Bridge Between Continents

Walking Between Two Continents

The Bridge Between Continents, officially named Leif the Lucky's Bridge, is a 15-meter steel footbridge that spans a deep fissure in the lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. The fissure marks where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Built in 2002 by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, the bridge was designed to give visitors a tangible experience of standing on one of the most significant geological boundaries on Earth.

The site sits in the Sandvik area along Route 425, surrounded by rough, moss-speckled lava fields that stretch in every direction. This barren and windswept landscape is part of the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, a region recognized for its extraordinary concentration of volcanic features including craters, geothermal areas, and lava formations created by the exposed section of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.

The Geology Beneath Your Feet

Iceland is one of the few places on Earth where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge rises above sea level. The ridge runs through the center of the country, and on the Reykjanes Peninsula its effects are especially visible. The tectonic plates beneath the bridge are moving apart at an average rate of about 2.5 centimeters per year, though this happens in sudden bursts of seismic activity rather than as a continuous drift. The fissure under the bridge is one of many tension cracks in the area, evidence of the immense geological forces that continue to shape the Icelandic landscape. Recent volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula since 2021 have underlined just how active this region remains.

Visiting the Bridge

The bridge is accessible year-round and open around the clock with no admission fee. A paved path leads from the parking area to the bridge, and information panels along the way explain the geological context. The walk across is brief but offers a memorable photo opportunity with the stark lava landscape as a backdrop. After crossing, visitors can collect a personalized certificate at the Reykjanes Geopark visitor center or the Folk Museum in Gardur, a popular souvenir that confirms the symbolic continental crossing.

A Natural Stop Near Keflavik

At just 23 kilometers from Keflavik International Airport, the Bridge Between Continents makes a practical first or last stop on an Iceland trip. It pairs well with other Reykjanes attractions including the Gunnuhver geothermal area, Hafnaberg sea cliffs, and the Reykjanesviti lighthouse, all within a short drive. The area is exposed and can be windy, so a windproof jacket is advisable even on otherwise calm days. Stick to marked paths around the bridge, as the lava terrain can be unstable with hidden sinkholes.