Pétursey is a 274-meter-high palagonite mountain standing
alone east of Sólheimasandur in the Mýrdalur area of South Iceland. The
mountain was formerly known as “Eyjan há” (“the high island”), and clear
evidence suggests that it was once surrounded by the sea when sea levels
were higher.
Near Pétursey stands a small hill called Eyjarhóll, believed to be an
ancient volcanic plug formed from basalt on the seabed. The area around
Pétursey is varied and includes facilities belonging to the local horse
association, Sindri.
Several farms are located near Pétursey, including Eystri-Pétursey,
Vestri-Pétursey, Nykhóll, and Eyjarhólar. The area has a long history of
settlement and has played an important role in local farming and coastal
activities.
A large cave known as Eyjahellir is found in Pétursey. In the past, local
farmers used the cave to store boats and fishing equipment. Higher up on
the slope is a small shelter called Reipaból, where ropes were kept. One
of the boats once stored there is now preserved at the Skógar Folk
Museum beneath Eyjafjöll.
Pétursey stendur við Mýrdal.