Where 'bergs are born

Where 'bergs are born

© Cavan Images/SuperStock

As the ice caps around it have slowly shrunk, the iceberg-laden lake known as Jökulsárlón has only grown wider and deeper. The lake began forming in the 1930s as meltwater filled the recesses left by Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which began retreating in the 19th century. In recent decades, glacial melting has kicked into high gear, reportedly doubling Jökulsárlón in size from the 1990s to the mid-2000s. Though its growth is a reminder of threats facing glaciers worldwide, it's rightfully a popular attraction: Visitors are often lucky enough to witness the 'birth' of icebergs as they calve off Breiðamerkurjökull and splash into the open water.

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