Iceland Attractions

Venue: Strokkur geyser at Geysir    When: Daily

Iceland is richer in geothermal activity than any other country on Earth. The most famous and spectacular attractions are the geysers that can be found all over the island, and one in particular known as Strokkur. Just don't stand too close...

The origin of the strange word geyser lies, not surprisingly, in Iceland. It's most famous example, the legendary Geysir - which means gusher or spouter in Danish and hence gave the name to the phenomena - was once a spectacular tourist attraction with a giant spout over 80 metres high. Unfortunately, probably due to impatient visitors throwing things down its throat in an attempt to encourage an eruption, this star attraction now lies mostly dormant.

But don't be disheartened, another renowned water spout is literally a stone's throw away (about 20 metres), in the hot spring area around Haukadalur, in the southern part of Iceland. Strokkur, or "the Churn," may not spurt so high, but with an almost-guaranteed water spout every five minutes or so, its 25-metre height is very impressive indeed.

The area is directly on top of an active volcanic belt that stretches from the south-west tip of Iceland to the north-east tip and the spectacular water spouts, as well as the hot bubbling mud springs around about are, quite literally, the Earth's way of letting off steam.

There are plenty of trails and walking tours that can be taken in the area. Please check with local tourist offices or the adjacent Geysir Centre for details.