Geothermal area of Krýsuvík — it’s time to explore Iceland
Originally published at www.angiebobolow.com
Krýsuvík – geothermal area – is one of many wonders you should see in Iceland. I finally did. Weather wasn’t nice last week. Nevertheless, I’ve got a famous yellow raincoat, so I decided –
whatever the weather – I am going somewhere.
Since I was working all previous weekends, was looking for someplace not far away from Reykjavik. This spot was the first beckoning one. And outdoors. Only 40 minutes away from downtown, not only geothermal area itself will please you, views on road are also stunning.
Every route in this country has different landscape, every trip you take will surprise you.
Last Sunday sunny weather awaits me, with air so fresh. Fall scent can be felt already, despite it being early into season. While getting ready for small trip, rain has passed several times. Same story while driving to Krýsuvík geothermal area. No worries, it hasn’t killed the drive. Especially, while enjoying mountains throughout the windows of our car.
You should be cautious on a gravel road just outside Hafnarfjörður. When you see a sign, slow down to like 40km/h, there are a couple of sink holes just at the beginning.
We saw them too late, so our car got some. Fortunately, without any damage. =)
When we arrived at the area, scenery was breathtaking. You aren’t able to see the whole geothermal area from the parking lot (which is well-done), only a lot of steam. By the way, it also has clean 24/7 toilets, with paper, soap and mirror inside. That’s probably more valuable information for women, still can’t not to mention. Conditions like are always making me happy. =)
Curious facts about Krýsuvík
Krysuvik geothermal area is located on Reykjanes peninsula, in the middle of volcanic fissure zone. Also appears to be on the split between Europe and America. Seltún, Hverahvammur, Hverahlíð and Austurengjar geothermal fields are situated near to each other, what makes it possible to observe them in a short period of time.
German scientist Robert Bunsen has examined this place in 1845 and suggested a theory on the way sulfuric acid is formed in nature. This territory has already been used for sulfur mining in 1700s, yet only for a couple of years then. Mining was reestablished in 19th century.
Getting closer to place, you can detect the strongest smell of boiled eggs. That’s the odor of sulphuric water and gasses. Still, if you have already been in Iceland for some time, you won’t be feeling it so much, as hot water in buildings have the same scent, even the taste –
you can feel it while brushing your teeth with water too warm =)
Nature
Nature has created a colorful pallet of red, green and yellow colors here. You are able to watch solfataras (natural volcanic steam vent in which sulfur gases are the dominant constituent along with hot water vapour) and fumaroles (vent in the Earth’s surface from which steam and volcanic gases are emitted). Additionally, you will see some mud pots, where acid with soil is boiled .
We also found a Spanish slug on the volcanic stones. This slug has been discovered in Iceland in 2003. It has bright black color, as licorice. It’s funny because Icelanders produce almost everything with it (licorice, not slugs). =)
Surroundings of geothermal area
Couple of rounded lakes (maars) can be found just a few minutes away from geothermal area of Krýsuvík. Created by explosions of boiling groundwater steam, water pools are various sizes.
Grænavatn – 350 meters wide with depth up to 46 meters – has a magical rich green-blue color. Thermal algae and sunlight absorbing crystals are the cause of this extraordinary hue.
Finally, you can find a peculiar black sand beach of Kleifarvatn lake. It has crystal clear water and several cliffs standing out of it.
With summer coming you will have enough time to observe everything, so first chance you get – go there! Feel the smell and hear magical bubbling.
Wooden path is made through the area. Following it you will spend about an hour, if you go veeeery slowly. My advice –
hike on top of the hill. True beauty is hidden out there =))
Be sure to check the video of this place! (ᵔᴥᵔ)
