description Seltun Overview
Seltún is a high-temperature geothermal field within the Krýsuvík volcanic system on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula, where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge surfaces above sea level. Boardwalks lead visitors past steaming solfataras, bubbling mud pots, and sulfur-encrusted vents in a landscape of altered clay and hot springs. Sulfur was commercially mined here until the 1880s, and the site remains one of the most accessible geothermal areas on the peninsula.
help Seltun FAQ
Where is the Seltun geothermal field located?
Seltun is located in the Krysuvik geothermal area on Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula. It sits squarely on the volatile Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where tectonic plates are actively pulling apart.
What types of geothermal features will visitors see at Seltun?
The area is highly active and famous for its bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles, and solfataras. Visitors can walk along designated wooden boardwalks to observe the boiling springs safely.
Was the Seltun area ever used for industrial purposes?
Yes, sulfur mining was a major industry in the Krysuvik region, operating until the 1880s. The intense geothermal activity allowed workers to extract pure sulfur from the vents for gunpowder and other uses.
Why is the ground at Seltun brightly colored?
The vivid yellow, orange, and red hues in the soil are caused by various minerals and thermophilic bacteria thriving in the extreme heat. Sulfur deposits are responsible for the bright yellow patches seen throughout the field.
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