Thingvellir National Park
The story of Thingvellir
Thingvellir National Park is one of Iceland’s most famous and historic national parks. The park is located about 40 km east of the capital, Reykjavik, and covers an area of about 270 km2. The park is located in a rift valley where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet, making it a unique geological feature and a significant attraction for tourists visiting Iceland. Thingvellir National Park was established in 1930, making it Iceland’s first national park and a vital site for Iceland’s history.
The history of Thingvellir National Park dates back to the early Viking Age in Iceland, around the 9th century. Thingvellir was the site of Iceland’s first parliament, the Althing, which was established in 930 AD. The parliament was formed to establish laws and settle disputes among Icelandic settlers. For centuries, people from all over Iceland gathered at Thingvellir every summer to attend the Althing, which continued until the end of the 18th century.
Besides being a political center, Thingvellir was also a spiritual center for Icelanders. According to the Icelandic sagas, many important events took place in the area, including the introduction of Christianity in the year 1000. The Icelandic sagas are historical accounts of events that took place in Iceland during the time of the Vikings, and most of the stories take place in Thingvellir.
During the 20th century, Thingvellir became a symbol of Iceland’s struggle for independence from Denmark. The Icelandic flag was first raised at Thingvellir on June 17, 1944, when Iceland declared its independence from Denmark. The site was later declared a national park in 1930, preserving its rich history and unique natural features. The park is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and historical significance, as well as its unique geological features.
Today, Thingvellir National Park is a popular tourist destination for people visiting Iceland. Visitors can explore the park’s unique geological features, such as the Almannagjá rift valley, the Silfra gorge, and the Öxarárfoss waterfall. The park is also an important site for hiking, camping and fishing. The park’s visitor center provides information on the history, geology and ecology of the park. Overall, Thingvellir National Park is a symbol of Iceland’s rich history, natural beauty and cultural heritage.
So if Thingvellir National Park sounds like something you’d like to explore, I recommend not buying a tour and visiting on your own to give you plenty of time.
Geysir
When visiting Geysir, it is a matter of luck to decide how long you will be there. There are several Geysir to stand and watch. It’s a bit like watching paint dry, waiting for something to happen.
You can be editing 3-4 minutes of video before an eruption occurs. Eruptions also vary in size!
Beyond the Geysirs, there is also a trail up the hill that gives you an advantage.
The story of Geysir
Geysir is a famous hot spring located in southwest Iceland, about 100 kilometers east of Reykjavik. The name Geysir comes from the Icelandic word “geysa,” which means to flow. The Geysir area is home to a group of geothermal springs, including the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting hot water up to 40 meters into the air.
The history of Geysir dates back to the 13th century when it was first mentioned in Icelandic literature. However, it was only in the 18th century that the area became a tourist attraction. In the 19th century, the Geysir area became a popular destination for visitors from around the world. The first known visitor to the Geysir area was the Danish scientist and explorer Eggert Ólafsson, who visited the area in 1755.
In 1845, the Scottish geologist Robert Chambers wrote about the Geysir area in his book “Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation,” and brought even more attention to the hot springs. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Geysir area was developed into a tourist destination, with the construction of roads and facilities for visitors.
Over the years, the Geysir area has experienced several changes. The original Geysir stopped gushing regularly in the early 20th century, but its smaller neighbor, Strokkur, continues to erupt every few minutes, making it a popular attraction for visitors. In 2000, an earthquake caused the water level to drop in the Geysir area, leading to a decrease in the frequency of Strokkur’s eruptions.
Today, the Geysir area is part of the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that includes Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park. The Geysir area remains one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions, with visitors coming to witness the impressive eruptions and explore the surrounding geothermal landscape.
In recent years, concerns have been raised about the impact of tourism on the fragile ecosystem of the Geysir area. Efforts have been made to sustainably manage the area and limit the number of visitors to protect the unique natural features of the Geysir area for future generations to enjoy.
Gullfoss
The mist from Gullfoss reaches you from a quote far away, that’s how strong it was. The sound was also loud too!
Gullfoss is a stunning waterfall located in southwest Iceland, near the Geysir geothermal area. The name Gullfoss means “Golden Falls” in Icelandic, and is considered one of the most beautiful and iconic waterfalls in Iceland. Gullfoss is fed by the river Hvítá, and descends in two stages, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight.
The history of Gullfoss goes back to the beginning of the 20th century when it was owned by a farmer named Tómas Tómasson. Tómas was an early advocate of using the power of the waterfall to generate electricity, and leased the waterfall to several foreign investors who attempted to build a hydroelectric power plant. However, Tómas’ daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, was strongly opposed to the plan and fought to protect the waterfall.
Sigríður Tómasdóttir became a national hero for her efforts to save Gullfoss. She even threatened to throw herself over the waterfall in protest, and led a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of preserving Iceland’s natural beauty. In 1940, the Icelandic government finally intervened and bought Gullfoss, ensuring its protection for future generations.
Today, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions, with visitors coming from all over the world to see the stunning beauty of the waterfall. The site features several observation platforms and walking paths that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the waterfall.
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in using the power of Gullfoss to generate electricity. However, these plans have been met with opposition from environmental groups and concerned citizens who fear that the development could damage the delicate ecosystem surrounding the waterfall.
Despite the challenges facing Gullfoss, it remains a symbol of Iceland’s natural beauty and the commitment of its people to preserve their country’s unique environment. Gullfoss is not only a beautiful waterfall but also a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the importance of protecting our natural resources for future generations.
There was also time for a quick break to run the Icelandic horses!
Next, check out my photos from above of Hallgrimskirkja, the beautiful Reykjavik Church and Harpa Concert Hall