Gardar on Reynisfjara Beach

Wondering about the famous basalt columns of Reynisfjara Beach?

The cliffs at the base of the Reynisfjall tuff mountain are known as Gardar, after a farmstead nearby.

The Gardar on Reynisfjara Beach feature a multitude of hexagonal basalt columns and form a dramatic backdrop to the black sand beach. The columns are irregular, and may have fewer or more sides, but as a group, they look stunning.

The basalt columns on the Gardar at Reynisfjara were formed ages ago by the cooling of lava when it came in contact with the ocean.

Today the Gardar on Reynisfjara Beach are an attraction worth visiting on their own.

Planning a trip to see the famous black sand beach in Iceland? Bookmark our Reynisfjara Beach website for the complete rundown on every single detail!

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Discovering the Basalt Columns at the Gardar on Reynisfjara Beach

The dark tan columns make for a dramatic contrast with the green mountain, the black beach, and the blue ocean in the summer.

In the winter, there may be snow on the columns and the Gardar cliffs, making for a surreal sight.

You’ll find the columns framing the entrance to sea caves at the base of the cliff and piled up on the cliffs above the caves.

Posing on one of the basalt columns at the bottom of the mountain is a popular activity, but be mindful of sneaker waves that can come in without warning and wash over the lower columns, dragging unsuspecting visitors into the ocean.

Where are the Gardar Cliffs located at Reynisfjara Beach?

You will find the Gardar Cliffs at the eastern end of Reynisfjara Beach, at the bottom of the Reynisfjall Mountain.

The area is close to the parking lots at Reynisfjara Beach.

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