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I've noticed that many photographers and photo bloggers often share articles highlighting the most exciting locations for capturing landscape photos. Typically, these lists feature destinations already popular among photographers and tourists. Places are usually scattered across vast distances, sometimes even spanning different regions, states, countries, or continents. While each location is unique and appealing to photography enthusiasts, visiting them all requires significant travel. For instance, to photograph hot springs and glaciers in the US, one might journey from Yosemite in California to the Matanuska Glacier in Alaska. In contrast, if you want to capture a hot spring and a glacier in Iceland, you can complete that drive in just five hours between Geysir and Jökulsárlón. A tourist or a landscape photographer? For those who prefer to avoid the most tourist-heavy areas, Iceland also offers a wealth of geothermal sites and stunning glaciers, including outlet glaciers and glacier tongues, just waiting to be explored. The convenience of short distances between breathtaking natural wonders is one reason Iceland should be on your photographic bucket list. Additionally, the diverse array of colorful landscapes and attractions further enhances the appeal of visiting this incredible destination. Why are there so many places for landscape photo opportunities in Iceland? Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon in low light at autumn Landscape photography goes beyond just having the right gear and settings on your camera; it's about sharing the emotions and experiences you encounter in front of stunning natural wonders. When you invest time and resources into pursuing landscape photography, it’s vital to have a variety of captivating locations at your disposal. Thankfully, Iceland offers an abundance of such spots. The land of ice and fire Often referred to as the land of ice and fire, this phrase was once a clever slogan aimed at tourists, and it has certainly stood the test of time. I prefer to think of my country as a dynamic island forged from magma, water, wind, and the relentless forces of the ocean. Located north by the Arctic Circle and surrounded by the Atlantic, Iceland is a small volcanic island—roughly the size of Kentucky and just a bit larger than Portugal—which makes it easy to explore different regions in a short amount of time. Volcanic activity is still shaping the landscapes of Iceland A country still in the make Geologically, Iceland is one of the youngest landforms on the planet, constantly reshaped by the forces beneath its crust, magma and water. Between March 2021 and December 2024 we have had 11 eruptions at the Reykjanes Peninsula. Above ground, wind and ocean currents exert their own unpredictable influences. For millennia, magma has found its way to the surface in eruptions, lava flows, and tephra deposits approximately every five years. Water manifests itself in various forms, including rainfall, steam, snow, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers scattered across the island. Rhyolite colorful mountains have many landscape photographic opportunities A young island still producing new landscapes In its relatively short geological history of around 16 million years, this small island has birthed some incredibly complex landforms. The landscape is rich with photographic potential, from rugged shorelines to majestic mountain peaks, from bubbling mud pools to the pristine white of glaciers deep in the Highland. Each area presents a fresh marvel, often showcasing striking variations that contribute to an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. The interplay of these elemental forces has resulted in an extraordinary array of colourful, exotic, and unusual landscapes that are a delight to photograph. The opportunities are limitless if you know where to look and how to get there. So, what kinds of locations are we talking about? What kind of natural wonders and landforms for photography do you find in Iceland? Stuðlagil canyon that I discovered and named When you explore the landscape section of any online photography community, you’re likely to encounter breathtaking work by talented photographers—images of mountains, shorelines, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and cliffs, just to name a few themes. Often, these photographs are enhanced by beautiful foreground elements or the effects of gentle winds or captivating weather. You might even find intriguing combinations, such as a mountain with a waterfall in front or a towering peak reflected in a serene lake. In many populated areas, great spots for landscape photography are few and far between, leading many photographers to frequent the same limited locations. However, this isn’t the case in Iceland, as you’ll discover on my photography website. Sunrise by Fellsfjara (Diamond beach) in October This small island is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes and unique landforms. It’s estimated that Iceland boasts over 1,600 waterfalls of all shapes and sizes, each taller than two meters. Throughout the island, you’ll encounter fascinating calderas and hundreds of colourful craters—some filled with turquoise blue lakes—resulting from eruptions that occurred thousands of years ago and some that happened less than a decade ago or even ta few weeks ago. The landscape features extensive lava fields from various eruptions, ranging from sharp, fresh lava to soft expanses blanketed in green, brown, and yellow moss. If glaciers pique your interest, you’ll find numerous stunning outlet glaciers flowing from the main ice cap, with glacier tongues cascading over 1,600 meters and breaking apart along the way, often creating lagoons filled with icebergs below. The vast variety of landscapes photography opportunities Iceland is also home to vibrant geothermal sites that remain surprisingly under-visited. The island is crisscrossed by an infinite number of small and large canyons, ravines, and fissures, while striking basalt column stacks and colourful rhyolite mountains dot the landscape in abundance. The unique black sand beaches and vast "black deserts" in the Highland add to the visual appeal. We also have lava caves, ice caves, glacial rivers, spring-fed streams, fjords, mountains, stunning shorelines, intriguing cliffs, sea stacks, and tranquil lakes. The opportunities for landscape photography are endless, with nearly every type of landform appealing to photographers' eyes. The only notable absence is expansive forests or large areas of trees, as Iceland is characterized more by its vast open spaces. When you combine the short distances between locations with the incredible variety of landscapes to capture, Iceland becomes an irresistible destination for photographers. And believe it or not, there’s even more that makes this island so appealing to those behind the lens. The natural light and the many different versions of the golden hour in Iceland Langisjór lake in the highland in Iceland The term "GOLDEN HOUR" holds significant meaning for photographers, emphasizing the crucial role that sunlight plays in landscape photography. Many photographers center their work around the stunning light during sunrise and sunset, as this is when the sun’s rays are more horizontal than vertical. The long shadows, softer light, and warm hues of yellow or pink create magical moments. In many populated areas in the southern part of the northern hemisphere, the golden hours of morning and evening are relatively consistent throughout the year, with the sun rising and setting in similar spots on the horizon. However, this is not the case in Iceland, where one experiences multiple golden hours rather than just one. Sunset at midnight close to Ásbyrgi in the north east region in Iceland Landscape photography and the many golden hours in Iceland In the summer, particularly around the end of June, sunrise occurs in the north at about 12:30 AM, a little to the east, while sunset also takes place in the north but slightly to the west, approximately 23 hours later. In some northern regions, the sun may not set at all, merely dipping to the horizon before rising again. Conversely, in winter, especially at the end of December, the sun rises in the south, a bit to the east, around 10:00 AM, and sets six hours later, around 4:00 PM, slightly southwest. In winter the coastline in the north newer sees neither sunrise nor sunset. This fluctuation can be somewhat confusing, so let’s delve deeper as it’s essential for photographers visiting Iceland. Skógafoss waterfall frozen in winter and limited sunlight but enough for a rainbow Take the Skógafoss waterfall as a prime example. Situated near Iceland’s south shore, it serves as an excellent illustration of how the golden hour transforms throughout the year. Standing at the base of Skógafoss, you face north, with the stunning waterfall in front of you. Its impressive square shape is bordered on the right by the eastern cliff and on the left by the western shoulder. In the summer, sunrise greets you from behind the waterfall in the east, while sunset occurs about 23 hours later, in front of you primarily to the west. Around 2:00 PM, when the sun shines directly on the waterfall, it hangs high above, casting bright, vertical rays of light. As a result, the golden hour stretches from around 11:00 PM to 2:00 AM, creating a magical period right at midnight behind the waterfall. Similar to northern areas, sunrise and sunset merge into an extended golden hour, offering photographers up to three to four hours of gorgeous light. Sunset seen through the waterfall Seljalandsfoss late in the evening in July In winter facing Skógafoss waterfall, particularly in December, the sunrise is behind you, illuminating the waterfall and its cliffs with horizontal light. This often leads to a stunning spectrum of colors during an almost continuous golden hour that spans from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Around 2:00 PM, the low sun sends its rays directly at the waterfall, often resulting in breathtaking visuals, complete with rainbows appearing in the mist. This unpredictability of the golden hour in Iceland presents challenges for photographers but is incredibly important to understand. When photographing Skógafoss, you may envision a shot inspired by something you’ve seen online. Yet upon arrival, you might find that the golden hour doesn’t align with your plans, instead appearing late at night when you’re probably resting in a hotel miles away. Furthermore, the lighting may be different from what you expected. On the positive side, however, Iceland offers a much longer golden hour here in the northern hemisphere than many locations further south. Both sunrise and sunset occur more slowly, providing photographers with ample opportunities to capture the perfect shot. Thus, planning a photo tour in Iceland requires careful consideration of the sunrise and sunset times for your chosen locations. During summer, you may need to stay awake through the bright nights and nap during the day, while winter grants you about six hours of daylight, with each passing minute falling under the definition of golden hour. Adding to the complexity, everything in Iceland is significantly influenced by the striking changes between seasons and the unpredictable weather. How are the seasons important factors in landscape photography in Iceland? Autumn in Gjáin, a place with many photo opportunities Iceland, like many other regions across the globe, experiences four distinct seasons, each characterized by its unique attributes. In comparison to numerous locations, the variation in temperature and precipitation across these seasons is pronounced. Various environmental factors contribute to the dynamic nature of Iceland's landscapes, which change significantly from month to month. For photographers, this indicates that any site of interest may present entirely different photographic opportunities in different seasons. Accordingly, when planning a photographic expedition, it is essential to select the appropriate season based on the desired aesthetic outcome. The Highland and landscape photography The most pronounced seasonal variations affecting photography can be observed in the Highland region of Iceland, which encompasses nearly one-third of the island and houses numerous unique sites, such as the vibrant rhyolite mountains at Landmannalaugar and the geothermal landscape of Hveradalir valley. The Highland is vital to the country and is being developed into the largest national park in Europe. It is worth noting that there is a common misconception among writers with limited familiarity with Iceland; the term "Highlands" is frequently misapplied, drawing parallels to the Scottish Highlands. However, Icelandic nomenclature designates this region as "Highland," without exception because there is only one Highland in Iceland. Only in summer are the colourful rhyolite areas accessible During the summer months, both Landmannalaugar and Hveradalir present a plethora of photographic opportunities due to their rich colours, diverse vegetation, snowflakes, steam, and various landforms. Conversely, in winter, this area transforms into a monochromatic landscape, enveloped in a thick layer of snow. Accessibility to the Highland is largely restricted to the summer and early autumn months, specifically from late June to late September. Therefore, for photographers wishing to capture the striking beauty of the Highland, it is critical to plan within this limited timeframe. Travelers should also note that a 4X4 vehicle is necessary, as most access routes consist of rugged dirt roads, enhancing the experience's adventurous nature. Summer, autumn, winter, and spring Gjáin in summer - Landscape Photography To gain a deeper appreciation of the seasonal variations in Iceland and their impact on photography, one may consider Gjáin, a small valley located at the periphery of the Highland. This picturesque location, often described as an oasis, offers an abundance of photographic opportunities. Gjáin is the result of volcanic activity, spring-fed waters, and harsh weather over millennia, providing an exceptional environment for photography. Notably, it is highly sensitive to seasonal changes. Gjáin in autumn - Landscape Photography As illustrated in accompanying photographs, Gjáin thrives in summer, showcasing vibrant colours, lush greenery, clear springs, and charming waterfalls. Autumn ushers in a transformation, with the foliage changing hues and some flowers wilting, while the trees contribute to the enhanced photogenic quality of the valley. In winter, the landscape becomes predominantly frozen and frequently blanketed in snow. With the onset of spring, as winter’s snow melts, the valley often appears muddied and unkempt, leading to a period from late March until early May that is typically considered less appealing for photographers. Gjáin in winter - Landscape Photography In summary, when organizing a photographic tour of Iceland, it is imperative to consider how the varying seasons influence both the landscapes and the accessibility of photographic sites. These seasonal dynamics play a crucial role in determining the potential beauty and quality of the resulting photographs. Gjáin during spring - Landscape Photography The weather is in control and cannot be ignored In Iceland, weather conditions play a critical role not only in landscape photography but also in the daily lives of its residents. Weather serves as a powerful influence that continuously shapes the landscape and occupies the thoughts of Icelanders from an early age. It is often one of the first topics considered in the morning and the last point of reflection before sleep. Furthermore, it is frequently the most common subject of conversation among inhabitants. Consequently, should one find themselves in an awkward social situation with an Icelander, inquiring about the upcoming weather can lead to an extensive discussion. Not a good day to take landscape photo at the famous Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and Mt. Kirkjufell in winter Understanding the weather in Iceland For landscape photography, understanding weather conditions is paramount due to its volatile and unpredictable nature. Notably, many visitors are surprised by the relatively narrow temperature range experienced in Iceland. In Reykjavík and across the island, winter temperatures rarely fall below -5°C (23°F), while summer temperatures typically do not exceed 16°C (60°F). However, it is not temperature that predominantly dictates the climate; rather, it is the influence of wind. During winter months, brisk winds can cause temperatures of -5°C (23°F) to feel significantly colder, approaching -15°C (5°F). Similarly, summer winds can affect temperatures, although they generally remain warmer than in winter. Wind is the king of weather in Iceland Thus, alongside temperature, wind speed is a vital consideration for landscape photography and photo tours. The wind speed in Iceland generally ranges from 0 m/s (0 mph) to gusts reaching 24 m/s (52 mph) across all seasons. This variability holds notable implications for photographers. Wind can reduce perceived temperatures and complicate outdoor activities. It is important to note that locations are typically most conducive to photography when wind speeds do not exceed 8 m/s (18 mph). Wind speeds ranging from 9 to 18 m/s (20 to 40 mph) can present challenges, and conditions above that threshold render photography nearly unmanageable. Moreover, the wind is characterized by its inconsistency, fluctuating between steady conditions and unpredictable, forceful gusts. Hveradalir rhyolite mountains are a great spot for landscape photography Additionally, wind speed can disrupt photographic outcomes, particularly when capturing subjects such as lakes with reflective qualities or stationary elements such as flowers or trees, especially during long exposure techniques. Upon arriving in Iceland, it is advisable to check the weather forecast each morning, as well as for the following day. Reliable and relatively accurate information regarding weather conditions, as well as wind speed and direction, can be obtained from the Icelandic Met Office. Kýlingavatn at Fjallabak is a shallow lake and perfect for photography when the wind is 0 Clothing and shoes, be prepared Here I am well prepared for the ever-changing weather in Iceland Given the unpredictable weather in Iceland, having the right clothing is essential. There's hardly any season when you can comfortably wear shorts and a t-shirt, except for the occasional warm day in summer. If landscape photography is your main focus, appropriate clothing is a must. When planning to photography in the Highlands during summer, keep in mind that the altitude here can be significantly higher than along the coastline, resulting in cooler temperatures. To stay safe and prepared for the weather’s whims, you should dress as if you’re going on a hike. Plan to wear at least two layers of clothing and sturdy hiking shoes in summer, while in autumn and winter, aim for three layers along with a good, warm winter coat. Always have a reliable, rain-resistant coat handy. Don't forget crampons in winter, especially since many areas around waterfalls can become quite slippery from late autumn through winter. Hiking is often required to visit interesting places Sometimes when you want to see exciting places, a hike is required like here to Markarfljótsgljúfur To truly take advantage of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, you'll often need to hike a distance of at least 2 to 3 kilometres (1 to 2 miles) with your gear. Being in good physical shape greatly enhances your ability to access various photography spots because some of the most breathtaking natural wonders aren’t reachable by vehicle. This doesn’t mean you need to be an athlete, but maintaining an average level of fitness for moderate hikes will open up more opportunities. For instance, Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon is a prime photography location featuring beautiful foregrounds, backgrounds, and small waterfalls, but getting there requires a mile hike. Similar hikes are necessary to reach Múlagljúfur, Landmannalaugar, Hveradalir, and the stunning Hengifoss waterfall. Popular places in Iceland for landscape photography If long hikes aren’t feasible for you, don't worry; there are still plenty of options around Iceland, primarily at popular tourist spots where you can snap great photos right after stepping out of your car. Observing well-known photo platforms like Flickr reveals that most images from Iceland are captured at locations that don’t require extensive hiking, including iconic sites like Mt. Kirkjufell, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Gullfoss, and Seljalandsfoss. This means there’s a wealth of spectacular options for those willing to invest a bit more effort and time to discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Lóndrangar at Snæfellsnes peninsula While these popular locations may experience crowds, they consistently offer unique and captivating vistas that skilled photographers can adeptly capture. For individuals with limited time and resources, visiting these well-known attractions remains a viable option. It is important to note that during the summer months, Iceland experiences nearly continuous daylight, with the golden hour occurring between 11 PM and 1 AM, allowing for opportunities to photograph these iconic sites with reduced crowds. How are the seasons in Iceland for landscape photography? Spring landscape photography in Iceland The coast is an excellent subject for photography during spring Among the four seasons, spring is regarded as the least captivating time to visit Iceland. This season, which spans from late March to early June, is characterized by rising temperatures and the melting of winter snow. Access to the Highland regions is restricted, and many dirt and gravel roads become muddy, rendering them challenging to navigate. The landscape during this period often appears in monotonous shades of brown and gray due to the excessive moisture. Despite these limitations, there remains a plethora of locations that offer opportunities for compelling photography in spring. The diversity of the Icelandic landscape becomes evident during this time. Key destinations, such as the Golden Circle and the southern coast, remain accessible year-round and the Reykjanes Peninsulas present an array of natural wonders during the spring months. Photography