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Surtsey Nature Reserve protects the volcanic island that formed south of Vestmannaeyjar during eruptions from 1963 to 1967. The area has been protected since 1965.
Surtsey has been carefully protected so scientists can study the natural colonisation of new land by plants and animals with minimal human interference.
The island is therefore one of the world's most remarkable natural research sites. Public access is not permitted, but visitors to Vestmannaeyjar can explore the wider region and local attractions such as Vestmannaeyjar Swimming Hall.
Access to Surtsey is strictly controlled and landing on the island requires special permission.
The purpose of protecting Surtsey is to allow the natural development of a new volcanic island and the colonisation of plants and animals to proceed with minimal human interference.
Surtsey was formed by volcanic eruptions between 1963 and 1967 and has since become an exceptional natural laboratory for studying ecosystem development on newly formed land.
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Surtsey Nature Reserve
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Surtsey - Friðland er friðlýst náttúrusvæði á Íslandi. Hér finnur þú upplýsingar um náttúru svæðisins, verndargildi og áhugaverða staði í nágrenninu.
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