Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Iceland's most historically and geologically significant locations. Situated in a rift valley created by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, Þingvellir is where Iceland’s Althingi, the world’s oldest existing parliament, was established in 930 AD. This site holds deep cultural significance, as it was here that Icelanders gathered annually for centuries to make laws, settle disputes, and celebrate.
Geologically, Þingvellir is a wonder, with dramatic cliffs, fissures, and clear glacial rivers marking the boundary between the two tectonic plates. One of the most famous features is the Almannagjá gorge, where visitors can walk between the continents, literally standing on the pide between North America and Europe. The park’s unique landscape is also home to Þingvallavatn, Iceland's largest natural lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and perse fish population.
Quickview Facts & Figures
- Location: Southwest Iceland - part of the Golden Circle route.
- Area: 240 km2 (93 mi2).
- Elevation ranges from 100 to 300 meters, about 328 to 984 feet over sea level.
- Parlament: Þingvellir is where Iceland’s Althing, the world’s oldest existing parliament, was established in 930 AD.
- Founded: It was founded as a national park in 1930, with the purpose of natural and cultural heritage protection.
- UNESCO condition: Added to UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2004.
- Tectonic Plates: The park lies between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are still drifting apart at a pace of 2 cm (0.79 inches) per year.
How much time do you need at Þingvellir?
Most visitors spend about 2 to 4 hours exploring Þingvellir, but to truly see the park, including hiking and taking in all the main sights, you may want to budget a full day.
History of Þingvellir National Park
All the history of Iceland since 930 AD has its focus in Þingvellir, where, in this year, the Alþing was established, the first parliament of Iceland. A place where the assembly would decide on particularly important questions about laws and governance, it acted for almost eight centuries. This is, therefore, the site of the world's oldest parliament. However, it was also a site for events associated with some pretty important parts of Icelandic Christianization and independence movements.
Nowadays, it is a symbol of the country's identity, which is to be cared for because of its historical value and appealing beauty.
Where is Þingvellir?
Þingvellir National Park is located in Southwest Iceland, about 40 km northeast of Reykjavík, at the Þingvallavatn area. Its southern edge is bordered by Iceland's largest natural lake. Þingvellir forms part of the famous Golden Circle; it is thus relatively easy to reach on trips from the capital.
- GPS Coordinates: 64°15'21.8"N 21°07'47.2"W
How to get to Þingvellir?
From Reykjavik, it's easily accessible by car in about 40 minutes via route 36. The drive is rather straightforward, and upon arrival, there are several parking lots around the park. Guided tours from Reykjavik to Þingvellir Iceland also exist in numbers, and are usually part of Golden Circle tours. It is open all year round, although traveling in winter may mean checking the road conditions regarding ice and snow.
Main Attractions at Þingvellir National Park
A visit to Þingvellir National Park offers a wealth of natural beauty and intrigue, side by side with historical value. The following provides a step-by-step guide through the main attractions within the park.
Þingvellir Visitor Centre
This is a great point with which to start for much-valued insight into the history and geology of the park. Info available at the visitor center pertains to educational exhibits, maps, and information that helps in planning your exploration of Þingvellir.
Almannagjá Gorge
The amazingly impressive Almannagjá is a huge rift that formed as the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates pulled apart. This unbelievable canyon - one of the park's most spectacular features - means you'll literally be between two continents when walking through it. The Law Rock - Lögberg - where the Alþing was held lies at the bottom of this gorge.
Lögberg - Law Rock
The Lögberg, or Law Rock, centrally got things going at the Alþing, where laws were proclaimed and decisions reached. It’s the national shrine of Iceland, where speeches were made during the assemblies, and a key location in Icelandic history.
Lake Þingvallavatn
Thingvallavatn is the largest natural lake in Iceland and is truly breathtaking - a patch of water surrounded by volcanic landscapes. It is also a good, quiet place for picnics and walks along its shores.
Silfra Rift
Silfra is famous for its crystal-clear waters and a rift between tectonic plates, where adventurous visitors can snorkel and dive in some of the clearest water on earth. Here, visibility can exceed 100 meters-or 328 feet-offering an unparalleled underwater experience.
Öxarárfoss Waterfall
This picturesque waterfall falls from Almannagjá cliffs down into a serene pool below. Not as large as some of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Öxarárfoss is quite easily accessible and makes for an outstanding photo opportunity.
Peningagjá
The deep Peningagjá is filled with water and coins, therefore also known as "Coin Fissure". The clear water attracts many visitors who throw coins into it, and the sparkling coins add to the magic of the site.
Hakið Viewpoint
This viewpoint gives a general view of Þingvellir, with a sweeping panorama that encompasses views of the rift valley, Þingvallavatn Lake, and distant mountains. It's the perfect place to take in the vastness of the landscape.
Drekkingarhylur (Drowning Pool)
This macabre site was used during medieval times to execute people, specifically women found guilty of select crimes, by drowning. It's a bit depressing, but it's a good reminder of Iceland's legal past.
Þingvellir Church
A small but beautiful Þingvellir Church stands on the very spot where the country's very first church was built. The current structure is from the 19th century, and guests are able to walk around the surrounding cemetery as well.
Þingvellir Hiking Trails
There are many well-marked hiking trails throughout the Þingvellir National Park that take you through many of the park's most famous sites, including the ones mentioned above. These vary in difficulty, but most of them are easy to moderate and thus accessible for families on leisurely walks.
Opening hours and parking areas
Can you see the Northern Lights in Thingvellir National Park?
Yes, Northern Lights can also be seen from Þingvellir National Park. This section of the park is located far enough from city and reserve light pollution, allowing for excellent northern lights viewing. The Northern Lights at Þingvellir are most clearly visible in meteorologically favorable conditions from October to April on captivatingly clear and cold mid-winter nights. So if you go make sure to brush up on the aurora forecast and weather conditions before your trip for optimum viewing.