Region
Reykjanes Peninsula
60 km from Reykjavik
Gardur and the Gardskagi Lighthouses
Iceland's lighthouse village: two lighthouses mark one of the country's best birdwatching spots at the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Population
~1,600
Reykjanes Peninsula • Lighthouse village
Gardur sits at the northernmost point of the Reykjanes Peninsula, where its twin lighthouses guide ships past the meeting of ocean currents. The quiet village draws birdwatchers and photographers who want an open stretch of coast without the crowds.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Gardur's Gardskagi point is one of Iceland's top birdwatching locations, especially during spring and fall migrations.
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Official sources to check
Population
~1,600
Quiet coastal community
Known for
Twin Lighthouses
Gardskagi lighthouses & birdwatching
Top Attractions in Gardur
Gardskagi Lighthouses
Historic 1897 and 1944 twin lighthouses
Gardskagi Birdwatching
Seabird observation point
Gardur Folk Museum
Local history and maritime heritage
Coastal Walking Trails
Paths along the shoreline
Seal Watching
Seals often spotted from shore
Midnight Sun Views
Popular summer sunset location
How to Get to Gardur
From Reykjavik: 55 minutes by car via Route 41, continuing past Keflavik to the peninsula's tip.
From Keflavik Airport: About 20 km (20 minutes), an easy side trip before or after your flight.
Public transport: Strætó bus service connects Gardur with Keflavik and other Reykjanes towns.
Best Time to Visit Gardur
Spring & Fall: Peak birdwatching seasons during migration, with many seabird species passing Gardskagi.
Summer: Midnight sun, puffins, and long days. Popular with photographers.
Winter: Northern Lights viewing with the lighthouses in the foreground. Quiet season.
Planning help
Gardur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.