Dritvík cove

Admission to Dritvík cove is free

Visitors to Dritvík Cove can enter without any admission fee. Although the parking area has limited capacity, it typically manages to accommodate visitors without filling up completely. Unfortunately, there are no restrooms or sanitary facilities available at this natural attraction.

Dritvík cove is a great place for photography

If you need drama while traveling in Iceland, Dritvík on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the place to go. A place with beautiful landscapes and rich history. Today it isn't easy to imagine that Dritvík was one of the largest fishing stations in Iceland for centuries, with up to 60 fishing boats, dozens of huts, and full of life. From the middle of the 16th century, up to 400 inhabitants lived here during the fishing season, which continued until the early 20th century.

At that time, Iceland was more or less an agricultural society with few hamlets or villages. So, from the middle of February until late May, Dritvík was a particularly active place. Like many places that developed some community by the shore at that time, there were two reasons: rich fishing grounds and good landing places for small boats. But this is a mind-boggling notion because access to this dramatic cove is by no means obvious or straightforward. Especially as this part of Iceland was relatively isolated at this time.

A map of West Region in Iceland

Dirtvík is mentioned in the saga, Bárðarsaga Snæfellsás

A rescue hut is the only building standing amongst ruins from times of prosperity

The rich history of Dritvík is deeply intertwined with the story of its first settler, Bárður Snæfellsás, a half-man, half-troll. As you stroll along the beach, you can’t help but be captivated by the stunning rock formations and the charming pebble stones that grace the shore. Notable among them are Bárðarskip, or Bárður's Vessel, and Tröllakirkja, known as The Troll's Church. These names carry the weight of history, as they commemorate the saga of how Bárður arrived from Norway over twelve hundred years ago.

Upon his arrival, he and his loved ones sought comfort in the traditions of their ancestors, worshipping pagan gods in a cave still present at Tröllkirkja. However, their early days were marred by a tragic ordeal that struck the family hard, a heart-wrenching chapter tied to a nearby place called Rayðfeldsgjá. Many believe that this pain led Bárður to seek refuge in a cave within the Snæfellsjökull glacier, where he is often seen as a guardian spirit watching over the farms and villages in the area. Today, you can still pay your respects by visiting his life-sized statue in the nearby village of Arnarstapi, a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable figure and his connection to the land.

Today Dritvík is an exciting place to visit

The rock Tröllkirkja

Dritvík, with its striking black beach, also carries the weight of its history. A humble rescue hut stands amidst the ruins, a poignant reminder of a time when life there was vibrant and full of promise. For centuries, this spot offered a reprieve from the monotonous and often bleak existence of farm life. It was a place where people could connect and find joy, engaging in the camaraderie and excitement of working together by the ocean. In today’s world, dominated by social media and constant connectivity, it’s hard to fathom how exhilarating young men and women once found the simple pleasures of singing rhymes and lifting stones at nearby Djúpalónssandur. Their experiences remind us of the richness of human connection and the charm of a life lived in harmony with nature.

Access to Dritvík Cove

Ruins from times of more activity at Dritvík cove

To reach Dritvík, drive along Útnesvegur road on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula (Route 574). When you arrive at the intersection with Dritvíkkurvegur road (Route 572), turn south. There is a parking lot at Djúpalónssandur. Approximately one kilometer west of Djúpalónssandur, you will find a path that leads you over rugged lava to Dritvík. The walk along the shore is spectacular, featuring many interesting lava formations. Once you arrive, you'll likely enjoy exploring the area and taking advantage of numerous photo and selfie opportunities.

Location of Dritvík cove on the map of Iceland