Grotta, Seltjarnarnes

Grótta was protected in 1974. Grótta is actually an island that connects to the mainland by a thin isthmus that is submerged when the tide rises. The island’s coast has mostly been built up from subsidence and therefore resembles a shallow bowl. The area is closed to traffic from May 1^st – July 15^th for birdlife protection.

The island is well vegetated and lush despite monotonous vegetation and relatively few varieties.
Grótta has a rich and diverse birdlife. According to research, there are around 450 Arctic tern pairs in Grótta. The Arctic tern is a responsibility species and wholly protected.

A lighthouse was first built in 1897, and the lighthouse keeper Albert Þorvarðarson (1910–1973) resided there for many years. The Seltjarnarnes Search & Rescue team is named after him.

Grótta was once a launching point for fishing vessels, and it is said that a ship once perished by Grótta lighthouse.

The reserve is 39.6 ha in size.