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Houses in Grafarholt district in Reykjavík Grafarholt is the latest district in Reykjavík, planned and developed in the last decade of the twentieth century. It is a perfect neighborhood for those who value outdoor activity and seek peace and quiet within the city limits. Within the district, there are some attractive outdoor recreational areas, among them one of the very best golf courses in Iceland, Grafarholtsvöllur. The district also has a salmon river, a small mountain, a lake, hiking tracks, and many other options to enhance its residents' and visitors' quality of life. You can almost walk out the door from the houses on the eastern side and start a long walk on the Mosfellsheiði moors. Reykjavík on the map of Iceland Grafarholt also has a commercial area Gas station in Grafarholt district in Reykjavík Iceland The district is built on a hill, which offers a magnificent view from most houses. On top of the hill are apartment buildings and mostly single-family houses as you move down the slopes. The western part is adjacent to the main road from Reykjavík center to the western and northern parts of Iceland. This allowed developers to develop a commercial area within the district. Many companies have taken advantage of this opportunity and moved their operation to the Grafarholt district. So, Grafarholt does not have the typical characteristics of a suburb but a high-quality neighborhood. The district Grafaholt offers good quality service to its residents Grafarholt district is first and foremost a residential area The district has three kindergarten schools, two primary schools, sports,s and recreational center, and a sports club. It is built from the ground on principles and values cherished by Icelanders for many centuries, where the education and the well-being of its citizens are at the core. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Grafavogur district in Reykjavík city Grafarvogur is the second largest district in Reykjavík and has a population of slightly over seventeen thousand population. The district has been in development for decades, and the first part of the development was the commercial and industrial area built in the seventies and the eighties. It is the largest and most active commercial area in the city of Reykjavík. In fact, the city of Reykjavík has barely developed a proper area for industrial and commercial activity since this area was finalized. Most of the larger industrial development in the Capital Region has been left to Kópavogur and Hafnarfjörður, the nearby Capital City neighbors. Reykjaík on the map of Iceland The shoreline and hills are characteristics of Grafarvogur Preschool in Grafavogur in Reykjavík The fact that the district has a long shoreline defines the character of all the neighborhoods within Grafarvogur. Another characteristic is the hills, which made the whole area perfect for single-family homes. In the southern part of the district, the view over Reykjavík center and the old city from most houses are spectacular. While in development, residents of Gravarvogur developed a strong neighborhood identity, almost like the district was a specific municipality. One of the reasons might be the size and combination of commercial and residential areas that convey the feeling that this is not just a suburb but also a community with its identity. An excellent district in Reykjavík with neighborhoods that have good access to outdoor activities A typical apartment building in Grafarvogur district isn Reykjavík In Grafarvogur, there are great opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. The walking path along the coastline is spectacular and gives a great view of Reykjavík old town and the surrounding mountains. In Grafarvogur, you also find a challenging golf course located in the area of the old farm Korpúlfsstaðir. The farm has an important place in Iceland’s history because of the huge dairy farm that was built early in the last century by Iceland’s most prominent entrepreneur, Thor Jenssen. The main building is still standing, now housing the golf club and artist's studios. Through Grafarvogur runs the river Korpa further enhancing the outdoor options. Reykjavík offers basic service to its residents in Grafarvogur Grafarvogur district is mainly a residential area Service for residents is of similar quality as for all districts and neighborhoods in Reykjavík. Kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, library, great sports centers, and sports facilities. But then again, more complaints have been submitted by the residents to the city council from Grafarvogur than in most other neighborhoods or districts. Maybe the residents in Grafarvogur are more conscious of their rights within the democratic society and are not shy about taking advantage of those rights. