When I went to Iceland for the primary time (approach again in 2012, earlier than the nation grew to become an Instagram darling), I arrived with only a few plans – largely as a result of I hadn’t carried out a ton of analysis earlier than reserving a winter journey to Iceland.
But my lack of plans lasted for about 5 minutes after boarding the Flybus from Keflavik International Airport.
There, within the bus’ seat-back pocket, was a brochure outlining all of the superior excursions and excursions you could possibly do in Iceland. The Golden Circle, horseback using, snorkeling in between tectonic plates… But one tour specifically caught my eye: the South Shore Adventure on Iceland’s South Coast.
The South Coast ended up being the primary a part of Iceland I actually skilled (after the Blue Lagoon). And it is the one a part of Iceland that I’ve visited on all FOUR of my journeys to Iceland.
If you have got a rental automotive in Iceland, you may discover the South Coast over the course of a pair days. If you do not have a automotive, there are a number of tour corporations that do day journeys and even in a single day excursions to this a part of Iceland. Either approach, it is part of the nation you will not wish to miss!
An introduction to Iceland’s South Coast
The South Coast of Iceland has no official “start” and “end,” however most individuals would agree that it begins across the city of Selfoss, stretches by way of the village of Vík í Mýrdal and Vatnajökull National Park, and ends roughly across the city of Höfn.
(Höfn is in fact technically in East Iceland, however we’ll simply name that space the southeast coast; it is nonetheless unimaginable.)
The distance between Selfoss and Höfn is 400 kilometers (about 250 miles), and the best way to journey is through Route 1 AKA the Ring Road AKA Þjóðvegur 1. All the websites I’ll embody listed below are both alongside the Ring Road, or simply reachable from it.
The South Shore has a few of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, from thundering waterfalls to black sand seashores to glaciers and ice caves. And since I’ve been there a number of instances in nearly each type of climate you may think about, I’ll share my ideas on which spots are must-sees and which of them you may possibly skip when you’re brief on time.
When to go to the South Coast
Iceland’s South Coast is a well-liked space for vacationers to go to year-round. The Ring Road doesn’t shut besides in probably the most inclement climate (which may technically occur any time of yr, however is extra seemingly within the fall and winter).
The hottest time to go to Iceland is in the course of the summer time – primarily July and August. Anytime from June-September is an effective wager although by way of having the ability to entry the whole lot. This can also be the time of yr when the best variety of excursions are operating.
Here are some examples of excellent instances to go to the South Coast by way of what you wish to see:
- Mid-May by way of mid-August – Experience the Midnight Sun, when the solar barely units, or units very very late.
- Mid-May by way of mid-August – Your greatest likelihood to see puffins nesting.
- Mid-June by way of early July – See fields of purple lupins blooming alongside the South Coast.
- September/October – The days begin to get brief sufficient to presumably see the Northern Lights.
I final visited all 25 of the spots listed beneath throughout an August journey to Iceland, however I’ve additionally visited in November.
25 epic issues to do on Iceland’s South Coast
To make this checklist simpler to navigate, we’ll “travel” alongside the South Coast so as from west to east.
I’ll checklist all the most well-liked sights, and provide you with my opinion on whether or not I believe every one is price stopping for or not.
1. Town of Selfoss
Type of sight: Town
We’ll begin within the city of Selfoss, which is lower than an hour’s drive from Reykjavik on the Ring Road. The city is the biggest in South Iceland – however with a inhabitants of beneath 7,000, it in no way seems like an enormous metropolis.
Most individuals drive proper on by way of Selfoss on their technique to different sights on the South Coast, nevertheless it’s price making a fast cease.
The city sits on the Ölfusá River, and is dwelling to the Bobby Fischer Center, which is a small museum devoted to the well-known chess participant. An previous milk manufacturing unit within the middle of city has lately been reworked right into a meals corridor and assortment of retailers; on the very least, cease in for a espresso on the very cute Konungs Kaffi.
Worth it? Yes, for a espresso break or lunch.
Good to know: Most of the eating places within the meals corridor are solely open till 9 p.m.
2. Seljalandsfoss
Type of sight: Waterfall
Chances are you have already seen photographs of this waterfall, because it’s one of many most-photographed waterfalls in Iceland. And it is not obscure why.
