Iceland is not any secret vacation spot. From its scrumptious meals, issues to do, and unbelievable locations to go to, it famously makes for an action-packed vacation. One of these great locations to go to is the southern coast. The south coast of Iceland is densely full of some of the nation’s finest sights. There are so many issues to do and see on the south coast of Iceland that it’s one of probably the most well-known street journey routes.
31 Best Things To Do and See on Iceland’s South Coast
Visiting the south coast of Iceland, you could possibly mix glacier climbing, bathing in scorching springs, strolling black sand seashores, and exploring ice caves in simply sooner or later. The fast succession of attraction after attraction makes southern Iceland one of the most well-liked vacationer locations. This information will cowl one of the best issues to do and see on Iceland’s south coast. Excited? You needs to be.
If you solely have a small quantity of time in Iceland we do suggest leaping on a tour to see probably the most quantity of highlights in the shortest timeframe. The South of Iceland Full Day Trip from Reyjavik is an ideal approach to do simply that.
1. Foss a Síðu
Foss a Síðu is one of probably the most lovely waterfalls in south Iceland. The waterfall sits on personal property simply off the roadside and is well acknowledged by its single drop straight off dramatic inexperienced cliffs. There is a tiny city by its base, and you’ll be able to stroll only a few minutes alongside a gravel street to get nearer to the falls.
It is finest to go to Foss a Síðu throughout spring or summer season when visibility is excessive sufficient to benefit from the view from a distance. The waterfall is free to see, and it’s straightforward to park off the roadside, as there are numerous small roads main to the city and native residences. Hamrafoss Cafe is usually open on a seasonal foundation simply reverse Foss a Síðu. The small cafe has gorgeous views of the falls, heat drinks, and rest room services.
2. Skogar Museum
Skogar Museum is one of the prettiest historic sights in south Iceland. The open-air museum is cut up into three sections, the mannequin turf village, the Folk Museum, and the Museum of Transport. The mannequin village is the picture-perfect postcard picture of Skogar. You’ll spot conventional Icelandic housing with hanging inexperienced roofs. It is a superb place to immerse your self in early Icelandic residing and historical past. The Folk Museum is far more informative, with displays on ‘fishing, agriculture, farming, and natural history’, and the Museum of Transport educates guests on the event of Iceland – significantly in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
Skogar Museum is open 364 days a 12 months between 10 am and 5 pm, though these opening instances range relying on sunlight hours every season. You could discover it extra satisfying in heat climate, however it’s appropriate to go to all 12 months spherical. It prices $16 per grownup and has parking conveniently on-site. Skogar Museum has rest room services, a restaurant, and a memento store.
3. Raufarholshellir
Raufarholshellir is a lava tunnel cave positioned firstly of Iceland’s south coast. Visitors can take guided excursions via the tunnel – admiring the lava rock, stalactites, and pure ice sculptures. Raufarholshellir is an enchanting pure attraction for these in geology and volcanic exercise. Besides, who else can say that they’ve walked via a lava tunnel? Raufarholshellir was shaped in the Leitahraun eruption round 5,200 years in the past, and you’ll be able to select both a 60-minute or 3-4 hour tour via the tunnel. This scenic attraction is unquestionably one in your bucket listing when visiting the south coast of Iceland.
Raufarholshellir is open day-after-day between 10 am and 5 pm. Adult tickets price $52 for the usual and $147 for the extra prolonged tour. Raufarholshellir does have parking obtainable, however it additionally affords shuttle providers from Reykjavik as a day journey. You can go to any time of 12 months, and as an indoor attraction, it’s a good possibility on a wet day. Winter at Raufarholshellir is made further particular by the ice sculptures, too, so don’t draw back from visiting at any time of 12 months.
4. Take a puffin watching tour
Iceland’s south coast is an absolute haven for tiny puffins. There are quite a few viewpoints the place you’ll be able to spot them independently alongside the coast. Alternatively, you’ll be able to e book a tour to let an professional provide help to spot the little celebrities. This tour is a well-liked possibility positioned simply outdoors Reykjavik. It takes you on a singular journey on the lookout for puffins, in a RIB craft which permits you to get on the market quick and get an up-close have a look at these superb birds. The tour has an important success fee and affords gorgeous views of the Icelandic panorama as you go.
Iceland has a strict puffin season; if you would like to see them, you’ll have to go to between May and August. You may get fortunate and spot a number of stragglers simply outdoors of this era, however as a complete, these months are probably the most dependable for sightings. This tour operates in the course of the puffin season and prices $75 per grownup. You’ll discover parking and fundamental services on-site.
5. Seljavallalaug Geothermal Pool
You can go to touristy geothermal swimming pools just like the Blue Lagoon (extra on that later). But what about some extra rural, lesser-visited scorching springs? Seljavallalaug Geothermal Pool is a extra pure scorching spring positioned only a quick stroll from a small automotive park. Allow round twenty minutes to stroll to the springs, the place you’ll discover fundamental services, together with altering rooms. The pool is just a little tough and prepared – don’t be shocked by the odd algae development right here and there. The pure ambiance is definitely worth the journey. Seljavallalaug can be thought-about one of the oldest swimming swimming pools in Iceland.
Seljavallalaug Geothermal Pool is finest visited in summer season when it’s hotter. It is technically an all-year-round vacation spot, although. Just be ready to be chillier in winter and autumn, because the water’s thermal warmth is misplaced faster. And one of the best information is that Seljavallalaug Geothermal Pool is completely free.
6. Fagrifoss
Fagrifoss is one of probably the most lovely however distant waterfalls in Iceland. Ready for an journey? You’ll want a 4WD car and a real spirit of grit. Fagrifoss is reached by way of a tough monitor and adrenaline-inducing river crossing. The splendor of the thundering white waterfall in opposition to the inexperienced moss and black basalt rock is nicely price it, and reaching Fagrifoss is simply half of the attraction. The waterfall is 80 meters excessive, and your 4WD journey solely will increase the extreme ambiance.
It is finest to go to Fagrifoss throughout summer season or when there was much less rainfall. The river crossings are closed after heavy rain, so keep away from touring to Fagrifoss throughout this time. The waterfall is free to go to, so that you gained’t lose something in case you discover the rivers uncrossable.
7. Fagradalsfjall Volcano
Fagradalsfjall Volcano is Iceland’s newest volcanic eruption. The volcano is positioned in southern Iceland and shortly turned one of the island’s most well-known volcanic eruptions. The slow-moving lava was predictable sufficient for guests to hike and stand subsequent to for photos. If you need to go to a real-life, lively volcano, go to Fagradalsfjall in southern Iceland. You can park on the roadside and deal with one of the climbing trails independently, however we suggest taking a guided hike to keep protected.
Guides are native consultants and can monitor vital components like gasoline dangers. Plus, even a brief stroll in Iceland usually entails harsh circumstances and unmarked terrain. You can e book your guided hike right here, and many excursions supply transfers from Reykjavik as a day journey. There are little to no services at Fagradalsfjall, and your solely price would be the value of the tour. It is price checking the volcano’s exercise standing so you already know what to count on and plan to hike in spring or summer season for optimum visibility.
8. Dverghamrar
Dverghamrar is small however awe-inspiring. The tiny canyon is lined with basalt columns in hexagonal shapes and is positioned simply off of the Ring Road, nearly reverse Foss a Síðu. It is a dreamy location for a fast photoshoot and perfect if you would like a fast ten-minute cease off on a south coast street journey. A tiny strolling path cuts via Dverghamrar and loops again to just a little automotive park. Take your time strolling via, studying the informative indicators, and pausing for photos.
Dverghamrar is free to go to and appropriate at any time of 12 months – preserve in thoughts that the strolling path will get icy and slippery. There are not any services on the canyon itself, though Hamrafoss Cafe is price visiting for bathrooms and refreshments whether it is open. It is lower than a ten-minute stroll from the Dverghamrar automotive park.