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Glanni waterfall in the west region in Iceland The Glanni waterfall on the Norðurá river is believed to be home to elves and gnomes—and believe you me, that is of great importance to the Icelanders, who have immense respect for these invisible beings which, according to popular belief, coexist with humans in perfect harmony. Glanni is by no means the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland, nor is it the largest. You will also not find it on any list of spectacular waterfalls. Indeed, in many respects, it is a rather ordinary waterfall. However, its allure is that it is part of the Norðurá river, one of the best rivers in Iceland for salmon fishing. Glanni waterfall is also a part of my Ring Road vacation drive article. West Region on Map of Iceland Norðurá is often referred to as the most beautiful river in Iceland. The surrounding landscape, with its small hills, tiny canyons housing the stream, beautiful rapids, expansive vegetation, and glorious lava rocks, perfectly conveys its beauty, and Glanni as well as the other waterfalls surrounding the Norðurá river only add to this glory. Therefore, the Glanni waterfall is more precisely something that you need to experience with reference to everything around it, rather than as the sole attraction. This principle also applies to the part of the Borgarfjörður region that you would have to drive through when visiting the waterfall. Additionally, the landscape around Glanni is quite diverse due to its proximity to ancient lava fields. How to find Glanni waterfall When driving in Borgarfjörður on road no. 1, which is close to Bifröst, you need to be on the lookout for road no. 5257, which would lead you to Glanni and a small 9-hole golf course. In terms of weather, this is one of Iceland’s most genial areas. Here, you will be sure to find fragrant woods and colorful fauna nearby. Moreover, after hiking from the parking area by the golf club, the Glanni area is ideal location for a picnic and is sure to offer you the most tranquil experience. Afterward, you can take a short hike toward a viewing panel by the river and get an excellent view of the Glanni waterfall. This happens to be a perfect spot for photoshoots. However, be careful! Once you are at the waterfall, you cannot stand by its edge as it is too close to the river's deepest part. But then again, your visit is not about experiencing the edge but rather about enjoying the beauty of the river and the waterfall. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Grábrók crater Grábrók is a crater in Borgarfjörður just a few meters from the main road, the Ring Road nr. 1, formed by a typical fissure eruption approximately three thousand years ago. The fissure that initially opened during that eruption wasn't very long but left behind Grábrók and her two crater sisters that can be seen when on top. Also, from the top the massive lava about seven square kilometers that surfaced in that eruption is visible. It is a sight of geological interest comparable to Lakagígar, the Laki craters in the Icelandic Highland accessible from the Southern Region. Mt. Grábrók The view from the top is not only interesting because of the lava. It is an impressive view over the most beautiful part of the Western Region Borgarfjörður and the tiny but beautiful lake Hreðarvatn, that was formed during that eruption. To the northwest is a view to Baula a cone shaped and colorful mountain. The walk to the top is quite easy as the crater is only about 170 meters high (560 feet). There is a good path up to the top with manmade steps. It is one of the natural wonders in Iceland that has been popular among Icelanders for decades.

