — including the striking Geldingadalir valley — are now an extraordinary open-air geology museum visitors can walk through freely.

The contrast between the raw, jet-black lava with its ropy pahoehoe textures and the surrounding green vegetation is remarkable, and the scale of the eruption site — with multiple overlapping lava flows from successive eruption episodes — rewards thorough exploration. Interpretive signage helps explain what happened and when, and views from the ridge above Geldingadalir are outstanding.

Fagradalsfjall is about 40 km from Reykjavík, near Grindavík and Keflavík. The main access trail starts at Suðurstrandarvegur (Route 425); the walk to the primary lava viewing area takes approximately 1–1.5 hours each way. Wear sturdy footwear — the lava surface is sharp and uneven. Bring wind protection as the Reykjanes Peninsula is often breezy. Access is free and open year-round, though the approach trail can be muddy in wet conditions.