Reykhólahreppur

Reykhólahreppur was a rural municipality in Iceland located in the Vesturland region. Its administrative center was Reykhólar, a small village that gave the municipality its name. The area was characterized by its natural beauty, including hot springs and geothermal activity, which were prominent features of the landscape. The name "Reykhólar" itself translates to "smoke hills," referencing the steam rising from the ground.

Historically, the region was known for its agricultural activities, with sheep farming being a significant part of the local economy. The municipality encompassed a diverse geography, ranging from coastal areas to inland farmlands and volcanic terrain. Like many rural Icelandic municipalities, Reykhólahreppur faced challenges related to depopulation and economic diversification in recent decades.

In 2022, Reykhólahreppur, along with several other neighboring municipalities, merged to form the new municipality of Reykjanesbær. This consolidation aimed to create larger, more viable administrative units with improved resource management and service provision for the residents. The historical Reykhólahreppur now exists as a part of this larger entity, with its unique heritage and natural assets contributing to the broader cultural and geographical landscape of Reykjanesbær. The legacy of Reykhólahreppur continues to be recognized as a distinct area within the merged municipality.