Inngjaldshóll church and the lupin field Ingjaldshóll is an old farm and a church that you should visit if you are traveling the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. The farm and its history can be traced back to the 10th century. It has always been an important place in the surrounding region throughout the centuries. Unfortunately, it has been deserted as a farm for fifty to sixty years because the soil quality declined due to wind erosion. But still, it can uphold its importance and role in the nearby region as it is the church's home for the communities in the twin villages of Rif and Hellissandur. The church is one of the oldest concrete buildings in Iceland, built in 1903, and Ingjaldshóll is one of the most spectacular places in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for a grand view of the fjord Breiðafjörður and also towards the glacier, Snæfellsjokull. West Region and Snæfellsnes on the map of Iceland A place with a pile of stories and folklore The church is a short distance from the main road Ingjaldshóll is renowned for strange stories involving trolls and spells, as well as protection from the powerful spirit of Bárður Snæfellsás. One of the best-known stories is the story of the farmer Inngjaldur at Hóll and the troll Hetta. The troll woman Hetta told Inngjaldur about a prosperous fishing ground after being caught stealing his sheep. It was a change in their negotiations to soften him up. Inngjaldur believed her and soon headed to the rich fishing ground to find himself caught in a severe storm. Possibly facing his final hour, he called upon the powerful spirit Bárður Snæfellsás who came to his rescue, much to the annoyance and surprise of Hetta. This, of course, is a true story from the Saga Báður Snæfellsás. A very busy place for ages, although small today Did Christopher Columbus stay at Ingjaldshóll farm? In the 15th and throughout the 18th century, Ingjaldshóll, as well as the nearby region, was a busy place both as a trading post and as a tiny fishing village. In 1477 a young sailor came to Rif on a ship from Bristol in England. He stayed for the winter at Ingjaldshóll, eager to learn about the journeys of the Vikings to the west, Greenland, and Vineland. He was possibly visiting the not-so-distant Eiríksstaðir to know about Erik the Red and his son Leif the Lucky, who discovered America five centuries earlier. This gentleman came from Italy, and his name was Christopher Columbus. So if you stop at Ingjaldsstaðir and enjoy the magnificent view over Breiðafjörður and to the glacier Snæfellsjokull, you are in the same steps as the great explorer stood some five and a half centuries ago. Access is straightforward Many places in Iceland have an interesting history and are also floating with stories that go back hundreds of centuries. Places that had a bigger role in the past than they have today. One such place is Ingjaldshóll and the church at Ingjaldshóll. From around the 14th century until the 18th century, this was one of the largest churches in Iceland. Service was provided to a large population and a large area compared to many other churches at that time. The new church was built in 1903 and was the first church in Iceland built with concrete. The altarpiece waåås painted by Þóarinn B. Þorláksson, the painter that historians have given the honor of being the first Icelandic artist. Not to forget the surroundings, the mysterious glacier Snæfellsjökull, and its hidden power. So we recommend if you are traveling the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on the road Útvegur Nr. 574, you should look for Road Nr. 5738 to Ingjaldshóll. Today it is primarily interesting because of its history and also because of the view in any direction. Quite a scenic place to visit. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Skarðsvík cove Snæfellsnes Peninsula Skarðsvík is a small and rather exceptional beach in the landscape of Iceland. Surrounded by harsh and bare black lava, the soft orange-yellow beach conveys a convenient contrast to the surrounding landscape. In Iceland, one would expect a black beach instead of a beach that looks like a beach in the southern part of Europe, in Spain or Portugal. But, although beautiful, this is absolutely not a typical sunny beach. Due to the depth and the bright and clean Ocean by the beach, the color is a bit light blue and turquoise, only enhancing the whole experience of visiting the beach. Because of its location in front of the mighty Atlantic Ocean, it is recommended to visit the place at low tide. The waves can be pretty aggressive and even dangerous when high tide and strong winds play together and anger the Ocean. A spectacular sight also but a game you would prefer to view from a distance. Snæfellsnes on the map of Iceland The road and the pagan grave In 1962 when the road was built, a man operating the bulldozer discovered a skeleton by Skarðsvík cove. It was a remarkable discovery as it was