Embarking on a road trip through Iceland’s south coast is nothing short of a surreal adventure. This region of Iceland is dotted with glacial lagoons, imposing waterfalls, and vast black sand beaches. One of the highlights is undoubtedly Jökulsárlón, but there is so much more to explore beyond this iconic spot. Here, I’ll guide you through my own journey along the south coast, providing insights, tips, and personal observations to help you plan your own unforgettable trip.
Setting the Stage: Practical Information
Before diving into the destinations, it’s essential to cover some practical aspects. A road trip in Iceland, especially along the south coast, often means long drives in remote areas. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Car Rental: Opt for a 4×4 vehicle, especially if you plan to venture off the main roads. While the Ring Road (Route 1) is well-maintained, having the right vehicle provides flexibility and safety.
- Weather:
- Fuel Stations:
- Accommodation:
- Food and Supplies:
Starting Point: Reykjavik to Vík í Mýrdal
The journey typically begins in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. After soaking in the city’s unique charm, head southeast on Route 1, the Ring Road. Your first significant stop will likely be the picturesque town of Vík í Mýrdal.
Vík, with its black sand beaches and dramatic sea stacks, offers a stunning introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty. The Reynisfjara beach is particularly famous for its basalt columns and powerful waves. I stood there, mesmerized by the stark contrast between the black sands and the white-capped waves, taking in the raw power of nature. Don’t forget to visit the charming Vík church, perched on a hill overlooking the town and the Atlantic Ocean.
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
A short drive from Vík brings you to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck. This American Navy DC plane crashed on the black sand beach in 1973, and it’s now a popular attraction for tourists and photographers alike. The walk from the parking area to the wreck is about 4 kilometers each way and can be somewhat challenging due to the weather and terrain.
As I trekked towards the wreck, the vast emptiness and desolate beauty of Sólheimasandur struck me. The sight of the abandoned aircraft against the black sand background is undeniably haunting and a photographer’s dream.
Waterfalls: Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss
No trip along Iceland’s south coast would be complete without stopping at some of its spectacular waterfalls. Two of the most notable are Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss.
Skógafoss: Located just off the Ring Road, Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s largest waterfalls at 60 meters high and 25 meters wide. A short walk brings you to the base of the falls, where you can feel the mist and hear the deafening roar of the water. There’s also a stairway that leads to an observation platform above the falls, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Seljalandsfoss: A unique feature of Seljalandsfoss is the path that allows you to walk behind the waterfall. Be prepared to get wet, but the experience is well worth it. Standing behind the falls, peering through the curtain of water, I felt a profound sense of connection with nature that words cannot fully capture.
Svartifoss: The Black Waterfall
Further along the Ring Road, you will find Svartifoss, another stunning waterfall famed for its unique basalt column formations. The hike to Svartifoss is moderately challenging, but the trail is filled with beautiful scenery, making the effort worthwhile. The name Svartifoss translates to « Black Falls, » a nod to the striking dark lava columns that frame the water.
The sight of Svartifoss is truly captivating. The dark hexagonal columns contrasted with the white foamy water create a visual masterpiece that seems almost unreal. As I stood there, admiring the natural artistry, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the geological forces that sculpted this wonder.
Jökulsárlón: The Crown Jewel
Jökulsárlón, the glacial lagoon, is undoubtedly one of the crown jewels of Iceland’s south coast. Enormous icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float in the lagoon, creating an ever-changing landscape of ice and water. The sight of these blue-tinted ice chunks drifting silently in the lagoon is something I will never forget.
You can take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the icebergs, or simply walk along the shore and marvel at the beauty. Nearby, Diamond Beach offers another awe-inspiring spectacle where ice chunks from Jökulsárlón wash ashore and glisten like diamonds against the black sand.
Spending time at Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach felt almost otherworldly. The sheer beauty and tranquility of the area had a profound calming effect, providing a perfect counterbalance to the rugged and often harsh Icelandic landscape.
Beyond Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull National Park
While Jökulsárlón is a major highlight, the surrounding Vatnajökull National Park has even more to offer. The park is named after Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, and it’s home to diverse landscapes ranging from glacial ice to volcanic craters and geothermal areas.
Exploring the park, I was struck by the variety of terrain. One moment I was walking on glacial ice, and the next I found myself in lush green fields or volcanic landscapes. The Skaftafell area, in particular, offers numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience, each providing unique vistas and photographic opportunities.
Hofn: Gateway to the East
Continuing east, you’ll arrive in Höfn, a charming fishing town often considered the gateway to East Iceland. Höfn is known for its lobster, and trying the local langoustine dishes is a must. The town itself is small but provides all the necessities for travelers, from restaurants to grocery stores and gas stations.
Höfn was a delightful mix of local culture and stunning natural surroundings. I enjoyed wandering the quiet streets and taking in the harbor views, all while savoring some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever tasted.
Final Thoughts
A road trip along Iceland’s south coast is a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. From the striking contrasts of black sand beaches and glacial lagoons to the thundering waterfalls and vast volcanic plains, every turn offers a new and awe-inspiring sight. For me, this trip was not just about seeing these incredible locations but also about experiencing the profound peace and connection with nature that Iceland fosters. If you have the chance to explore this magical place, I highly encourage you to take it—there’s nothing quite like the South Coast of Iceland.