What Secrets Does the Reykjanes Peninsula Hide?
Reykjavík is not only the beating heart of Iceland, but also a treasure trove of secrets. It reveals mysteries visible to visiting eyes – such as unique architecture, renowned galleries and museums, and spectacular man-made structures. But today, we'll focus on a different kind of secret – those hidden from plain sight, the ones you need a guide with a deep understanding of Iceland to uncover. Just a short trip outside the capital will bring you to the magical Reykjanes Peninsula. Let's explore the secrets it hides — and how I like to photograph each one.
Reykjanesviti Lighthouse (Reykjanes)
Lighthouses are the stuff of legends – tales of lone castaways and shipwrecks under mysterious circumstances. One of the most remarkable lighthouses in Iceland is Reykjanesviti, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It's the oldest lighthouse in Iceland, offering panoramic views. Built on the rugged coast, it was constructed from brick.
Reykjanesviti was erected in 1908, but its history goes back even further. An earlier lighthouse was built in 1878 but was damaged during an earthquake in 1905. In 1908, the current lighthouse was constructed, and the original was demolished due to the risk of collapse. According to surveys conducted among Icelanders, Reykjanesviti is the most popular local lighthouse!
Behind the camera: I bring people to Valahnúkamöl, the sea cliffs just below the lighthouse, for the widest shots — waves breaking over dark basalt, the lighthouse small in the frame, birds working the cliffs. Overcast days actually work beautifully here; the flat light keeps the contrast between black rock and white spray really clean.
Gunnuhver Geothermal Area (Reykjanes)
When talking about the mysteries of Reykjanes, you can't skip Gunnuhver. This fantastic geothermal area is full of the Earth's natural magic: steam vents, volcanic gases, vivid colors, and folklore that stimulates the senses. Gunnuhver is one of the most vibrant spots not only in Reykjavík and its surroundings but in all of Iceland. Thick, white steam clouds rise like floating mist, radiating warmth. All of this can be viewed safely from designated platforms.
But Gunnuhver's secrets don't stop there! What would mysteries be without local legends? The geothermal area is steeped in ghost stories. In the past, natural phenomena that couldn't be understood stirred fear and suspicion, often being attributed to dark forces. It's no surprise the area was thought to be cursed, with its only permanent inhabitant said to be Gunna – a ghost who returned from the afterlife after being wronged by local authorities, or, according to some, a witch.
Behind the camera: Steam rolls constantly off the ground here, and depending on the wind, the whole scene can disappear into mist for a few seconds before clearing again. I always tell guests to be patient — the best frame is usually the one you wait ten extra minutes for.
Along with Gunnuhver, it's worth visiting another geothermal area – Krýsuvík. It boasts not only uniquely colored hot springs straight out of an Icelandic fairy tale but also its own secrets and legends. Bubbling mud pots and mineral-streaked hillsides in reds, yellows, and greens photograph completely differently depending on how close you get — I encourage guests to shoot details as much as wide shots here.
Brimketill Lava Pool (Reykjanes)
When you hear "lava crater," what kind of place comes to mind? The interior of the land? Dry, cracked, tough earth stretching for miles? That's definitely not Brimketill! This truly unique natural lava crater is located... right at the ocean's edge! Surrounded by living water constantly crashing against its walls, this interaction has shaped it into what it is – a lava pool, a crater filled with seawater.
Brimketill was first formed by volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Then came the waves, driven by powerful winds, striking the southern shores with immense force. Coastal erosion is never-ending – this pool, as you see it today, has never existed in the same form before and never will again. The changes are subtle, but over hundreds or thousands of years, Brimketill's transformation would be mesmerizing to observe.
Naturally, Brimketill is also steeped in Icelandic legend. Its original name, Oddnýjarlaug, was in honor of a female troll. Trolls are a staple of Icelandic folklore, appearing time and again throughout Iceland, including Reykjanes. Legend says the troll used the pool either for bathing or doing laundry – but only at night, since trolls turn to stone in daylight.
Behind the camera: On a rough day, you'll catch water exploding up over the rock walls — a fast shutter speed freezes a genuinely wild moment. On calmer days, it's almost still enough to reflect the sky. Same location, completely different photograph depending on the weather, which is very Iceland.
Lava Fields, Lake Kleifarvatn, and Other Hidden Gems (Reykjanes)
Lake Kleifarvatn, Iceland's deepest lake on the peninsula, sits in an old volcanic fissure with no rivers flowing in or out. It's quiet and remote, and one of my favorite spots for reflection shots on a still morning, or moody, minimal compositions when the wind picks up and the water goes dark and textured.
Reykjanes has also been geologically active in recent years, and the fresh lava fields from recent eruptions are unlike anything else on the peninsula — jet black, still largely untouched by moss, with textures you won't find anywhere else in Iceland. Access and conditions change depending on the latest activity, so this is always something we check together on the day and plan the safest route to.
Are you not just interested in reading about Reykjanes and its legendary wonders, but eager to see them with your own eyes – and truly experience Iceland's natural marvels? Check out my photography tours around Iceland, including a seven-hour Secret Reykjanes Tour. I'll take you to the places mentioned in this article, and even more. I guarantee:
Visits to spots known only to locals, off the typical tourist map
Stories, legends, and fascinating facts about these hidden gems
A full set of professional photographic documentation from the tour
If you're doing a longer trip, Reykjanes is also Day 1 of my 6 Days Ultimate Iceland Adventure. You can see all my private and photography tours in Iceland here.
Join me!