ancient and below the lava. When an archaeologist had researched the bones, it was concluded that it was a pagan grave and the bones belonged to a young boy of who was 14 years old at the time of his death. He had been buried more than one thousand years ago at the time of settlement. A spear and a sword were also found in the grave. Part of the beauty and scenic drive around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Skarðsvík cove and beach From the main road around the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, called Útnesvegur in Icelandic, Nr. 574, the distance to Skarðsvík is short when you take a turn west of Öndverðarnesvegur Nr. 579. The road to Skarðsvík has asphalt, although further driving in 579 is a narrow gravel road. So the drive to Skarðsvík is quite simple and easy for any vehicle. It is a place where you can see the kind of artwork Mother Nature puts to display, giving you one of those places that are immensely relaxing. Particularly when the weather is calm and sunny, and the tide is low. So if you are driving the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive, you should take the short drive to Skarðsvík. Other interesting places on Road Nr. 579 Skarðsvík and view to Öndverðarnes peninsula If you choose to continue on the gravel road, it will take you to other exciting places here at the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. For example, the lighthouse at Svörtuloft and the Saxhóll cliffs, in addition to Faxi, well to name a few. Near Skarðsvík, you will find also find interesting tracks leading through the lava if you have more time to spend at the tip of Snæfellsnes Peninsula. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Rauðfeldsgjá gorge Snæfellsnes Peninsula Rauðfeldsgjá is a deep, high and narrow gorge in the cliffs south of the glacier Snæfellsjökull with a dramatic story and family tragedy attached to its name. The location is near the tiny hamlet of Arnarstapi. Seen from the road, it looks like a small crack in the berg that slid just a bit, enough for people to enter and observe. There is a parking lot by the road and a five to ten minutes walk to the entrance of the gorge. Rauðfeldsgjá is part of the Snæfellsnes Road Trip, which is described in more detail in a separate article. Snæfellsnes and west region on map of Iceland A narrow path for those who dare Rauðfeldsgjá entrance Although entering the gorge Rauðfeldsgjá is a bit of a clamber it is worth it when you come into the main entrance. It is almost like a small and wonderful temple. For those who dare, a further clamber into the narrow crack following the water is possible. It will lead you to a rope where you can pull yourself up a small waterfall, and even go further into the gorge. A very narrow path with cliffs all around you and a view high up to the open air. Those who take this challenge will possibly sense the spirits of the brothers Rauðfeldur and Sölvi, who met their fate in this place about twelve hundred years ago as is documented in a true story the Icelandic Sagas. A dramatic event that had tremendous consequences Climbing into the crack at Rauðfeldsgjá gorge Rauðfeldur and Sölvi came with their father Þorkell, the half-brother of Bárður Snæfellsás, who was half man, half-troll to Iceland as children and lived at Arnarstapi. They often played with Bárðurs many beautiful daughters. One day, they lured one of the girls, Helga, out to an iceberg in an innocent game and pushed her on the iceberg out to the open Ocean. Unfortunately, high winds blew the iceberg quickly from shore and out to the open sea, and she disappeared. The news of her fate and journey on the ice never reached her father, as communication was different at that time. In everyone's mind, she was lost and deceased. Apparently, as the story in the Saga Bárðar Saga Snæfellsás, she reached Greenland seven days later and lived a good life with the family of Erik the Red, father of Leif the Lucky, for many years. In a poem she wrote and had been preserved in the Sagas, one can sense that she missed her father, family, and country. A life-changing event for Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-troll half man When Bárður Snæfellsás learned of the disappearance of his daughter he completely blew up in anger, to put it mildly. He grabbed the two brothers, one at the age of eleven and the other twelve, and climbed to the cliff above the gorge. In his uncontrollable anger, he threw Rauðfeldur into the gorge and to enhance the madness he threw the other brother Sölvi of the cliff. Needless to say, both boys lost their lives, but their names have lived as the gorge, and the cliff bears their names; Rauðfeldsgjá and Sölvahamar. After this incident, Bárður lost his mind and eventually walked up to the glacier where he built an ice cave where he has lived for many centuries and according to popular believe, still does to this very day. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Bárður Snæfellsás troll The huge statue of Bárður Snæfellsás that is so noticeable when you drive into the small village or hamlet Arnarstapi was made by Ragnar Kjartansson, one of Iceland's most renowned sculptures. The statue is his interpretation of the giant character that dominates the area around Snæfellsjökull glacier. Snæfellsnes Peninsula West Region on map of Iceland Bárður, the half man half troll Sitting by the statue of Bárður Snæfellsás at Arnarstapi Bárður is an extraordinary being from the time of settlement in Iceland. His story was written in Medieval times in the fifteenth century and is part of the Icelandic Sagas. His mother was one of the tallest and most beautiful women in her days, but his father, Dumbur, was a half-giant or a half-troll. Bárður was also considered extremely handsome with a large presence. In his youth, he was fostered by Dofri, the mountain-dweller of Dovrefjell in Norway, and received an excellent education and training. Bárður married Dorfi's daughter Flaumgerður and had three tall and beautiful daughters by her. Like he, she also had a human mother. After she had passed away, he married Herþrúður, his second wife who was human; he had six more daughters by her. Settled in Iceland after fleeing the tyranny of Harald king in Norway Along with his wife and daughters and some friends, Bárður emigrated to Iceland and settled at Djúpalón on the south coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Bárður's half-brother Þorkell also emigrated with his family and settled at Arnarstapi. They were fleeing the tyranny of Harald, the king of Norway. His brother Þorkell had two sons, Sölvi and Rauðfeldur. Driven to madness because of a prank Bárður Snæfellsás and Mt. Stapafell at Arnarstapi Snæfellsnes Peninsula Following an altercation after a rather dangerous prank played on Bárður's daughters by the half-brother's sons, Bárður was provoked to the point of uncontrollable anger. An event that made him extremely depressed, and he totally lost his mind in the end. Finally, he gave away all his land and all his earthly belongings and vanished into the Snæfellsnes Glacier. In the glacier, rumor has it, that he built an ice cave more in line with his troll or giant side. There, he became known as the Guardian Spirit of Snæfell as the locals worshiped him and looked at him as their savior. For centuries, they would call upon him in times of hardship and trouble. Bárður wandered the region wrapped in a gray cowl held together by a walrus-hide rope. In his hand was a cleft staff with a long and thick gaff for mounting the glacier. A true story, although sounds like a fantasy Bárður's cave is still in situ, and his story is a timeless, fantastic read. It is, of course, a true story written about events that occurred in Iceland more than eleven hundred years ago, written about six hundred years ago. Many names of many places in the area around Snæfellsjökull glacier are related to Bárður Snæfellsás and his story. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Svöðufoss waterfall north of Snæfellsjökull glacier Waterfalls are probably one of the most popular attractions in Iceland and Icelandic nature. A trip to view and experience a waterfall is always rewarding. Watching a waterfall is both fascinating and relaxing. One of the waterfalls drawing more and more visitors is Svöðufoss, a beautiful waterfall at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Although the waterfall has been there for many centuries, only recently has the interest started. And recently, a parking lot has been built near the waterfall, so today, it is fairly easy to visit and enjoy. The walk from the parking lot to the waterfall is only about half an hour. Snæfellsnes Peninsula on the map of Iceland Set in a beautiful landscape Svöðufoss waterfall Svöðufoss is a beautiful waterfall where the river Hólmkelsá, sometimes also called Laxá. The waterfall is 10 meters high and falls off a beautiful basalt column cliff. The walking path from the parking lot is on the east side (left side when walking towards the waterfall from the parking lot) of the river, and you can easily walk up to see the waterfall from above. On a clear and sunny day when you can see the magnificent Snæfellsnes glacier towering above and in the background, which gives the waterfall a unique place among waterfalls in Iceland. Taking a photo of Svöðufoss waterfall, including the basalt column and the glacier, is probably going to give you a result that can not go wrong. Driving to Svöðufoss Snæfellsjökull glacier and Svöðufoss waterfall Svöðufoss waterfall is located at Snæfellsnes Peninsula south of the small village Rif. When driving the road Útnesvegur Nr. 574 coming from the west part or tip of the Snæfellnes Peninsula you will drive through the tiny village Hellissandur and then Rif. Just after you pass Rif, there is a sign and a road on your right that will take you to the waterfall Svöðufoss. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

