Few places on Earth demonstrate the powerful forces that shape our planet as clearly as Thingvellir (Thingvellir) National park in Iceland.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site marks the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and offers an unparalleled insight into the dynamic nature of our planet’s geological activity.

Visitors can hike through the spectacular Almannagjá Gorge, a striking reminder of the tectonic forces that continually shape Iceland’s rugged landscape.

In addition to its geological significance, Thingvellir also has historical significance as the original meeting place of Iceland’s first decision-makers, adding cultural interest to one of Iceland’s most impressive landmarks.

Discover the Continental Trench

Almannagjá is a prominent gorge in Thingvellir National Park, marking the boundary of the North American tectonic plate. It is a central feature of the Mid-Atlantic Rift, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Nowhere else in Iceland is this geological phenomenon more clearly visible than in Thingvellir.

Visitors can walk through the canyon, a visible reminder of the Earth’s constant, if slow, movement. Formed as the North American plate moved westward, this canyon shows the dramatic effects of tectonic activity.

At certain points in the park, you can see the cliffs that mark the ends of the continents and experience the feeling of walking between two continents as a walkway winds between towering canyon walls. The canyon varies in width but can be traversed at several points.

A highlight of the hike is the impressive Öxaráfoss waterfall, which is easily accessible on foot. The beauty of the 20-meter-high waterfall hides a dark past. The pond below has a dark history as an execution site in the Middle Ages.

The view from the summit of Almannagjá near the visitor center is breathtaking and offers a panoramic view of this unique rift valley.

The gap between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates is increasing by more than half an inch each year. This continuous movement has created many distinctive features in the park, including canyons with crystal clear spring water and lava rock formations. The most famous of these is Silfra, a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The Nikúlasargjá Gorge, also known as Peningagjá (Money Gorge), is another popular destination where visitors throw coins into the ice-cold water and make a wish.

Historical significance

In addition to its geological significance, Thingvellir is an important historical site in Iceland. When the Vikings arrived here in the 10th century, they chose Thingvellir as the site for their parliament, the Althing.

The unique geology of Thingvellir has created a natural amphitheatre ideal for public speaking, including the high rock face of Lögberg (the Law Rock).

At the annual Althing assemblies, an elected parliamentary speaker recited the country’s laws from memory. Members of parliament discussed and passed new laws, made judgments, and settled disputes.

The remains of the Althing include fragments of turf and stone huts, while older remains dating to the 10th century are probably buried underground.

The open-air assembly was founded in 930 and met until 1798, making it the oldest parliamentary institution in the world. Informative panels and guided tours provide insights into the lives of early Icelanders and their governance.

Practical tips for visitors

Thingvellir National Park is easily accessible and has well-maintained trails and facilities for visitors, but as it is one of Iceland’s main tourist attractions, it can sometimes get crowded. During peak season, more than 5,000 visitors visit the park every day, so patience is sometimes required.

Thingvellir is part of the Icelandic tourist route “Golden Circle” and is located about 45 kilometers northeast of the capital Reykjavik. Although admission to the park is free, a parking fee (about $7.50) is payable if you arrive by car. Parking tickets are valid for one day in all parking lots.

If you don’t have a car, you can join an organized tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle. The famous road trip also includes Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal park, both must-see sights in Iceland.

This 8-hour tour from Arctic Adventures (from $91) includes the three highlights, plus the geothermal town of Hveragerdi and the crater lake Kerid. If time is tight, Reykjavik Excursions offers a 6.5-hour tour for around $76.

Although participants of such bus tours only have limited time at each location, this is still an ideal opportunity to get to know Icelandic nature at its best.