History, Cultural Heritage and Nature at Garðskagi

The Heritage Museum at Garðskagi, founded in 1995, stands on a beautiful museum site beside
Garðskagi Lighthouse in Suðurnesjabær. The area is part of the Reykjanes Geopark, listed by UNESCO for its geological significance and its focus on conservation, education and sustainable development. From here, there is a wide‑open view in all directions, rich birdlife, the ever‑changing ocean and popular walking paths along the coastline.

Cultural Heritage and Seafaring on the Suðurnes Peninsula

The museum preserves and presents the history of the people of the Suðurnes region, connecting visitors with the area’s cultural heritage. Nearby stands Skagagarður on Rosmhvalanes, a 10th‑century boundary wall and one of the region’s most remarkable historical structures. On the museum grounds is the fishing boat Hólmsteinn GK20, a 43‑ton wooden vessel that recalls the seafaring traditions of earlier times.

A unique attraction at the heritage museum is Guðni Ingimundarson’s Engine Collection, featuring around 60 restored engines, many still in working order. Visitors can also see Guðni’s Truck, which has become an informal symbol of the museum.

The museum also preserves the six‑oared boat Fram, built in 1887 in the traditional súðbyrðingur style — a Nordic boatbuilding method recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. In addition, the museum displays 14 scale models of old houses from Sandgerði, illustrating the building traditions and community life of earlier generations.

A newly opened museum shop and reception area features interior fittings from 1921, originally from Þorlákur Benediktsson’s Store in Akurhús in Garður. At the entrance, a large map of the Reykjanes Peninsula connects local history with the surrounding landscape. There is also a play area for children.

Things to Do on the Reykjanes Peninsula

The Reykjanes Peninsula offers a variety of activities that pair well with a visit to Viking World. Below are ten ideas showcasing what the region has to offer:

1. The peninsula has many beautiful hiking routes. For great views, consider hiking Keilir or Þorbjörn near Grindavík.
2. Visit the charming Grímur’s Boat Museum (model boats), art exhibitions and displays on seafaring at Duus Museum in Keflavík.
3. Rock music lives on in Reykjanesbær! Explore the Icelandic Museum of Rock ’n’ Roll in Hljómahöll.
4. Enjoy one of the region’s swimming pools or spas. Waterworld in Keflavík is ideal for families, and the world‑famous Blue Lagoon is not to be missed.
5. If travelling after dark, keep an eye on the northern lights forecast. In clear weather, the view from
   Garðskagi Lighthouse is stunning. The surf can also be spectacular in windy conditions.
6. Walk across the Bridge Between Continents; nowhere is it easier to step from Europe to North America!
7. Explore other sites on the peninsula, such as the new Fagradalshraun lava field in Geldingadalir, beautiful lava caves in older flows, Gunnuhver or Brimketill.
8. Admire the colourful geothermal area at Seltún near Krýsuvík and watch the steam rise with its distinctive sulphur scent.
9. Visit the impressive Reykjanesviti, Iceland’s first lighthouse from 1908. Nearby stands a statue of the last Great Auk, with views towards Eldey.
10. The peninsula is also home to thriving bird colonies. Krýsuvíkurbjarg is the largest cliff, with around 60,000 nesting birds in summer.

More information about the region can be found at www.reykjanes.is.