in Reynisfjara Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, breathtaking coastal vistas, charming towns and villages, glacier lagoons, glacier tongues, icebergs, geothermal hot springs, and scenic drives. Notably, spring features a more convenient golden hour that occurs at manageable times in the early morning and evening, aligning well with conventional daily schedules. Coastal areas, particularly along the southern shore and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, offer numerous opportunities for stunning sunrise and sunset photography, as well as exceptional long exposure shots. Moreover, the weather tends to be more stable during this season, with fewer storms and high winds. Overall, spring presents a convenient and accessible time for travel and photography in Iceland, although it may not be as visually striking as other seasons. Summer landscape photography in Iceland Summer is a great time for landscape photography in Iceland As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, every region along Iceland's coastline bursts into bloom by the end of May. The Highland, the breathtaking heart of the island, gradually become accessible as the highland roads begin to open, typically from mid-June through mid-July. For landscape photographers, summer is an exhilarating time, and the rewards continue to unfold until the end of September. The variety of locations to explore and photograph is virtually limitless, showcasing nature in a stunning array of colors across mountains, flora, rocks, lava, and water. With the sun enhancing the landscape, the golden hours provide excellent opportunities for capturing beautiful shots. The overall weather conditions are significantly improved, and traveling between picturesque sites is a breeze. You can spend up to 18 hours a day discovering intriguing places to shoot, making it a struggle to put the camera down and go to sleep! Sunrise at Hveradalir geothermal area in the Highland in Iceland Don’t miss out on the scenic drives through the Westfjords and East Fjords. This season invites you to explore hidden gems like Landmannalaugar, Hveradalir, Laki, and Askja in the Highland all of which boast incredible photo opportunities that few get to experience. The positive aspects of the season, combined with favorable weather, abundant light, extended hours, and accessible roads, create both an adventure and a challenge. While photographers revel in the abundance of opportunities during this enriching time, the only downside might be the harsh midday light, which can be managed with filters or by flipping your schedule to embrace the night. Autumn landscape photography in Iceland In autumn, the weather is often relatively calm all the way to the middle of October In my opinion, autumn, spanning from late August to early November, is the most captivating season for photography in Iceland. As temperatures begin to dip slightly, the skies clear up, resulting in crisp air and vibrant color contrasts. Much like spring, this time of year offers a manageable golden hour during the early mornings and evenings, providing perfect opportunities for awesome sunrise and sunset shots. Throughout late September and October, the stunning autumn hues breathe new life into various landscapes, enhancing the visual splendor of the already beautiful sites. The popular attractions are also less crowded than in summer, making them much more enjoyable to photograph. Perhaps most striking is how the Highland transforms in autumn; the landscape becomes utterly picturesque, especially with a thin blanket of snow gracing the mountaintops. It's undoubtedly a photogenic season, ideal for those looking to capture Iceland's beauty. Additionally, this time of year presents a thrilling experience, as late August through September showcases some of the most mesmerizing Northern Lights. Over the years, some of my favorite photographs have been taken in the Highland during this magical season. For anyone serious about photography in Iceland, a visit in the autumn is simply a must. Winter landscape photography in Iceland Taking photos of the northern lights in winter can be very rewarding Winter presents a unique opportunity for photographers to explore Iceland and capture its stunning landscapes. For those living in regions where winter doesn’t bring snow or storms, Iceland offers a fascinating glimpse into the season's beauty and challenges. However, it's important to note that the photography results can often lean towards a darker and more somber tone. You shouldn't expect vibrant, cheerful images during this time. Keep in mind that the days are short and the weather can be highly unpredictable. It's not uncommon to find yourself stuck in a hotel for days without being able to take a single shot. Yet, winter does have its perks, even if it doesn't provide as many opportunities as summer does. The famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall in winter One of the major highlights of winter in Iceland is the chance to witness the magnificent Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis. You'll also find captivating frozen waterfalls with incredible icicle formations, explore unique ice caves, and venture beneath glaciers and across frozen lakes. From late November to early February, the sun barely rises, casting a low and magical light across the landscape that often features beautiful hues of yellow, purple, and pink, especially against a snowy backdrop. If you’re planning a winter photography tour in Iceland, it’s crucial to set realistic expectations about daylight conditions and the unpredictable weather. Failing to do so could lead to significant disappointment. Best photo gear for a landscape photography tour in Iceland, lenses, configuration, and filters The bottom line is that the better you organize your photographic tour in Iceland, the better the results will be. Landscape photography represents the artistic endeavor of integrating remarkable landforms within the framework of "the rule of thirds" while incorporating an element in the foreground. Although it may appear straightforward, it presents various challenges. When capturing landscape images, it is essential to approach the subject closely while simultaneously achieving depth and sharpness in the photograph. An intriguing foreground object serves as an entry point for the viewer’s gaze. A wide angel lens A wide-angle lens, ranging from 14 mm to 35 mm, is an advantageous choice for this purpose, complemented by the flexibility of extending the angle to 35 mm when adjusting the composition. Given that landscape photographers frequently engage in hiking or walking to reach specific subjects, it is prudent to select lightweight gear. A recommended lens for overall landscape photography is a zoom lens of either 14–24 mm or 16–35 mm. Today I am using the Leica Q3 with a 28mm lens. What to know before renting a car in Iceland. A light travel tripod is neccesarey for landscape photography In landscape photography, a lens aperture larger than f/3.5 or f/4 is generally unnecessary, as rapid exposure is not a typical requirement. Here you are aiming for a larger depth of field. When operating at shutter speeds of 1/125 or slower, it is advisable to utilize a tripod to enhance clarity. For optimal sharpness, one should set the aperture between f/8 and f/22 and employ a tripod during shooting. Utilizing an aperture priority configuration or manual setting, it is beneficial to take multiple exposures ranging from 1/15 seconds to 2 to 4 seconds. Most cameras and lenses will yield satisfactory sharp images within this framework. However, the use of a tripod and a three-stop filter is often essential, particularly in bright sunlight, while requirements diminish in lower light conditions. Today there is a great selection of cameras and lenses During a photographic excursion in Iceland, one can achieve remarkable results utilizing any reputable camera brand, such as Nikon, Canon, Fuji, or Sony, paired with a 14–35 mm lens, a tripod, and three- and six-stop filters. Another great option today is the Leica Q3 with a fixed 28mm lens, extremely light and powerful camera. This equipment selection is conducive to landscape photography and caters to those desiring simplicity while achieving results that transcend the average photographer's capabilities. A zoom lens for landscape photography While many landscape photographers favour 24–70 mm lenses, a preference for lenses wider than 24 mm emerges when standing before a wonderful landscape photo opportunity. The more immersive the lens experience, the richer the narrative conveyed. It is also important to consider that certain scenes may necessitate a higher zoom level, ranging from 35 mm to 70 mm or beyond. Therefore, including a lens with a focal length of 70 mm to 200 mm in one's equipment is advisable. Backpack for landscape photography As photography in Iceland often requires trekking, utilizing a 20–30 liter backpack to accommodate one’s gear is a pragmatic choice. With the aforementioned equipment, photographers can effectively capture stunning landscape images throughout the diverse and picturesque regions of Iceland. Organizing your Iceland landscape photography tour is important One option when the sun is high during summer is to capture the Sunstar Despite its small size, Iceland is arguably one of the most captivating destinations for landscape photographers globally. The island's unpredictable weather, limited sunlight, and seasonal variations can pose challenges for visitors; however, the abundance and diversity of its natural wonders are unparalleled by any other country. For those with a passion for landscape photography, Iceland is likely a prominent point of interest on their travel agendas. A fog in the highland during summer on a Hit Iceland photo tour When planning a photographic expedition to Iceland, it is essential to comprehend the various factors influencing access to its remarkable natural sites and how these factors may impact one's itinerary. A fundamental aspect of this preparation is an understanding of the seasons, as each season significantly affects access to desired locations. Additionally, it is crucial to be prepared for varying weather conditions and temperatures for different seasons. Thoroughly researching the locations of interest and understanding the logistics of reaching them is advisable, particularly since photography stops typically require more time than a casual visit. A photographer often spends approximately 30 to 60 minutes at each location, determining the optimal angle, configuring the equipment, and setting up a tripod. Ultimately, careful organization of the photographic journey in Iceland will lead to superior outcomes.

Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, the country’s largest town, its political center, its cultural center, and the place where most visitors begin or end their journey. It is called a city, but compared with large cities in Europe or North America, it often feels more like a small town with national responsibilities. That contrast is one of the things that makes Reykjavík interesting. It has the government, parliament, universities, museums, concert halls, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, festivals, and international airport connections of a capital, but it still has short distances, low buildings, visible mountains, a working harbor, quiet residential streets, and a strong relationship with the sea. The municipality of Reykjavík had 139,804 inhabitants on 1 January 2026, according to Statistics Iceland. The wider Reykjavík capital region is much larger and includes neighboring municipalities such as Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Mosfellsbær, and Seltjarnarnes. Visit Reykjavík describes the capital region as Iceland’s largest and most populous urban area, with about 249,000 residents in 2025, roughly 64% of the country’s population. This means that Reykjavík is not only the capital in a formal sense. It is the center of daily life, government, culture, business, education, and services for most people in Iceland. For visitors, Reykjavík is more than a stopover before the “real Iceland” begins. It is part of the Icelandic story. The city stands on the shore of Faxaflói bay, with Mount Esja across the water, the old harbor at its center, geothermal swimming pools in its neighborhoods, and lava fields, birdlife, coastal paths, and mountains never far away. It is a city where you can walk from the Parliament House to the harbor, from Harpa to Hallgrímskirkja, from the old center to a swimming pool, from a restaurant to the shoreline, and still feel the surrounding nature pressing gently against the urban landscape. City Hall in Reykjavík by the pond Reykjavík at a glance Reykjavík is located in southwest Iceland, on the southern shore of Faxaflói bay. It is the northernmost capital of a sovereign state and the center of Iceland’s government, culture, and urban life. The city is divided into ten districts: Vesturbær, Miðborg, Hlíðar, Laugardalur, Háaleiti og Bústaðir, Breiðholt, Árbær, Grafarvogur, Kjalarnes, and Grafarholt-Úlfarsárdalur. Reykjavík City’s own neighborhood information lists these ten districts, while Statistics Iceland identifies Breiðholt as the most populous district in 2025 and Kjalarnes as the smallest by population. For most visitors, the most important areas are Miðborg, the old city center; Vesturbær, the western residential district with the harbor, university area, and Grandi nearby; Laugardalur, with its swimming pool, botanical garden, and family attractions; and the harbourfront around Harpa and the old harbor. But Reykjavík is more than 101 Reykjavík. The outer districts show how the city expanded during the twentieth century from a compact coastal town into a modern capital. Reykjavík from the settlement period Reykjavík is one of the most important places in Icelandic settlement history. According to Icelandic tradition, Ingólfur Arnarson, widely regarded as the first permanent Norse settler in Iceland, settled in Reykjavík around the late ninth century. Ingólfur arrived in 870 and named the place where Reykjavík now stands, and archaeological discoveries in the center of the city support the importance of this area in the earliest settlement period. The old story says that Ingólfur threw his high-seat pillars into the sea and settled where they came ashore. Whether the story is read as literal history, symbolic origin myth, or a mixture of both, it has shaped Reykjavík’s identity. The city’s modern logo still refers to Ingólfur’s pillars rising from the waves, showing how deeply the settlement story remains connected to the capital’s self-image. For visitors who want to understand this early history, the most important place is Aðalstræti. The Settlement Exhibition at Aðalstræti 16 preserves the remains of a tenth-century Viking longhouse discovered in 2001. North of the longhouse, archaeologists found a wall fragment dating from before 871, making it one of the oldest archaeological remains in Iceland. The exhibition connects the settlement period to the later development of Reykjavík from farm to village, town, and capital. This is one of the best places to begin a visit to Reykjavík. It reminds visitors that the city did not begin as a grand capital. It began as a farm settlement by the sea. Skólavörðustígur shopping street in Reykjavík From farms to town For centuries, Reykjavík remained small. Farms were scattered across the area where the city now stands, including places such as Laugarnes and Nes by Seltjörn. Víkurkirkja stood near the town as early as around 1200, but true urban development did not begin until much later. Before the eighteenth century, Reykjavík was not a city in the modern sense. It was a rural coastal area with farms, fishing, scattered buildings, and local activity. The major turning point came in the eighteenth century with Innréttingarnar, an attempt to establish the wool industry and manufacturing in Reykjavík. This industrial effort helped Reykjavík begin to look more like a small village. In 1786, Reykjavík received town rights after the abolition of the Danish trade monopoly. The same year, several Icelandic trading places received town privileges, but Reykjavík gradually became the one that mattered most. This is important for visitors because Reykjavík’s historic center is young compared with many European capitals. You do not walk through medieval city walls, Roman ruins, or Renaissance squares. Instead, Reykjavík tells a different story: a small settlement becoming a town, then a national center, then a modern capital in a very short historical period. Reykjavík is the center of government Reykjavík became the center of Icelandic political life in the nineteenth century. Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament, was re-established in Reykjavík in 1845 after having been discontinued as a national legislative body. In 1881, Alþingishúsið, the Parliament House, was inaugurated at Austurvöllur square. The official Alþingi history states that the building was constructed in 1880–81 from hewn basalt from Skólavörðuholt, the hill where Hallgrímskirkja now stands. Since 1881, all meetings of Alþingi have been held there, except for special ceremonial meetings at Þingvellir. For visitors, Austurvöllur is one of the most meaningful places in Reykjavík. It is not only a square with cafés and a statue of Jón Sigurðsson. It is the symbolic front yard of Icelandic democracy. Parliament House, Reykjavík Cathedral, and nearby government buildings place politics, religion, history, and public life within a very small urban space. This compactness is typical of Reykjavík. The main institutions of government are not hidden in a distant administrative district. They are part of the walkable city center. You can stand in Austurvöllur, look at Parliament House, walk a short distance to City Hall by Tjörnin, continue to the old harbor, and understand how small and concentrated Iceland’s capital has remained. The districts of Reykjavík Reykjavík has ten official districts. Understanding them helps visitors understand how the city grew. Miðborg is the old center, the historic and commercial heart of Reykjavík. This is where visitors find Austurvöllur, Parliament House, Reykjavík Cathedral, City Hall, Tjörnin, Aðalstræti, Laugavegur, Skólavörðustígur, Harpa, and much of the city’s restaurant and nightlife scene. Miðborg is compact, walkable, and layered with history. Vesturbær developed west of the old center and has long been one of Reykjavík’s most attractive residential areas. It includes old neighborhood streets, the university area, the National Museum, the coastline toward Ægisíða, and the route toward Grótta in neighboring Seltjarnarnes. It also connects naturally with the old harbor and Grandi, which has become one of the most interesting food, design, and harbor districts in the city. Hlíðar lies east and southeast of the old center and includes important residential areas around Hlemmur, Miklabraut and the streets leading toward Kringlan and Perlan. It reflects Reykjavík’s twentieth-century expansion and has a mixture of older houses, apartment blocks, schools, services, and traffic corridors. Laugardalur is one of the most useful districts for visitors who want to see everyday Reykjavík life. It includes Laugardalslaug, one of the city’s major swimming pools, as well as sports facilities, the botanical garden, the family park and zoo, and open green areas. It is not as old as Miðborg, but it is central to modern Reykjavík. Háaleiti og Bústaðir developed largely as a residential and service district during Reykjavík’s modern expansion. It includes important urban infrastructure, shopping areas, schools and neighborhoods that show the city’s post-war growth away from the old harbor center. Breiðholt is Reykjavík’s most populous district according to Statistics Iceland’s 2025 district figures. It developed largely in the second half of the twentieth century and is often misunderstood by visitors because it is outside the classic tourist center. Yet Breiðholt is important for understanding modern Reykjavík: apartment neighborhoods, schools, immigrant communities, green spaces, and the everyday life of a growing capital. Árbær was developed on the eastern side of Reykjavík and connects the city to Elliðaárdalur, one of Reykjavík’s most valuable green river valleys. The Árbær Open Air Museum is one of the best places for visitors to understand older Icelandic buildings and daily life. Grafarvogur expanded as a large suburban district in the late twentieth century. It has residential neighborhoods, schools, coastal areas, parks, and family life. It shows Reykjavík’s shift from a compact center to a broader car-based city. Grafarholt-Úlfarsárdalur is one of the newer eastern districts, with recent residential development, open views, and proximity to the edge of the city. It reflects Reykjavík’s ongoing growth and the tension between expansion, planning, transport, and access to nature. Kjalarnes is the most rural district of Reykjavík and the smallest by population. It became part of Reykjavík in 1998 and gives the capital something unusual: farms, open land, mountain slopes, and a countryside character within the municipal boundary. Statistics Iceland identified Kjalarnes as Reykjavík’s least populous district in 2025. For visitors, the lesson is simple: Reykjavík is not only downtown. The city center is the best starting point, but the districts explain how the capital developed from settlement ground to trading town, from small town to post-war city, and from city to metropolitan region. Democracy and freedom of expression go hand in hand, and Icelanders don't hesitate to express their discontent about policies and actions of the government in front of the parliament, Alþingi Architecture in Reykjavík Reykjavík’s architecture reflects Iceland’s unusual urban history. The city does not have the monumental old stone architecture of European capitals. Its oldest urban buildings are modest, and many of its most characteristic houses are timber buildings clad in corrugated iron. This material, practical and weather-resistant, became one of Reykjavík’s defining visual features in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The colorful corrugated houses of the old center and Vesturbær are now part of the city’s charm, but they began as practical solutions in a windy, wet, northern climate. The city also has important stone and concrete public buildings. Parliament House, built of Icelandic basalt, is one of the most important nineteenth-century buildings in the country. The Government Offices on Lækjargata occupy an older stone building originally constructed as a prison between 1761 and 1771, and now serves as the office of the Government of Iceland. Hallgrímskirkja is the most famous architectural landmark in Reykjavík. It stands on Skólavörðuholt and dominates the skyline. The church was designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who began designing it in 1937 and used Icelandic forms and materials as part of his search for a national architectural expression. Harpa Concert Hall is the modern counterpart to Hallgrímskirkja. It stands by the harbor and has become one of the central symbols of contemporary Reykjavík. Harpa’s own website describes it as one of Reykjavík’s main landmarks and a center of culture and social life in the heart of the city, standing prominently by the harbor. Together, Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa tell a story. Hallgrímskirkja looks inward to landscape, basalt, national identity, and twentieth-century ambition. Harpa looks outward to the harbor, glass, music, design, international culture, and the post-crash rebuilding of confidence. Between them lies the old center, with its smaller houses, government buildings, shops, restaurants, and streets. The city center The city center is the natural starting point for most visitors. It is small enough to walk, varied enough to explore slowly, and full of historical meaning. Laugavegur remains the best-known shopping and nightlife street. Skólavörðustígur connects Laugavegur to Hallgrímskirkja and has become one of the most attractive walking streets in the city, with design shops, cafés, galleries, and views toward the church. Austurvöllur is the political heart. Tjörnin gives the center softness, birdlife, and reflection. City Hall stands by the lake. Aðalstræti connects the visitor to the settlement period. The old harbor and Grandi connect Reykjavík to fishing, whale watching, food halls, design, museums, and maritime history. Harpa and the waterfront create the modern northern edge of the city center. The best way to experience Reykjavík is not to rush from landmark to landmark. It is to walk. Start at Hallgrímskirkja, walk down Skólavörðustígur, continue along Laugavegur, turn toward Austurvöllur, visit Aðalstræti, walk to the old harbor, continue to Harpa, and then follow the shoreline toward the Sun Voyager and Höfði. In a few hours, you pass through religion, commerce, parliament, settlement history, harbor life, architecture, sculpture, and sea views. Culture, museums, and music Reykjavík is a cultural city out of proportion to its size. It has museums, theatres, galleries, festivals, concerts, book culture, design, nightlife, and a strong music scene. Reykjavík is known for its devotion to arts and culture, with many options for visitors despite the relatively small size of the capital area. For history, the Settlement Exhibition and the National Museum are essential. For art, Reykjavík Art Museum is especially important because it operates in three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn. The City of Reykjavík describes the museum as a progressive art museum with these three locations, regularly showing works connected to Erró, Kjarval, and Ásmundur Sveinsson. For natural history and city views, Perlan is one of the strongest visitor attractions. It stands on Öskjuhlíð hill, built around hot-water tanks, with a glass dome and a wraparound observation deck. Perlan describes its observation deck as giving a 360° view over Reykjavík and the surrounding area. Harpa is the center of major concerts and events. Smaller venues, bars, and clubs keep live music close to the street. Reykjavík is one of those cities where culture is not only found in large institutions. It is also in cafés, bookshops, swimming pools, small galleries, record shops, restaurants, street art, and informal conversations. Swimming pools and everyday Reykjavík One of the best ways for visitors to understand Reykjavík is to visit a swimming pool. The geothermal pool is not simply a leisure facility. It is part of everyday Icelandic social life. People go before work, after work, with children, alone, with friends, for exercise, conversation, hot tubs, and routine. Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug, and Sundhöll Reykjavíkur are among the best-known pools for visitors. Sundhöllin is especially useful for those staying downtown. Vesturbæjarlaug gives a strong local neighborhood feeling. Laugardalslaug is larger and connected to the sports and recreation character of Laugardalur. A swimming pool visit often tells you more about Reykjavík than a souvenir shop. It shows the city as residents use it. Food, restaurants, and cafés Reykjavík’s food culture has changed enormously in recent decades. Iceland once had a limited food tradition shaped by isolation, poverty, preservation methods, fish, lamb, dairy, and harsh conditions. Today, the city has a varied restaurant scene with excellent seafood, lamb, bakery culture, international cooking, cafés, fine dining, casual food halls, and increasingly diverse influences from people who have moved to Iceland. The old harbor and Grandi are especially good for food-oriented visitors. The city center has restaurants ranging from casual to expensive. Hlemmur has changed from an old bus-station area into a lively food and neighborhood hub. Good coffee is easy to find, and bakeries remain important to the rhythm of daily life. The best Reykjavík food experience is not only about luxury. It can be a fish dish by the harbor, a simple bakery stop, soup on a cold day, ice cream in bad weather, or coffee after a winter walk. Harpa concert hall and conference center in Reykjavík in the City Center Nature inside and around the city Reykjavík is not separated from nature. It is built into it. The sea is visible from many places. Esja frames the northern horizon. Tjörnin sits in the center. Elliðaárdalur brings a salmon river and green valley into the eastern part of the city. Öskjuhlíð offers woodland paths around Perlan. The shoreline walk from Harpa toward Höfði and beyond gives views over Faxaflói bay. For birdlife, the coast and Tjörnin are important. For walking, Ægisíða, Grótta in Seltjarnarnes, Elliðaárdalur, and the paths around Öskjuhlíð are excellent. For northern lights, Reykjavík is not ideal because of city lights, but on a good night, it is sometimes possible from darker coastal spots, especially toward Grótta, Seltjarnarnes, or other open areas facing away from the strongest lights. This closeness to nature is one of Reykjavík’s defining qualities. You can be in a restaurant downtown and half an hour later be standing by the sea watching the weather move across the bay. What to do in Reykjavík A good first day in Reykjavík should include Hallgrímskirkja, Skólavörðustígur, Laugavegur, Austurvöllur, Parliament House, Tjörnin, Aðalstræti, the old harbor, Harpa, and the waterfront. That gives a compact but meaningful introduction to the city. A second day can go deeper: the National Museum, the Settlement Exhibition, Reykjavík Art Museum, Perlan, Laugardalur, a swimming pool, and a longer coastal walk. Families may enjoy Laugardalur, Perlan, whale watching, the harbor area, and swimming pools. Visitors interested in design should explore Skólavörðustígur, Grandi, Hafnartorg, and smaller independent shops. Those interested in politics and history should spend more time around Austurvöllur, Alþingishúsið, Reykjavík Cathedral, City Hall, and the National Museum. Reykjavík is also a practical base for day tours: the Golden Circle, Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon area, South Coast tours, whale watching, northern lights tours in winter, and sometimes even longer Highland or glacier trips depending on season and conditions. But the city itself deserves time. Where to stay For first-time visitors, staying in or near Miðborg is usually the best choice. It allows walking to restaurants, museums, harbor tours, shopping streets, and major landmarks. Vesturbær is also excellent, especially for visitors who prefer a quieter residential feel near the center and harbor. Laugardalur can be good for families and those who want swimming pools, green space, and easier parking. The wider capital area can be practical for travelers with rental cars, but visitors should understand that Reykjavík’s center is where much of the cultural and historical experience is concentrated. The best area depends on the purpose of the trip. For nightlife and restaurants, stay central. For quiet walking and local life, Vesturbær is very attractive. For families, Laugardalur and some outer areas can work well. For pure convenience at the beginning or end of a trip, central Reykjavík remains the strongest choice. Reykjavík in winter and summer Reykjavík changes strongly with the seasons. Summer brings long daylight, outdoor seating, walking, festivals, harbor activity, and easy movement around the city. Winter brings darkness, Christmas lights, pools, museums, restaurants, concerts, and the possibility of northern lights. Spring and autumn are often underrated, with fewer visitors and beautiful light, although the weather can be unpredictable. Visitors should not expect stable weather in any season. Reykjavík weather can change quickly, even within a single day. Wind is often the most important factor. A good Reykjavík day is not always warm or sunny. Sometimes it is simply calm. Why Reykjavík is worth visiting Reykjavík is worth visiting because it is the key to understanding modern Iceland. The country’s settlement story begins here in tradition and archaeology. Its political center is here. Its largest concentration of people is here. Its cultural institutions are here. It's old harbor, colorful houses, swimming pools, music, museums, restaurants, shoreline paths, and views toward Esja all show a capital that remains unusually close to nature and to its own small scale. It is not a grand city in the old European sense. That is not its strength. Reykjavík’s strength is intimacy. It is a capital where national history, daily life, and landscape remain close together. You can walk through the center in a short time, but the layers are deep: settlement, trade, Danish rule, independence, fishing, modernism, geothermal life, culture, tourism, migration, and the growth of a small country into a modern society. For visitors to Iceland, Reykjavík should not be treated only as a place to sleep before driving away. It is part of the journey. It is the place where Iceland becomes urban, political, cultural, and social. And for anyone willing to walk slowly, look carefully, and move beyond the obvious postcard stops, Reykjavík is one of the most rewarding small capitals in the world. Location of Reykjavík on the map of Iceland

The Highland makes up around 40% of Iceland and is often described as Europe's last great area of wilderness. One Highland, not Highlands If you read about the interior of Iceland in English, you'll often see it called "the Highlands." In Icelandic, though, we call it Hálendið, singular. There has always been one Highland, and the word appears that way in our literary tradition all the way back to the settlement era. The reason matters more than the grammar. The Icelandic Highland is not a collection of separate ranges or regions, the way the Scottish Highlands are. It is one continuous interior geologically connected, ecologically unified, and culturally understood as a single place. The singular form reflects what the Highland actually is. The plural quietly turns it into something it isn't. The English-language convention of saying "Highlands" most likely came in by analogy from Scotland and has since been reinforced by travel writing and search-driven content online. It's an understandable habit, but it's worth letting go of, because "Highland" carries the right idea of the place.this error. A beautiful geothermal pool in the Highland in Iceland Understanding the Highland through Icelandic eyes Guðmundur Páll Ólafsson (1941–2012) was an Icelandic natural scientist, teacher, writer, photographer, and conservationist. Among his many works on Iceland and Icelandic nature, his book Hálendið í náttúru Íslands (The Highland in Icelandic Nature) is a monumental achievement — part study, part guidebook, part love letter, written specifically to introduce the Highland to future generations. He never wrote about "the Highlands." He wrote about the Highland, and his book is one of the best places to begin if you want to understand the place the way Icelanders do. The same singular usage runs through everything else: the Iceland Road Guide, decades of Icelandic newspapers and magazines, and the names of long-established places like the Highland Center at Hrauneyjar and the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll. None of these were chosen casually. Þórsmörk and the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail are part of the Highland in Iceland What the Highland is The Highland covers around 42,000 km² — roughly 40% of Iceland. It is uninhabited, mostly 350 to 400 meters above sea level, and shaped by extremes. The highest point, Öræfajökull, rises to 2,110 meters (around 7,000 feet), making it Iceland's tallest mountain. It also has some of the most fascinating geology on the planet, where ice and fire sit beside each other in everyday view. Within the Highland you'll find glaciers of every shape and size, spectacular mountains, canyons, lava fields, geothermal pools, active geothermal areas, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and active volcanoes. The land is sensitive and impossible to cultivate. The seasons swing between extremes, the soil is fragile, and the weather can change quickly. Visiting takes preparation — research, study, and often local guidance. A short summer For most of the year, the Highland sits under thick snow. Roads, trails, vegetation, and lava all disappear under it for months. Only in summer — really only a few short weeks — does the Highland reveal itself. When it does, it's unlike anywhere else. Vast stretches of black sand and dark lava give way to neon green moss, pink and purple rhyolite mountains, blue lakes, and turquoise rivers. Mighty muddy glacial rivers flood toward the horizon, and the landscape shifts dramatically over short distances. It is a place of extremes and contrasts, with a kind of variation you won't find anywhere else on the planet. Lakagígar in the Highland in Iceland Visiting the Highland Because the Highland is so large, it helps to choose a few areas in advance rather than try to see all of it. Some places have become more popular thanks to easier access and especially distinctive landscapes — among them Landmannalaugar, Sigöldugljúfur, Lakagígar, Hveradalir, Hveravellir, Þórsmörk, and Eldgjá. The roads to these places generally open in late June and close in the middle of September. Most are F-roads, which means river crossings — and river crossings are serious business that require a proper 4×4 and the right preparation. Hiking is another excellent way to experience the Highland. The 54 km Laugavegur trail from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk is the most famous, and the Fimmvörðuháls trail from Þórsmörk to Skógafoss waterfall is another classic. A place once feared For most of Iceland's history after settlement, people rarely entered the Highland. There was a long-held belief that outlaws lived hidden in oases between the mountains, prospering quietly out of sight. These stories filled folklore for centuries. A few routes were used in summer to travel between regions — Kjalvegur and Sprengisandur to cross between north and south, and a route south of Fjallabak, north of Mýrdalsjökull, to cross between east and west while avoiding the strongest rivers. Otherwise, the interior was left mostly to itself. Visiting the Highland is an adventure Sensitivity and conservation It sounds like a paradox, but the harsh, rocky landscape is also extremely sensitive and fragile. In that respect it is a little like Icelanders themselves: tough on the surface, sensitive underneath. The basic rules are simple. Drive only on marked tracks, in a vehicle suited to the terrain. Hike on marked trails wherever possible. Follow the regulations. Driving off-road outside marked tracks is a serious offense in Iceland, with real legal consequences and real damage to the land. Map of the Highland of Iceland Sigöldugljúfur canyon in the Highland in Iceland - Winter A practical note for visitors: a vehicle that isn't fit for the Highland can put you in danger and ruin the trip. Getting stuck in a river or in mud with a rental car can cost more than the rest of your holiday combined. If you want to visit in winter or outside the open season, contact a professional tour company that specializes in Highland travel — it's the right way to do it. The Highland rewards visitors who treat it with care. It is one place, one continuous wilderness, and there is nothing else like it. Sigöldugljúfur canyon in the Highland in Iceland - Summer Here you can read about many places in the Highland.

Harbor at Húsavík town in northern region in Iceland Húsavík town, a part of the Norðurþing multiplicity with a population of 2.400 as of January 2022, is a beautiful fishing town in the Northern Region of Iceland. Húsavík ranks number one on my list of the most interesting towns and villages in Iceland. It is located near the most beautiful and interesting tourist attractions and natural wonders in Iceland Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. It is the home to many natural wonders and breathtaking places such as Dettifoss waterfall, Hólmatungur, and Hafragilsfoss waterfall. It is also close to Ásbyrgi, and Mývatn. Historically it is also a place of great importance, and it is an old town. One could argue that Húsavík (the bay of houses) is the first place that was inhabited by people of Iceland. The second Viking Explorer, who arrived in Iceland during the second half of the 9th century, built the first house by the bay and stayed there for one winter. Garðar Svavarsson named the island Garðarshólmi after himself, but the name didn't work. Historically, Húsavík has been an important place in Iceland ever since the Vikings started to settle there. Húsavík has a long history of trading The old church in Húsavík town Interestingly, Húsavík has been a place for trading for ages and has taken advantage of the fishing grounds in Skjálfandi bay throughout centuries. First, it was a trading place in the Middle Ages. Later, the notorious Danish-Icelandic Trade Monopoly carried out an operation in Húsavík. After the monopoly was abolished, Húsavík dominated trading in the annex trading period and continued to maintain its role when independent trading and Cooperative Societies finally took over most of the trading in Iceland including towns and villages around the country. A fishing town with tourist attraction Húsavík town has a great camping site Currently, fishing and fish processing are the primary sources of income for most residents in Húsavík. The first motorboats reached Húsavík in the first decade of the 20th century. This development made a huge difference as it did in most towns and villages around the shoreline in Iceland. After two decades, a permanent harbor was built that cleared the way for further development in fishing on a larger scale. In 2018, a silicon metal factory opened and started operation; PCC Bakki Silicon providing an essential base to the Húsavík economy. In recent years, Húsavík has made an impressive entry into the tourist industry while at the same time, fishing and fish processing is on a decline. The initiative of offering whale-watching tours to Skjálfandi bay years ago has resulted in the label "Whale-Watching capital" of the world when people refer to Húsavík. The place provides the most interesting whale watching tours in Iceland. For the people who are particularly interested in whale watching, it is strongly recommended that they take the tour with Norðursigling in Húsavík. An attractive town all year long The small theater in Húsavík part of rich art and culture Húsavík has always been considered a pleasant town to live in with good service for the residents. From early on, education was a priority like most towns and villages in Iceland. The first school was built at the end of the 19th century. Currently, there are quality schools from kindergarten to high school. The town has a gorgeous swimming pool, a sports center, great sports faculties, a community center, and a theater. It also includes a hospital, health care, and good care for the elderly. The Church in Húsavík is a timber building that was built in 1906 and consecrated in 1907. It is a beautiful building and has served the whole community of Húsavík for years. A beautiful and quiet place in the middle of Húsavík, ideal for walking around the town Most of the homes in Húsavík are single-family houses. However, the town has a few old houses. Here you also find a good selection of accommodation and an impressive small town center with excellent restaurants and cafés. Húsavík is a green area; heated with hot water from a geothermal plant and is thus part of the green energy revolution that started in Iceland more than a century ago. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland Accommodations, hotels, and guesthouses close to Selfoss town Húsavík Cape Hotel: This family-run hotel offers stunning views over the town, harbor, and ocean. It's uniquely connected to the world's only Eurovision exhibition, featuring original costumes and props from the event. Guests can also enjoy the cozy JaJaDingDong bar on-site. husavikhotel.com Fosshotel Húsavík: Situated in the heart of Húsavík, this well-equipped hotel is within walking distance of the harbor, offering stunning fjord views. It's an excellent base for whale watching and exploring the town's attractions. Island's Hotel Hótel Rauðaskriða: A family-run hotel located between Húsavík and Akureyri, offering a relaxed atmosphere with 42 rooms, an à la carte restaurant, and hot tubs. It's an eco-friendly establishment, certified by the Nordic Swan Association, making it a great base for exploring natural attractions in the area. Hotel Raudaskrida Húsavík Guesthouse: This family-run guesthouse provides a warm welcome with eight rooms, including single, double, triple, and a quadruple family room. It's an excellent choice for those planning to go whale watching or sightseeing in North Iceland.

Einar Páll Svavarsson doing his photography and research in Stuðlagil in August 2016 Introduction Stuðlagil Basalt Column Canyon, one of the most stunning natural wonders in Iceland, remained largely unknown until 2016 when explorer, photographer and travel writer Einar Páll Svavarsson brought it to light. His discovery not only transformed the canyon into a major tourist destination but also set a standard for ethical exploration and responsible tourism. This article explores the journey of Stuðlagil's unveiling, its naming, and the significant impact of its newfound recognition. Pre-2006: A Hidden Natural Wonder For centuries, the magnificent Stuðlagil Canyon lay concealed beneath the relentless torrents of the glacial river known as the Jökla River, or Jökulsá á Dal as it is also often called. This powerful river, carving its path through the dramatic landscape, transported a constant flow of water and a rich assortment of sediment from various origins around the Vatnajökull Icecap and its impressive outlet glaciers. The immense strength and volume of the river created a powerful muddy stream at the Stuðlagil canyon's lower reaches, hiding its breathtaking beauty from all but a few local inhabitants and farmers. Before 2006, the stunning formations of basalt columns that define the canyon were largely submerged, with only the upper sections above the surface. 2006-2016: A Dormant Natural Wonder The construction of the Kárahnjúkar Dam and power plant significantly altered the course of the Jökla River. It was one of the largest intervention into nature and landscape in Iceland’s history. The glacial river was redirected into man-made tunnels and eventually moved to a different valley, Fljótsdalur. This diversion led to a drastic reduction in the river's size in the Jökuldalur valley, transforming it from a large and powerful glacial river into a smaller spring-fed river. Although the river Jökla in Jökuldalur did not disappear, thanks to Iceland's rich water resources, it continued to receive water from various creeks and smaller rivers flowing from the highlands north of the dam and within the valley itself. As a result, the water became clean and vibrant, in stark contrast to the previously muddy glacial river. Additionally, the change in volume caused the water level to drop by 4 to 5 meters, which played a crucial role in exposing the lower part of the basalt column stacks in Stuðlagil Canyon. The process of moving the river from Jökuldalur valley began in September 2006. Then, the numerous glacial rivers flowing from the Vatnajökull icecap were redirected into the newly constructed Hálslón reservoir. Filling the reservoir took fifteen months. During this time, the glacial river altogether ceased to flow through the Jökuldalur valley. As a result, the stunning canyon of Stuðlagil emerged. Although the canyon was fully revealed in 2006, as it can be seen today, it went largely unnoticed for almost a decade. Local residents and farmers living close to the canyon did not recognize its potential or appreciate its beauty during that period. It was, in essence, a dormant natural wonder. Untouched Stuðlagil Canyon in 2016 the way it had been for a decade without anyone noticing it 2016: The Discovery of Stuðlagil by Einar Páll Svavarsson In the early summer of 2016, Einar Páll Svavarsson came across a photograph of a canyon that was unfamiliar to him. Despite his extensive knowledge of Iceland's diverse landscapes, he was initially skeptical about the canyon's location within his own country. Driven by a desire to learn more, Svavarsson embarked on a comprehensive research effort to identify the river associated with this remarkable basalt-column canyon. His investigation was facilitated by the fact that the search was limited to a select number of significant rivers in Iceland, making the task more manageable. In a matter of weeks, he found the basalt column canyon in Jökuldalur. The First Visit and Ethical Photojournalistic Considerations When Einar Páll Svavarsson discovered the canyon and as a photojournalist educated at the University of Iceland in Political Science, he had ethical concerns about publishing the photos. He realized that the canyon was located on private property. Therefore, before visiting Stuðlagil, he reached out to the owner of Klaustursel Farm, located on the eastern side of the canyon, to request permission to photograph and publish images of the area. After obtaining the necessary approval, he began his first exploration of the canyon, accompanied by his daughter, Halla Einarsdóttir, who was 24 years old at the time. The owners' permission During this initial visit, he anticipated that the unveiling of Stuðlagil would attract significant tourist interest, a prediction that quickly proved to be true. On their way from the canyon, they reencountered the farmer and current owner while he was haying. At that moment, Einar repeated that the photographs revealed such stunning landscapes that traffic would increase substantially if they were published. The resulting interest would surge dramatically, and the canyon would most likely become a major tourist attraction within two to three years. The farmer considered this carefully and obviously gave it another thought. After a while and further discussion with Einar and his daughter Halla, he maintained his permission to proceed. Later, when criticisms arose against Einar for publishing the photos on the Icelandic FB travel discussion forum "Bakland Ferðaþjónustunnar," the former owner of the farm, who is also the father of the current owner, defended Einar. He confirmed that Einar had asked for and received full authorization to photograph, document, and share information about the location. Two years later, the owners of the farm Grund, on the other side of the canyon, contacted Einar and asked him to define and add their information to his article, which he did at their request. The hiticeland.com article and Facebook follow up In August 2016, Einar Páll Svavarsson released the first comprehensive travel guide for Stuðlagil on his website, Hit Iceland (hiticeland.com). He officially named the canyon "Stuðlagil," inspired by its unique basalt columns, referred to as "Stuðlar." To further promote the location, Svavarsson also shared his article on Facebook. Additionally, he utilized his role as a Local Guide on Google Maps, where he had contributed hundreds of photos of important places in Iceland, to advocate for the inclusion of a location point for the canyon. This request was granted, making this the first-ever official mapping of Stuðlagil. It gave the canyon a name and a defined location, making it accessible for visitors. Consequently, interest in the site began to increase significantly. What to know before renting a car in Iceland. Notably, it came to light that despite the canyon being fully visible since 2007, almost no documented photographs of Stuðlagil existed prior to Svavarsson's discovery in 2016, a full decade. The solitary image that initially directed him to the canyon has since been lost. It was only through his dedicated efforts that the world began to acknowledge the natural beauty of Stuðlagil. Stuðlagil Canyon untouched in 2016 2017: The First Major Public Exposure The significance of Stuðlagil garnered global attention following the publication of Svavarsson's article in WOW Air's in-flight magazine. This exposure generated considerable international interest, resulting in an even further increase in visitors eager to photograph and explore this newly uncovered natural marvel. However, despite the extensive utilization of his research and information, numerous low-quality travel writers with limited self-respect sadly did not properly cite Einar as the original source and even fabricated inaccurate information about the Stuðlagil Canyon discovery. Articles that are still around and should be ignored and avoided by everyone. 2018: Government Acknowledgment of His Discovery In January 2018, Iceland’s Minister of Tourism, Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, authored an article in Iceland’s most widely read newspaper, Morgunblaðið (mbl.is) discussing hydroelectric projects and Kárahnjúkavirkjun power plant. In the article she publicly credited Einar Páll Svavarsson with discovering and photographing Stuðlagil and acknowledged his pivotal role in unveiling the canyon to the world. 2019: Academic Recognition and Tourism Boom In 2019 a 100-page research report commissioned by the University of Iceland and the Icelandic Tourism Research Centre was published. Behind it was extensive research on how the popularity of this natural wonder had emerged. It included interviews with local people and farmers who never mentioned that they had photographed or in any way promoted this canyon before 2016. Interestingly the report officially credited Einar Páll Svavarsson for: Discovering, naming, and introducing Stuðlagil to the public. Publishing the first widely available photographs and travel guides. Transforming a hidden canyon into a major tourist destination. Recognizing the growing significance of Stuðlagil, the Icelandic government allocated hundreds of millions of ISK to develop infrastructure around the site in the following years, ensuring its accessibility and preservation. Bringing considerable economic growth to the Jökuldalur area and the local population. 2020: The COVID-19 Icelandic Tourism Boom at Stuðlagil With international travel halted due to COVID-19, the government of Iceland encouraged Icelanders to travel within their own country. At that time Einar Páll Svavarsson with his vast knowledge of Iceland responded by opening an Icelandic-only Facebook group “Ferðumst innanlands”. His group grew fast and now has 17,000 local Icelandic followers out of the whole population of 390 thousand people. His main article and post were highlighting why Stuðlagil Canyon is worth visiting. The post sparked widespread interest, leading thousands of Icelanders to visit the canyon that summer and cementing its status as a national landmark. 2021: Stuðlagil Goes Global – Even Hollywood Notices Stuðlagil’s growing popularity catches the attention of Hollywood when Will Smith films part of his project there, further propelling the canyon into the global spotlight. Icelandic media, including mbl.is, covers his visit, adding to the site's international appeal. Ring Road Drive in Iceland Legacy: Ensuring Proper Recognition The photo that defined Stuðlagil was taken of Halla, Einars daughter, in August 2016 Einar Páll Svavarsson’s contributions to the discovery and documentation of Stuðlagil must be acknowledged in all future discussions about the canyon. His work: Provided the first comprehensive travel guide to Stuðlagil. Named the canyon "Stuðlagil." First put the canyon on the map by defining the GPS coordinates on Google Maps Took great ethical precautions and got permission when introducing and publishing photos from Stuðlagil Inspired thousands of people around the world with his stunning photographs Was formally acknowledged by Iceland’s Minister of Tourism in 2018. Was validated by a University of Iceland and Icelandic Tourism Research Centre report in 2019. Led to extensive government-funded infrastructure development from 2019 in Jökuldalur valley. Led both farms and owners of Stuðlagil to receive hundreds of millions of ISK from government funds to develop the area around the Natural Wonder Inspired thousands of Icelanders to explore their own country in 2020 Even caught the attention of Hollywood and celebrities who choose to have their photos taken in Stuðlagil Furthermore, his ethical approach—seeking permission before documenting and publishing the site sets a gold standard for responsible tourism journalism. Photos from 2016, before Stuðlagil became a popular tourist attraction, when it was a hidden gem in Iceland Final Thoughts The story behind the discovery of Stuðlagil is more than just a story of a geological marvel; it is a testament to the power of modern-day exploration, responsible journalism, and the profound impact that a single individual’s discovery can have on the world. Thanks to Einar Páll Svavarsson’s dedication, Stuðlagil has been cemented as one of Iceland’s most treasured natural landmarks, inspiring countless adventurers, photographers, and travelers to experience its beauty firsthand. It is a unique story globally that has few similarities in the world's vast travel industry. How to visit Studlagil Canyon

Háifoss waterfall in Iceland Háifoss is one of the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. It drops 122 meters from the river Fossá into a deep and narrow canyon at the edge of Þjórsárdalur, where the lowland begins to give way to the Icelandic Highland. This is not only a waterfall viewpoint. It is a canyon, a geological wall, a Highland landscape, and one of the most dramatic waterfall settings in South Iceland. Háifoss is often visited together with its neighboring waterfall, Granni. The name Granni means “neighbor,” and the name fits perfectly. The two waterfalls fall into the same canyon, close enough to be seen together from the upper viewpoint, but different enough to create a much richer experience than a single waterfall would. Háifoss is taller and more dominant. Granni is narrower and quieter, but essential to the whole scene. The waterfall is fed by Fossá, a tributary of Þjórsá, Iceland’s longest river. Visit South Iceland gives the height of Háifoss as 122 meters and places it near Hekla in South Iceland. The height is impressive, but the real value of Háifoss is not only the drop. It is the combination of water, cliffs, layers, space, danger, and perspective. Map of Highland in Iceland Háifoss at a glance Háifoss is located in Fossárdalur, in the inner part of Þjórsárdalur, in the southern Highland of Iceland. The waterfall is 122 meters high and falls from the river Fossá into a deep canyon. Beside it is Granni, its companion waterfall. The main access is from Road 32 in Þjórsárdalur, then onto Road 332, the gravel road that leads to the parking area above the canyon. Road 332 is not an F-road, and in normal summer conditions it does not legally require a 4x4 vehicle, but it is still a rough gravel road and can be very annoying, slow, and uncomfortable in a small car. Recent travel sources describe Road 332 as unpaved, uneven, and affected by potholes, loose rocks, and washboard sections, especially after rain. There is currently no entrance fee or parking fee in many visitor reports and travel guides, and there are no proper visitor facilities at the waterfall itself. That means no toilets, no café, and no services at the canyon. Visitors should arrive prepared. Háifoss is a Highland waterfall Háifoss is sometimes described simply as a waterfall in South Iceland, but that does not really explain the place. It is better understood as a Highland waterfall. The landscape, road, exposure, weather, lack of facilities, and the canyon itself all belong to the Highland character of Iceland. This matters for visitors. Háifoss is not Skógafoss. It is not Seljalandsfoss. It is not a simple roadside waterfall where you park beside a paved road and walk a few steps on a built path. The road has improved compared with how it used to be, and access is much easier than it was years ago, but the last part of the drive still reminds you that you are entering a rougher part of the country. In a good vehicle and good summer conditions, Háifoss is not a difficult expedition. In a small car, the drive can be irritating and slow. In bad weather, after heavy rain, or outside the main season, it can become much less attractive. In winter, snow, ice, wind, and lack of road service can make the visit unsuitable for most travellers. The right attitude is simple: Háifoss is accessible, but it is not casual. How to get to Háifoss The usual route to Háifoss is through Þjórsárdalur. From Road 32, visitors turn onto Road 332, which leads toward the parking area above the waterfall. The final stretch is gravel. It is not an F-road, but that should not be misunderstood as meaning it is a comfortable road. A small car can sometimes make the drive in good summer conditions, but it is not ideal. The road can be rough, stony, uneven, and full of vibration. It is exactly the kind of Icelandic road where a driver may technically be allowed to continue, but may still regret doing so in the wrong vehicle. A higher-clearance vehicle is more comfortable and more sensible, even if a 4x4 is not always strictly required. The safest advice is to check current road conditions before departure, drive slowly, and avoid the road if conditions are poor. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration updates road-condition information through umferdin.is, and travellers should use current information rather than old blog descriptions or assumptions. Háifoss tourist attraction in Iceland The upper viewpoint Most visitors experience Háifoss from the upper viewpoint near the parking area. From there, the view is immediate and spectacular. Háifoss falls into the canyon on one side, Granni on the other, and the layered cliffs form a huge natural wall around the scene. This is the easiest way to see Háifoss, but it is also the place where the danger is most obvious. The cliffs are high, the edge is exposed, and not every section is protected. Strong wind, wet ground, loose gravel, ice, careless photography, or a child moving too close to the edge can turn a visit dangerous very quickly. Visitors should stay well back from the cliffs. This is not a place for risky selfie behaviour or stepping beyond safe ground for a better composition. The view is already extraordinary from safe positions. There is no photograph at Háifoss worth taking a cliff-edge risk. Hiking to the bottom of Háifoss The upper viewpoint is impressive, but the visit becomes much more valuable if you have the time, weather, fitness, and conditions to hike down into the canyon. From below, Háifoss and Granni become completely different places. From above, you see the structure: the waterfalls, the canyon, the river, the cliffs, and the surrounding Highland. From below, you feel the scale. The walls rise around you, the height of the waterfall becomes more physical, and the layers in the canyon are far easier to appreciate. You also understand that Háifoss is not only a drop of water, but a whole geological environment. The hike down should not be treated as a casual extension of the parking-lot visit. The route can be steep, uneven, slippery, and exposed in places. It is best in summer and in good weather. Proper shoes are necessary. Wind, rain, loose ground, or winter conditions change the risk immediately. If the descent looks doubtful, skip it. The waterfall will still be there another day. But in good conditions, the hike to the bottom adds enormous value. It gives Háifoss depth. It changes the visit from “I saw a waterfall” into “I understood a canyon.” The geology of Háifoss The geology is one of the most important reasons Háifoss is special. The canyon walls are not only a dramatic background for the waterfall. They are a visible cross-section of Icelandic volcanic history. The cliffs around Háifoss show clear layers of lava flows, volcanic material, and sedimentary-looking bands. These layers represent repeated volcanic activity over long periods of time. Some descriptions of the site refer to the strata near the falls as close to two million years old, with thick lava flows above and volcanic material formed under Ice Age glaciers beneath. This is one of the reasons the lower canyon view is so important. From the top, the layers are beautiful. From below, they become monumental. The canyon wall is like a geological archive, displaying different episodes of volcanic activity, erosion, and landscape formation. The broader Þjórsárdalur area is also geologically important. The Environment Agency of Iceland notes the protected area in Þjórsárdalur includes remarkable natural phenomena such as Háifoss, Granni and Hjálparfoss, along with thick ash layers and pseudocrater clusters, with pumice prominent after repeated eruptions in Hekla. This gives Háifoss a wider context. It is not just a waterfall near Hekla. It is part of a landscape shaped by eruptions, ash, lava, glacial conditions, rivers, erosion, and time. Háifoss waterfall in winter Háifoss and Granni Háifoss and Granni should be understood together. The name Granni is not a decorative addition. The neighbouring waterfall is central to the experience. From the viewpoint, the two waterfalls create balance. Háifoss gives height and force. Granni gives contrast and companionship. The canyon between and below them connects the two into one visual system. Without Granni, Háifoss would still be impressive, but the place would lose part of its character. This is also why Háifoss works so well in photographs and film. The scene is not only one vertical drop. It has rhythm: two waterfalls, a layered canyon, a river below, open Highland terrain above, and often Hekla or the wider Þjórsárdalur landscape as part of the setting. The history of the name Háifoss The name Háifoss means “high waterfall,” and it is a clear and fitting name. The waterfall was known locally long before modern tourism, but it was not widely introduced to the Icelandic public until the early twentieth century. Visit South Iceland states that Dr. Helgi Pétursson, the Icelandic geologist, named the waterfall in 1912. At the time, Háifoss was considered one of the highest waterfalls known in Iceland, and for a period it was even believed to be among the highest in Europe. The old excitement around the waterfall is understandable. A 122-meter waterfall in a deep Highland canyon, with another waterfall beside it, would have seemed extraordinary to anyone approaching it before modern roads, maps, drones, and mass tourism changed how people encounter places. Today, the exact ranking is less important. Háifoss does not need to be “second-highest” to be remarkable. It is one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls, and more importantly, one of the most impressive waterfall-canyon landscapes in the country. Háifoss in winter Háifoss can be magnificent in winter, but it is not a normal winter destination. Ice forms around the cliffs and waterfall, snow changes the canyon, and the whole place can look like a frozen sculpture. The mist, falling water, and freezing temperatures can create remarkable shapes around the base and walls of the canyon. But winter also changes the risk completely. Road 332 can become impassable, the viewpoint area can be icy, the cliff edges become more dangerous, and daylight is limited. Several current travel sources warn that winter access can be difficult or unsuitable, and that snow, ice and strong winds can make the road and visit unsafe. For most visitors, Háifoss is best treated as a summer or early autumn destination. Winter visits belong to experienced travellers with the right vehicle, equipment, weather judgment, and willingness to turn around. Háifoss from belwo in the canyon Háifoss and popular culture: Stranger Things Háifoss entered international popular culture when it appeared in the final season of Stranger Things. Icelandic and international media reported a surge of interest in the waterfall after its appearance in the final episode, with Háifoss and Granni becoming part of the show’s visual ending. RÚV reported in March 2026 that interest in Háifoss had increased dramatically after the waterfall appeared in the final episode. This is not surprising. Háifoss looks cinematic because it genuinely is cinematic. The two waterfalls, the canyon, the Highland setting, the scale, and the sense of isolation all make the location visually powerful. It is also not one of the most overused Icelandic filming locations, which gives it a stronger impact on screen. But popular culture should not change how visitors behave at the site. A film scene can make a place famous overnight. It cannot make the road smoother, the cliffs safer, the weather calmer, or the canyon less dangerous. If Stranger Things brings more visitors to Háifoss, the need for clear, practical information becomes even more important. Nearby places in Þjórsárdalur Háifoss is rarely the only interesting place in this area. Þjórsárdalur has several major natural and historical sites that fit well with a visit, depending on the route and conditions. Hjálparfoss is much easier to access and offers a softer, more compact waterfall experience. Gjáin is one of the most beautiful small oasis landscapes in South Iceland, although access and protection of the area require care. Þjóðveldisbærinn Stöng connects the valley to medieval Iceland and the history of settlement-era farms affected by Hekla eruptions. The broader area also carries the geological mark of Hekla, ash, lava, pumice, and repeated volcanic activity. This makes Háifoss part of a larger Þjórsárdalur journey. The waterfall is the major dramatic highlight, but the valley around it gives the visit more meaning. Photographing Háifoss Háifoss is a strong photography location because it offers several different subjects in one place. There is the obvious waterfall image from the upper viewpoint, with Háifoss and Granni falling into the canyon. But the best photographs may come from looking more carefully at the details: the cliff layers, the dark canyon walls, the green moss, the river below, the shape of Granni, the exposed rim, and the scale between water and rock. The upper viewpoint is excellent for wide compositions. It gives the classic view, especially when both waterfalls are included. The lower canyon offers a much more immersive perspective, where the height and geology become more powerful. For serious landscape photography, the lower view can be the difference between a good record shot and a memorable image. Light matters. In flat light, Háifoss can still be impressive, but the canyon layers may lose definition. Directional light can reveal the structure of the cliffs and the separation between lava layers. Mist, snow patches, autumn colours, and changing cloud cover can all add to the scene. Wind is a major factor. Strong wind near the canyon edge can be dangerous and can also make tripod work difficult. As always in Iceland, photography should never override safety. Safety at Háifoss The main safety issue at Háifoss is the cliff edge. The canyon is deep, and the upper viewpoint is exposed. Visitors must stay well away from the edge, especially in wind, rain, ice, or low visibility. Children should be watched closely at all times. The second safety issue is the road. Road 332 is short compared with Highland roads, but it can still damage small cars if driven carelessly. Loose stones, potholes, and rough gravel can create problems. Drive slowly and avoid the route if conditions are poor. The third safety issue is the hike down. The lower canyon is rewarding, but the route requires proper shoes, good weather, and realistic judgment. If conditions are wet, icy, windy, or unstable, the hike should be skipped. Háifoss is not a dangerous place if approached with respect. It becomes dangerous when visitors treat it like an ordinary roadside attraction. Why Háifoss is worth visiting Háifoss is worth visiting because it gives more than a waterfall view. It gives a complete Highland canyon experience. The height of the waterfall, the presence of Granni, the layered geology, the rough access road, the exposed cliff edge, and the possibility of hiking down into the canyon all make it one of the most rewarding waterfall visits in South Iceland. It is also a place where the visitor can see time. The water falls in the present moment, but the canyon walls display the past: lava flows, volcanic layers, ash, erosion, and the long geological development of the Þjórsárdalur region. Few waterfalls in Iceland show this relationship between water and rock as clearly as Háifoss. The best visit is not rushed. Walk carefully along the upper viewpoint. Study the layers. Look at Granni, not only Háifoss. If conditions allow, hike down and see the canyon from below. That is where the full value of the place becomes clear. Háifoss is accessible enough to attract many visitors, but still wild enough to demand respect. That balance is what makes it special. Inside the Háifoss canyon Is Háifoss in the Highland? Yes. Háifoss is best understood as a Highland waterfall at the inner edge of Þjórsárdalur in South Iceland. It is more accessible than many Highland destinations, but the landscape, road, exposure, lack of facilities, and setting all belong to the Highland character. How high is Háifoss? Háifoss is 122 meters high. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Iceland. I would avoid calling it the second-highest waterfall in Iceland, because modern rankings vary and usually place Morsárfoss and Glymur above it, and often Hengifoss as well Do you need a 4x4 to visit Háifoss? Road 332 is not an F-road, so a 4x4 is not always a legal requirement in normal summer conditions. However, the road is gravel, rough, uneven, and uncomfortable in a small car. A higher-clearance vehicle is strongly preferable, and road conditions should always be checked before departure. Is there an entrance fee at Háifoss? At present, Háifoss is generally described as having no entrance fee or parking fee, but visitors should always check current local information because parking rules at Icelandic attractions can change. There are no proper facilities at the waterfall. Is there a toilet at Háifoss? No. Visitors should not expect toilets, water, a café, or visitor services at Háifoss. Prepare before driving to the waterfall. Can you hike to the bottom of Háifoss? Yes, in good summer conditions it is possible to hike down into the canyon, and it adds enormous value to the visit. The lower view gives a much stronger sense of the height, geology, and scale of the canyon. The route should be treated with caution, especially in wet, icy, or windy conditions. Is Háifoss dangerous? Háifoss can be dangerous if visitors go too close to the cliff edge, visit in strong wind, drive carelessly on Road 332, or attempt the canyon hike in poor conditions. The place is safe enough when approached with proper caution, but it is not a casual fenced viewpoint. What is Granni? Granni is the neighbouring waterfall beside Háifoss. The name means “neighbour.” It falls into the same canyon and is an essential part of the Háifoss experience. Was Háifoss used in Stranger Things? Yes. Háifoss and Granni became widely discussed after appearing in the final season of Stranger Things. RÚV reported increased interest in Háifoss after the waterfall appeared in the final episode. Video of Háifoss waterfall and Grannin waterfall

Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue and lagoon Admission to Svínafellsjökull is free Visitors to Svínafellsjökull are not required to make any payment for entry. The parking area has good capasity and generally accommodates the number of visitors adequately. Regrettably, restroom and sanitary facilities are not provided at this natural attraction. There are many glacier tongues that stem from the massive ice cap Vatnajökull. When driving the Ring Road in Iceland on the south side, the glacier tongues create a fascinating landscape, with ice cliffs falling hundreds of meters and moving at such a slow speed that the human eye can't capture the movement. The view is decorated with a clean white top and a beautiful green and yellow foreground during summer. As the ice melts and decreases, the cliffs in between the tongues increase. Each tongue has a unique name, with the most famous and accessible being Skaftafellsjokull and Svínafellsjökull on the southern side. Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue is in the South Region on the Map of Iceland Svínafellsjökull is a great place to get close to a glacier tongue Svínafellsjökull glacier You want to see a glacier tongue up close for many reasons. First is the ice breaking apart and forming hundreds of cracks and stacks of an endless formation. It is always a mild attack on your imagination as you just can't avoid strange thoughts in proximity to this demolishing part of nature. Secondly, the beauty of this amazing landscape is so bright and clean yet so powerful. Thirdly, there is the weirdness when you can hear the movement and all the spooky sounds, although you can't see the movement. Then, there are many motives you can find to photograph. We could probably go on and on. Svínafellsjökull glacier has also gained fame as an attraction after this fascinating site was selected as a location for Game of Thrones season seven to represent "north of the wall." Glacier tongues and lagoons The Svínafellsjökull glacier falling like a slow river You will find a lake or at least a small pond at the end of many glacier tongues. Some are larger glacier tongues, like the famous Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón, where the icebergs float on a relatively large lake, and some are small with icebergs that have broken from the tongues. The lagoon by Svínafellsjökull is small but enough to give the glacier a fascinating and compelling look. The glacier tongue is simply a fascinating phenomenon in nature, and there are not many places you can visit such a natural wonder with such proximity as you can by visiting Svínafellsjökull. Svínafellsjökull is also part of the Ring Road drive in Iceland, and I recommend reading my article about the Ring Road drive. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland. For those interested in seeing Svínafellsjökull, you only need to drive a few kilometers east from Skaftafell on the Ring Road and turn left to drive the short distance to Svínafellsjökull.