The population of the town Sandgerði and Garður, which merged in 2020, is around 3700. Sandgerði Suðurnesjabær on the map of Iceland Like, many small towns and villages by the coastline in Iceland, Sandgerði owes its existence to rich fishing grounds just off the coast. Most of those towns are fairly new in a historical sense and rarely trace their history farther back than to the late nineteenth century. Up until that time, Iceland was mostly an agricultural society, and towns like Sandgerði consisted of a cluster of fishing farms that formed a fishing post by the seaside. Sandgerði started its fishing venture with motorboats Lighthouse in Suðurnesjabær village Sandgerði began to develop as a fishing village in the second half of the nineteenth century when motorboats took over the rowing boats. At that time, a new breed of Icelandic entrepreneurs realized the value of fish in the international business context. They started to utilize the fishing grounds, process the fish for export, and dive into the growing international food market. Still a fishing community Harbour in Suðurnesjabær village Today Sandgerði has a fairly good position in the in fishing industry. The town survived the fishing quota system, created by the Icelandic government in 1990. The harbor is still the center of the town’s economy, and the town has many small boats and larger fishing vessels. In Sandgerði, some noticeable enterprises have also developed into growing tourist industry. One of the most interesting is the Sudurnes Science and Learning Center. A museum and research center, dedicated to natural science and related subjects like water and animal life near the sea. In Sandgerði, one can also find some industrial and commercial activity. Sandgerði also offers accommodation and has two restaurants. In addition, the whole area offers many opportunities for hiking and bird watching and other outdoor activities. Sandgerði is located near the International Airport Old church at Útskálar in Suðurnesjabær It is not a puzzle that the tourist industry is growing since the main airport in Iceland, the Leifur Eiríksson International Airport is located in Sandgerði municipal. Like most towns in Iceland, Sandgerði offers good service to its residents. The town has good schools, a typical outdoors swimming pool, sports center, a sports club, a golf course and a community center. The community also offers good social services and welfare. In Sandgerði, all houses are heated with geothermal heating from the Svartseingi geothermal heating and power plant. Garður The old lighthouse at Garður part of Suðurnesjabær Garður village on the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula is a wonderful place to visit if you plan to travel to Iceland. Located right by the International airport, access is easy. On the town's website, Garður makes the claim that the area and land where the village is today are mentioned in the Icelandic book of settlements. Apparently, Ingólfur Arnarson, the first settler in Iceland, gave his cousin, Steinunni gömlu, an area "south by the sea." Similar to its neighbors and other municipals in Reykjanes Peninsula, Garður developed from a cluster of fishing farms to a fishing village beginning in the second half of the nineteenth century and into the twentieth century. The distance from Garður to generous fishing grounds was relatively short and gave people who settled in the area a good livelihood. Like its neighbor, Sandgerði, Garður had some impressive entrepreneurs that help developed the fishing industry. Garður, on the other hand, never built an excellent harbor when the industry took off. Garður is a nice community, a quiet option near the capital area Swimmingpool at Suðurnesjabær In Iceland, the first lighthouse was built in Garður in 1897 and served fishermen until a new one was built in 1944. Both lighthouses are still standing and of great interest due to their role in Icelandic fishing history and as buildings. As a community, Garður offers good service to its residents. The town has excellent schools, elementary and middle schools, a library, a music school, a sports club, a sports center and swimming pool, a community center, and most facilities necessary in modern-day society. One former pupil in the music school is Nanna Bryndís Hilmarsdóttir, vocalist and guitarist in the band Of Monsters and Man. A real testimony of how far you can take your talent, even though you grow up in a tiny little town. The town consists mostly of single-family houses with large lots. Since the land has never been a problem in Garður, the hoses are unusually scattered. Like most homes and businesses in Iceland, the houses are heated with geothermal heating from the Svartseingi geothermal heat and power plant located by the Blue Lagoon. For decades, most Icelandic municipals have participated in the environmentally responsible green energy revolution and switched from oil heat to geothermal heating. Great lighthouses and a museum Grocery store in Suðurnesjabær town In Garður, there is an interesting local museum, The municipal museum in Garðskagi. The museum has many items connected to the town's history as a fishing town. The museum location is by the lighthouses on the northern point of the Reykjanes peninsula. Nearby is a camping site. Garðskagi is a favorite spot for locals, from Reykjanesbær and nearby towns and villages, to visit and view the sunset, which can be spectacular at this point. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Básendar Reykjanes Peninsula Básendar, also refered to as Bátsendar in annals, was an ancient fishing and trading village. Located a short distance from the town of Sandgerði, it was one of the Danish monopolistic trade ports and covered the whole southern shore of the Reykjanes Peninsula. During the 15th and 16th centuries Básendar used to be a prosperous village serving English and Dutch ships. But, all that nonsense came to and end when the Danes decided to monopolise the port in the late 16th century. Básendar is located at Reykjanes Peninsula on the map of Iceland Nobody suspected how doomed this village was. In a matter of hours on 9th January 1799, it was completely destroyed in a storm surge. The terrifying storm was quite unexpected. With the sea flooding the whole area, the cottages were fast filling with murky seawater. The only means of excape was through the roofs. The residents had to run for their lives, barefoot and in their nightwear. They lost their homes, their livelihood and all their belongings. Miraculously though, only one old woman lost her life. Básendar were not the only area devastated by the storm. All along the south coast of Iceland, ships tied to their moorings were broken to pieces, churches were blown of their foundations, farmsteads were rendered inhabitable, and harbours were ruined. But, Básendar, the village playing a central role in Iceland’s commerce and trade for three centuries, was the only community completely destroyed. The area was never inhabited again, but today the ruins are a stark reminder of the busy life lead in this quiet fishing village serving as a kind of international port. The cottage foundations, the staples for tying down the merchant vessels, the remnants of fishermens huts are all there. So are the moorings and the sheeppens, the Cairns and the rock layed walls, as well as, the communal well. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.

Eldborg by Geitahlíð at Reykjanes Peninsula The name Eldborg is, in essence, a geological term that means crater. In Iceland, about seven places bear this name. Usually, the name has been given to a rather large and spectacular crater that doesn't go unnoticed in the landform. This applies to Eldborg by Geitahlíð, located at the Reykjanes Peninsula. Equally impressive is the crater Eldborg at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The advantage here at Reykjanes is the easy access. Eldborg by Geitahlíð is a beautiful example of a crater formed in an eruption, and as the outbreak stopped, magma discontinued to flow; this spectacular round form was created and molded further by weather and winds. The height of the crater is 50 meters above sea level. When you reach the top, the inner depth is about 30 meters. Eldborg í Geitahlíð is an excellent example of a crater, and you can walk on the rim, but caution is required. Eldborg is at Reykjanes Peninsula on the map of Iceland The small hike is an effort but worth it Inside the crater Eldborg Walking up to the top, you will notice a few smaller craters around Eldborg. Since this is an active volcanic area, even though it has not erupted for hundreds or thousands of years, there are even a few craters nearby called small Eldborg. On top, you will also see the lava fields that flooded from the crater, and although not a very large hill, the view is quite spectacular. In addition, you have a good view of the Sveifluháls mountain ridge to the west and the shore at Reykjanes Peninsula to the south. It is a great place to get an overview of the forces that form the land and how they interact. The crater is also a spectacular creation and an excellent spot to take interesting photos, although you might need a wide angle to capture the inside of the crater when on top. Finding your way to Eldborg í Geitahlíð The hiking path up to the rim of Eldborg The best way to find Eldborg í Geitahlíð is to drive to Kleifarvatn Lake on Road Krýsuvíkurleið Nr. 42 from Reykjavík towards the main road by the south shore. When you are almost at the intersection of Road 42 and Road Strandarvegur Nr. 427, you take a turn to Eldborg. It might be best to park the car on the asphalt road as the gravel road is a tough 4X4 road. However, the distance to Eldborg from the asphalt road is relatively short. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the type of car that would be best for your trip.