9. Gljufrabui
Gljufrabui is a secret waterfall hidden in a slim canyon subsequent to Seljalandsfoss Waterfall. Gljufrabui is only a quick stroll to the left of its neighboring main waterfall, and you’ll want to hopscotch throughout a sequence of pure stepping stones to attain it, so deliver some waterproof boots and trousers. The canyon is gorgeous, with towering moss-covered partitions of vibrant inexperienced, and it looks like navigating a slot canyon.
Gljufrabui is free to go to and has parking obtainable close to the trailhead. It does get just a little busy (one of the best secrets and techniques are inconceivable to preserve, in spite of everything) so go to out of peak season and hours if you would like it to your self or embrace the crowds.
10. Visit an Ice Cave
Natural ice caves are nothing quick of magical, and the south coast of Iceland has loads. The caves are shaped as meltwater strikes via glacial ice, with glacial rivers hollowing out the ice to create caverns and lovely tunnels. The finest time to go to the caves is between winter and spring when temperatures are colder, and the caves are extra intact.
While it’s technically doable to go to ice caves alone, we don’t suggest it. Book a guided tour the place consultants lead you to the most recent and most spectacular ice caves. You’ll be given crampons and a tough hat for security, and you’ll profit from professional help and information of the land. Tours often contain a brief glacier hike to attain the ice caves, which is an journey in itself. You can e book visits to ice caves on most of the glaciers on the south coast, together with Katla Glacier, which is accessible from Vik.
11. Horseback Riding
Horseback using is a bucket listing factor to do south coast of Iceland, particularly contemplating all the gorgeous black sand seashores. Icelandic horses are tiny, fluffy creatures with stoic personalities and stunning energy for his or her small measurement. Icelandic horses are additionally famed for his or her distinctive fifth gait. Not solely can they stroll, trot, canter, and gallop, however they’ll additionally tolt. A tolt is a four-beat gait that appears like a pace stroll, and it’s the good gait for overlaying giant distances at a barely quicker tempo than strolling.
You can discover horseback using excursions alongside the south coast and ring street. There is a using heart in Vik, Bakkahestar Horse Riding Tours, and Mr. Iceland Horseback Riding Tours. Look on-line on the completely different choices and coincide your journey with good climate for one of the best expertise.
12. Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Fjallsárlón lagoon is one of the prettiest glacier lagoons in Iceland, and this glacier lake is nicely price visiting whenever you go to the south coast. Forget being in Iceland; Fjallsárlón lagoon feels such as you’ve been transported to Antarctica. The lake is positioned proper on the tongue of the glacier, and Fjallsárlón is one of Iceland’s most spectacular outlet glaciers. Standing on the lake’s shores, you’ll look straight up on the glacier tongue, surrounded by icebergs floating in the water.
You can go to and take a brief stroll alongside the lagoon’s shores or take to the waters on an iceberg boat tour. A ship tour is a improbable approach to get shut to some of probably the most dramatic icebergs, and costs begin at $65 per grownup. Otherwise, having fun with Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon from the shores is completely free. You’ll discover bathrooms and parking obtainable.
13. Westman Islands
Visiting Westman Islands is not any imply feat. The tiny islands are positioned off the south coast of Iceland and are solely accessible by ferry. The ferry journey is dramatic mid-winter, and you’ll have icebergs galore to spot alongside the way in which. The islands are volcanic, with jagged rock formations and rugged pure magnificence. The Westman Islands are famed for fowl and whale watching – so preserve your eyes peeled and deliver pair of binoculars.
The finest time to go to the Westman Islands is in summer season or spring when puffins and whales are extra generally sighted. During this era, the ferry crossing will likely be a lot smoother as nicely. You can depart your automotive and take the ferry as a foot passenger or deliver the automotive with you to maximize what you see throughout your journey. Tickets price $14 per grownup a method and between $21 to $28 in case you deliver a automotive (relying on measurement). You will discover fundamental services like cafes and bathrooms whenever you arrive.
14. Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir Geothermal Area is one of probably the most concentrated small areas of geysers and scorching springs in Iceland. While not technically on the Ring Road loop, Geysir is simply a two-hour detour – which is nice for Iceland. It is a well-liked day journey from Reykjavik, and if you’re finishing the south coast over a number of days, it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
The most well-known geyser in Geysir is Stokkur, which explodes each ten minutes at heights of up to twenty meters. There can be a spread of effervescent springs and brightly coloured sulfurous waters dotted across the space. The Geysir Geothermal Area looks like it’s on one other planet or at the very least such as you’ve been despatched again to prehistoric instances. You’ll discover parking reverse the positioning with a customer heart providing refreshments and rest room services. The space is improbable at any time of 12 months, though will probably be simpler to attain in hotter months.
15. Svínafellsjökull Glacier
Svínafellsjökull Glacier is one other gorgeous glacier positioned alongside Iceland’s south coast. There is a lovely viewpoint only a quick drive down a aspect street off the Ring Road. You park in the free automotive park and then stroll the rest of the route. Walking across the glacier lagoon on the base of Svínafellsjökull Glacier is a serene climbing path, and you’ll have gorgeous views of icebergs and the glacier itself.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier has free bathrooms, parking, and eating places close by. It is one of the best glacier detours alongside the Ring Road and is conveniently positioned proper subsequent to Skaftafell, a major vacationer vacation spot on Iceland’s south coast. If you don’t need to go glacier climbing however nonetheless need to stand up shut to a glacier, then Svínafellsjökull Glacier is for you.
16. Kvernufoss Waterfall
Kvernufoss Waterfall is that waterfall. The highly effective single-drop waterfall drops off moss-covered cliff faces, partially obscured by the curved cliff face. Visitors take a brief stroll to Kvernufoss Waterfall, strolling alongside the river on a graveled strolling path for about ten minutes earlier than reaching the bottom. Kvernufoss Waterfall was as soon as comparatively under-appreciated, however it’s now turning into one of Iceland’s hottest waterfalls to go to. And, positioned proper subsequent to the Skogar Museum, it’s simply added to even the busiest itineraries.
There are parking, rest room, and refreshment services close to the Kvernufoss Waterfall trailhead. It is free to enter, though you need to deal with your self to a scorching drink from Cafe Skogar when you’ve visited. Kvernufoss Waterfall is prettiest after heavy rainfall, which is one thing to take into account when planning a go to.
17. Solheimasandur Plane Wreck
Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is an enchanting spot on the south coast of Iceland. The airplane wreck has been there for over 50 years, and whereas a tragic scene, it has additionally turn into a beloved south coast attraction. You can enter the airplane itself and, whenever you’ve explored, can stroll just a little additional to benefit from the black sand seaside that it’s located simply earlier than.
Visiting Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is free until you select a guided tour (Usually by ATV). Reaching the airplane wreck requires a 45-minute stroll every approach, ranging from the Solheimasandur Plane Wreck automotive park off the Ring Road. Because of the prolonged stroll, we suggest visiting Solheimasandur Plane Wreck throughout spring or summer season, when the climate is milder and climbing is extra satisfying. Alternatively, buy shuttle bus tickets to save time, heat, and vitality.
18. Fjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a lovely, two million-year-old canyon on the south coast. At round 2km in size, it’s a beautiful out of doors attraction to spend a number of hours exploring. Fjaðrá river runs via the canyon’s heart, with attribute snakes and curves. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is so magnificent that it has been used in movies and music movies – from Game of Thrones to Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You”.
You’ll discover bathrooms and parking obtainable, however in any other case restricted services. It is price checking that Fjaðrárgljúfur is open earlier than visiting as nicely, as it’s ceaselessly closed to permit nature to get better from the hoards of vacationers. Visiting is free, so add it to your listing of budget-friendly sights on Iceland’s south coast.
19. Skogafoss Waterfall
The mighty Skógafoss waterfall is one of probably the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland. Visitors park in a small automotive park off the Ring Road and hike a brief distance alongside a well-laid path to attain the bottom of the falls. If you need, problem your self to an extra 370 steps to attain the highest of the falls, the place you’ll be able to peer down on the waterfall under. Skogafoss is the last word image of mighty nature, and it’s a nice pure attraction on Iceland’s south coast.
Skogafoss waterfall is free to go to and affords parking. It can be positioned subsequent to the Skogar Museum and a group of different waterfalls, so it’s good for combining with different sights. It stays open all 12 months spherical, though you need to take care in moist and slippery climate.
