Thingvellir National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Iceland. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a geological wonderland. Here is everything you need to know about this amazing place.
Location and Getting There
Thingvellir National Park is located about 40 km east of Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. The park is easily accessible by car or by taking one of the many guided tours available. The main entrance to the park is on Route 36, which is also known as the Golden Circle.
Attractions in Thingvellir national park
Thingvellir National Park is a place of geological and historical significance. The park is situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Visitors to the park can see the rift valley created by the plates moving apart. The valley is filled with crystal-clear water, which is the source of Iceland’s famous hot springs.
One of the main attractions of Thingvellir National Park is the Silfra fissure, which is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Silfra is a crack in the earth’s surface that runs between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The water in Silfra is some of the clearest in the world, and visitors can see for more than 100 meters in some places.
The park is also home to the Thingvellir National Parliament, which was established in the 10th century. The parliament was the site of the world’s first democratic parliament, and visitors can see the remains of the original parliament buildings. The park is also home to the Logberg (Law Rock), which was the site where the laws were read out during the annual Althing (parliament) meetings.
Hiking and Walking Trails
Thingvellir National Park has a number of hiking and walking trails, which range from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Almannagja trail, which follows the rift valley between the tectonic plates. The trail is approximately 2.5 km long and takes about an hour to complete.
Another popular trail is the Thingvallavatn trail, which is a 10 km loop that circles the lake.
Other Activities
In addition to snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking, Thingvellir National Park offers a number of other activities for visitors. These include fishing, horseback riding, and camping. The park has several campsites, which are open from June to September. The campsites have basic facilities, including toilets, showers, and cooking areas.
The park also has a visitor center, which provides information on the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. The center has exhibits on the park’s geology, as well as interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about the park’s wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Thingvellir National Park is during the summer months, from June to September. The park is also open for camping during this time.
If you are interested in snorkeling or scuba diving in Silfra, the best time to visit is during the summer months. The water in Silfra is cold all year round, but the water temperature is more tolerable during the summer months.
In the winter, the park is open for day trips, but camping is not allowed. The park is also a popular spot for viewing the Northern Lights, which are visible from September to April.
Conclusion
Thingvellir National Park is a unique and fascinating destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. The park’s geological wonders and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling
