Iceland’s South Coast I took this long-day tour on my first-ever visit to Iceland in 2010 and it gave me a stunning introduction to the key places the south has to offer. As amazing and extremely diverse scenes opened out before my eyes, I wondered if my camera would go into meltdown with all of the action I was giving it! Each time I stopped at a place, there was something totally different but equally worthy for me to capture.
At the end of a long day of sightseeing, I was the very opposite of tired, just totally exhilarated by the picturesque towns with delightful histories, views of the towering glacier-topped volcano, Eyjafjallajökull, waterfalls with enchanting cascades, and getting close enough to Sólheimajökull to touch the ice. As the trip concluded back in Reykjavík, I felt so alive I wondered if I had received a transfusion of energy from the amazing geothermal power plant!
My day concluded with a late supper before I fell into a beautiful sleep as images of myriad waterfalls poured through my mind. A full-day trip driving yourself or a private tour will show you the very best.
If you want to see everything listed below and partake in all of the referred-to activities, you will need to stay overnight.
The Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant
This geothermal power plant, providing green and sustainable energy, draws its power from the tremendously active and high-temperature geothermal field of Hengill. Hellisheiði is the highest-capacity geothermal utility heating provider in the world. Going to the Visitor Centre (free) and Exhibition (fee) is an absolute must, showing the many innovative developments at Hellisheiði since it opened in 2006. Why not take your time and enjoy the hiking trails? Trail information is available at the Visitor Centre. With Hellisheiði nestling in a valley, surrounded by high heathland, and steam rising from the ground, the hiking paths take you into otherworldly landscapes.
Hveragerði town
Hveragerði is a hot spring garden town, and in summer it is filled with colorful flowers. You will see the geothermally heated Gróðurhús, the hot houses where vegetables are grown. This pretty town is surrounded by hot springs, and the Hverasvæðið Geothermal Park is a must-visit (fee) attraction. If you take a short walk up the hill past the swimming pool and follow the pathway up, you will see more hot springs in the midst of lovely scenery. Walking beside the river is beautiful too. Continuing beyond the Frost and Fire Hotel there is a 3.1 mile-long (5 km) trail through the mountains to Reykjadalur Valley, where you can bathe in the naturally warm river.
Selfoss town
Selfoss is an attractive riverside town with over 7,000 inhabitants. Although it is a base for trade and industry, it has a really peaceful feel. The river, Ölfusá, dominates the charming scenery, along with the beautiful church. The grave of the chess maestro and maverick, Bobbie Fischer, can be found along a track by the church.
Selfoss is a charming town located in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River. It is a popular stop for tourists due to its central location, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding attractions such as the Golden Circle, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the South Coast. Selfoss offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and accommodations, making it a convenient and comfortable place to stay during your Icelandic adventure.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Just a short distance from Highway 1, the vistas of this almost 200-foot-high waterfall are waiting to greet you. On my first visit, I was astounded by the vivid greenness of its surroundings. This cascade offers you an opportunity that is almost unique, with the chance to walk behind it and peep through the tumbling ‘curtain’ of water. Taking care not to slip and wearing your rainwear are strongly recommended.
Seljalandsfoss is a breathtaking waterfall located in the south of Iceland. It’s situated on the Seljalands River, which originates from the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. What makes Seljalandsfoss unique is that visitors can walk behind the waterfall and experience the cascade from an entirely different perspective.
The waterfall is 65 meters high, and the water drops from a rocky cliff, creating a spectacular sight. Visitors can follow a footpath that leads them behind the waterfall, where they can enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The experience is particularly enchanting during sunset or sunrise when the light creates a magical ambiance around the waterfall.
The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is easily accessible by car, and there’s ample parking space available. Visitors can also explore the nearby Gljúfrabúi waterfall, which is hidden behind a rocky crevice and is equally breathtaking. The area around the waterfall is ideal for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Iceland.
It’s worth noting that during the winter months, the path behind Seljalandsfoss can be slippery due to ice, so visitors should wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution. However, the waterfall is equally impressive during the winter months, with its frozen beauty creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
Gljúfrabúi waterfall
The name of this waterfall, situated close to Seljalandsfoss, means ‘dweller in the gorge’. Hidden by a cliff, it really does dwell in the gorge. Dropping from a height of around 131 ft, the cascade shimmers dramatically against the high, stark rock.