Seljalandsfoss cascades 200 ft over cliff right into a rounded pool surrounded by inexperienced moss. Because of the best way the cliff face is shaped, you may really stroll all the best way across the again of this waterfall, which you will positively wish to do!
The path is pretty brief (you may see it from the parking space), nevertheless it’s moist and could be slippery in spots. Know that if you wish to stroll the loop all the best way round behind the falls, there’s some rock scrambling concerned on the far left facet when you’re going counter-clockwise.
Worth it? Yes, it is a very fairly waterfall and strolling behind it’s enjoyable.
Good to know: This is a very fashionable spot, and it’s a must to pay to park within the devoted parking zone (there is a pay station). Since it is so well-liked, although, there are providers right here – together with restrooms.
3. Gljúfrabúi
Type of sight: Waterfall
If you go to Seljalandsfoss, you will discover that the path continues on previous the primary well-known waterfall. Not as many individuals make the 10-minute stroll, however those that do can go to Gljúfrabúi, or the “Canyon Dweller.”
This 130-foot-tall waterfall cascades down right into a small gorge, virtually fully hidden from view. Those who do not thoughts getting moist can stroll/wade into the canyon and see this spectacular waterfall.
Worth it? Yes, however you’ll get VERY WET, so I extremely advocate totally mackintosh, pants, and boots to go to this one.
Good to know: You should stroll/wade by way of a shallow river to get contained in the canyon, however when you’re inside there are giant rock slabs to face on. Obviously do all of this at your individual danger!
4. Gluggafoss
Type of sight: Waterfall
Also referred to as Merkjárfoss because it’s on the river Merkjá, Gluggafoss is one other waterfall price visiting on this space. It’s situated only a 25 minute drive north of Seljalandsfoss, and is usually a lot much less crowded since most individuals do not appear to find out about it.
This waterfall is definitely a collection of falls which have carved out fascinating holes within the rock that resemble home windows (and the Icelandic phrase for home windows is “gluggar,” therefore the Gluggafoss title). The high part of the waterfall plunges 145 ft, whereas the underside part is about 27 ft tall.
A flat path goes proper as much as the falls from the parking space, and you’ll stroll behind the decrease part of the falls right here, too.
Worth it? If you have got the time to make this detour, sure! It’s a pleasant waterfall and often not crowded.
Good to know: Gluggafoss is situated off Road 261, which is a paved highway that meets up with Route 1 in Hvolsvöllur. IF you wish to journey from Seljalandsfoss to Gluggafoss (or vice versa), the shortest route will likely be through Road 250, however know that Road 250 is a gravel highway (although one that’s often satisfactory in a small automotive).
5. Eyjafjallajökull
Type of sight: Volcano
The volcano well-known for snarling 1000’s of flights again in 2011 appears pretty unassuming rising out of the panorama simply north of the Ring Road.
There’s no technique to stand up near it, however there’s a “Eyjafjallajökull Info Point” marked on Google Maps that may be a great place to cease for photographs. There are some information boards to learn right here, too.
Be certain to ask a neighborhood correctly say “Eyjafjallajökull.” After working within the information media in the course of the 2011 eruption and listening to a whole bunch of mispronunciations of the volcano’s title for months, it is all the time cool to me to listen to it roll simply off Icelandic tongues.
Worth it? If you need a picture of the well-known mountain, certain, this can be a fast cease.
Good to know: You can get the identical view on the close by Gamla fjósið restaurant, which makes for a good meal cease.
6. Skógafoss
Type of sight: Waterfall
Not distant, one in every of Iceland’s greatest waterfalls tumbles over one other cliff that marks the nation’s former shoreline.
Skogafoss is likely one of the bigger waterfalls in Iceland (and the biggest on the South Coast), with a peak of round 200 ft and a width of simply over 80 ft. This waterfall really thunders!
Legend has it {that a} Viking settler within the space buried a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall, and folks have been looking out it for hundreds of years. It’s mentioned that somebody discovered the chest at one level and grabbed one of many rings on the facet, solely to have the ring pop off and the chest to vanish once more. The alleged ring can now be discovered on show on the close by Skógar Museum.
You can get pretty near the bottom of the falls right here (put on the rain gear!), and there is additionally a set of stairs that may take you as much as the highest of the waterfall.
