NOTE: Due to the regular seismic activity and previous eruptions in the area, make sure the roads are open and area is safe before you leave (https://safetravel.is/ & https://umferdin.is/en/region/southwest).

Eldvörp is a remarkable geological site northwest of Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula, unveiling a captivating volcanic landscape. The 10 km crater row traces its origins to the Reykjanes Fires, a volcanic episode occurring between 1210 and 1240. A trail named the Bread trail, connects the town of Grindavík to Eldvörp, where, in the past, local women baked bread in the steam rising from the lava. The site's extensive geothermal activity, with steam temperatures reaching 280 degrees Celsius, contributes to the area's significance, recognized as part of the UNESCO-recognized geopark in the Reykjanes Peninsula.

You don't have to hike the entire 10 km, even just a few hundred meters from the parking lot, you'll come across a few crater cones that you can even look straight into.

QUICK NOTES:

• What it is: A unique volcanic crater row in Reykjanes

• Best season: Any (but the road there might be inaccessible when there's heavy snow).

• Best time of day: Any (but sunset is my favourite there, lighting up the steam).

• Nice to know: Due to the regular seismic activity and previous eruptions in the area, make sure the roads are open and area is safe before you leave (https://safetravel.is/ & https://umferdin.is/en/region/southwest).