Reykjavik Excursions
The Geyser about to erupt © David Blaikie
Geysir
The weird landscape of the Haukadalur valley in Iceland's
southern lowlands, where hot springs spout and mud pots bubble, has
been dominated for centuries by the 'granddaddy' of all geysers,
the Great Geysir, from which all other such phenomena around the
world have gained their name. The Geysir, once shooting boiling
water hundreds of feet into the air, has reduced its performance
levels somewhat in modern times, but is nevertheless still an
impressive sight when it occasionally erupts. The rest of the
thermal area, bathed in a sulphuric smell, is just as fascinating,
featuring several other spouting vents and geysers which frequently
display their prowess. The Geysir area has become a great tourist
attraction and a centre has been opened containing a multi-media
geology museum and folklore exhibits. There is also a hotel,
souvenir shop and restaurant on site.
Address: Geysir Center, Geysir;
E-mail: geysir@geysircenter.is;
Website: www.geysircenter.is;
Telephone: 480 6800;
Transport: Thingvallaleid offers a bus service from Reykjavik to Geysir. Return buses can only be caught the following day. Buses leave Reykjavik at 08:30am and arrive in Geysir at 10:50/11:15am.
