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Grótta

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Grótta

Grótta

Located at the tip of the Seltjarnarnes peninsula in the Kópavogur area, this site consists of a small island and a lighthouse. The island is connected to the mainland by a causeway that floods during high tide, completely cutting off access to the landmass. Visitors go here to walk to the island during low tide and to observe the coastline and local birdlife.

Getting There

The site is located on the western edge of the capital region. From Reykjavik city centre, it is accessible by car or local bus. The drive typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.

Duration of Visit

Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk the shoreline, visit the lighthouse, and explore the island if the tide permits.

Timing and Conditions

The experience depends heavily on the tide; check local tide tables to ensure the path is walkable. During winter months, this location is used for viewing the Northern Lights due to its distance from city lights. The area can become crowded during peak summer tourist seasons and during clear winter nights.

Nearby Attractions

You can combine a visit here with other sites in the vicinity:

  • Akurey (3.1km)
  • Reykjavik Maritime Museum (3.7km)
  • Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík (4km)
  • Landakotskirkja (4km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Grótta

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Good to visit alongside

Akurey

Nature

Akurey

A small uninhabited island off the coast of Reykjavík, with a history long enough to be mentioned in 14th-century documents. It was incorporated into the city of Reykjavík in 1978 and is now managed by the municipality.

3.1 km away
Reykjavik Maritime Museum

Museums & galleries

Reykjavik Maritime Museum

The Reykjavik Maritime Museum sits by the city's old harbor and traces Iceland's maritime history from the earliest settlers to the late 20th century. A highlight is exploring the retired coast guard vessel Óðinn up close.

3.7 km away
Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík

Temples & religious sites

Roman Catholic Diocese of Reykjavík

The Diocese of Reykjavík oversees the Catholic Church throughout Iceland and is under the direct jurisdiction of the Holy See. It is a small community with just over ten thousand members.

4.0 km away
Landakotskirkja

Temples & religious sites

Landakotskirkja

Landakotskirkja is a Catholic cathedral in western Reykjavík, the only Catholic cathedral in Iceland. Mass is held in Icelandic, Polish, and English, reflecting the diverse congregation that gathers here.

4.0 km away
Reykjavík Museum of Photography

Museums & galleries

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

This museum holds millions of photographs spanning from the late 19th century to today. Its collection ranges from portraits to industrial, advertising, and landscape photography.

4.2 km away
the Settlement Exhibition

Museums & galleries

the Settlement Exhibition

The Settlement Exhibition is a museum in downtown Reykjavík where you can see the oldest known Viking-age house ruins in Iceland preserved right where they were excavated. Artifacts found nearby are also on display, offering a close look at daily life in the early settlement period.

4.3 km away