Iceland review - 2016, Page 120

118 ICELAND REVIEW
Situated on the south coast of the Reykjanes peninsula, Grin-
davík has grown fast over the last few years as a tourist desti-
nation, for travelers who want to explore the southwest due
to its proximity to Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Lagoon
and the numerous natural attractions close to town. The harbor,
which is central to life in the small fishing town, is also a draw for
visitors. Many of the same families have been fishing Grindavík’s
waters for generations and travelers can see fishermen hauling
their daily bounty of cod out of the harbor by day, and dine on the
local catch at night.
SPECTACULAR NATURE
Grindavík is close to where the North Atlantic ridge rises from the
ocean. Nature and geology buffs will want to spend as much time
as possible exploring the unique landscape near Grindavík. Here
you can find numerous craters, caves and lava fields, rich bird life,
steep cliffs, high geothermal activity, and black sand beaches.
There’s so much for travelers to see and do. There are many lava
caves along the Reykjanes peninsula and one cave is located right
by the main road from Grindavík to Reykjanesbraut; it’s at least 30
meters (98 feet) long. Meanwhile, Seltún at Krýsuvík is a popular
destination, thanks to its mud pools, steam vents and craters. The
area is just 20 km (12 miles) east of Grindavík.
RELAX AT THE BLUE LAGOON
The Grindavík area’s greatest claim to fame, however, is the gi-
ant manmade geothermal spa, the Blue Lagoon, named one of
the 25 “wonders of the world” by National Geographic. Just
ten minutes from the town center, the Blue Lagoon is in fact
the most popular tourist destination in the country and certainly
among the more distinctive experiences in all of Iceland. Guests
enjoy bathing and relaxing in the geothermal water, which is
known to have positive effects on the skin. Guests can opt for
special skin treatments, soak in the comfortably warm water and
soak up the scenic beauty.
LIVELY TOWN CENTER
“Tourism has been growing in Grindavík over the past several
years, and travelers have many hotels, guesthouses and restau-
rants to choose from for their stay,” says Siggeir F. Ævarsson,
manager of public relations for Grindavík. “Every traveler can
find something that fits their travel style, from comfortable ho-
tels to our well-equipped campsite, and there are a lot of activ-
ities to choose from in town.” Travelers could spend time at the
local swimming pool, play a round of golf at Grindavík’s 18-hole
course, or hike trails that lead outside of town.
visitgrindavik.is

Grindavík is a small fishing town close to many popular sites in South Iceland.
Close to Nature
SPECIAL PROMOTION
REYKJANES