Kleifarvatn is one of the largest lake in Iceland, about 10km2 and about 136 meters above sea level. The lake is located on the Reykjanes peninsula between Sveifluhálsar and Vatnshlíðar. It is the largest lake on the Reykjanes peninsula and the third largest in South Iceland. The greatest depth of the water is about 97 meters.

The water level rises and decreases every few years, depending on the precipitation. Before there was no life to be found in the lake but around 1960 the first trout parr were released in the lake and in 2006 about 10.000 trout parr were released there. Today it is full of life and a popular fishing spot during the summer months.

The volcanic area around the lake is very beautiful and a good place for photography. The water is very cold except for in the south part of the water where hot water from some hot springs runs into the water.

Directions:

Kleifarvatn is located close to the geothermal area at Krýsuvík and about 35 minute drive from Reykjavík. From Reykjavík take the Reykjanesbraut road (41) and then turn on Krísuvíkurvegur road (42). From there you will find the car park.

Kleifarvatn is located on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland
The Northern Lights by Kleifarvatn lake
The spectacular landscape around Kleifarvatn in Iceland
Kleifarvatn is located on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland - thumbnail
The Northern Lights by Kleifarvatn lake - thumbnail
The spectacular landscape around Kleifarvatn in Iceland - thumbnail

Kleifarvatn is located on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland

The Northern Lights by Kleifarvatn lake

The spectacular landscape around Kleifarvatn in Iceland