20. Reynisfjara Beach
The south coast of Iceland is famed for its black sand seashores, and Reynisfjara Beach proves why. The seaside is characterised by its jagged basalt columns set into a large cliff face. The mixture of jet-black basalt columns and the black sand is gorgeous, and you’ll be able to stroll additional down the seaside to go to Halsanefshellir Cave, which is shaped primarily by basalt columns.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is well accessed by turning off the Ring Road and driving down the 215 street for simply over 5 minutes. Parking on the finish of the street, you then stroll straight onto the seaside. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is free for individuals to go to, which is a superb bonus. You can go to any time of 12 months; be aware of freak waves in unhealthy climate.
21. Blue Lagoon
Who hasn’t heard of the Blue Lagoon? (We wrote a complete submit on how to go to the Blue Lagoon right here)Even in case you assume you haven’t, you’ve in all probability seen it on Instagram or in advertising campaigns. It is probably the most well-known geothermal lagoon in Iceland and is a well-liked day journey from Reykjavik. Located on the far west edge of the south coast, it’s a nice attraction for anybody with restricted time in Iceland. The scorching spring is heated by byproducts from the close by geothermal energy station and is a hanging milk-blue shade.
You can spend hours wading via the completely different pool sections, and there’s a combination of pure volcanic rocks and artifical extras like a sauna, steam room, and cave part. Guests additionally get a complimentary face masks and an alcoholic or smooth drink of their selection. There are services galore – together with bathrooms, altering rooms, showers, eating places, cafes, and luxurious lodging. Opening instances vary from round 8 am till 9 pm, relying on the season, and customary grownup tickets price $60.
22. Go Ice Climbing on a Glacier
Fancy one thing tougher than a normal glacier hike? How about mountain climbing? Ice climbing is a superb exercise on the south coast of Iceland, particularly on outlet glaciers like Sólheimajökull Glacier. For security causes, the one approach to go mountain climbing is to e book a guided tour – however this has its advantages. You’ll be supplied with all of the climbing tools and security gear and led by professional instructors to deal with sections of the glaciers for final views.
Ice climbing is difficult, however you’ll be able to partake as a newbie or superior ice climber. It is costlier than glacier climbing as a result of of the extra superior nature of the expertise. You can try guided ice-climbing excursions like this on-line. Ice climbing is an all-year-round exercise.
23. Múlagljúfur Canyon
Múlagljúfur Canyon is one of the lesser visited canyons on the south coast – however who is aware of why as a result of it’s beautiful. To attain the canyon, take a detour off the Ring Road down a gravel street for roughly ten minutes. You then attain a small automotive park the place there’s a tiny trailhead. You hike for round thirty minutes earlier than you attain a shocking viewpoint over the canyon. Get prepared to channel your interior Jurassic Park as a result of the inexperienced moss and film-worthy canyon cliffs have an actual prehistoric ambiance.
Múlagljúfur Canyon is free to go to and open all 12 months spherical. It might be finest to go to in spring or summer season when climbing is safer and extra satisfying, however dry climate and good visibility are probably the most essential components. There are not any services at Múlagljúfur Canyon, so be ready to tough it just a little.
24. Skaftafell Nature Reserve
Skaftafell is an enormous reserve, full of every little thing from glaciers to volcanoes and extra climbing trails than you already know what to do with. The oldest rocks in the park are round 5 million years previous, and nature is classy. Skaftafell is ideal for out of doors attraction seekers in spring and summer season. You can even go to the customer heart and its cafe all 12 months spherical. The customer heart is nice for further suggestions and recommendation on what to see and do contained in the park. It is a various show of Icelandic nature, and you could possibly be admiring ice caves one second and waterfalls the subsequent. Keep your eyes out for any guided excursions and excursions in the reserve.
The park is free to go to and has ample parking. There are additionally fundamental services like bathrooms and refreshments on the Skaftafell cafe. While appropriate all 12 months spherical, Skaftafell is extra of a spring and summer season vacation spot when its climbing trails open.