Map of how to drive the Ring Road in Iceland The Ring Road is a great option if you're planning a self-drive or a trip to Iceland for the first time. If you don't have a clue about Iceland, you may be wondering where to go and how to make the most of your vacation. Although Iceland is small, it offers a wealth of sights and experiences, making it impossible to see everything in a single visit. For your first trip, consider renting a car and embarking on the Ring Road road trip. This highway encircles the entire island and links most regions outside the Highland. The complete journey, including additional loops and secondary roads, spans around 1,600 kilometers or 1,000 miles. This road trip will provide you with a glimpse of Iceland's essence, showcasing its remarkable natural wonders and charming small towns and villages along the coast. The Ring Road is also easy to travel, with many hotels and guesthouses, good campsites, easy access to gas and charging stations, hundreds of restaurants, good grocery stores, museums, recreational activities, and a lot more. It is also widely used by Icelanders to drive between the different regions on the island. A Ring Road trip in a rental car is the best way to see and understand what Iceland is about, both geographically and culturally. Throughout this article, you can click on many links that will take you to more detailed articles about breathtaking natural wonders, towns and villages and more detailed information about various things connected to the Ring Road drive. These include articles about the best season, what kind of car you should choose, how to visit individual natural wonders and much more. What is the Ring Road in Iceland? – the Icelandic historical background and 50th anniversary! Driving the Ring Road in Iceland close to Skaftafell is a spectacular drive For decades, Icelanders have referred to the Ring Road as Hringvegurinn. This term gained popularity in the early 1970s when a bridge over the Skeiðará River, near Skaftafell National Park in the southeast, was completed and opened to the public in 1974. The year 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the Ring Road in Iceland. This development allowed Icelanders to travel around the island and explore previously hard-to-reach areas, such as the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Driving the Ring Road has become almost essential, and Hringvegurinn has become an integral part of Icelandic language and culture. Many Icelanders visited the southeast and the East Fjords for the first time after the bridge’s opening, as many of today’s popular tourist destinations were isolated and difficult to access before then. It is important to note that the Ring Road is exactly as depicted on the map and does not include the Golden Circle, the Westfjords, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Highland, Melrakkaslétta in the northeast, or the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Ring Road, current state From my Ring Road travel camping tour in 1992 Local expert who has travelled the Ring Road many times on a road trip in Iceland I have traveled the Ring Road in every season, both alone on a photographic mission and as a guide for private tours, photographic tours, and larger groups. Consequently, I have experienced this remarkable road in various ways and conditions, visited every corner, and even discovered and named a natural wonder, Stuðlagil, which has become one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations in recent years. Therefore, in this article, you can expect to gain insights and information from a local expert. My wife and I went on our first Ring Road tour in 1984, a few years after the bridge was constructed. It was an unforgettable experience since my wife, who was eight months pregnant at the time, and I stayed in a tent in early August. In 2015 and 2016, I drove the Ring Road multiple times, conducting research and photography for the numerous articles on this webpage. As a result, I have extensive experience driving the Ring Road and exploring all the fascinating places it has to offer. Even though I have often traveled the Ring Road, I always enjoy driving around the island. I have also visited the places I mentioned in the article many times. Recently, I went on a Ring Road road trip with my wife, Gunna. This time, we decided to stay at hotels instead of camping, which we usually do. One of the many good things about growing tourism in Iceland is that many magnificent accommodations are now available. Only about a decade ago, few nice hotels were outside Reykjavík, and food was primarily available at roadside gas stations. However, this has changed dramatically in recent years, and the quality of accommodation and food around the shoreline by the Ring Road is now an advantage that we have in Iceland. With the increase in tourism, there is a demand for more quality, and on this tour, we decided to stay at friendly quality hotels, dine at excellent restaurants, and visit places that we seldom see or new places that my wife had never visited before. The time it takes to drive the Ring Road in Iceland The Ring Road drive will take you to many great places in Iceland Driving the Ring Road in just two days is possible for those only interested in driving, as it is a well-maintained asphalt road. However, it is primarily a two-lane road, so some may find it narrow. In this article, I recommend taking at least six days to complete the tour, which is a reasonable amount of time to cover most of the fascinating and easily accessible natural wonders, landscapes, towns, and villages. Additionally, I mention a few museums, exhibitions, and new geothermal baths that are constantly growing in numbers. Therefore, for the best experience, I suggest driving for six days to make the most of your vacation and see and enjoy as many fascinating places as possible. When to drive the Ring Road in Iceland If you plan to visit Iceland, the best time for the Ring Road trip is from the beginning of May to the end of October. During this time, you can enjoy the blooming and colorful vegetation and have daylight from early morning until late evening. Every day, you can easily be on the road from 7 AM to 9 PM, giving you ample time to stop and admire each place you visit without being in a hurry. However, things are much more difficult during winter, as the most fascinating natural wonders are covered with snow, and the roads are more challenging to drive. The weather can be harsh and difficult. To better understand the other seasons or times to visit Iceland, you can read my article about the best time to visit Iceland. What type of rental car for the Ring Road in Iceland? Finding the right rent a car for your road trip in important Before you start, read my extensive article about driving in Iceland to better understand the roads and the road system, what kind of rental car fits best for you and the time you intend to travel. The roads are often different than in other countries, and conditions can change quickly in different weather situations. Most of the time, when driving on Ring Road, you are driving the official road, which is defined as number 1. But keep in mind that the term Ring Road doesn't necessarily always refer to that road, as the Ring Road concept is a travel or tour concept and can incorporate other roads when you need to take a loop to go to interesting places. The landscapes and natural wonders should be your main objective Natural wonders like waterfalls, canyons, lakes and more Many visitors who come to Iceland are eager to witness the country's natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes. From waterfalls, hot springs, and lava to black sand beaches, basalt columns, icebergs, glaciers, canyons, mountains, fjords, charming towns, and even volcanic eruptions - Iceland has it all. However, for those who are unfamiliar with the island, it can be time-consuming and overwhelming to plan a trip that covers all the must-see places. This article aims to help you optimize your itinerary and reach your destination as quickly as possible. There are many stunning places to visit in Iceland One of the best ways to explore Iceland is by renting a car and driving on the Ring Road. This will give you the flexibility and freedom to control your time, allowing you to make the most of your travel experience. It is especially helpful for photographers who want to capture the essence of this unique volcanic island. Alternatively, you can hire a private local driver guide who will provide you with a vehicle and a wealth of information about the country's history, culture, and geology. This will enhance your experience, and you will be amazed at how much you can learn about this small but remarkable island. Starting the Ring Road in Reykjavík Reykjavík is a wonderful small city and has a lot to offer and is a great starting point for the Ring Road I recommend starting your road trip in Reykjavík and drive east by the south shore, counterclockwise. When you start in Reykjavík, you drive the famous south coast, which is also one of the most popular day tours from Reykjavik, but instead of coming back to the city, you continue your drive towards the fjords in the east. You spend two days enjoying the magnificent landscape, waterfalls, and icebergs on the south shore all the way to the southeast town of Höfn í Hornarfirði. From Höfn, you head to the magnificent East fjords or Austfirðir for a spectacular scenic drive. After spending two days driving the scenic fjords and visiting waterfalls, towns and villages, and natural wonders in the eastern and northeast Regions, you drive through the beautiful Northern Region, visiting many interesting places and heading to the historically rich West Region. Your last stop is the tiny museum of Snorri Sturluson, the most interesting individual who has lived in Iceland and then back to Reykjavík. It is a convenient drive in the summer months and a drive on an asphalt road. A drive that will take you to most types of the natural wonders in Iceland that people find interesting and rarely see in other countries. . The day I discovered and photograped Stuðlagil in 2016 and made it world famous Accommodation, cell phone connection, fuel, charging, and practical things All the towns and villages by the ring road also have swimming pools, small convenient stores, and a gas station. The Ring Road is a popular route in Iceland that offers various options for accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels and quality guest houses to simple campsites. If you prefer camping, most towns and villages along the way provide excellent campsites, and you can rent a camper or bring your own tent. Additionally, all the towns and villages by the ring road have swimming pools, small convenience stores, and gas stations, making it easier for you to find everything you need. If you are concerned about safety, you should know that the Ring Road has almost full cellular phone GSM coverage, and it is a commonly used road by Icelanders. Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates of any country, so you can rest assured that you'll be safe while driving on this road. The drive along the Ring Road offers stunning views of Icelandic landscapes and natural wonders, making it a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts. You're sure to make beautiful memories on this road trip. Here is what you will see on the Ring Road in Iceland. The first Ring Road day: waterfalls, black sands, moss-covered lava, and ocean stacks The second Ring Road day: icebergs, glaciers and mountains The third Ring Road day: scenic fjords, interesting shoreline, and charming small fishing villages The fourth Ring road day: mighty waterfalls, spectacular basalt column canyon and geothermal activity The sixth Ring Road day: Sea stack, mountain climbing, a museum about the history and beautiful waterfalls First Ring Road day, the south shore Map of ring road first day drive in Iceland The Southern Region of Iceland is known to have more fascinating places to see and experience than any other part of the country. The drive from Reykjavik to Kirkjubæjarklaustur on the first day is about 260 kilometers or 160 miles. If you decide to take the secondary roads leading to some of the natural wonders that you plan to visit, you can expect to drive around 320 kilometers or 200 miles. This means you'll be driving for approximately four hours. You'll have plenty of time to explore the breathtaking natural wonders. On average, you can spend anywhere from half an hour to two hours at each stop, depending on how much you enjoy the location. The Lava Center and Hvolsöllur village The region is full of natural wonders easily accessible from the Ring Road. To begin your journey, visiting the Lava Center in Hvolsvöllur village is recommended. This interactive museum provides an excellent understanding of volcanic activity, earthquakes, eruptions, and the geological factors that have shaped Icelandic landscapes. The center also features a short film about recent eruptions that is worth seeing. A visit to the Lava Center will undoubtedly enhance your tour and understanding of the area's natural wonders. At Hvolsvöllur village, there are several places where you can buy snacks, soda, coffee, etc. There are also quite a few places where you can find a restroom. In this small village, there are two gas stations and one very good grocery store. Seljalandsfoss, the waterfall you can walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall Seljalandsfoss is the first natural wonder you must visit in Iceland. This beautiful waterfall is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, and you can even walk behind it! It's only a half-hour drive from Hvolsvöllur village, and it's close to Eyjafjallajökull, which became famous in 2010 when its eruption stopped all air traffic over the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, Gljúfrabúi, another interesting waterfall, is located just 10 minutes north of Seljalandsfoss. It is a cave-like waterfall that is truly fascinating. Both waterfalls are particularly enjoyable for kids. You can enter by paying a parking fee at Seljalandsfoss. There's a small snack bar, a tiny gift shop, and public toilets available near the parking lot. The beautiful waterfall Skógafoss Skógafoss waterfall Less than an hour's drive to the East from Seljalandsfoss lies another famous waterfall named Skógafoss, which is also quite close to the main road. Both waterfalls are major attractions in Iceland, and people love to photograph them for a reason. At Skógafoss, admission is free, and you can choose to walk up approximately 500 steps to view the waterfall from above or stand in front of this magnificent flow of water falling down 60 meters. You can also walk towards this beautiful waterfall and get quite close until you feel the vapor spreading from the fall of the water. If you are a fan of waterfalls, another exciting waterfall named Kvernufoss is only about a 15-minute walk to the East of Skógafoss. Skógafoss, or the small hamlet Skógar, has restaurants, public restrooms, and a parking lot. Admission is free, but payments are required to use the restrooms. Find accommodation Put in your preferred dates and compare prices between all major rental car companies The arch Dyrhólaey Dyrhólaey is a great place to see puffins - in summer After driving for about half an hour from Skógafoss, you need to take a right turn onto road number 218, which will lead you to Dyrhólaey. It is a half island and an arch that stretches into the ocean. Dyrhólaey is located in one of the southernmost parts of Iceland. The basalt rocks here have been protecting part of the coastline for thousands of years. It is situated in the middle of two large, black-sand beaches. During summer, it is a great place to catch a glimpse of the puffins up close. There are two parking lots at Dyrhólaey, both of which are interesting to stop by. The first is on top of the cliff, and the other is by the shoreline. The upper parking lot provides an excellent view of the glacier Mýrdalsjökull towards the west. The second, the lower parking lot, offers a view of the famous black beach, Reynisfjara. If you park in the upper parking lot, you can get very close to the puffins from June until late August. Dyrjólaey arch by the ring road in the south region I recommend taking a walk towards the lighthouse on the west part of the cliff to see the beautiful arch. From this point of Dyrhólaey, you can get a unique and spectacular view of the Mýrdalsjökull and Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. On a clear day, it is one of the most impressive views of Ring Road. You can also continue down the path to the lower level and enjoy another spectacular view towards the east, where you can see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and Reynisfjara black beach. However, you will need to walk back up to the upper level to get your car. This short hike is very rewarding on a good day. There is no service at Dyrhólaey, and admission is free. On the lower level is a public toilet with a fee to pay at the entrance. Reynisfjara black beach and Reynisdrangar by the Ring Road Reynisfjara black beach is a very popular tourist attraction While driving this part of the south shore, you will experience a breath-taking view of the glaciers Eyjafjallajökull and Mýrdalsjökull from Seljalandsfoss to Reynisfjara and Reynisdrangar, which is your next stop. The drive from Dyrhólaey is only about 15 minutes. Reynisdrangar sea stacks are captivating natural wonders and a joy to view. By the foot of the mountain, Reynisfjall stretches almost to the ocean; there is a beautiful formation of basalt columns and magnificent rock formations. The black beach extending west and to your right is a deceiving place. Be aware of the hazardous waves. You must pay attention and read the signs and warnings before entering the beach. Admission is free, and a café is located by the shoreline. Public toilets are available for a fee at the entrance. Vík the village Vík village The next stop on your tour is the small villages of Vík. If you drive to the beach in the village, you can see Reynisdrangar from a different angle. Don't forget to stop by the beautiful church on the hill, which is an iconic spot for Vík and offers great photo opportunities. For your convenience, we recommend driving a little further to the tiny village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur to find hotels, guesthouses, or camping sites. In Vík, you'll find many options, such as cafes, restaurants, tourist shops, a large grocery store, gas stations, and accommodations. Mýrdalssandur and the lava from the Skaftáreldar eruption Hjörleifshöfði at Mýrdalssandur As you drive east from Vík, you will pass through the vast Mýrdalssandur sand plain. This sand plain was formed by the powerful volcano Katla, which is located in the middle of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Katla has a history of erupting every 100 years and most recently erupted in 1918. For this reason, we keep a close eye on Katla as it is expected to erupt at any time. As you continue along the road, you will come to the first lava from the 1783 eruption at Lakagígar ( click to see my Lakagígar road trip if you want to see a 4X4 Highland road trip), known as Eldhraun. This lava field is one of the largest ever recorded in historical times on Earth. The road runs through the lava field, which is covered with beautiful green moss. Near the junction to Fjaðrárgljúfur, at the end of the lava field, there is a viewing panel where you can stop and view the old moss-covered lava on both sides of the road. Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon Prior to arriving at Kirkjubæjarklaustur, travelers should take a left turn and drive approximately three kilometers, or two miles, to reach Fjaðrárgljúfur. This picturesque canyon features a tranquil stream that runs through its center and affords visitors the opportunity to walk along the convenient path located on its eastern side. After exploring the canyon, we recommend staying overnight in Kirkjubæjarklaustur village, where a variety of accommodations are available, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites. Additionally, the village offers a selection of fine restaurants, both within the village itself and at nearby hotels. Second Ring Road day, the southeast Map of second day Rig Road drive in Iceland On the second day on the Ring Road, you will drive towards the east on the south shore part of the Ring Road self drive. You will see waterfalls, basalt columns, and even a waterfall falling over a cliff of basalt columns. You will also see glacier lagoons, icebergs, an ice cap, glacier tongues, and mountains. You are also driving through an agricultural area, and you will see a lot of farms and domestic animals in the field. It is a beautiful scenic drive displaying the many outlet glaciers south of the large icecap Vatnajökull. A big part of the day is driving south of Vatnajökull Ice cap Foss á Síðu waterfall and Dverghamrar Foss á Síðu waterfall and Dverghamrar basalt column lava formation On your second day, you will drive for only 210 kilometers or 130 miles. The natural wonders are mainly by the Ring Road, so accessing them is easy and effortless. Your drive will begin from Kirkjubæjarklaustur, and the first noticeable place you will come across is the small waterfall Foss á Síðu, which is about 10 kilometers or 6 miles east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur town. This beautiful waterfall takes on many forms depending on how much water falls from the small lake Þórutjörn on top of the cliffs and is a great spot to park your car on the left side of the road and take some photographs. Just a few minutes drive away from the waterfall, you will find a wonderful formation of basalt columns called Dverghamrar, also known as the dwarf cliffs. It's definitely worth making a quick stop to explore this beautiful area. The walk around the small formation of basalt columns is not too long and there is a well-defined path to follow. As you wander around, you can't help but imagine that this is the home of a community of elves. It's a great stop for families with children, as the place has a certain mysterious atmosphere that kids will love. I took my daughters there when they were young and it's a place that they still talk about and remember fondly. Skaftafell National Park A view from the road to Skaftafell National Park The drive from Dverghamrar to your next destination, Skaftafell, usually takes around an hour. Along the way, you'll be treated to some truly breathtaking landscapes. Before you enter a long stretch of sand known as Skeiðarársandur, make sure to stop at Lómagnúpur, a mountain that stands 688 meters tall (2100 feet) and boasts impressive cliffs at the top. There are plenty of parking spots on the left side of the road around Lómagnúpur, but be careful when parking and ensure you have a good view of the road both in front of and behind you. There are also small ponds and other vegetation around Lómagnúpur, which make for great foreground reflections in photographs. The drive from Lómagnúpur to Skaftafell is equally stunning. Throughout the journey, you'll have Öræfajökull glacier directly ahead of you, as well as the outlet glacier Skeiðarárjökull on your left side. At the top of Öræfajökull, you'll see the peak of Hvannadalshnjúkur, which is the highest mountain in Iceland. Once you reach Skaftafell, you'll need to pay the parking fee in order to gain admission to the park. The park offers a range of services, including toilets, camping facilities, and information about hiking trails. Svartifoss waterfall Svartifoss in Winter Upon your arrival at Skaftafell, we highly recommend embarking on a 5.8 km (3.4 miles) hike to Svartifoss waterfall, which is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Iceland. The hiking trail is well-maintained, easy to navigate, and suitable for all skill levels, taking approximately two hours to complete. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views as the elevation gradually increases by about 300 meters (900 feet) in all directions. Skaftafell serves as a service center for the Vatnajökull National Park and provides several amenities such as a restaurant, a fantastic campsite, and clean restrooms. As you travel east along Ring Road, you'll find another restaurant and a convenience store at Freysnes. Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue The magnificent glacier tongue of Svínafellsjökull Located a short distance east of Skaftafell is the magnificent glacier tongue of Svínafellsjökull. It is definitely worth a visit as the view from the lagoon by the tongue is magnificent. You can also get close to the icebergs floating on the lagoon. To reach the glacier, take a left turn with a sign close to Freysnes. The parking lot is also a short distance from Ring Road. It takes about an hour to hike to the spectacular sight of Svínafellsjökull from the parking lot. You will walk to the top of the moraine and a magical view to the north will open up. Jökulsárlón and the wonderlands of glaciers and icebergs Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon After Skaftafell and Svínafellsjökull, your next destination is one of the most thrilling parts of your journey - Jökulsárlón. The drive should take less than an hour, covering a distance of about 67 kilometers or 42 miles. Jökulsárlón is the highlight of the Ring Road, and I suggest you park at the parking lot on the right side of the bridge. This will give you easy access to the beach. Walking under the bridge takes you to the main area of Jökulsárlón lagoon, where you can witness the constant battle between the tremendous forces of nature. Enormous icebergs fall from Europe's largest glacier and make their way to the ocean, floating through the lagoon. The water that comes from under the glacier pushes them to the coast, and they are then pushed back by the ocean forces of high and low tide to the shoreline. Playing with small icebergs at Fellsfjara (Diamond Beach) by the Ring Road in Iceland The icebergs on Fellsfjara Beach (Diamond Beach), south of the lagoon, look like ice sculptures. Being here is like visiting a gallery of Mother Nature's finest works. Plan to spend at least three hours at Jökulsárlón and Fellsfjara beach, and if you take the 30-minute boat trip, a bit more. The boat trip is fascinating, but it doesn't add a lot to the experience. Photographers will find infinite possibilities and motives at this location. You should also walk the shoreline from the service center about 500 meters north. In any case, Jökulsárlón is one of the most interesting stops on the Ring Road and a place to enjoy. Hoffelsjökull Hoffellsjökull outlet glacier Since this is a day of glaciers and icebergs, a stop is recommended by Hoffelsjökull outlet glacier not far from the town of Höfn, 60 kilometers, 37 miles. The outlet glacier and the glacier tongue are amazing, as well as the whole area south of the glacier and an attraction that is not visited by many people. Today, it is part of the Vatnajökull National Park, and the outlet glacier is retreating a bit faster, and the lagoon in front of the glacier tongue is getting bigger. The signs to on road nr. 1 to Hoffelsjökull are obvious, and the road number is nr. 984. From Hoffelsjökull, the drive to Höfn takes about half an hour. There are many accommodation options in Höfn and the rural area around the town. Mostly good-quality hotels and guest houses, as well as a great camping site at Höfn. One of the best in Iceland. It is a great place to overnight, with good-quality restaurants and cafés. It is truly a town worth visiting and a beautiful place to take an evening walk. Third Ring Road day, the east Map of third day Rig Road drive in Iceland On the third day of your Ring Road road trip, as you leave Höfn and head towards the east, you'll be treated to a day full of stunning mountains, picturesque views of the Vatnajökull ice cap, beautiful fjords, and attractive shorelines. The drive ahead is approximately 350 kilometers or 215 miles, but you'll probably take it slow as you'll be driving through a breathtaking landscape. It's important to remember that stopping on the shoulder of the road to take photographs or observe domestic animals grazing in the fields can be hazardous, so please refrain from doing so. During your journey, you'll also get to explore four charming small fishing villages, each with its unique history and character. Before you turn east to enter Ring Road number 1, be sure to take a moment to look towards the west, where you'll witness one of Iceland's most spectacular views. You'll see some stunning outlet glaciers stretching out from the Vatnajökull ice cap, which is a sight to behold on a clear day. Vestrahorn Vestrahorn mountain ridge by the Ring Road in east Icealnd A short distance from the junction heading east on the Ring Road drive, about 3 kilometers (2 miles), there is a turn to the right to Vestrahorn. It is the name of a beautiful small mountain ridge. The mountains are an inseparable part of the stunning view you have from the town of Höfn, but you are in for a treat by driving to the shore south of the mountain. There is an admission fee or a parking fee that enables you to drive to the beach. There is a great view and a pleasure to visit on that road and the beach. Eystrahorn and Lónsfjörður Eystrahorn mountain ridge east of Höfn As you drive towards the east, you will pass through Lónsfjörður Bay and reach the mountain Hvalnesfjall, also known as Eystrahorn. This mountain stands out on the eastern side of Lónsfjörður, just like Vestrahorn on the west side. While driving by the cove, make sure to look back towards the west for a view of Mr. Vestrahorn. You can park your car at Eystrahorn either by the shore or by the lighthouse. I recommend stopping at the lighthouse, where you can walk around the area towards the shoreline and enjoy the beautiful scenery. This is a very photogenic place with a great view towards the cove's lagoon. While driving in Lónsfjörður, you will see the entrance to Lónsöræfi backland on your left. This is one of the most wonderful places in the Icelandic Highland, but it is also one of the most difficult to travel. It is a hikers' and photographers' paradise, but you cannot drive a car to Lónsöræfi. If you have an extra day or two, there are local companies in Höfn that offer tours to Lónsöræfi during the summer. Álftafjörður fjord in the east region The drive from Eystrahorn to Djúpivogur village While driving past Eystrahorn towards Álftafjörður (Swan fjord), you will come across the majestic mountains and the bay. Álftafjörður fjord is unique among other east fjords as it receives glacial rivers that bring sediment from the glacier, making the bay shallow and perfect for photography. The whole bay and the surrounding area are peaceful and ideal for short walks and stops, just like the next fjord, the small fjord of Hamarsfjörður. When you reach the end of Hamarsfjörður, you'll come across the small village of Djúpivogur. From Djúpivogur to Reyðarfjörður Djúpivogur village in the eastfjords in Iceland ring road drive Djúpivogur is one of four small villages and towns I recommend for this part of your Ring Road trip to Iceland. Djúpivogur is interesting because of its historical depth as a trading post and a fishing community. Here you can stop by the harbor and also drive to the beach east of the village. Because of the beautiful mountain towering over the village, the placement of Djúpivogur village is often defined as one of the most beautiful in Iceland. Here you also find restaurants and café. Nykurhylsfoss waterfall by the ring road in east Iceland The drive from Djúpivogur through Berufjörður fjord is a typical Icelandic "in and out" fjord drive. When you look across the fjord, the distance to the other side is only 4 kilometers or about 2.5 miles. The drive to the innermost part of the fjord and back on the other side is 35 kilometers or 22 miles. Fortunately, it is a scenic drive, and you must remember to drive rather slowly and stop where permitted to look at the view, the shoreline, and the mountains. After driving 14 kilometers distance from Djúpivogur, you come to a beautiful waterfall, Nykurhylsfoss. Most of the rivers you have driven by until now are either dirty glacial rivers or runoff rivers; this waterfall, on the other hand, comes from a spring-fed river. So, the water is clear and clean and comes from the valley called Fossárdalur, west of the waterfall. This is a great place to stop. You take a left turn and up the small slope, where you find a parking lot. is the fjord Berufjörður, and before you reach the bottom of the fjord, you will find the waterfall Nykurhylsfoss. The waterfall is part of the beautiful spring-fed river Fossá, which comes from the Fossárdalur valley. Blábjörg cliffs From Nykurhylsfoss waterfall, you drive to the small and beautiful village of Fáskrúðsfjörður. A short distance from the waterfall before you leave Berufjörður, you should stop at Blábjörg, which is geologically one of the oldest parts of Iceland. There is a good parking lot on your right side and short walking trails around the cliffs. Another interesting spot to stop by and explore the shoreline is to stop at Streitishvarf lighthouse on the tip of the peninsula between Berufjörður fjord and Breiðdalsvík Bay. Here, the Ring Road takes you onward through the small fjord of Stöðvarfjörður and Breiðdalsvík Bay. On the north side of Stöðvarfjörður fjord, there is a small village with the same name. If you are interested in rocks, stones, and geology, Petra's Stone Collection is a small museum in that village. It is a museum worth stopping at, especially for families with children. From Stöðvarfjörður to Fáskrúðsfjörður is approximately 30 kilometers, and on the way, you see an island outside the east coast, Skrúður, and beautiful mountains while driving the lovely fjord. Fáskrúðsfjörður and Reyðarfjörður The old french hospital at Fáskrúðsfjörur village - now a beautiful hotel The second village that I suggest visiting is Fáskrúðsfjörður. It is an interesting fishing village that has survived many changes throughout its history. Today, it has a solid economic foundation and a highly modern fishing industry. One of its most interesting chapters is the French connection and the French fishing activities during the 19th century. To explore the village, I suggest parking your car near the old hospital, which is now a hotel, and taking a walk around the old part of the village. The old small fishing village of Reyðarfjörður has changed a lot in recent years After visiting Fáskrúðsfjörður, you can continue your journey by driving through the tunnel Fáskrúðsfjarðargöng on road number 1 to the third village I recommend stopping at, Reyðarfjörður. Although it is also a small and old fishing village, there is a significant difference between Reyðarfjörður and Fáskrúðsfjörður. Around the turn of the century, a large aluminum smelter was built in Reyðarfjörður, which transformed the village from a fishing village to a more versatile economic base. Today, much of the development in recent decades is connected to the huge factory. I also recommend taking a short walk around the town center at Reyðarfjörður. It is more like a modern-day village than an old fishing village. Additionally, Reyðarfjörður has excellent restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and a grocery store. Klifbrekkufossar in Mjóifjörður fjord and Seyðisfjörður village Klifbrekkufossar waterfall in Mjóifjörður fjord To reach Egilsstaðir for accommodations from Reyðarfjörður, you drive through the valley of Fagridalur. This is a great starting point for the next day and an excellent opportunity to take a short evening drive to the beautiful town of Seyðisfjörður, which is our fourth recommendation for a town to visit. While driving from Reyðarfjörður, a few kilometers before reaching Egilsstaðir, I recommend that you turn east on road number 953, Mjóafjarðarvegur, from Road number 1. Please note that this route is only available during summer as road number 953 is closed during winter. This road will take you to Mjóifjörður fjord, and you will cross a high mountain pass, Mjóafjarðarheiði. Once you arrive on the other side of the mountain pass and at the innermost part of the fjord, you will find one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland, Klifbrekkufossar. The beautiful small town of Seyðisfjörður If you have the time, you might want to drive to the village or hamlet, which is one of the smallest and most isolated in Iceland, located only a few kilometers from the waterfalls. The drive to Mjóifjörður fjord takes some time, but the main goal of this drive is to see and experience the mighty Klifbrekkufossar, a natural wonder that you will probably have by yourself. The fourth Ring Road day, the northeast Map of fourth day Rig Road drive in Iceland The distance from Egilsstaðir to Mývatn Lake is around 160 kilometers or 100 miles. However, unlike the first three days of your trip, the most interesting places in the northeast region of Iceland are not located on the Ring Road. You will have to drive a bit to reach them. By the end of the day, you will have driven approximately 400 kilometers or 250 miles, including the recommended loops. Nonetheless, this part of the Ring Road is fascinating, and you're sure to enjoy it. The puffins at Borgarfjörður Eystri Puffin viewing at Borgarfjörður Eystri in Iceland There is a widespread interest in puffins among tourists, and it's not hard to see why. Puffins are beautiful, likable, and not particularly intimidated by humans. Visitors can get up close to these charming birds and snap some great photos. Sometimes, the puffins even seem to pose and express happiness when they get a lot of attention. While there are many places to view puffins, few can beat the harbor area at Borgarfjörður Eystri, also known as Bakkagerði. That's why I suggest starting your fourth day of exploration in this small hamlet. It's a 70-kilometer drive, 44 miles, on road number 94 from Egilsstaðir and will take approximately 4 hours round trip. The drive is scenic through the east fjords, with stunning views of the Dyrfjöll mountains and a breathtaking mountain pass. Stuðlagil canyon Stuðlagil canyon is one of the most interesting basalt column places you can find on the planet When you return to Egilsstaðir, you will be back on the Ring Road. Your first stop should be at Stuðlagil basalt column canyon and Stuðlafoss waterfall. The basalt columns in the canyon are stunning and one of the largest in Iceland. The river that runs through the canyon is the famous Jökla river. Interestingly, when I visited Stuðlagil in 2016, hardly anyone had visited the place. After taking and displaying photos of the canyon on my website and in magazines, it became one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations. This was confirmed in research published by the Iceland Tourist Board. Stuðlafoss waterfall close to Stuðlagil canyon To reach the parking lot by the farm Klaustursel, you need to drive approximately 16 kilometers (9 miles) south on road number 923. There are two parking lots, one by the farm and a smaller one close to Stuðlafoss waterfall. The hike to Stuðlagil Canyon takes about 30 minutes. Make sure to hike to the canyon on the east side, as it is much more interesting than the west side near the farm Grund, which offers a limited view of the most spectacular parts of the canyon. I am particularly fond of Stuðlagil since I discovered it in 2016, gave it a name, and turned it into one of Iceland's most popular tourist destinations, as you can read here. The drive through Möðrudalsöræfi When you continue on road number 1 after visiting Stuðlagil, you will enter the section of the Ring Road that is commonly referred to as Möðrudalsöræfi. On this part of the road, you will experience elevation changes of up to approximately 600 meters, which is almost 2000 feet. Due to this, it can be challenging to drive on this section of the Ring Road outside of the summer months. If you plan to drive between October and April, it is essential to keep in mind and check both the weather and road conditions before starting your journey. Möðrudalsöræfi and this region of the Ring Road are the most isolated, with only a handful of farms and a few inhabitants. It is practically a cold desert and part of the Highland, unlike the fjords in the east and the vegetation-rich south. The area is bare, dry, and covered with sand and ash. It is a fascinating landscape but also a unique driving experience. Ring Road Iceland Möðrudalsöræfi and Herðubreið While driving on this section of the Ring Road, you will enjoy an excellent view to the south towards Herðubreið, the queen of the Icelandic mountains, and the northern part of the Highland. Not far from Herðubreið is the area where Iceland erupted from August 2014 to February 2015, creating the massive lava field Holuhraun. Dettifoss, Hafragilsfoss, Selfoss and Jökulsárgljúfur Jökulsárgljúfur canyon in Iceland Once you reach the bridge that crosses the Glacier River in the Mountains, also known as Jökulsá á fjöllum, I strongly recommend taking a turn on road number 864. This will allow you to witness the stunning Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, Dettifoss waterfall, Selfoss waterfall, and Hafragilsfoss waterfall. Dettifoss is not only the most powerful waterfall in Iceland but also in Europe. On the other hand, Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the island. Dettifoss waterfall a spectacular view from the east side The primary route to Dettifoss Waterfall is on the west side, via road number 862, and the main tourist parking lot is located on that side. However, I recommend viewing all these scenic spots from the east side, via road number 864 (see map), as the view from this side is much more exhilarating and breathtaking. The west side is often crowded with buses and mass tourism, but on the east side, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and see more. Hafragilsfoss waterfall in Jökulsárgljúfur canyon On the east side, you can benefit from the advantage of being on your own schedule in a rental car. Please note that the road on the east side is a gravel road and not as well-maintained as the asphalt road on the west side and may be a bit bumpy to drive, but it is only about 33 kilometers or 20 miles long. When you reach the signpost to the parking lot for Dettifoss on Road number 864, drive a few hundred meters further and turn by the sign to the parking lot at Hafragilsfoss waterfall. From the viewpoint by that waterfall, you will get a spectacular perspective of the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon to the north and the Hafragilsfoss waterfall to the south. This view is outstanding compared to the west side. Selfoss waterfall in Jökulsá á Fjöllum After enjoying the view, drive back to the sign by Dettifoss, turn to the parking lot, and park the car. There is a short hike to the most spectacular waterfall in Europe. A bit farther south, you can walk to the beautiful Selfoss waterfall. To visit all three waterfalls, the view, the foreground, and the background are much better and more attractive on the east side. You then take the same road back, number 864, to road number 1. The Námaskarð and Mývatn Námaskarð geothermal area After visiting the stunning waterfalls and Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, you will continue driving towards Námaskarð while heading west on Road number 1. Námaskarð, also known as Hverarönd, is an intriguing and beautiful geothermal location with hot springs, mud pots, and geothermal activity. Here, you will witness some of the forces coming from the ground that shape the surrounding landscapes. As you drive from Dettifoss, you will come across an area with lava on both sides. This is because you are now near the northern part of the rift zone, where active volcanoes exist, unlike the east fjords, which are all old geologically. A stop at Námaskarð is a must, and you should walk the paths to get a good view and proximity of the geothermal activity. From Námaskarð, it's just a short distance to Lake Mývatn. Before you check into your hotel or park at the camping site, you should also enjoy the Mývatn Nature Baths, which are similar to the Blue Lagoon but with a spectacular view from the pool while you are in the warm water and steam. There are many hotels and camping grounds available at Mývatn in the small hamlet of Reykjahlíð and the surrounding area. The fifth Ring Road day, the northwest Map of day five at ring rod tour in Iceland On the fifth day, you drive from Mývatn Lake to the small town of Blönduós. You stop at a mysterious lava field, pseudo-craters, and two interesting waterfalls. You also visit the beautiful town of Akureyri and dip into a geothermal pool named after a notorious Viking. The drive is about 250 kilometers, 155 miles. Dimmuborgir and Skútustaðir pseudo craters Your first task on your fifth day is to explore the Mývatn Lake area a bit further before you leave. To start off, you can visit Dimmuborgir. Instead of taking road number 1 from Reykjahlíð, you should drive to the south on road number 848. Soon, you will see the sign for Dimmuborgir and the parking lot on your left side. There is a service center by the parking lot, and from there, you can choose different paths through the Dimmuborgir lava field. The paths display magnificent lava sculptures that Mother Nature formed in an eruption. Dimmuborgir lava - Ring Road tour in Iceland Once you have finished the Dimmuborgir trail, you can continue on road number 848 to the south. After a short drive, you should stop at Skútustaðir tiny hamlet and walk the path to the Skútustaðir pseudo craters. The paths offer an interesting view of the craters and a good view of the lake and birdlife. Goðafoss waterfall waterfall Goðafoss waterfall Continuing on road number 848 to the west, you soon merge into road number 1, the Ring Road. Your next stop is by the waterfall Goðafoss, one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls. You stop by the service center and walk the path toward the waterfall. There are options here to view Goðafoss from both sides and a walking bridge to cross. Aldeyjarfoss waterfall Aldreyjarfoss is part of my Ring Road drive in Iceland After visiting Goðafoss, take a left turn towards the south on Road number 1 and drive Road number 842, which will take you through the long Bárðadalur valley. This scenic drive of about 40 kilometers (24 miles) will lead you to another stunning waterfall, Aldeyjarfoss. This waterfall is located on the edge of the Highland and is known for its interesting basalt columns. Akureyri, the largest town in the northern region in Iceland Akureyri town in the North East Region in Iceland From Aldeyjarfoss and Goðafoss, continue driving towards the beautiful and charming town of Akureyri. The town center is a joy to visit, and a must-see attraction is the towering church accessible by stairs. Take your time to explore the town and visit the Akureyri Botanical Garden. Akureyri is often referred to as the "Danish town in Iceland" due to its interesting history and unique architecture. The town center is home to many old and fascinating houses that are worth exploring. Grettislaug Natural Geothermal Pool Grettislaug pool From Akureyri, a stopover of at least 4 hours is recommended for visiting the Grettislaug geothermal pool. The pool, named after Grettir the Strong, is a natural outdoor pool. To get there: 1. Take a turn onto road number 75 from road number 1 at Varmahlíð small hamlet. 