Thingvellir Visitor Center

" This is a UNESCO world heritage site and Iceland’s first national park is notable not only for its geological phenomena including the Silfra Fissure and diverse flora and fauna native to Iceland but also for its importance in Icelandic culture and history. As the location for Iceland’s first parliament started in 930 AD, the site remained the meeting point for Iceland’s politicians up until 1798 meaning that the basis for Iceland’s present-day cultural roots and heritage were essentially formed here. As the park is located in the rift valley of the Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate, Thingvellir has some pretty spectacular natural wonders to explore including walking around, or even snorkelling and diving in the massive cracks or fissures that have formed as the two massive tectonic plates slowly drift further apart. Most people who visit Thingvellir end up only seeing the area of the park closest to the visitor centre, not realising the park is much larger and could easily warrant a whole day of exploration on foot. Right in the middle of Thingvellir is the picturesque Lake Thingvellir where visitors can spend a leisurely two hours driving around the serene body of water, or stay overnight in one of the beautiful Lake Thingvellir Cottages. Other notable attractions of Thingvellir include numerous filming locations from the hit HBO series Game Of Thrones, horse riding on sweet but hardy Icelandic horses, and the gorgeous Oxararfoss waterfall. Whatever you choose to do in Thingvellir, you’ll find beauty and wonder around every corner. Entrance to the park is free, however, there is a small parking charge if you are driving there yourself. More information on parking fees at Thingvellir can be found on the park’s website and if you want to learn more about visiting this magnificent national park, check out our complete guide to exploring Thingvellir. Getting out and hiking is one of the best ways to explore Iceland. Þingvellir is no exception. With many iconic sites, interesting features and rivers to explore, hiking along its many paths and routes is an excellent way to see even more. If you have time on your guided tour or are on your own self-drive tour, you can follow well-marked trails to several natural landmarks, including: Almannagjá Drekkingarhylur Öxarárfoss Waterfall 5. LAKE ÞINGVALLAVATN The largest natural lake in Iceland is located within the boundaries of Þingvellir National Park. Lake Þingvallavatn takes up 32 square miles and is 374 feet deep. Explore the lake and its surroundings by following the walking paths around it. Or try your hand at fishing! There are four different types of Arctic Char living in these waters and attract anglers from across the world. 6. ALMANNAGJÁ GORGE Valley at Thingvellir National Park in Iceland This eight-kilometer-long gorge is one of the few places on Earth where you can see two tectonic plates meet. These plates are still slowly drifting apart. This unique spot holds great significance in Icelandic history, as it was here that the world's longest-running parliament was established. Lawmakers would read new laws for the crowds to hear above the Almannagjá Gorge. It holds a special place in the hearts of Icelandic people and represents some of Iceland's oldest history."