The stairs (and know that there are over 400 of them) are steep, although, and until you wish to hike a part of the Waterfall Way (extra on that within the subsequent part), I DON’T suppose climbing the steps only for the Skogafoss view is price it.
Worth it? Stopping to see Skogafoss is certainly price it! Climbing to the viewing platform? Maybe much less so.
Good to know: There’s a big parking space right here, and there is no price to park! There are restrooms, too, however you’ll have to pay a small price to make use of these.
7. Waterfall Way path
Type of sight: Hiking path and waterfalls
Have a while and wish to go on an epic-yet-not-super-popular hike? Then the Waterfall Way may be for you. The path really begins at Skogafoss, and requires you to climb these a whole bunch of stairs subsequent to the large waterfall.
Once you are on the high, the Waterfall Way path follows the Skógá River for 8 kilometers (about 5 miles), passing 26 completely different waterfalls alongside the best way. The Waterfall Way hike is a part of the longer Fimmvörðuháls path, which works all the best way to Thórsmörk.
This is an out-and-back path, so you may hike as a lot or as little as you would like alongside the Waterfall Way.
Worth it? Hiking a part of this path is the one cause I’d advocate climbing the Skogafoss steps! You can hike as a lot of the Waterfall Way path as you have got time for.
Good to know: From Skogafoss, the Waterfall Way path is a gradual uphill stroll. Which means it is all downhill when you resolve to show round.
8. Skógar Museum
Type of sight: Museum
Right subsequent to Skógafoss is the Skógar Museum, a regional people museum that really includes three completely different small museums and 6 historic buildings, together with a reproduction turf home village. It’s an fascinating look into the historic lifestyle on this a part of Iceland.
The three completely different museums embody a people museum, a technical museum, and an open-air museum (the place you will discover the turf homes).
Inside the technical museum there’s additionally a beautiful little cafe that is a wonderful place to seize lunch.
Worth it? If you get pleasure from small people museums, then sure that is an fascinating cease! (And it is cool as a result of you may go contained in the turf homes.) If you are brief on time although, I would not name this a must-do.
Good to know: There is a price to park close to the transport museum constructing of the Skógar Museum – however this may additionally function parking for the following sight on this checklist! When the museum is open, you may go inside to pay; if it is not open, you could must pay through an app like Parka, or on-line at Parka.is.
9. Kvernufoss
Type of sight: Waterfall
Kvernufoss might be my favourite waterfall on the South Coast – and possibly my favourite waterfall in all of Iceland!
It’s very near the Skógar Museum and Skogafoss, and but most vacationers do not appear to find out about it. It’s the one main waterfall on the South Coast that you just may need all to your self even when you’re visiting in the course of the summer time.
Kvernufoss is a skinny 100-foot waterfall half tucked-away in a small gorge. It requires a brief (quarter-hour or so) hike throughout a comparatively flat subject, and when you attain it you have got the choice to stroll down into the gorge and behind the waterfall.
Even although Seljalandsfoss is taller, I felt like being behind Kvernufoss was much more spectacular as a result of you may see principally the complete waterfall because it cascades down.
Worth it? Absolutely sure! This is such a cool waterfall, and never almost as busy as a number of the others on this checklist.
Good to know: The path to get to Kvernufoss begins on the parking zone on the Skógar Museum’s transport museum (which, keep in mind that you must pay to park at; you may pay upfront right here). The path is usually flat, however you do should climb over a farm fence as soon as, which requires you to make use of a ladder-like set of steps.
10. Sólheimajökull
Type of sight: Glacier
If you wish to stand up near a glacier in Iceland, Sólheimajökull is likely one of the most straightforward to entry. So though it is not precisely on the coast in South Iceland, I’m nonetheless together with it right here.
Sólheimajökull is a part of the bigger Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which is the fourth-largest ice cap in Iceland. It sits atop the (nonetheless very lively) Katla volcano, making it a brilliant distinctive place to go to.
You can drive up actually near Sólheimajökull arm of the glacier for photographs, and can even e-book quite a lot of excursions right here together with glacier walks, mountain climbing, and snowmobiling. (Just please by no means try to stroll onto ANY glacier by yourself with no information – ice could be very harmful!)
Worth it? If you wish to e-book a glacier hike, this can be a nice choice that is priced fairly effectively!