2. From there, drive to Sauðárkrókur town, which is a good place for a café stop. 3. Drive on Road number 744 for a short while and then turn north on Road number 748 to reach Grettislaug. Grettislaug is a great place to relax and dip in the stunning natural pools while enjoying the breathtaking view of Drangey Island and the surrounding mountains. The drive from Akureyri to Grettislaug is 133 kilometers or 82 miles. After your Grettislaug visit, you can turn back on Road number 744 and head west on Road number 748 to reach Blönduós village. The sixth Ring Road day, the west Map of Ring Road in Iceland Day six On the sixth Ring Road Day in Iceland, you will see an interesting sea stack, do some "mountain climbing,” and learn about our history. The drive is about 360 kilometers, 223 miles. Hvítserkur Hvítserkur When you drive from the town of Blönduós on Road nr. 1 in the Northwest part, you should take the time to visit Hvítserkur. You take the Road Nr. 711 Vatnsnesvegur to the north from Road Nr. 1. Hvítserkur is a magnificent sea stack and a lot of fun to visit. Mt. Grábrók Mt. Grábrók From here, you have approximately a two-hour drive ahead as you continue on road number 1, heading south through the Hrútafjörður fjord and up to the Holtavörðuheiði mountain pass. This is quite a scenic drive, as the view is wonderful in all directions throughout the drive. Coming down from the mountain pass, you will drive through the beautiful Norðurárdalur valley, with one of our most famous salmon rivers on your left side. As you continue on the Ring Road, we recommend that you stop and climb the small mountain Grábrók. It is a tiny mountain, or a crater, with a convenient track to the top. At the top, you will have an excellent view of the nearby mountains, lava, and the renowned salmon river Norðurá. A small museum about Snorri Sturluson and history Snorralaug is the spa Snorri dipt into in the evening After you have climbed Grábrók, you can continue south on the Ring Road until you reach the junction of road number 50. Turn left and head towards road number 518, which will take you to the Snorrastofa Museum located by the church in the tiny hamlet of Reykholt. This museum is dedicated to Snorri Sturluson and is an excellent place to improve your knowledge about Iceland and learn about the Sagas and our literary heritage. Snorri Sturluson was a writer, poet, politician, and historian who lived in the 12th and 13th centuries and is probably one of the most interesting people in the history of Iceland. Although small, the museum provides a good overview of our remarkable Sagas and how they came about. Snorri's writing has inspired many writers and artists throughout the centuries. Hraufossar Hraunfossar waterfalls If you follow our recommendations, the last waterfall you will see is Hraunfossar. These waterfalls are unique as the clean spring-fed water comes from below the lava, making it a beautiful sight to see. Along with Hraunfossar, you will also witness the lovely Barnafossar rapids in the Hvítá River, and taking a walk around the area is a good idea to enjoy the striking scenery. Deildatunguhver and Krauma spa A great way to end the Ring Road drive in Iceland is to dip into the water at Krauma Spa After leaving Hraunfossar on road 518, head towards the Ring Road on road number 50. Along the way, make sure to stop at Deildatunguhver Hot Springs, which has been delivering clean and boiling water from the ground since the settlement era. You can also take a relaxing dip in the water and enjoy the steam at Krauma Spa. Krauma is an excellent place to unwind after your tour, and you can even enjoy dinner at their fine restaurant before continuing your drive to Reykjavík. From Hraunfossar, you drive to Reykjavík the capital of Iceland This six-day journey should give you a good idea of what Iceland is all about and take you to some of the most interesting places in the country. You have seen many waterfalls, glaciers, icebergs, canyons, basalt columns, mountains, fjords, and geothermal areas. You have also seen many towns and villages and learned about our literary heritage and history. The best way to travel is to rent a car and find accommodations at a hotel, a guesthouse, or one of the many fabulous camping sites located almost everywhere in Iceland. This will give you flexibility and enjoyment and ensure that you get the most out of your trip to Iceland. Again, I recommend the best time for this trip to Iceland from the middle of May to the end of September.

Arnarstapi basalt column shoreline to Hellnar at Snæfellsnes Peninsula ©Emstrursf. Suppose you are looking for an exciting drive, a short road trip, or a tour in Iceland where you can comfortably drive and see the magnificent landscapes and beautiful natural wonders, astonishing small villages, and places with entertaining stories. In that case, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive is an excellent option. Especially if you have your own car, ccamper, or a rental car, before you start. For a better understanding of what kind of car fits you tour make sure you read my extensive article about choosing the right car in Iceland. It is quite possible to take the Snæfellsnes Peninsula drive in a day, but you have to ask yourself, "am I really in a hurry when traveling?" I cannot suggest or advise such a rush as I always encourage people to enjoy the landscapes and the various natural wonders and appreciate the stories and folklore that have developed for centuries. If you stay in Reykjavík, the whole drive is approximately 500 kilometers or 310 miles. The area you cover has a good cell phone cover and is never specifically remote. It is a scenic drive by the shoreline with a spectacular view of mountains and a beautiful glacier. Self drive map for Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland- Click to expand Enjoy the drive and inhale the natural wonders Driving the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Snæfellsjökull glacier in the background ©Emstrursf. To fully enjoy your drive, we suggest spending three days and two nights exploring the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This route offers breathtaking scenery and numerous impressive natural attractions. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, situated in Iceland's West Region, also features charming small towns and villages with excellent accommodations, campsites, cafés, and restaurants. Many of these places provide fascinating tours and activities. Our journey starts and finishes in the town of Borgarnes in the West Region, just 70 kilometers (45 miles) from Reykjavík, Iceland's capital. The route follows the intersection of Road nr 1 (the Ring Road) and Road nr. 54. This plan allows you to take a different path on your return, ensuring you discover new sights throughout the drive. What you will see Snæfellsnes Peninsula a view from Snæfellsjökull glacier ©Emstrursf. Driving on this tour around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on Road Nr. 54, you will see a large crater, fields of lava, waterfalls, basalt columns, stacks and pillars by the shoreline, ravines with strange stories attached to them, and places from stories in the Sagas that happened over a thousand years ago. You will also see Snæfellsjökull, the Snæfellsnes glacier. It is a remarkable journey through landscape and history. In addition, you will visit some beautiful towns and villages and experience a scenic drive with spectacular mountains. The roads, your car, and the best time of the year to take this tour drive Spectacular rock formation and shoreline by Hellnar small hamlet ©Emstrursf. This is a trip that you can take at any time during the year, although the most exciting and straightforward time is from the middle of May until the end of September. Regarding seasons, you can fill in some valuable information by reading my comprehensive article about the best time to visit Iceland. The colors of summer also make the lava moss and vegetation very beautiful, giving you a much more enjoyable experience. But experiencing Iceland in the autumn and winter is also quite interesting. Any car, small or large, can be used for this drive as the roads are almost all excellent asphalt roads except for a part on the Northeast part of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that only has a gravel road. In winter, it is always better and more secure to have a car with a front-wheel drive or preferably a four-wheel drive since they are more stable when the roads are icy and slippery. First day from Borgarnes to Arnarstapi Hiking up to the top of Eldborg crater ©Emstrursf. When you drive through the town of Borgarnes heading north, you turn to your left on a roundabout at the edge of this small town to Road Nr. 54 Snæfellsnesvegur or The Snæfellsnes Road. At first, you drive on a lowland area called Mýrar with the whole Snæfellsnes peninsula in front of you with its many mountains and the glacier Snæfellsjökull quite visible at the far end. After a 20-kilometer drive, 13 miles, you will start to notice a large crater in front of you, standing alone on the lowland and dominating the view. This is Eldborg Crater, which you can read about in more detail here, your first stop. To access the walking trail to Eldborg, you turn left approximately 35 kilometers, 22 miles, to Road Nr. 5610 to a farm called Snorrastaðir. From the parking lot, you take the 3-kilometer hike, 2 miles. Gerðuberg basalt column cliff ©Emstrursf. When you continue on Road Nr. 54. After the hiking tour to Eldborg, you only drive a few kilometers when you reach the short path to Gerðuberg, which you can read about in more detail here. This is a spectacular cliff with a fascinating geological formation of basalt columns. The basalt columns are so regular and so even that you would almost think this is man-made instead of made by Mother Nature. This should be your second stop, and you can drive to a parking lot by the cliffs. Bjarnarfoss waterfall ©Emstrursf. From Gerðuberg cliffs to your next and third recommended stop, Bjarnarfoss waterfall, which you can read about in more detail here, is approximately 55 kilometers, 35 miles. This is an incredibly scenic drive on a clear day since there are beautiful mountains on your right side and the glacier Snæfellsjökull at the end of the peninsula in front of you. You will also drive by stunning small ponds. Bjarnarfoss is an impressive waterfall with a spectacular small layer of basalt column cliff. There is a good parking lot beside the road and an easy and enjoyable path to the waterfall by the small spring-fed river. The famous black church at Búðir ©Emstrursf. From Bjarnarfoss, you turn towards Road Nr. 574 and take another turn to your left to Road Nr. 5723 to Búðir. From the parking lot at Búðir, there is a beautiful hike by the shoreline. You only need to walk about 500 meters -1.5 kilometers or a mile to enjoy this part of Snæfellsnes. It is a delightful walk where the rush is not required, but leave the sandals in the car as this is mostly walking in the sand. You should wear your hiking shoes, like in most places in Iceland. Rauðfeldsgjá ravine ©Emstrursf. After Búðir, I recommend a visit to Rauðfeldsgjá, which you can read about in more detail here, a stunning ravine with an intriguing story dating back over a thousand years. Bárður Snæfellsás, a prominent character in the tale, is said to have played a significant role in the area's history. To reach Rauðfeldsgjá, you must travel a few kilometers on Road nr. 574 from Búðir. I suggest reading the fascinating story about Rauðfeldsgjá and the information on Bárður Snæfellsás, both of which can be found at the link above. Arnarstapi small hamlet ©Emstrursf. If you prefer to dine at a restaurant, you should consider the excellent restaurant at the Hotel Búðir. From Búðir, you drive approximately 20 kilometers, 12 miles, to the west on Road Nr.574 to Arnarstapi, which you can read about in more detail here. Arnarstapi and the nearby village or hamlet Hellnar are excellent places to stay in addition to the Hotel at Búðir. Many places in the neighborhood offer affordable accommodations, and there is also a beautiful and convenient camping area at Arnarstapi. This should wrap up your first day at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula drive. Second day Snæfellsnes road trip Arnarstapi to Grundarfjörður Bárður Snæfellsás the troll settler ©Emstrursf. You should begin your day early by taking the spectacular 2.5-kilometer hiking trail from the small harbor at Arnarstapi to Hellnar. It is an excellent marked trail by the shoreline, filled with unusual geological formations and lovely birdlife. In contrast to the coastline, you have the excellent Snæfellsjökull glacier and the mountain Stapafell on your right or north. If you take this track, you probably have to walk the same way back to Arnarstapi, but it is entirely worth it. At Arnarstapi, you should salute the statue of the mysterious person and troll Bárður Snæfellsás, which you can read about in a separate article. Bárður is a historical person who had quite an impact on the surrounding area. His story is hilarious and kind of sad at the same time, as part of the Icelandic Sagas. Even though he came to Iceland more than one thousand years ago, he still lives on the slope of the glacier Snæfellsjökull, and his presence is felt by many people who live there. Lóndrangar sea stacks ©Emstrursf. From Arnarstapi, you continue west on Road Nr. 574 to Lóndrangar which you can read about in a separate article. Although the stacks are pretty impressive and visible from the road viewing panel at Þúfubjarg, I recommend driving a bit farther, taking the left turn after a short distance to Malarrif, and walking the one-kilometer walk by the shore to the stacks. It is a more impressive view and also more interesting for photographing. After a few minutes drive from Malarrif, you will find a small cabin on the right side of the road selling tours down to the deep cave Vatnshellir (Water Cave) on your right side. You can take a guided tour with stunning formations deep under the dark lava. Djúpalónssandur ©Emstrursf. As you continue from the Vatnshellir Cave, you turn left on Road Nr. 575 to the parking lot by Djúpalónssandur, which you can read about in a separate article in more detail here and Dritvík. Both are beautiful places to visit and have fascinating histories that go back to the first settlement in Iceland. Although the walk or short hike to Dritvík takes about an hour and a half back and forth, it is an enjoyable scenic hike with stunning stack formations along the way. Both places are ideal for photography, especially on a bright day when the glacier Snæfellsjökull is visible in the background. Dritvík cove ©Emstrursf. After Djúpalónssandur and Dritvík which you can read about in a separate article in more detail here, you continue on Road Nr. 574. After a short drive, you will see a small crater, Saxhóll, on your left side. This is ideal for a short stop and a walk up to the top. A good view of the shoreline and the glacier is from the top of the crater. From Saxhóll crater, you turn to Öndverðarnes, the westernmost point at Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The road is a dirt road and bit difficult and worse than a regular gravel road, but along the way, you can visit Skarðsvík which you can read about in a separate article beach and Svörtuloft which you can also read about in a separate article in more detail here cliffs, an excellent addition to the tour but a bit of a loop that takes about one and a half hours with all the stops. The cliffs at Svörtuloft display fantastic lava structures shaped by the Atlantic ocean's mighty force. Svörtuloft ©Emstrursf. When you approach the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, your journey is more like a scenic drive, and you'll visit small towns and villages rather than view natural wonders. The first stop is in the two small villages of Hellisandur and Rif. At Hellisandur, there is an excellent opportunity to visit the Maritime Museum in the Fishermen's Garden. It is an excellent opportunity to understand the hardship it took to live in Iceland only a few centuries ago. It is also a good idea to walk the village of Hellisandur by the shore from the parking lot at the Maritime Museum. When you drive towards Rif, the twin village, you should take a turn on Road Nr. 5738 to the church Inngjaldhólsskirkja that some folklore claim was visited by Cristoper Coluomus, and you can read about it in a separate article. Here you have a good view of the magnificent surroundings in a place called “Under the Glacier.” At Hellissandur, you should stop at Gilbakki Café and taste their fabulous fish soup. The owner is a dear friend of mine and Gunna, my wife, and we have known her since childhood. Her husband built the house a few years ago, and he also provides fresh fish for the fish soup from his daily fishing tour to the Breiðafjörður Bay. Here is an interview with Lúlli about their life at Snæfellsnes peninsula. One of the best cafés in Iceland is located at Rif village - Gilbakki - Sitting outside with the owners, my wife Gunna, and my granddaughter Yrsa. ©Emstrursf. From Rif village, you drive to the junction of Svöðufoss which you can read about in a separate article, turn right, and head on to the parking lot. A short hike from the parking lot to the beautiful waterfall Svöðufoss and the small basalt column cliffs within the fall. Next, you drive to the friendly town of Ólafsvík, a beautiful small fishing town with old houses and a small harbor. Walking from the town up to the slopes and having a good view over the shoreline is worth walking. After that stop, you continue to Grundarfjörður town, where you should find accommodation or stay at the campsite. Since it is only about 20-kilometer drive from the town of Grundarfjörður to the town of Ólafsvík, you can also find suitable accommodation at Ólafsvík, and the Camp Site in Ólafsvík is relatively new and among the best in Iceland. Third day: Grundarfjörður - Borgarnes Mt. Kirkjufell seen from the church in the town Grundarfjörður ©Emstrursf. A great beginning on your third day is to walk from Grundarfjörður, a parking lot at the center, or from the camping site to Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and photograph and view the waterfall and the mountain, Kirkjufell which you can read about in a separate article. You can also drive the short distance back on Road nr. 54 and park by the waterfall; the walk from the town is highly recommended. The mountain is probably one of the most renowned mountains in Iceland, and few mountains in Iceland are photographed more than Kirkjufell not surprising as it is one of the most beautiful mountains in Iceland. The famous Kirkjufellsfoss and Mt. Kirkjufell ©Emstrursf. From Grundarfjörður village, you continue on Road Nr. 54 Snæfellsvegur to the east. After you pass the bridge over the fjord Hraunsfjörður (Lavafjord), you take a turn after a two-and-a-half-kilometer drive to a gravel road, Berserkjahraunsvegur Road Nr. 558, to view Berserkjahraun lava field. You continue on that road for about 1.7 kilometers, a mile, and take a left turn that takes you to the edge and over the lava back to Road Nr. 54, this unusual loop gives you a great view of the lava. The name comes from the Sagas (Eyrbyggja), and you should also read Berserkirnir in Berserkjahraun which you can read about in a separate article. When you have returned to Road Nr. 54, you continue west to one of Iceland's most beautiful and exciting towns, Stykkishólmur. You should begin your arrival to Stykkishólmur with a tour with Sæferðir to sail around the many islands in the large fjord, Breiðafjörður. The Vikingsushi Adventure is highly recommended. Sometimes, on the boat tour, you can spot the white-tailed eagle. After the boat tour, you should walk around the town, preferably up to the little lighthouse on the island beside the harbor now attached to the land. The views from the lighthouse and the top of the island are spectacular in all directions. Stykkishólmur town in Snæfellsnes Peninsula ©Emstrursf. From Stykkishólmur, I recommend stopping by the mountain of Helgafell, a small mountain in Iceland famous for its mystic powers. According to Eyrbyggja written in the 13th-century, Þorsteinn Þorskabítur drowned near Stykkishólmur in 938 and entered the mountain, where he has resided ever since. His father, Þórólfur Mostrarskegg, had already moved in. Both of them were followers and good friends of Þór (Thor), the Pagan god who still visits them quite often. If you are visiting Helgafell for the first time, you are eligible to make three wishes. First, you need to go to the graveyard by the church and find the grave of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, who was buried there in the year 1000. To log in to the wishing process, make a sign of the cross over her grave. The grave of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir While Guðrún is believed to have lived in the mountain with the Pagan father and son, she was a Christian. To make your wishes, walk up to the top of the mountain in complete silence, without looking left, right, or back. Once you reach the top, enter the stone fence, look east, and present your three wishes. After that, you can look around and talk. To make your wishes, walk up to the top of the mountain in complete silence, without looking left, right, or back. From Helgafell, you continue on Road Nr. 54 to the east. Mind you, this part of the road is gravel and harder to drive for those not used to gravel roads. You have to drive a bit slower and take care. On the other hand, this is quite a scenic drive with an excellent view of the large fjord Breiðafjörður and all the islands. The white-tailed eagle is the largest bird in Iceland ©Emstrursf. When you reach the intersection of Road Nr. 60 that takes you back to Road Nr. 1, where your drive began; you should continue for the moment, then take a right turn after a few hundred meters on Road Nr. 586 to Eiríksstaðir. At Eiríksstaðir is a small museum on the farm where the Viking Erik the Red lived before heading to the west, eventually making it possible for his son, the Viking Leif the Lucky, to find America. You should visit the museum and learn the story of the Viking Erik the Red and Leif the Lucky. Berserkjahraun lava field, famous in the Sagas ©Emstrursf. After learning about this story from the days of settlement in Iceland, you drive back to Road Nr. 60 and head south. You will eventually come to Road Nr. 1, which will take you to Borgarfjörður and Reykjavík. On your way to Borgarfjörður, you should take the opportunity and walk on top of the small mountain Grábrók and also visit the waterfall Glanni. A view to Haukadalur valley where Eric the Red lived ©Emstrursf. I believe this plan is an excellent way to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It will provide you with valuable insights into Icelandic life throughout the centuries and showcase some of the spectacular natural wonders that Snæfellsnes has to offer.

