Brimketill Lava Rock Pool

September 13, 2025 -- A lava rock pool is a natural depression formed on a coastline by the sea eroding volcanic rock. These pools are carved over time by waves crashing against the shore, which creates basins that fill with seawater. A famous example is the Brimketill Lava Rock Pool in Iceland.

Brimketill

Blue Atlantic

Rugged coastline

Stunning views

Brimketill’s current name translates to "whitewater cauldron," although it was not always named such. Historically, it was known as Oddnýjarlaug or "Oddný’s Pool," named after a giantess or troll. According to legend, Oddný used the pool to bathe and wash her clothes; as such it was avoided at night, when she was active (trolls turn to stone in sunlight, according to Icelandic lore).

Watch a video of the water sloshing around the pool

While the lava pool looks like a very enticing place to swim, I suspect that it's not. Between the cold water, slippery rocks, and strong, unpredictable waves, it is very dangerous.  While some people have attempted to swim in the pool, others have fallen to their death.

Reykjanes Peninsula