25. Sólheimajökull Glacier
We’ve talked about glacier climbing, however the place finest to do it? We vote for Sólheimajökull Glacier. This glacier is thought for its hanging blue ice and mottled black and white ash-covered sections, and you’ll be able to simply e book one of the Sólheimajökull Glacier hikes. Donning a pair of crampons and a tough hat is an thrilling approach to expertise one of Iceland’s most lovely pure sights.
Sólheimajökull Glacier isn’t removed from Vik, and you’ll be able to e book many glacier climbing excursions in Vik itself, getting transfers to the glacier base. Glacier climbing is an appropriate exercise all 12 months spherical (though extra nice in hotter, drier climate), and most tour operators have fundamental services like bathrooms and parking on web site.
26. Svartifoss Waterfall
Svartifoss is a lovely waterfall set in a wall of basalt columns, giving it a singular 3D impact. Basalt columns are photogenic however matched with a shocking 20-meter waterfall, and the result’s mesmerizing. To attain the waterfall, you hike for roughly 40 minutes every approach. The trailhead is correct subsequent to Skaftafell Visitor Center and a parking lot. It is a superb free factor to do on Iceland’s south coast – particularly in case you love waterfalls.
While visiting, you need to mix Svartifoss Waterfall with Skaftafell Glacier, Hundafoss, and maybe a puffin tour. The path itself lacks services. However, the customer heart has bathrooms and refreshments, which is handy. Svartifoss Waterfall is most suited to spring and summer season climbing when the path is evident and simpler.
27. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Be ready to see lots of waterfalls alongside the south coast of Iceland, however Seljalandsfoss is one of one of the best. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is finest recognized for its part behind the falls, the place you’ll be able to stand behind the waterfall – getting just a little moist from the spray however getting a singular perspective of the water’s energy. It is well accessed only a quick stroll from a parking lot off the Ring Road.
Seljalandsfoss is free to enter and has paid parking obtainable for these driving. It is finest to go to on a non-windy day to go behind the falls with out getting as moist. Since it’s a highly regarded waterfall, attempt to go to in the course of the shoulder seasons like September and October to keep away from the plenty of crowds.
28. Vatnajökull National Park
Vatnajökull National Park is dwelling to the large Vatnajökull Glacier and some of one of the best out of doors adventures on the Icelandic South Coast. Its glacier is the biggest in Europe, and the park is 5,460 sq. miles. Only formally named a nationwide park in 2008, Vatnajökull National Park marked a brand new daybreak of preservation in Iceland. Fascinatingly, Vatnajökull National Park covers roughly 80% of Iceland’s landmass. It consists of many sights already in this information – like Skaftafell Nature Reserve. However, it’s such a giant half of the south coast’s tourism scene that we had to give it its personal slot.
Vatnajökull National Park is free to enter, however additionally it is finest explored on guided excursions if you would like to partake in excursions actions like glacier climbing. The Vatnajökull National Park has many services and customer facilities, however some areas are fully distant with no everlasting human buildings. Similarly, some areas have parking, whereas others aren’t even accessible by street. Research particular locations in Vatnajökull National Park fastidiously and enquire forward if you’re uncertain when reserving a tour.
29. Diamond Beach
A visit to the south coast of Iceland is simply full in case you go to Diamond seaside. Diamond Beach will get its title from the washed-up icebergs on its shores, and the icebergs have a vibrant, diamond-like glint that has made the seaside standard amongst photographers and vacationers alike. The seaside has black sand, heightening the distinction and making the aesthetic much more lovely.
Diamond Beach is completely free to go to and affords free parking. It can be positioned proper subsequent to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, so it’s nicely mixed with a go to to the lagoon or boat journey to spot icebergs. While Diamond Beach is appropriate to go to all 12 months spherical, be aware of freak waves, particularly in unhealthy climate.
30. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a shocking pure attraction on Iceland’s south coast. The glacial lake lies in the wake of Jökulsárlón Glacier, adorned with glistening iceberg sand and the odd seal sunbathing. You can go to a number of viewpoints across the lake’s edge or take to the waters with a zodiac boat tour. This is a improbable approach to get shut to icebergs and wildlife.
