Þingvellir National Park

There’s a good reason why Þingvellir National Park is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Iceland. Just an hour’s drive from Reykjavik, this geological wonder is rich with history and natural beauty. Whether you want to camp or are just interested in a day trip, Þingvellir should definitely be on your list of things to see.

Þingvellir rests on the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The area is covered with massive fissures and cracks, some of which can be walked through. Tall pillars of volcanic rock line the pathways, with tufts of moss and plant life creeping in wherever it can. The site is also home to Þingvallavatn, the largest natural lake in Iceland. The waters here are stunningly clear, and on a still day, the reflection of the surrounding hills is a marvelous thing to see.

The Icelandic Parliament was founded at Þingvellir in 930 CE, and for centuries, it was the meeting place for all parliamentary proceedings. Thousands of Icelanders travelled to Þingvellir for these gatherings, where legal rulings were carried out and matters of national importance were discussed. Chieftains, bishops, legal authorities, and merchants all gathered here, laying the foundations for our modern society. Þingvellir was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1972.

Visitors to Þingvellir can easily enjoy exploring the landscape on foot, and horseback riding trails are available as well. For those who wish to stay longer and don’t mind roughing it, there is a large campground within the park. For the more adventurous, scuba diving has become a popular activity within the submerged rifts (naturally, some strict regulations apply). If you don’t plan on renting a car, numerous tour buses make daily trips between Þingvellir and Reykjavik.