A Self-Drive Guide to Gunnuhver Geothermal Area

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a landscape forged by fire, a raw and dramatic corner of Iceland where the earth itself seems to breathe. Here, among vast lava fields and a rugged coastline, lies Gunnuhver, the largest mud pool in Iceland and a place of intense geothermal activity. Surrounded by billowing clouds of steam and steeped in local folklore, a visit to Gunnuhver is a powerful and memorable experience.

For travelers exploring Iceland by car, Gunnuhver is an essential stop, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's volcanic soul. This guide provides all the information you need to plan your self-drive visit, detailing how a rental car offers the ultimate flexibility to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula's many wonders. With convenient service locations, Höldur makes it easy to start your adventure the moment you arrive.

What is the Gunnuhver Geothermal Area?

Located in the heart of the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, Gunnuhver is a highly active geothermal field defined by its powerful steam vents, boiling mud pots, and sulfur-stained earth. Unlike many other geothermal areas in Iceland that feature clear hot springs, Gunnuhver is dominated by steam. The groundwater here is 100% seawater, which, when heated by the magma below, creates a turbulent and steamy environment.

The main vent at Gunnuhver emits a constant, roaring plume of steam that can reach impressive heights, creating a misty, otherworldly atmosphere. The ground is painted in vibrant shades of red, yellow, and green from the rich mineral deposits. Viewing platforms and marked paths allow you to safely observe this powerful natural phenomenon up close, feeling the heat and hearing the immense force of the escaping steam.

The Legend of Gunna the Ghost

Gunnuhver is more than just a geological wonder; it is a place woven into Icelandic folklore. The name itself translates to "Gunna's Hot Spring," and its origin story is one of Iceland's most famous ghost tales.

As the legend goes, a woman named Gunna lived on the peninsula centuries ago. After a dispute over a cooking pot with a local magistrate named Vilhjálmur, he took it from her. Enraged, Gunna starved herself to death. As her coffin was being carried to the cemetery, it suddenly became lightweight. Mourners heard a whisper: "No need to dig deep, no plans to lie long." That night, Vilhjálmur was found dead, his body bruised and broken.

Gunna's ghost then began to terrorize the entire peninsula. The locals eventually sought the help of a priest, Eiríkur, who was skilled in dealing with supernatural beings. He set a trap for Gunna, giving her a knotted ball of twine. The ghost, compelled to find the end of the string, followed it until the ball rolled into the hot spring. Gunna was dragged into the boiling water with it, and she has been trapped there ever since. It is her restless, angry spirit that is said to cause the ground to boil and steam to this day.

Planning Your Self-Drive Trip to Gunnuhver

Gunnuhver is located on the southwestern tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, making it an incredibly accessible destination, especially for those just arriving in or departing from Iceland.

Getting There by Rental Car

The drive to Gunnuhver is straightforward. From Keflavik International Airport, it is only about a 20-25 minute drive (around 23 kilometers). This makes it a perfect first or last stop on your Icelandic itinerary. From Central Reykjavik, the journey is approximately 50 kilometers and takes about 45-50 minutes.

The roads leading to Gunnuhver are paved and well-maintained, meaning a standard 2WD vehicle is sufficient for visiting year-round. Höldur offers a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs, and with our premium pick-up locations directly in the arrivals hall at Keflavik Airport and in downtown Reykjavik, you can start your exploration with ease and convenience.

Why Visit Gunnuhver on a Self-Drive Tour?

Exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula with your own rental car provides the freedom to discover its diverse attractions at your own pace. While Gunnuhver itself can be explored in under an hour, a self-drive tour allows you to create a full-day adventure.

The flexibility of having a car means you can:

• Combine your visit with other nearby points of interest.
• Linger longer at spots that capture your imagination.
• Stop for photos of the dramatic coastal scenery whenever you wish.
• Avoid the rigid schedules of organized tours and travel on your own terms.

What to See Near Gunnuhver

The Reykjanes Peninsula is packed with fascinating sights, all within a short drive of Gunnuhver. With your rental car, you can easily connect these destinations into a memorable loop tour.

• Reykjanesviti Lighthouse: Standing on a nearby hill, this is one of Iceland's oldest and most iconic lighthouses. It offers a fantastic vantage point for views over the turbulent Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding lava fields.
• The Bridge Between Continents: A small footbridge that spans a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It's a fun and symbolic spot where you can walk from one continent to another in just a few steps.
• The Blue Lagoon: Iceland's world-famous geothermal spa is just a 20-minute drive from Gunnuhver. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind in mineral-rich waters after a day of exploring.
• Krýsuvík Geothermal Area: Another colorful geothermal field featuring hot springs, mud pots, and a landscape stained with vibrant minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to visit Gunnuhver?

There is no entrance fee to visit Gunnuhver, and parking is free, making it an excellent and affordable stop on your tour of the peninsula.

How long should I spend at Gunnuhver?

Plan to spend about 30-45 minutes at the site. This allows enough time to walk the viewing platforms, read the informational signs about the geology and folklore, and take plenty of photos.

Is Gunnuhver safe to visit?

Yes, it is very safe as long as you stay on the designated boardwalks and viewing platforms. The ground surrounding the steam vents is extremely hot and unstable. Never cross the ropes or barriers.

When is the best time to visit Gunnuhver?

Gunnuhver is a fantastic year-round destination. In summer, the long daylight hours give you ample time for exploration. In winter, the cold air makes the steam appear even more dramatic, and a visit can be combined with a search for the Northern Lights on a clear night.

 

A trip to Gunnuhver is a journey into a world of geological power and haunting legends. Its easy accessibility and proximity to other major attractions make it an essential part of any self-drive tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula, offering a dramatic start or a memorable end to your Icelandic adventure.

At Höldur, we’ve been helping travellers explore Iceland since 1966. As Iceland’s largest car rental provider with over 8,000 vehicles and a nationwide network of locations, we’re proud to offer reliable, eco-conscious transport and local expertise you can count on.

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