Reykjanes Lighthouse

Reykjanesviti

Reykjanes

Iceland's oldest lighthouse has stood on the Reykjanes Peninsula since 1878, though the original structure on Valahnúkur was badly damaged by earthquake within a decade. The current concrete tower — built 1907-1908 and first lit in 1929 — stands roughly 26 to 31 metres tall, with its focal plane around 70 metres above sea level. It still functions as a working landfall light for ships entering Reykjavík and Keflavík. Geothermal steam venting nearby drifts across the tower in photographs, a reminder that this peninsula sits on active volcanic ground. Gunnuhver, one of Iceland's largest hot spring areas, is a short walk away. The old sea cliffs at Valahnúkur offer views of the Atlantic crashing against dark basalt. On clear days, Eldey island is visible on the horizon — the remote volcanic stack where the last known great auks were killed in 1844. About 15 minutes by car from Keflavík Airport, it makes a practical first or last stop on an Iceland trip. The grounds are exposed and wind can be fierce even in summer; layers are worth having. Parking is free and the site is accessible year-round.

Book & Explore

The links below are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it helps keep this guide free. See our about page for how we keep recommendations independent.