Valahnúkur is a stunning mountain cliff, part of Reykjanes peninsula rocky coastline. These steep sea cliffs battle with the Atlantic Ocean every day and give a fantastic show of big waves and spectacular surf, hitting the cliffs with awesome power. Because of easy access, this location offers various viewpoints and is an interesting place. A hiking trail leads up to the highest point of the cliff with a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. From the summit, you can see miles of rugged coastline, rolling hills with an old-style lighthouse on top, and columns of geothermal steam in the distance. The mountain is made up of volcanic rock and has been shaped by years of wind and water erosion, creating interesting shapes in the rock.
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Accessibility
A road leads straight to this location, 4.5 kilometres in total, the last kilometre a rough and bumpy gravel road. It is suitable for all kinds of cars. There is a hiking trail to the summit.
Services nearby
This location is 15 minutes from Grindavík municipality and close to Keflavík, so hotels, gas stations and convenience stores are in abundance. Nearest hospital is also in Keflavík.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
There is a big parking lot just by the cliffs, and another bigger one 1 kilometre before you reach the location. Within 3 kilometres there are various other areas suitable for basecamps. There are no facilities at the location.
Phone coverage is excellent.
Risk factors
The cliffs are very steep and dangerous. They are palagonite rock, unstable and prone to collapsing, specially so close to the sea. Staying close to the edge is not advised and should be assessed with a trained safety and rescue crew. The location is also very close to the sea, with big waves and dangerous surf. Because of constant battering with the elements, big landslides are possible and have occurred in the last decade.
The rocks and ground are very slippery in wet weather.
Visitors
The area is a high tourist attraction. It can be closed off with the right permit and with the help of park rangers.
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