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Take in the view at Dyrhólaey

63.402694,-19.130320, Iceland

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

0.3 miles

Elevation Gain

16.4 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jonathon Reed

Get an unparalleled view of Reynisfjara and Mýrdalsjökull glacier at the top of a 120-metre promontory on the south coast of Iceland.

I put Dyrhólaey on my to-visit list because of the rock arch that gives the peninsula its name. What made it memorable, however, was its breathtaking view—the flat, treeless coastline jutting into rock shelves and glacier peaks is typical for Iceland’s south coast but was absolutely remarkable to view from above.

I recommend that you spend the night in Vik, which has a number of sleeping options. My preferred spot is Vik Campground, because it’s relatively inexpensive and has a communal indoor cooking and eating space for when you’re camping in inclement weather. Dyrhólaey is a 20-minute drive from Vik. Take the Ring Road west and turn south onto Highway 218 (Dyrhólavegur), which is marked with a yellow sign for Dyrhólaey. You can then follow 218 all the way to the top of the promontory. The last section of the road has a set of switchbacks that might be impassable in winter weather.

At the top, there is a wide parking lot from which you can explore the rocks and views to the north, or an out-and-back path to the lighthouse and view of the rock arch above the ocean. Bring your camera, but be aware that drones are prohibited to ensure the wellbeing of the numerous ocean birds—including puffins and Arctic terns—that call Dyrhólaey home.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Groups
Scenic
Wildlife
ADA Accessible

Reviews

A beautiful location overlooking black sand beaches but the true highlight is the cliff side full of puffins. I watched them endlessly leave and return to their nests with beaks full of fish.

This is a great viewpoint. To the north is the large beach and to the south are the "trolls" There is a lighthouse as well. Something to note is the rough road getting up there. We did it in a honda fit like vehicle, but I remember it being considered a rough road. Meaning if we got stuck there with our rental vehicle we were liable!

We also visited the place because of the ark, however the vistas towards both sides and especially the Reynisfjara were amazing. We left the car there, which was much less crowded and went from there on foot down to the beach which was perfect. I only need to stress that it was very windy (and judging from the signs, this is the normal condition there) so you better be careful and have some windproof jacket with you.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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