Protection Status
The purpose of the protection designation of Gálgahraun is to preserve the northernmost section of the Búrfellshraun lava field, particularly the part of the lava that extends into the sea, due to both its geological features and biodiversity.
The designation also aims to preserve Gálgahraun as a site for nature observation and education for future generations.
The conservation value of the area is based in part on the fact that the protected landscape within Gálgahraun remains largely undisturbed.
Because the lava edge reaches the coastline, the erosive force of ocean waves has been limited within the sheltered inlets of Arnarnesvogur and Lambhúsatjörn, leaving the lava field largely unchanged since the time of its formation.
The decision to designate the area as protected also took into account the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).