Skógafoss Waterfall
Skógafoss is a magnificent waterfall located in the south of Iceland, along the Skógá River. It is one of the most popular and well-known waterfalls in the country, drawing in visitors from all around the world. Standing at an impressive height of 60 meters (197 feet) and with a width of 25 meters (82 feet), the waterfall is a truly breathtaking sight to behold. The power and force of the waterfall can be felt from far away, as the water cascades down the cliffs and sends a fine mist into the air. Visitors can take a close-up look at the falls by walking up a short flight of stairs to a viewing platform. From there, they can get an up-close look at the immense power of the falls and the surrounding landscape. For those looking for a bit of adventure, a staircase leads up to the top of the waterfall, where visitors can take in the views from above and hike along the river. The hike leads to a series of smaller waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and beauty. Skógafoss is not just a stunning natural wonder, it also has a rich history and mythology surrounding it. According to legend, a Viking settler named Thrasi buried a treasure behind the waterfall, but it has never been found. The waterfall was also said to be the hiding place of a troll woman who, after being caught by the sunlight, turned to stone. Whether you come for stunning natural beauty, history, mythology, or adventurous hikes, Skógafoss is a must-see destination in Iceland that will leave you in awe of the power and majesty of nature.
These spectacular falls drop nearly 200 feet as the river, Skógá, tumbles over the ancient sea cliffs. If you are willing to climb the stepped pathway on the right-hand side, you can view Skógafoss from above. Jewel-hued rainbows often show around the cascade.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Sólheimajökull Glacier is a stunning glacier located in southern Iceland, close to the popular Skógafoss waterfall. This glacier is part of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and is a popular destination for hiking and glacier exploration tours. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the glacier’s icy blue formations, crevasses, and ice caves. It’s an otherworldly experience to walk on the glacier and see the natural wonders up close. Guided tours are highly recommended to ensure safety and to fully appreciate the beauty of this glacier.
This glacier is the stunning tongue of the much larger Mýrdalsjökull, the glacier that tops the Katla volcano. Just 2.67 miles (4.3 km) from Highway 1, the Sólheimajökull parking lot is easy to access using a regular car. However, due to glacier melt, the glacier recedes farther away from the parking lot each year. The walking time is now 15 to 20 minutes, but let me tell you, it is well worth it.
Glacier hiking is available all year round, with or without ice climbing. In summer, you can kayak on the mirror-smooth surface of a glacial lagoon, with reflections from the ice rising above you casting mesmeric patterns in the water. You can also enjoy the best of both worlds, a kayak trip on the lagoon, followed by a fabulous hike on the ice. Contact us if you’d like to book some activities.
Eyjafjallajökull Glacier
This is the glacier-topped stratovolcano whose 2010 eruption dominated world news when its super-fine ash cloud reached the perfect height to stop air traffic. Eyjafjallajökull’s summit rises to a magnificent 5416 ft (1651 m). The eruption generated a whole new lava field, named Goðahraun.
Eyjafjallajökull’s magnificent icecap is a powerful and omnipresent part of the landscape here. It is clearly visible from Highway 1. If you are traveling from the Reykjavík direction there is a viewing point on the left just after Þorvaldseyri Farm and the now-closed Eyjafjallajökull Visitor Center.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is a stunning natural wonder located on the south coast of Iceland. The beach is known for its unique black sand, towering basalt columns, and powerful waves crashing against the shore. The beach stretches for about 2.5 kilometers and is surrounded by tall cliffs made of basalt rocks, which have been eroded by the sea over time. One of the most striking features of Reynisfjara is the Reynisdrangar, two towering sea stacks that rise out of the ocean. According to legend, these stacks were once trolls who were turned to stone by the rising sun. Visitors can walk along the beach and marvel at the unique geological formations, such as the basalt columns that resemble a giant staircase. While Reynisfjara’s beauty is undeniable, visitors should exercise caution when visiting as the waves can be powerful and unpredictable. The beach has a dangerous reputation due to “sneaker waves,” which are large waves that can come out of nowhere and pull people out to sea. Visitors should always stay on marked paths, never turn their back on the ocean, and never climb on cliffs or basalt formations.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers visiting Iceland. The combination of black sand, towering cliffs, and unique geological features create a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.
