Grindavík: Volcanic Landscapes, Coastal History and Culture

Grindavík is shaped by traces of volcanic activity, coastal history and culture. On 14 January 2024, lava entered Efrahóp Street; three houses caught fire and collapsed. The lava barriers around the town contain 2.5 million cubic metres of earth and extend for 13.5 kilometres. They diverted much of the lava flow away from homes and critical infrastructure. At Víkurbraut, a shallow magma intrusion caused ground fissures and subsidence.

Volcanic traces in town

Older landscape features are also part of Grindavík’s character. Stamphólsgjá is an old fissure that had largely been filled with loose rock over the years. The Salt House stands directly above the fissure. These two local landmarks bring together the area’s geological history and its built environment, without requiring visitors to follow a specific sightseeing route.

Nearby, Hópsnes/Þórkötlustaðanes was formed by lava from a crater row called Sundhnúkur. The lava flow formed the Hópið lagoon and contributed to Grindavík’s good harbour conditions. A lighthouse built in 1928 also stands along the coast.

Churches, fishing and remembrance

The Old Church in Grindavík was consecrated in 1909 and used until 12 September 1982. Preparations for the church that opened in 1982 began in 1966; the architect was Ragnar Emilsson. The church contains a stained-glass image by Einar Lárusson depicting the Tyrkjaránið, the Turkish raid. Vonin is a memorial to the men from Grindavík who drowned.

The Saltfish Museum Kvikan covers the entire production process: from the fishing trawlers to preservation and shipping to market. Kvikan also serves as a cultural centre. Those interested in local fishing history can learn about the different stages of saltfish production here, presented in context.

The guided “Discover Grindavík” town tour introduces life in Grindavík before the natural disasters and shows the visible effects of the eruptions. Check the available dates and operating details before your trip. The Kristinsson Handmade wood workshop is also located in central Grindavík: Vignir Kristinsson makes furniture and interior fittings there from solid natural wood. If you plan to visit, check the arrangements in advance.

Remains of an abandoned settlement have been preserved on Þórkötlustaðanes. These include entrance stone settings, fish storage huts, ice storage buildings, fish processing buildings, as well as liver-processing and salt huts. The different types of buildings offer insight into the former use of the coastal area.

Trails and surrounding landscape

There is a walking and cycling path on Hópsnes. At Þorbjörn, two described ascent routes lead up from the north along the fault and from the east via the old road. The 243-metre-high tuff hill lies north of Grindavík and offers views across much of the Reykjanes mountain landscape. In a hollow at the summit, clearly visible remains of buildings from the Second World War occupation have been preserved. A wooded area beneath the mountain’s northern slopes is suitable for outdoor recreation.

Designated areas commemorate the recent Sundhnúkur eruptions and the resulting evacuation of the town. Hikes offering views of fresh lava fields are mentioned from these areas. Check the latest access information before visiting, as volcanic access conditions may change.

Discover more destinations: Gardur, Sandgerði, Kálfatjörn, Njardvik, Vogar, Reykjanesbær, Hafnir

For the broader travel overview: Suðurnes.