Þingvallavatn

Þingvallavatn is the largest natural lake in Iceland, situated within the Þingvellir National Park about 40 kilometers east of Reykjavík. Spanning 84 square kilometers, the lake reaches a maximum depth of 114 meters. Geologically, it is uniquely positioned directly on the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The lake's water is exceptionally clear, as much of it originates from the Langjökull glacier and is filtered through underground lava rock for decades before reaching the basin. This extreme clarity makes the lake, particularly the Silfra fissure, one of the world's premier destinations for diving and snorkeling. Biologically, Þingvallavatn is famous for its four distinct morphs of Arctic char, which have evolved in relative isolation since the end of the last ice age. The northern shore is home to the historical site of the Alþingi, the world's oldest surviving parliament, which was established here in the year 930 AD.

Nearby cities

Reykjavík

Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.

Kópavogur

Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.

Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.

Hafnarfjörður

A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.

Keflavík

Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.

Mosfellsbær

Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.

Garðabær

Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.

Selfoss

Selfoss is the largest service center in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River.

Akranes

Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.

Seltjarnarnes

Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.

Vestmannaeyjar

Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.

Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)

Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.

Grindavík

Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Hveragerði

Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.

Hveragerði

Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.

History & landmarks

Reykjavík City Hall

Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.

Hvolsvöllur

A historic town in South Iceland, famous as the heart of the Njál's Saga and a gateway to glaciers.

Almannagjá

Almannagjá is a prominent fissure in Þingvellir National Park.

More places

Ljósafoss Power Station

Ljósafoss was the first major hydropower plant on the Sog river.

Thingvellir National Park

The national park protects a unique ecosystem in the rift valley between tectonic plates.

Þingvellir

This is the site of the Alþingi, one of the oldest parliaments in the world, founded in 930.