Grótta Lighthouse & Kvika Footbath in Reykjavik, Iceland

On the outer reaches of Iceland’s capital city Reykjavik, at the most northwestern point of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula sits Grótta Lighthouse.

A bird sanctuary, place of beauty and solitude, this is a favorite spot for those looking to get away from the bustle just a few blocks away. To reach the lighthouse it is a short walk of no more than five minutes. However, you have to visit at low tide if you want to make it there, because the spit of land disappears otherwise. You never know what the tide will wash in.

The birds hungrily feed on what will be covered with ocean in a few short hours.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

From May 1^st to July 15^th the preserve is closed for the protection of these birds, another note to take in for planning your visit. Walk along the beach and past the whimsical cement shells through the tall grass, then you’re there.

A lighthouse has been at this location since 1897, the current structure was finished in 1947.

On a grey day the sight was stark, some say a colorful sunset is a beautiful time to visit. Someone graffiti’d a bird in flight on the back of the beacon.

Make your way onto the rocks and take in the view, reaching out towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

Identify the landscape and have fun trying to pronounce the names.

When admiring the view, be aware of the tide change to avoid becoming stranded on what turns into a little island. Driving to the lighthouse is easy and the little parking lot is free. Additionally you could catch the 11 bus from downtown, walking takes approximately 40 minutes along the paved Sculpture and Shore Walk. Just before you reach the lighthouse there is a lesser known attraction, you’d never it was of significance if you weren’t seeking it out. Kvika Footbath is a tiny geothermal foot spa with a splendid view.

Sit along the edge of the stone and soak your weary dogs, there is nothing more perfect after plenty of exploring on foot in Iceland.

See the capital in the distance across the Faxafloi Bay, but in deep relaxation feel miles away.

This isn’t a natural structure, but an interactive sculpture crafted by artist Ólöf Nordal. It is easy to find Kvika using GoogleMaps, you can park for free by the heating company pump station, which is your first clue you are in the right place.

Head towards the old wooden shark preparation shed and hope the little pool is empty. If you’re thirsty, there is a spurting water fountain that might be a bit tricky to sip from on a windy day.

Both Grotta and Kvika are a great place to watch for the northern lights in the proper season, due to the minimal light pollution. I especially prefer the latter if it is free because it will keep you warm during the chilly night. Just remember to bring a towel to dry your feet off with.