Good to know: This is one other spot the place that you must pay to park. You can pay on-line upfront, or through the use of the Parka app.
11. Sólheimasandur airplane wreck
Type of sight: Beach/desert
You’ve seemingly seen photographs of this web site, too – the wreckage of a DC-3 airplane on a black sand seaside.
The airplane was a US Navy Douglas Super DC-3 (the US used to have a army base in Iceland), and it crashed on this huge black sandy plain in 1973 throughout a brief provide mission. No one was harm in the course of the crash, and for no matter cause nobody ever moved the wreckage.
You used to have the ability to drive proper as much as the airplane wreck (I did again in 2015), however you not can. The airplane is on non-public land, and the land house owners acquired more and more annoyed by thoughtless vacationers as the positioning’s recognition grew. They did not fully shut the positioning down or take away the airplane, although. Now you simply should park in a chosen lot and hike to the airplane.
The draw back is that the hike to the airplane wreck is 2 miles every approach by way of very flat (and fairly boring) volcanic desert terrain, and on the finish it is actually simply the partial skeleton of an previous airplane to see.
There is a shuttle that runs individuals out to the airplane each half-hour beginning at 10 a.m. every day (so long as climate permits), nevertheless it prices $20 per particular person along with what it’s a must to pay to park, and I actually do not suppose it is price that.
Worth it? Honestly, no, I do not suppose this can be a cease price making any longer until you are spending quite a lot of time on the South Coast and have 2+ hours to kill with a view to do the hike. I positively do not suppose taking the $20 shuttle is price it.
Good to know: Regarless of the way you get to the wreck web site, you will should pay to park within the lot simply off the Ring Road. You can do that on-line upfront, or utilizing the Parka app.
12. Dyrhólaey Viewpoint
Type of sight: Scenic spot
Located excessive above what’s referred to as “The Endless Black Beach,” the Dyrhólaey Viewpoint is certainly a cease price making on the South Coast. There are literally two areas you may go to on the small Dyrhólaey Peninsula, with probably the most notable one being the point of view on the high of a hill.
The viewpoint has a big parking space with entry to a brief path that loops across the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse. Nearest to the cliff edge, you get nice views of the Dyrhólaey rock formation, which is a big arch. Just beware that it may be VERY windy up right here, so do not get too near the sting!
Worth it? Definitely price it for an epic picture cease.
Good to know: The viewpoint is up on high of a hill, and requires you to drive up a reasonably steep highway. It can even get VERY windy up there. There’s one other viewpoint nearer to seaside stage, which is marked on Google Maps as “Dyrhólaey View Parking Lot.” There are restrooms at this decrease viewing space.
13. Reynisfjara Beach
Type of sight: Beach
Iceland is known for its black sand seashores, and Reynisfjara Beach is maybe probably the most well-known of these. Wind-swept with large Atlantic waves, Reynisfjara is the epitome of of what you in all probability image once you consider an Icelandic Beach.
It’s identified for its tall basalt columns proper on the seaside (which kind the Hálsanefshellir Cave), in addition to the Reynisdrangar rock formations proper offshore (legend has it they’re really trolls who acquired caught and frozen within the daylight). Puffins additionally nest on the cliffs right here in the course of the summer time months.
Reynishfjara is certainly a powerful seaside, nevertheless it’s additionally one of many extra harmful seashores in Iceland. Large “sneaker waves” are widespread right here, and sadly have swept unsuspecting vacationers to their deaths earlier than. There are indicators warning individuals about how harmful this seaside could be, however most individuals ignore them.
Worth it? Honestly I’m on the fence about this one. Yes, it is “famous” in Iceland, nevertheless it’s additionally often crowded and people sneaker waves are significantly no joke and so scary. Ten years in the past I’d have mentioned it was a must-see, however now I type of really feel like you could possibly skip it.
Good to know: There’s a reasonably large parking space right here that is free to make use of (for now, a minimum of). There’s additionally a new-ish cafe referred to as the Black Beach Restaurant proper subsequent to the parking space.
14. Vík í Mýrdal
Type of sight: Town
Not removed from the well-known black seaside is the small city of Vík í Mýrdal, or simply merely Vik. Vik just isn’t actually what I’d name an enthralling city (not like Husavik or Siglufjörður or Seydisfjordur), nevertheless it’s used as a base for a number of journey tour corporations and makes a very good stopping level.