This beautiful black sand beach is most famous for the troll-like sea stacks that rise above the sea off-shore, and the large cave that is formed from imposing angular basalt columns. Standing next to those columns, I felt very small. Safety: It is important to keep well back from the water, as without any warning large ocean waves can threaten your safety.
Airplane Wreck
The Airplane Wreck in Iceland is a fascinating and eerie attraction located on the black sand beach of Sólheimasandur. The wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 plane has been sitting there since 1973 when it crashed on the beach. The plane wreck is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and adventure seekers who want to experience something out of the ordinary. The stark contrast of the white plane against the black sand creates a surreal and hauntingly beautiful scene. To reach the plane wreckage, visitors must hike approximately 4km from the parking lot, but the journey is worth it for the stunning views along the way. The airplane wreckage in Iceland is a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting the area.
The US Navy aircraft crashed in November 1973. With scarcely any visibility in a terrible storm, and with ice building up on the wings, the pilot had no option but to attempt an emergency landing. The parking is adjacent to the ring road and clearly signposted. You need to look out for it between Vík and Skógar.
It takes 40 to 60 minutes to walk across the level but rough terrain to the wreck. This area is very exposed, so it is important to ensure you have extra layers and rainwear with you. Taking the shuttle bus across the sands will save you a lot of walking time. The timetable can be found here.
Dýrhólaey Arch
Dýrhólaey Arch is a natural rock formation located on the south coast of Iceland, just east of the town of Vik. It is a prominent landmark in the area, standing 120 meters high and stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean. The arch is part of a larger headland that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and rolling ocean waves. Visitors can hike up to the top of Dýrhólaey for an even more breathtaking vantage point. In addition to its scenic beauty, Dýrhólaey is also home to a rich variety of birdlife, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes.
For me, this former island which is now connected by a promontory is a wonderfully dramatic and atmospheric place. See the cliff with the archway, black beaches, the lighthouse, and in summer the puffins that nest in the cliffs here.
Vík
Vík is a charming coastal village located in southern Iceland. Situated on the Ring Road between Reykjavik and the town of Höfn, Vík is one of the most popular stops for tourists exploring the area. The village is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and picturesque rock formations. One of the most famous landmarks in Vík is the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which rise dramatically from the ocean and can be seen from miles away. Visitors to Vík can explore the local culture and history by visiting the village’s small museums and galleries. The Víkurfjara beach is a popular destination for beachcombing, and the nearby Dyrhólaey cliff offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Vík is also a great base for exploring some of the most popular natural attractions in Iceland, such as the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the Sólheimajökull glacier, and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in Iceland’s natural beauty or explore the local culture, Vík is an ideal destination for visitors to southern Iceland.
Reyniskirkja Church
The charming Reyniskirkja Church stands high on the hill, like a sentinel guarding the town. The views from here are amazing, including the troll-shaped Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Watch the Atlantic rollers crashing onto the black sands, and walk along the coast.
Those staying overnight in Vík might like to visit the totally unique and absolutely stunning Icelandic Lava Show or enjoy the swimming pool. Vík is Iceland’s southernmost town with hotels, guesthouses, and apartments for those staying overnight. Ice Wear and a range of shops offer everything from fabulous souvenirs and outdoor clothing to groceries in Krónan, or alcohol at Vínbúðin.
Food Options on the South Coast Tour Iceland
There are cafés and restaurants at the shopping complex in Vík, and also around the town.
The Soup Company is highly recommended.
There are some good places to stop for food along the route. A few of my suggestions are:
Gamla Fjósið / The Old Cowshed at Hvassafell, 861 Hvolsvöllur. Open from 4 April to 22 Oct.
Eldstó Art Café / Restaurant at 860 Hvolsvöllur
Stracta Bistro, Stracta Hotel, Rangaflatir 4, 850 Hella
Gas stations are cheap and convenient places to eat: N1 at Vík and Hvollsvöllur Olís Gas Station at Hella
Written by Kay Tina Cook
