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The Geysir Geother­mal Area

Surtsey is Iceland’s southernmost outpost and one of the offshore islands of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.

Surtsey was formed during a volcanic eruption that first broke the surface of the sea on 14 November 1963.

Protection Status

On 17 June 2020, the Geysir Geothermal Area was designated a natural monument.

The protected area covers approximately 1.2 km².

The purpose of the protection designation is to promote the conservation of unique geological formations, hot springs, microorganisms, and specialised vegetation within the geothermal area, which is considered exceptional on both a national and global scale.

The designation also aims to ensure that the area remains available for education and scientific research, reflecting its high educational and scientific value both nationally and internationally.

At the same time, the protection framework is intended to support sustainable recreation and tourism into the future, ensuring that the area is equipped to accommodate the large number of visitors it receives each year.

The designation also seeks to restore disturbed natural features and habitats wherever possible, returning them to a condition that more closely reflects their original state.