Along with having its personal black sand seaside (that’s a lot much less crowded than close by Reynisfjara), the red-roofed Vík i Myrdal Church can also be a preferred spot for photographs. If the climate is unhealthy, you may try the Icelandic Lava Show or the small Skaftfellingur Museum, which facilities round shipwrecks.
And when you’re searching for meals in Vik, I can extremely advocate Black Crust Pizzeria, which does certainly make pizza with black crust.
Worth it? You’ll in all probability must cease right here anyway, even when it is only for a meal or to fuel up your automotive. You could as effectively see the few sights, too.
Good to know: The Ring Road goes proper by way of the middle of city.
15. Katla ice cave
Type of sight: Glacier
I debated together with this one or not, as a result of the “ice cave” you may go to on Myrdalsjokull Glacier (often simply referred to as the “Katla ice cave”) generally is a bit underwhelming for some individuals. It’s not an enormous, blue-ice cave like those you may see in Iceland within the winter.
BUT, the Katla ice cave is accessible year-round, making this the one ice cave you may see in the course of the summer time months.
You do should e-book a tour with a view to go to the Katla cave, which features a Super Jeep trip and a stroll throughout the glacier. (Book the tour right here)
Worth it? If you do not suppose you will ever go to Iceland within the winter and also you go in with practical expectations, then I believe this generally is a enjoyable tour. (If you are doing one other correct glacier hike, although, then I’d in all probability skip this one.)
Good to know: Glaciers are consistently altering and shifting, so there is no assure the cave will stay a cave ceaselessly. It’s additionally fairly small from the photographs I’ve seen.
16. Eldhraun lava subject
Type of sight: Lava subject
You’re going to see numerous lava fields in Iceland. But the Eldhraun lava subject is exclusive.
Eldhraun is the biggest lava stream of its form wherever on this planet, and was the results of a cataclysmic eruption of a volcano referred to as Laki from 1783 to 1784. This volcanic eruption brought about plague-like illness and famine in Iceland, and the ash and haze from it altered the local weather in the complete Northern Hemisphere. Crop failures brought on by this eruption are even partially blamed for sparking the French Revolution.
Today, the huge lava subject (it covers greater than 215 sq. miles!) is roofed in a thick layer of spongy green-gray moss. This moss appears tremendous inviting to pat or lay on, however please chorus from touching or strolling on it! The moss may be very fragile, and as soon as broken could by no means develop again.
There are a number of locations to cease and see this lava subject; I’d advocate “Gönguleið um Eldhraun” on Google Maps, the place you will discover some information boards and a few established trails you may safely stroll on.
Worth it? Definitely price it for a fast picture cease.
Good to know: Remember, do not stroll on or squish the moss!
17. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Type of sight: Canyon
It appears like a mouthful, I do know. But simply know that “gljúfur” in Icelandic means “canyon.” And this is likely one of the extra accessible canyons you may go to alongside the South Coast of Iceland since it is not far off the Ring Road.
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a canyon by way of which the Fjaðrá river has carved out a placing panorama that appears prefer it belongs in Lord of the Rings. The canyon is greater than 320 ft deep and stretches for over a mile.
A path from the parking space will take you up alongside the highest a part of the canyon, which is fairly gorgeous! You can get good views by simply strolling for about 10 minutes, or you may stroll the entire size of the canyon you probably have extra time. (At the tip there is a waterfall referred to as Mögáfoss to see.)
Just be aware that this canyon has been cherished somewhat an excessive amount of in recent times (thanks partly to Justin Bieber filming a part of a music video right here). When I visited in 2022, a chosen strolling path and twine limitations had been put in alongside the primary half mile or so of the path to maintain individuals from trampling all of the vegetation. The ropes make it unimaginable to get too near the canyon edge.
Worth it? Yes, I do suppose it is price visiting!
Good to know: You should drive down a gravel highway to get right here, nevertheless it’s effectively maintained and satisfactory in an everyday automotive exterior of the winter months. Parking is free, and there are restrooms close to the parking zone. Remember to respect the marked path.
18. Skaftafell / Svartifoss
Type of sight: Hiking path and waterfall
Skaftafell is a protected pure space that is a part of Vatnajökull National Park, which is dwelling to the biggest ice cap in Iceland. Skaftafell was a nationwide park itself, and has a customer middle, campsite, and several other climbing trails.
