Kleifarvatn Lake

Kleifarvatn

Reykjanes

Kleifarvatn is the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula, sitting in a volcanic landscape of black lava and bare hillsides about an hour from Reykjavík. At up to 97 metres deep historically, it ranks among Iceland's deepest lakes — seismic activity after a 2000 earthquake opened a fissure at the bottom and drained roughly 20 percent of the water. The lake has no visible inlet or outlet; water seeps in and out through porous lava below. The paved road to Krýsuvík passes right alongside, and the drive itself is part of the experience: dark scree slopes, steam drifting from vents on the hillsides, and the lake surface shifting colour with the sky. The nearby Seltún geothermal area adds bubbling mud pools and sulphur-stained ground a short detour away. There are no fees and no facilities, so bring what you need. Allow 30 to 45 minutes to stop and walk the shoreline or pull out at viewpoints. The road is paved and accessible year-round, though wind off the lake is common in winter. Stay on marked paths near Seltún — the volcanic ground around active vents is fragile.

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