Appreciation post for Grótta Lighthouse

One of our absolute favorite stops during our camps is the Grótta Lighthouse, a place we get genuinely excited to return to every time.

 

Grótta is a scenic nature reserve in the Seltjarnarnes area, at the western edge of Greater Reykjavík, known for its iconic lighthouse, rich wildlife, and striking coastal landscape . Long before becoming a popular destination, the area was home to a farm dating back to the 16th century, from which Grótta likely takes its name, derived from an old term for a wheat-grinding mill.

 

After a period of abandonment in the 19th century, the peninsula gradually regained importance and is now one of the most visited natural sites in the capital area. The lighthouse, originally built in 1897, remains operational and can be reached on foot during low tide. This area is an important habitat for birds and plants, hosting around 140 plant species in summer, about one third of Iceland’s total, and is closed to visitors from 1 May to 15 July to protect breeding birds. Today, the area is appreciated for walking, birdwatching and for the views, which our participants always love.