Thingvellir National Park - Historic and Natural Site

Location and Overview: Thingvellir National Park, often spelled as “Þingvellir” in Icelandic, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Iceland. It is one of the country’s most historically and geologically significant areas, known for its stunning landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and unique geological features.

Visitor Fee: There was typically no entrance fee to access Thingvellir National Park itself. However, please check for any updates regarding entrance fees, especially for parking or specific facilities within the park.

Transportation: Getting to Thingvellir National Park is relatively easy:

1. Self-Drive: Many visitors rent a car and drive along the Golden Circle route, which includes Thingvellir National Park. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik.
2. Public Transportation: Some tour companies offer guided tours to the park, which can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive.

Things to Do:

1. Historical Significance: Explore the historical and cultural significance of Thingvellir, where Iceland’s first parliament, Althing, was established in 930 AD, making it one of the world’s oldest parliaments.
2. Geological Marvels: Witness the unique geological features of Thingvellir, including the Silfra Fissure, where you can snorkel or dive between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
3. Scenic Walks: Enjoy hiking and scenic walks through the park’s diverse landscapes, which include lava fields, rift valleys, and rugged terrain.
4. Diving and Snorkeling: If you’re a certified diver or snorkeler, exploring the crystal-clear waters of Silfra in the park is an unforgettable experience.
5. Cultural Interpretation: Visit the visitor center for informative exhibits and interpretation about the park’s history, geology, and cultural significance.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

1. Historical Importance: Thingvellir is not only a natural wonder but also the site where early Icelandic settlers established their democratic parliament, making it a place of immense historical and cultural significance.
2. Geological Wonder: The park showcases the dramatic geological processes of Iceland, including the visible tectonic plate boundary between the Eurasian and North American plates.
3. Natural Beauty: Visitors are captivated by the park’s stunning landscapes, from the clear waters of Silfra to the rugged lava fields and the picturesque Oxararfoss waterfall.

Age of the Place: Thingvellir’s historical significance dates back to the establishment of the Althing parliament in 930 AD, making it over a thousand years old in terms of cultural heritage. In terms of geological history, it is part of Iceland’s ongoing geological processes and volcanic activity.

List of Activities:

1. Exploring the historical and cultural sites related to Iceland’s early parliament.
2. Witnessing the unique geological features, including the Silfra Fissure.
3. Hiking and scenic walks through diverse landscapes.
4. Snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra (for certified divers/snorkelers).
5. Visiting the visitor center for educational exhibits and interpretation.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

1. Geysir Geothermal Area: Located along the Golden Circle route, this area features erupting geysers and hot springs.
2. Gullfoss Waterfall: Also part of the Golden Circle, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous and dramatic waterfalls.
3. Kerid Crater: A volcanic crater lake with striking blue waters, located not far from Thingvellir.
4. Reykjavik: Iceland’s capital city is a short drive away, offering numerous cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment.