Iceland, IS

outdoors

Skógafoss

Skógafoss is easily one of our favorite waterfalls in South Iceland. One of the biggest in Iceland, the majestic waterfall cascades 60 meters down the cliff. On a sunny day, it is common to catch a rainbow or two due to the spray from the waterfall. We managed to catch a double rainbow while we were here and the view was nothing short of spectacular! You can see Skógafoss from Route 1 (Ring Road) and to get there you turn off at Skógar and follow the signs. There is a parking lot just in front of the waterfall so you don’t have to walk far. Because it is so accessible, expect a crowd unless you visit the waterfall early. We tried to get as close to the waterfall as we can to get a picture without anyone else in it. Just be very careful as the waterfall is powerful and definitely be prepared to get wet! There are also steps just to the side of Skógafoss that leads straight to the top where there is a viewing platform. If you’re feeling adventurous, there is also a trail that continues up the Skóga river for almost 24 km to Thórsmörk, through Fimmvörðuháls pass.

Iceland, IS

outdoors

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most visited and photographed waterfalls. The water flows from the melting ice caps of the volcano Eyjafjallajökull and cascades over a steep cliff. This making it possible to walk behind it which provides a truly unique experience unlike any other waterfall in Iceland. There is a footpath that brings you around the waterfall, but be careful as it can get slippery due to the spray from the waterfall. You’ll most likely get wet so we recommend bringing along a raincoat. Also, don’t forget to bring along covers for your electronic devices like cameras as they will most likely get wet too. Despite the crowds, we particularly enjoyed this unique experience being behind a waterfall. It’s not every day that you get to stand behind a majestic waterfall and get such a unique viewpoint. Seljalandsfoss is located right by Route 1 about two hours from Reykjavik which makes it a popular place to visit. Parking is available at the carpark right by the waterfall although you might expect to have to wait for a spot.

Iceland, IS

destination

Path to Wrecked DC-3 Plane on Sólheimasandur

Given the abundance of beautiful natural landscapes South Iceland has to offer, the plane wreck is somewhat of a peculiar attraction. Since its crash in 1973, it has been left abandoned on the black beaches in Sólheimasandur. The contrast of the wreckage lying against the vastness of the surrounding paints a haunting picture, which many have come for. The plane wreck is about 4km from the carpark and should take you about an hour to walk there depending on how fast you go and the weather conditions. The scenery along the way does not change much and can be pretty dull after a while. It is also a little hard to gauge the distance to the plane wreck and you won’t actually see it until you are pretty much there as it sits over a ridge on the black beach. The weather here can change rather unexpectedly in this vast area, so don’t forget to pack some raincoats and extra layers!

Iceland, IS

outdoors

Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón is known for its grand sight with huge pieces of Icebergs lining the lagoon. Formed from the retreating of Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, it is Iceland’s deepest lake at a depth of close to 250m. You can spot the occasional ash-grey on some icebergs indicative of volcanic activities that have left their mark, reminding us again why Iceland is the land of fire and ice. You can opt for the amphibian boat tour in Jökulsárlón that brings you around the giant icebergs for an up-close experience. Either way, you should not leave this out if you are planning a trip to South Iceland.

Iceland, IS

destination • experience

Diamond Beach

Located right next to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the black beach called Breiðamerkursandur. The icebergs that float in the glacier lagoon slowly melt and make their way into the ocean with some washing up onto the beach. Glistening in the sun, these ice chunks look like diamonds, giving the beach its well-earned name. From the beach itself, some of the larger icebergs occasionally crash into other icebergs, making it a spectacular sight. In the right season, you’ll also be able to spot seals or even orcas from the shore!

Iceland, IS

outdoors

Reynisdrangar

Known as Reynisfjara, the Black Sand Beach was voted one of the top non-tropical beaches by National Geographic in 1991. We think that alone is enough reason to visit Reynisfjara but if you need more reasons, read on. The sand’s black tint is a result of the volcanic minerals and rocks that make up this beach. We took a long stroll along the beach and watched the powerful Atlantic waves crash against the contrasting black sand, creating a dramatic scene. The sneaker-waves are what you need to watch out for, as there are times when the sea looks deceivingly tranquil. There has been a number of casualties here caused by sneaker-waves so never turn your back to the sea! You’ll also find the popular Gardar basalt columns on the beach which makes a great backdrop for pictures. Not far off the basalt cliff, you’ll spot Reynisdrangar, the freestanding sea stacks out in the sea. Legend has it that these were two trolls caught in the daylight while pulling a ship to sea! Whatever it is, Black Sand Beach sure makes for a mystical setting. We definitely recommend spending a bit of time here to admire Mother Nature’s work.

Vik, Iceland

lodging • outdoors

Dyrhólaey

Most people visit Reynisfjara without making a stop here but we highly recommend this hidden gem. It is just a short drive away from Black Sand Beach and we recommend coming here for the sunset. The drive up to Dyrhólaey is a rather bumpy and steep one but the views definitely are worth it! Dyrhólaey translates to “door hole”, referring to the massive arch that has been carved by the powerful waters over time. You’ll also see the stoic looking Dyrhólaey lighthouse on top of the cliff not far from the arch itself. Dyrhólaey is a nesting area for many species of birds. It is, therefore, a great place to spot puffins in the right season (May – September)! We missed the puffin season during our trip but we were still in awe by the amazing sunset we caught over Dyrhólaey.