Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland approximately half an hour from Keflavik airport, Kleifarvatn is the largest lake in the Setlún Geothermal Area. Meaning “draining lake” as there are no visible inlets or outlets (they are underground), it a stark contrast to the volcanoes and lava fields that make up this area of the country.

Getting to Kleifarvatn is simple from Keflavik Airport. It is located on Route 42 known as Krýsuvíkvegur. From the airport you can drive along Route 41 and then turn south at Hafnarfjörður. Alternatively you can drive along the coastal road – Route 44 – and then turn north before Eldborg.

Kleifarvatn is free to visit with several viewpoints that have parking. From here you can also hike around the area. You can hike around the shore (an easier hike) or you can start/end a hike into the surrounding hilly areas with volcanoes and lava fields.

Please remember that this is a volcanically active area and precautions should be taken. Make sure that there are no special warnings, stay a respectful distance from any steam rising from the ground, and leave areas that are hotter than others. Make sure you also have plenty of food and water in case you become stranded.

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