There are a number of climbing trails in Skaftafell (all beginning close to the customer middle), however the most well-liked are the path to see Skaftafellsjökull (a glacier tongue of the bigger Vatnajökull glacier), and the hike to the well-known Svartifoss waterfall (pictured above).
You’ve in all probability seen photographs of Svartifoss; the 65-foot-tall waterfall tumbles down from the highest of tall, black basalt columns (which supplies the waterfall its title since “svarti” refers back to the coloration black).
The waterfall is certainly memorable, however the hike to get to it’s much less thrilling. It’s somewhat beneath a mile one-way to achieve the waterfall, however the All Trails evaluations that label this hike “easy” are barely deceptive. It is straightforward within the sense that the path is huge and smooth-surfaced and straightforward to observe. But it is solely uphill for about 40 minutes, with some steep sections initially.
Once you get near the waterfall, it’s a must to hike down into the small canyon it flows into the place there is a viewing platform. This complete space was fairly crowded on the August afternoon after I went.
Worth it? Honestly… possibly, however possibly not. If you actually wish to see Svartifoss and do not thoughts the mile of uphill climbing, then certain, go for it. But the hike itself is fairly boring (there aren’t actually any views till you get nearer to the waterfall), and until you may go early or late within the day in the summertime, you positively will not have the view to your self. I’m glad I noticed it as soon as, however seemingly would not do that one once more.
Good to know: If you are searching for an extended hike, you may join the Svartifoss path to the path to the Sjónarnípa viewpoint. Also, there’s numerous parking close to the customer middle, however you do must pay to park at a pay station within the parking zone.
(Note that it is also doable to e-book Vatnajökull glacier climbing excursions *close to* Skaftafell. Like this brief one, or this longer one.)
19. Hofskirkja
Type of sight: Turf church
There are solely 6 turf church buildings left in Iceland, and Hofskirkja is one in every of them. This makes for a straightforward cease alongside the Ring Road that is price it for a photograph.
Hofskirkja was initially constructed within the Eighteen Eighties, and was fully restored within the Fifties. Hofskirkja continues to be a working towards parish, however the church inside just isn’t open to vacationers. You can nonetheless go to the skin and the hooked up cemetery, although, which is full of burial mounds that make the bottom seem like it has waves.
Worth it? Yes, it is a cool picture cease that is completely different from virtually the whole lot else you will see on the South Coast.
Good to know: The constructing is maintained by the National Museum of Iceland. Please respect the truth that vacationers usually are not allowed inside.
20. Múlagljúfur Canyon
Type of sight: Canyon
If you wish to know my private favourite spot on the South Coast… it is this one! Múlagljúfur is a canyon not removed from the Fjallsárlón glacial lagoon that hasn’t but been found by the vacationer plenty.
The canyon just isn’t tremendous straightforward to entry, requiring a drive down a bumpy and pitted gravel highway (I technically did it in an everyday automotive, however a 4WD might be really helpful). Once you make it there, you then have a reasonably strenuous uphill hike for 45 minutes or so on a path that is not likely effectively marked.
But the views when you make it to the highest of the canyon? SO WORTH IT.
You can see a number of waterfalls cascading down into the moss-covered canyon. And, when you get fortunate sufficient to have the clouds half on the head of the canyon, you will additionally see somewhat peek of glacier. (But I believe this spot is much more magical with somewhat fog and mist.)
Worth it? If you are in comparatively respectable form and have a pair hours to dedicate to the entire hike (between climbing and taking photographs, this took us somewhat over 2 hours in good climate), then YES, that is so price it. I’d fortunately do that hike once more.
Good to know: The path is not tremendous straightforward to observe, however simply know that that you must go UP till you get to the canyon’s edge. There’s additionally a river crossing concerned, so waterproof boots are a good suggestion when you’re not assured rock-hopping.
21. Fjallsárlón
Type of sight: Glacier and glacier lagoon
Jökulsárlón beneath is probably the most well-known glacier lagoon in Iceland – nevertheless it’s not the one one! Fjallsárlón is smaller, however typically so much much less crowded.
The official spot to go to is marked as “Fjallsárlón Glacier Parking” on Google Maps. There’s a restaurant right here and a few providers, and that is additionally the place boat excursions on this glacier lagoon start.