Visiting the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is free, and zodiac excursions price $97. It consists of simply over an hour in the water, and you’ll have a small group expertise the place you’ll be able to ask your information heaps of questions and get nearly one-to-one consideration. Getting shut to the icebergs is mesmerizing, so keep in mind to deliver a digital camera. you may as well e book a Full Day journey from Reyjavik if in case you have restricted time.
31. Black Sand Beach at Vik
Just across the different aspect of the headland from Reynisfjara, Vik’s black sand seaside has a special ambiance. You can watch horses race down the coast from the close by horseback using heart, stroll with different vacationers and native households, and admire distant rock formations offshore. There’s extra of a neighborhood really feel.
Vik is such a central level on the south coast of Iceland. If you need to e book last-minute excursions, visiting the black sand seaside is an effective way to fill in time whereas ready in Vik. The seaside is free to enter, has parking, and is appropriate regardless of the season. Just be cautious of these freak waves we’ve talked about in awful climate.
South Coast of Iceland FAQs
Now that we’ve lined all one of the best issues to do and see on Iceland’s south coast let’s have a look at some important info. These are the commonest south coast of Iceland FAQs.
How to get to the South Coast of Iceland
Getting to the south coast of Iceland is surprisingly straightforward – so long as you will have a driving license and lease a automotive. First, you fly into Keflavik International Airport. The airport has direct connections to tons of of locations, so reaching Iceland by airplane is a straightforward first step. Then, rent a automotive on the airport and drive an hour to Selfoss to be part of Route 1 – aka the Ring Road that circles the entire of Iceland and is the primary street that cuts via southern Iceland.
If you don’t drive, that is the place issues get just a little trickier. You’ll have to catch the Flybus into Reykjavik, catch a number of buses to attain Selfoss, or buy a shuttle ticket. Allow up to three hours if you’re getting to the south coast of Iceland this fashion. It is feasible and will want a bit of further planning.
Getting across the South Coast of Iceland
Driving is probably the most satisfying approach to get across the south coast of Iceland. The ring street is simple to drive, and even off-the-beaten-track sights that require detours nonetheless have comparatively straightforward gravel roads. Just be aware of icy street circumstances in the winter months. It can be price downloading offline maps together with your Google Maps account to keep away from getting misplaced in areas with restricted or no sign. Don’t depend on having the ability to use knowledge.
If you’ll be able to’t drive, you should utilize public buses. There’s additionally a hop-on, hop-off bus service that departs from Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik and stops at some of the foremost locations alongside the south coast of Iceland. These stops embody Selfoss, Hella, Seljalandsfoss, and Vik. While you’ll have a lot much less freedom to determine when, the place, and how lengthy to cease, getting across the south coast of Iceland by bus is possible. It is good for many who can’t drive, need to lower your expenses, and are completely happy to stick to the primary sights.
Best time to go to the South Coast of Iceland
The winter months could also be finest for experiencing the northern lights and magical darkish nights, however one of the best time to go to the south coast is in the course of the summer season months. Summer in Iceland lasts from June to August (though September is an efficient shoulder month various), and you’ll be able to expertise the midnight solar throughout this time.
In summer season, you will have extra sunlight hours, higher driving circumstances, and extra vacationer providers working – just like the hop-on-hop-off shuttle bus. It is extra sensible and satisfying when visiting the south coast of Iceland.
To Conclude
The Icelandic south coast is a lovely area of Iceland. The tons of of issues to see and do make it the right place to benefit from the ‘land of fire and ice’. Whether you stroll climbing trails previous ice caps and glacial rivers, loosen up on a black sand seaside, sightsee Iceland’s tallest waterfalls, or enterprise to a airplane wreck, you’ll keep entertained. Iceland’s south coast has reminiscences to final a lifetime. We hope you take pleasure in each minute of it.
When you’ve explored the south coast of Iceland, why not problem your self to go additional? You might full the famed Golden Circle street journey and even embark on the final Ring Road route. Iceland is full of fascinating information, locations, and issues to do – the southern coast is only the start.