Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara Beach Facts

• Without a doubt, the incredible Reynisfjara Beach easily ranks as one of the most unusual beaches in the world. Furthermore, this bewilderingly unique, as well as beautiful, has another claim to fame. This beach also remains one of the most isolated known to man.
• But that same isolation has an fortunate side effect. That holds true because it also helps this geological wonder to continue to remain relatively pristine. Very few tourists choose to brave the environmental conditions of its location, so tourism stays rather limited.
• Furthermore, the waves in the area remain extremely powerful and also quite unpredictable. Consequently, this poses great danger  for unaware visitors. Previously, numerous fatalities occurred at the location among those attempting to swim in the dangerous waters.
• As a result of the unique landscape, stunning Reynisfjara Beach also holds yet another distinction. The location also features prominently in numerous science fiction and horror movies. Because of its otherworldly feel, filmmakers continue to use the site for filming movies.
• We have been there – check out our photo in our OBP Around the World gallery.

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Reynisfjara Beach Location and Geological Description

First of all, Reynisfjara Beach sits roughly 112 mi (180 km) from Reykjavik, in the gorgeous country of Iceland, in Europe. Furthermore, it faces the cold, open waters of the northern Atlantic Ocean. This truly incredible site also stretches for a relatively long distance, measuring about 3.1 mi (5 km).

Most noteworthy, however, remains the surprising fact that the beach actually displays an astonishing black color. That phenomenon understandably occurs due to its composition. That’s because the beach mainly consists of basalt, gradually eroded with the relentless passage of time.

In addition, the location continues to be famous for another astounding geological feature. That’s the presence of numerous incredible stone features just offshore. These features constitute black basalt columns known as Reynisdrangar, which began as enormous volcanic boulders.

Since their expulsion from the earth ages ago, relentless erosion of the columns occurred due to the action of wind and waves. This constant action subsequently created the incredible shapes found at Reynisfajara Beach today.

Source: http://bit.ly/2RoHno4 Photographer: Alex Berger CC License: http://bit.ly/2JszWtI

Reynisfjara Beach Climate and Ecology

Perhaps most notably, however, the climatic conditions at Reynisfjara Beach remain extreme. Additionally, these are often quite unpredictable. As a result, this usually serves as enough to dissuade investigation by all but the most ardent beach fans. Nevertheless, many still visit the marvel of Nature.

In addition to its other remarkable features and conditions, weather plays a huge factor in the area. That’s partly due to the fact that it also rains at the beach an astounding average of 340 days per year. This incredible pattern of weather results in making it the wettest place in the entirety of Iceland.

One magazine also named the breathtaking Reynisfjara Beach as one of the 10 most outstanding non-tropical beaches on earth. This well deserved listing occurred in the year 1991. This honor was bestowed despite, or perhaps as a result of, these incredible geological and climatic conditions.

Finally, and quite surprisingly, comes one last astonishing distinction. That’s because, rather than being devoid of wildlife, the location teems with a variety of birds. These avian species include such creatures fulmars, guillemots, and Puffins, showcasing the extraordinary adaptability of Nature.

Features Sharing Its Area

                                                          

Strokkur Geyser        Haukadalur Geothermal Area      Neptune’s Grotto

Check out our other articles on Purple Sand Beach, Hot Water Beach, 8 Swoon-Worthy Caves, Native North American Mammals, Bosnian Pine, Oak Treehopper, Tawny Frogmouth