If you do not thoughts tackling a bumpy gravel highway, you may as well go to the spot marked as “Viewpoint of Fjallsjökull,” which is an ever quieter spot to view the glacier lagoon and varied glacier tongues. Kate and I visited this space, and had the entire viewpoint to ourselves.
Worth it? If you have got time to go to each glacier lagoons, do it! We really most popular this one as a result of it was a lot extra peaceable.
Good to know: A zodiac tour on Fjallsarlon is extra inexpensive than an analogous boat tour at Jökulsárlón!
22. Jökulsárlón
Type of sight: Glacier lagoon
This is Iceland’s well-known glacier lagoon, the place giant chunks of ice break off the glaciers in Vatnajökull National Park and slowly make their approach out to sea. Getting out into the lagoon on a ship is well-liked right here and pretty straightforward; you are able to do a fast 35-minute tour in an amphibious boat when you’re brief on time, or e-book an hour-long zodiac tour that may get you up nearer to the ice.
You can even simply cease right here for some photographs, as you may stroll proper as much as the sting of the lagoon.
Also, know that the quantity of ice within the lagoon varies from season to season, and typically even from week to week or daily.
Worth it? Definitely, whether or not you are simply stopping for photographs or to take a ship tour on the lagoon. (But do e-book any boat excursions upfront!)
Good to know: Boat and zodiac excursions solely run right here May-October. (During the winter, although, the ice caves are accessible.) Parking is free, and there are restrooms and often meals vehicles right here. Just know that this can be a very busy place, and the parking zone typically fills up quick in the course of the summer time months.
23. Diamond Beach
Type of sight: Beach
Just throughout the Ring Road from Jokulsarlon is a spot referred to as Diamond Beach, the place sea-polished chunks of glacier ice wash up on a black sand seaside. It’s makes for a cool picture cease.
Worth it? Yes, it is an attractive spot the place you may see black sand AND glacier ice collectively.
Good to know: There are two parking areas for Diamond Beach, one on all sides of the bridge that spans the outlet of Jokulsarlon. Parking is free, and it is a brief stroll from the parking space to the seaside over rocky floor.
24. Vatnajökull Glacier
Type of sight: Glacier
You’ve been seeing arms and tongues of this nice glacier all alongside the South Coast – however you may stand up nearer if you need!
As a reminder, Vatnajökull is the biggest ice cap in Iceland, protecting roughly 8% of the nation. Beneath it sit a number of lively volcanoes, in addition to Hvannadalshnjukur, the tallest mountain in Iceland.
During the winter months (often November-March), you are able to do glacier hikes on components of the glacier to go to winter ice caves. In the summer time, although, the most well-liked tour to take here’s a snowmobiling tour on high of the glacier like this one.
Worth it? You’re going to see varied bits and items of this glacier all alongside the South Coast. If you are visiting in winter, doing an ice cave tour right here is certainly price it. In summer time although? You in all probability needn’t make an additional journey.
Good to know: Vatnajokull National Park encompasses the complete glacier and lots of areas round it (the park at the moment protects 5,460 sq. miles!).
25. Stokksnes
Type of sight: Beach and scenic spot
Okay, so this one technically belongs in East Iceland because it’s barely previous Höfn. BUT, because it’s one in every of my favourite locations in Iceland, I’m going to incorporate it right here anyway.
Stokksnes is a small peninsula with dramatic mountains and a black sand seaside. You’ve seemingly seen photographs of the double-peaked Vestrahorn mountain earlier than – I did, and it is what made me wish to go to!
The black sand seaside beneath Vestrahorn with its gently rolling dunes is certainly the star right here, however you may as well go to a “Viking village” that was constructed as a film set, in addition to hike out to a lighthouse and doubtlessly see some seals.
Worth it? Yes, I positively suppose so. Even in August (AKA excessive season), this spot was comparatively quiet and we fell in love with the views.
Good to know: The Stokksnes peninsula is non-public land, so that you do must pay an entry price with a view to go to. Pay your price on the Viking Cafe (which additionally serves espresso and meals, and has public restrooms).
Spots not on this checklist that possibly ought to be:
- Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool – Only reachable by a hike of roughly 1 mile every approach, this can be a geothermally heated swimming pool. No providers besides a fundamental altering space.
