Þingvellir National Park: A Place of History, Nature, and Geology

Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland. It is located on the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are moving apart at a rate of two centimeters per year. This makes Þingvellir a place of incredible geological activity, with dramatic rock formations and waterfalls.

The park is also home to a rich history. In 930 AD, the Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament, was founded at Þingvellir. The Alþingi was the first democratically elected parliament in the world, and it continued to meet at Þingvellir for over 900 years.

Today, Þingvellir National Park is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and dive in the park. They can also visit the Alþingi site, the Þingvellir Church, and the ruins of old stone shelters.




Here are some of the things you can see and do in Þingvellir National Park:

  • Hike the Almannagjá Fault: This is a 5-kilometer hike that takes you through the rift valley between the two tectonic plates.
  • Visit the Lake Þingvallavatn: This is the largest natural lake in Iceland. The lake is 84 square kilometers (32 square miles) in size and has a maximum depth of 114 meters (374 feet). The water in Þingvallavatn is crystal clear and is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, salmon, and char. The lake is also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
  • See the Öxarárfoss Waterfall: This waterfall is located at the end of the Almannagjá Fault. It is a beautiful sight, especially in the spring when the water is flowing heavily.
  • Visit the Alþingi Site: This is the site of the first democratically elected parliament in the world. There are ruins of old buildings and stones that were used for the parliament.
  • Visit the Þingvellir Church: This is a small church that was built in 1859. It is located in a beautiful setting, with mountains and a lake in the background.
  • Visit the ruins of old stone shelters: These shelters were used by people who lived in Þingvellir in the past. They are made of stones and turf, and they are a reminder of the park's rich history.

Þingvellir National Park is a place of incredible beauty, history, and geology. It is a must-visit for any visitor to Iceland.

P.S. Remember the Silfra pond? It"s also located in Þingvellir and worth a visit: https://pinotmap.blogspot.com/2023/08/silfra-most-distinctive-snorkeling-spot.html



Location: Þingvellir, 806 Selfoss, Islanti

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