Þorbjörn, Volcanic mountain in Grindavíkurbær, Iceland.
Description
Þorbjörn is a 243-meter-high volcanic mountain in Grindavíkurbær on the Reykjanes Peninsula containing a network of fissures. It rises above the Svartsengi geothermal area and shapes the landscape of this geologically active region.
History
During World War II, United States military forces built a jeep track to the summit to support operations in the region. This military infrastructure later enabled the installation of telephone and television transmitters on the peak.
Culture
The name translates to 'Bear of Thor' and originates from a local story about a farmer's son who caught bandits, an event that led to naming a nearby canyon. This connection to a historical act of bravery remains part of the mountain's identity.
Practical
Multiple hiking trails approach the summit from the southwestern side and offer views of the Blue Lagoon and surrounding volcanic landscape. The climb is relatively short and routes are easily accessible from the peninsula's main tourist areas.
Did you know?
The mountain displays a tectonic graben formation at its peak, creating a small canyon formation. This fissure structure provides visible evidence of the geological processes still actively shaping the landscape.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Grindavíkurbær).
Blue Lagoon
1.7 km
Krýsuvík
18.2 km
Keilir
15.7 km
Viking World museum
13.2 km
Gunnuhver
13 km
Reykjanesviti
14 km
Svartsengi
1.5 km
Uppspretta
16.3 km
Garðskagaviti Lighthouse
27.3 km
Seltún Hot Springs
19.2 km
Reykjanes
6.3 km
Krýsuvíkurkirkja
18.6 km
Trölladyngja
18.9 km
Ögmundarhraun
13.3 km
Phare de Reykjanestá
14.5 km
Garðskagaviti
27.1 km
Kirkjuvogskirkja
14.4 km
Stafnesviti
19.3 km
Sandgerði lighthouse
23.7 km
Hopsnes lighthouse
4.5 km
Holmbergs lighthouse
19.3 km
Phare de Hafnarfjörður
32 km
Vatnsnes Lighthouse
16.1 km
Gerðistangarviti
17.1 km
Sandvík (luuk sa Islandya, Suðurnes)
14.1 km
Old Garðskagaviti lighthouse
27.3 km
Bridge between continents
11.5 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes