World Travel Guide

City Guide  - Reykjavik  - Excursions
Excursions

For a Half Day

Blue Lagoon:
Located in the lunar-like landscape of a lava field, the Blue Lagoon was created by accident by the run-off water from the Svartsengi power station. The reputed health benefits of its mineral-rich, geotheremal seawater, particularly for skin ailments, have made it one of the most visited locations in Iceland and a stop on the itinerary of most visitors to Reykjavik.

The Blue Lagoon (tel: 420 8800; fax: 420 8801; e-mail: lagoon@bluelagoon.is; website: www.bluelagoon.is) is situated on the Reykjanes peninsula, about 50km (30 miles) southwest of the city. Bus 5 leaves Reykjavik's main bus station (BSÍ) three times a day (journey time - 40 minutes). There are also half-day excursions available (see the Bus Tours section). In the summer, it is open daily (1000-2100 in April, May and September and 0900-2200 in June, July and August); while in winter (October to March) it is open Mon-Thurs 1100-2000 and Fri-Sun 1000-2100. Admission costs IKr700.

For a Whole Day

Golden Circle: The waterfall of Gulfoss, together with the famous geothermal area at Geysir and the Kerid crater, form the main attractions of a round tour that has become known as the 'golden circle'. Considered to be Iceland's most beautiful waterfall, Gulfoss ('golden falls') is a two-tier waterfall in a huge gorge carved out by the mighty glacial River Hvítá. The spouting Geysir, the original that gave its name to all the world's spouting geysirs, ceased to erupt earlier this century but fortunately its faithful stand-in, the nearby Strokker, spouts and sprays approximately every three minutes. The site also includes hot springs that are coloured by mineral deposits, steaming vents and warm streams. Bus 2 leaves Reykjavik's central bus station (BSÍ) twice a day, at a cost of IKr3180 for the round trip. There are also organised tours available (see the Bus Tours section).



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