- LAVA Centre in Hvolsvöllur – Interactive museum about volcanoes.
- Gígjagjá (“Yoda Cave”) – A enjoyable picture cease and spot to discover, reachable through a gravel highway.
- Hoffell Hot Tubs – 5 small scorching tubs out in nature. Reviews typically say the water is simply too scorching.
(These aren’t on my checklist just because I have not visited them and subsequently cannot speak about them! On my subsequent journey, I’ll attempt to go to a few of these.)
How many days do you want on the South Coast
If you wished to see each single factor listed above (and to possibly do the hikes, glacier walks, boat excursions, and many others.), you want AT LEAST 3 days on the South Coast.
You may simply fill 4-5 days although, or you could possibly whittle it right down to 2 full days when you skipped a number of the longer hikes and solely went as far east as Jokulsarlon.
Iceland South Coast excursions
Want to discover Iceland’s South Coast on a tour as an alternative of driving your self? That’s what I did on my earlier journeys to Iceland. Here are some well-liked excursions to take a look at:
(Note that almost all of those excursions begin in Reykjavik, so these are nice when you’re basing your self there and never renting a automotive.)
Where to remain on the South Coast
There are 3 predominant lodging sorts you will discover in Iceland:
- Hotels – The customary that you just’re used to, with entrance desks and facilities like wifi, lodge eating places, and many others. Hotel rooms in Iceland are often pretty Scandinavian in model, which typically means fairly minimalistic. There are only a few lodge chains or large accommodations in Iceland exterior of Reykjavik.
- Guesthouses – These are often smaller than accommodations. Rooms are fundamental, and you may typically be utilizing shared loos, kitchens, lounge areas, and many others. In smaller cities, guesthouses are extra widespread than accommodations.
- Apartments – There are house leases throughout Iceland, that are good for longer stays or when you’re touring with household or a couple of pals.
Since you are in all probability going to spend a pair nights on the South Coast, listed below are some good lodging choices.
- 360 Hotel & Thermal Baths – The top-rated lodge in Selfoss, this family-run luxurious lodge presents up comfy rooms with gorgeous views. There’s an on-site restaurant, plus a thermal pool for visitors to get pleasure from.
- Ásahraun Guesthouse – Just exterior of Selfoss, you may lease a comfy barrel cabin right here. They are SO cute and comfortable, although they are not made for greater than 2 individuals. Lots of considerate small touches, and a pleasant shared bathe.
- UMI Hotel – Look out on the sea in a single path, and in the direction of Eyjafjallajokull within the different. This lodge is in a quiet spot, and has an on-site restaurant.
- The Garage Apartments – If you need a complete studio to your self, The Garage is a favourite on the South Coast. Apartments have sea, mountain, and waterfall views, and each unit has a kitchenette.
- Solheimahjaleiga Guesthouse – Located on a household farm, this guesthouse presents quite a lot of rooms sorts, in addition to a nightly meal that is extremely really helpful.
- Hotel Vik i Myrdal – The top-rated lodge in Vik, Hotel Vik is inside strolling distance to the city’s black sand seaside. There’s an on-site restaurant, and household rooms out there.
- Hotel Kria – Another of the highest-rated accommodations in Vik, Hotel Kria has an on-site bar and restaurant.
- Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – Located comparatively near each glacier lagoons, this Fosshotel is an opulent choice alongside the South Coast. It has a restaurant and bar.
- Nypugardar Guesthouse – A highly-rated choice near Hofn, this guesthouse on a farm presents cozy rooms with good views.
(Note: If you are touring in the course of the summer time months, you will wish to e-book your South Coast lodging as early as doable! It does refill, and costs do get excessive.)
What to put on in Iceland
I’ve one main packing tip for Iceland: heat, waterproof layers!
No matter what time of yr you are visiting, you are going to need a rain coat (and possibly rain pants), waterproof boots/sneakers of some kind, and a hat in Iceland. Add as many layers beneath as that you must keep heat. (The wind and rain are virtually all the time chilly, and the excessive temperatures hardly ever get above 55 F even in July and August.)
Some must-haves for me embody:
Check out my complete Iceland packing checklist right here.
READ NEXT: 19 Epic Things to Do and See on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Iceland
Who’s able to plan a South Coast journey in Iceland now??
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