This is the first article written about Stuðlagil Canyon. It was published in 2016 and has been reviewed several times for updates. Most of the information in other articles and travel blogs comes from this article. In 2016, my discovery of Stuðlagil, also known as Studlagil in English, marked the beginning of a transformation for this hidden gem in Iceland. Through my extensive research, writing, and photography, I unveiled the beauty of the canyon and brought it to the attention of locals and tourists alike. Before my exploration, Stuðlagil was unknown, tucked away from the eyes of those wandering through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes. Delving deeper into the canyon's history, I uncovered the intriguing tale of its evolution from a glacial river to a spring-fed waterway due to the construction of a hydroelectric power plant. This narrative added another layer of fascination to this natural wonder. This fascinating narrative was published in a Wow Air Magazine in June 2017. This is one of my photo that made Stuðlagil famous My discovery was later documented in a comprehensive 100-page report commissioned by the University of Iceland and the Icelandic Tourism Research Center, shedding light on the geological and environmental significance of Stuðlagil. Adding Stuðlagil to Google Maps to assist you in locating it To further facilitate access to this newfound treasure, with the permission of the landowners, I took it upon myself to establish the location of Studlagil on Google Maps, ensuring that enthusiasts and explorers could easily navigate their way to this picturesque spot. Despite the timeless presence of Stuðlagil's basalt columns, much of its enchanting landscape remained submerged beneath the waters of the Jökla River until recent years, a fact that adds a surreal quality to the experience of witnessing this natural marvel. Stuðlagil Canyon in 2016, showcasing its pristine basalt columns and vibrant turquoise waters before it became popular with tourists. The enchanting marvel of nature and Stuðlagil basalt columns Step into the stunning beauty of Stuðlagil Canyon! Imagine yourself standing beside the tranquil river, captivated by the graceful movements of birds against the impressive basalt formations' backdrop. Reflecting on the dramatic history that has shaped this landscape is truly fascinating. From a turbulent past to its current serene state, Stuðlagil stands as a testament to the incredible force of nature and the enchanting beauty that arises from its constant evolution. This destination is a must-see in Iceland, where time and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience that will leave you utterly amazed! East Region on map of Iceland Studlagil canyon and Jökuldalur valley To enter upper Jökuldalur, you need to take a turn south onto road no. 923 near the Skjödólfsstaðir farm Jökuldalur, or the “Glacier Valley,” is an impressive valley in East Iceland and home of Studlagil. Since early on, it has mostly consisted of sheep farms, some of which are considered among the best in the country. The valley is also known for its forceful glacial river that has three names: Jökulsá á Brú, Jökulsá á Dal, and Jökla, which forces its way down from the highland through the bottom to the valley for centuries. When heading to northern Iceland from Egilsstaðir in the Eastern Region of Iceland on the Ring Road, road no. 1, part of the road goes through the lower part of Jökuldalur valley. To enter upper Jökuldalur, you must turn south onto road no. 923 near the Skjödólfsstaðir farm. In upper Jökuldalur, you will find the breathtaking waterfall Stuðlafoss (basalt column waterfall) and the Stuðlagil canyon (basalt column canyon). The terrifying river that kept Studlagil basalt column canyon hidden A view from the east side Klaustursel is the one I recommend The Jökulsá á Brú River, renowned for its impressive basalt column formations, was relatively undiscovered prior to 2016. This area, often referred to as the glacier river by the bridge, had been one of Iceland’s hidden natural wonders until the discovery of the Stuðlagil basalt column canyon attracted widespread attention. My writing and photography helped to popularize it as a significant tourist attraction, as noted by the Icelandic Tourism Research Center. The mighty river and its role in dividing the farms Historically, one reason for the limited visitation to this region was the formidable nature of the River Jökla. Stretching 150 kilometers, it was one of Iceland’s largest and most powerful glacial rivers until the construction of the Hálslón reservoir. Its strength caused it to divide the Jökuldalur valley, resulting in minimal communication between the two parts for centuries. Additionally, the river posed dangers that made crossing difficult, leading to its local designation as Jökla rather than its official name. The reservoir that swallowed the glacial river The stunning basalt columns at Stuðlagil canyon The powerplant that chanced the river When Icelanders constructed the Kárahnjúkavirkjun hydroelectric plant and created the large Hálslón reservoir in the Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon, it changed the flow of the River Jökla. Instead of the river flowing freely as a glacial river through the beautiful Jökuldalur Valley and the stunning Studlagil Canyon, the water from its original sources in the northeastern highlands was redirected into the new reservoir. From there, the water travels through 60 kilometers of underground tunnels to power the turbines of the plant. The water and the power of the vanished river As a result, the sources of River Jökulsá á Brú no longer reach the Jökuldalur Valley; instead, they are diverted to the Fljótsdalur Valley. This project was undertaken to supply electricity to the aluminum plant in Reyðarfjörður. However, this large-scale alteration of the natural landscape sparked significant debate and controversy. The sacrifice of building a power plant The construction of the hydroelectric project in Iceland stirred deep emotional responses among its people. Many felt a profound sense of loss as the project significantly altered the natural landscape. The creation of the reservoir led to the submergence of cherished landscapes and natural wonders, forever changing the character of the second-largest river in Iceland. It was particularly heartbreaking for many to see the Töfrafoss waterfall vanish beneath the water's surface. Preservationists voiced their concerns about the 57-square-kilometer reservoir, highlighting the irreversible environmental damage inflicted on the unique landscape, its natural treasures, and the local fauna. Yet, amidst this loss, a strikingly beautiful feature emerged—the Stuðlagil basalt column canyon, a stunning natural wonder that had been hidden from view. This dual narrative reflects the complex emotions surrounding the project, as the community grappled with both sorrow and a newfound appreciation for nature's resilience. Stuðlagil is a ravishing natural wonder In 2016 when I discovered Studlagil and turned it into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland with my writing and photography Environmental changes from a glacial river to a spring-fed river The transformation of the river Jökla is truly a poignant story that reflects the changing nature of our environment. Once a robust glacial river, it has undergone a remarkable shift, now drawing its lifeblood from springs and creeks nestled in the lower highlands and surrounding mountains. This change has had deep implications for the river itself, altering its volume and vigor. The powerful waters that once carried copious amounts of sand, mud, and debris from beneath the Vatnajökull glacier have given way to a serene, crystal-clear flow that gently winds its way to the sea. Ring Road Drive in Iceland A smaller glacial river in winter runs through Stuðlagil Canyon As we observe this beautiful yet stark contrast, we can’t help but feel a sense of loss for the river’s former might, with its waters at a noticeably lower level and a gentler force. However, there is an enchanting turn of events each autumn when the river momentarily returns to its vibrant past. As the Hálslón reservoir reaches its capacity, glacial waters overflow from the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap, reviving Jökla and allowing it to carry echoes of its former self through the landscape of Jökuldalur. Visit Stuðlagil at the right time Though this resurgence typically comes in late August or September, the volume of water released is modest compared to what it once was. This cyclical transformation brings both beauty and melancholy, impacting how we experience the breathtaking area around Studlagil. The interplay between the river's past and present weaves a complex narrative into the natural landscape, reminding us of the fragility and resilience of Iceland's geological wonders. In all their dynamic splendor, these changes invite us to reflect on our connection to nature and the stories it tells. Map of how you visit, drive, and hike to Studlagil Canyon Map of the short hiking trail to Stuðlafoss on the better side, the east side - expand to see details The drawbacks of the western side and why it's not worthwhile as it looks like a badly designed tourist trap. The observation platform is oddly placed, and has 240 steps, like walking up and down 18 floors in an apartment building Accessing Studlagil can be done in two ways. The less favorable option is to drive to the Grund farm and observe the canyon from the west side, following a route that involves turning south on Ring Road no. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir and then onto road no. 923 for about 20 kilometers until reaching the farm. At Grund farm, there is a parking lot available. However, the west side of Studlagil is far from being as impressive as the one at Klaustursel, and I outline it on the map above. At Grund, there is an oddly positioned observation platform that requires climbing 240 steps (equivalent to ascending and descending 18 floors in a building) and offers a very restricted view of the canyon's beauty. On this side, the owners have also damaged the surrounding area terribly. This site is under no circumstances recommended for photographers, as it is challenging or impossible to capture the true magnificence of the canyon from this angle. In contrast, hiking on the east side is a more pleasant experience compared to climbing numerous steps. Therefore, visiting the west side at Grund is considered a waste of both time and energy. How to visit and hike to the stunning eastern side of Stuðlagil that I highly recommend. The second option requires some hiking—an effort that only adds to the enjoyment of visiting such a place. The second option to view and experience Studlagil requires some hiking. It is such a short hike, as you can see on the map that the effort only adds to the enjoyment of visiting such a place. Again, after turning south on Ring Road no. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir to road no. 923, drive about 14 kilometers to farm Klaustursel. Less driving is required to reach the Klaustursel farm than Grund. On River Jöklai, by Klaustursel, you find a bridge on the east side. By the bridge, there is a parking lot A on the west side. You can also drive over the new bridge, which is about two kilometers away, to another parking lot B on the east side and shorten the hike. After crossing the bridge to the east riverbank and the drive to lot B, hike for two kilometers to reach Stuðlagil Canyon. This is probably less of an effort and more interesting than climbing the odd stairs with a very limited view on the west side by Grund. You can see this more clearly on the map above. Climbing down to the river on the east side of the canyon is possible at one spot and requires caution, but once down by the river, you sense that you have entered a wonder world of basalt columns. The stones and rocks are sometimes wet and slippery, so take precautions. The hike for both ways is six to eight kilometers, and reaching the stop by the canyon takes probably two to three hours. I recommend going to the canyon in the morning for photography. An excellent way to plan this visit is to stay at a Skjödólfsstaðir accommodation or campsite and get an early morning start. Stuðlagil is part of my Ring Road article. When to visit Stuðlagil Canyon? The spectacular basalt columns on each side of the river Visiting Stuðlagil Canyon in the summer, from the beginning of June until the second week of August, is advisable. In August, the hydroelectric reservoir's overflow sends part of the old, dirty glacial river down the river path. This occurs every year in the middle of August and changes this natural wonder substantially. In winter, the vibrant colors of the vegetation disappear, and the canyon becomes dull and drab and is often covered with snow and ice. It is not noteworthy for viewing or photography as in the colorful summer days when the river is turquoise instead of brown and dirty. Accommodation close to and around Stuðlagil Basalt Column Canyon Á Hreindýraslóðum Guesthouse: Found in East Skjöldólfsstaðir, this guesthouse offers single, double, and triple rooms with shared facilities, as well as a camping site and restaurant. Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir: Located in Egilsstaðir, approximately 72 km from Stuðlagil Canyon, this family-run hotel offers a range of rooms, a restaurant, and a spa with views over Lake Lagarfljót. Hotel Eyvindará: A peaceful hotel situated in a forested area near Egilsstaðir, offering cozy rooms and cottages, making it a convenient base for exploring the canyon and surrounding attractions. What to know before you rent a car Photos from 2016, before Stuðlagil became a popular tourist attraction, when it was a hidden gem in Iceland

Stuðlagil basalt column canyon in 2016 before bcoming a tourist attraction Iceland is a geological marvel, offering a wide variety of places for geologists to conduct research, making it a significant source of study compared to most locations on the planet. Some geological wonders, such as basalt column stacks and various basalt column formations, are also among the most popular tourist attractions. Although this beautiful structure, which originates from basalt lava, can be found in many places worldwide, Iceland is the best place to find many beautiful basalt columns. At least where the distance between them is relatively short. The basalt column is a magnificent rock formation that has inspired many artists and designers and has sometimes been elevated to a divine level, as with our famous church, Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. Basalt column places that you will enjoy Litlanesfoss waterfall basalt columns We only had two main premises when choosing from the many basalt column places in Iceland. On the one hand, the place had to be a joy to visit and, on the other, relatively easy to access. Of the ten places, we choose at least four to five that are among Iceland's most visited tourist attractions. Places that people love to visit and photograph. But all the ten we chose are truly places that we can label as stunning natural wonders and places you will not regret visiting. The best way to explore Iceland's many basalt column sites is to rent a car and drive between them. Make a journey out of this interest in basalt columns. As car rental is expensive in Iceland, here is a useful link to compare offers from reliable companies and find the best price. 1. Stuðlagil canyon in Jökuldalur Stuðlagil when I visited the canyon with my daughter Halla in 2016 The newly discovered Stuðlagil, with its fascinating story at Jökuldalur valley in the Northeastern Region of Iceland, is probably one of the most beautiful basalt column attractions on the planet. As I have discussed in another article about Stuðlagil, I am the person who discovered this unique place and put it on the map. In 2016, I discovered Stuðlagil and turned it into one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions with my writing and photography. The cathedral-like cliff formation around the turquoise-blue river is breathtaking. When you are down in the canyon, it feels like one of the otherworldly places or another dimension. The many forms of the basalt column are simply unique and a feast for photographers and those who enjoy the spectacular handwork of mother nature. For more information about Stuðlagil and its location on the map of Iceland, click Stuðlagil 2. Gerðuberg Gerðuberg basalt columns Gerðuberg at Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an almost unbelievably regular cliff composed of hundreds of stacks of basalt columns. From the road, it looks like any other cliff in the landscape, but once you approach, the beauty of this natural wonder opens up. You can observe the stacks from below and above and it does not require steep climbing. Like any basalt column attraction, there are many interesting photo opportunities and the best photo taken by Gerðuberg is yet to be submitted to the internet. For more information about Gerðuberg and its location on the map of Iceland, click Gerðuberg 3. Reynisfjara Reynisfjara basalt columns Throughout the years before Iceland became a favorite destination for tourists, Reynisfjara was never a big attraction when almost only Icelanders traveled the country during summer. We can even say that Reynisfjara was invented as one of the major tourist attractions in Iceland by our visitors, the tourists. And not without reason, one of the most interesting parts of Reynisfjara is the basalt column cliff by the black beach not far from the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar. There are probably thousands of photos floating on the internet taken of people climbing the basalt column in Reynisfjara. For more information about Reynisfjara and its location on the map of Iceland, click Reynisfjara 4. Hljóðaklettar Hljóðaklettar basalt columns Like Stuðlagil in Jökuldalur, Hljóðaklettar or Echo Cliffs is more like a wonderland constructed by patient people dedicated to minute detail rather than by the hand of mother nature. Or it might be the place where she worked on her art skills. On arrival, you are tempted to think that this is a bit weird. The many rock formations and patterns are almost deceiving and can easily fuel your imagination. In a place like this, you can easily understand why Icelanders were so interested in the stories of elves and small people living on cliffs as most of our many folklores reveal. For more information about Hljóðaklettar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Hljóðaklettar Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland. 5. Kálfshamarsvík Kálfshamarsvík basalt column stacks Another great basalt column formation by the seashore, just like Reynisfjara, but very different. Kálfshamarsvík is a small bay on the Vatnsnes Peninsula in the Northern Region of Iceland. When you approach, it seems like just another flat bay by the shore, but as you come closer, the magic is revealed. The many rock formations, including the many basalt column formations, makes Kálfshamarsvík one of the most interesting attractions in Iceland and surely one of the most interesting basalt column attractions on our little island. For more information about Kálfshamarsvík and its location on the map of Iceland, click Kálfshamarsvík 6. Dverghamrar Dverghamrar basalt columns The Dwarfs Steep Cliff or Dverghamrar, is one of the wonderful gems in the Southern Region in Iceland just by the Ring Road. It is a perfect place to watch basalt columns without much effort if you are on a family tour and driving your own car on the Ring Road. This is also a good place to stop for a picnic and relax, surrounded by wonderful landscapes. But as the name implies, the basalt columns are quite small, and caution is needed as you might be surrounded by small people and elves. They are not particularly keen on having traffic of people by their homes. For more information about Dverghamrar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Dverghamrar 7. Svartifoss Svartifoss waterfall basalt columns When you have two magnificent natural wonders combined into one, like a basalt column cliff and a waterfall, you most definitely have a winner. This combination of mother nature is so irresistible that you are easily hypnotized when placed in front of it. Svartifoss is a relatively small waterfall in a small spring-fed river, but falling over the basalt column in this quiet place fills your heart with enormous joy. It is one of those places that is so relaxing that it seems to lower blood pressure and could possibly replace tranquilizers. The basalt column cliff is beautiful and would be worth visiting even without the waterfall. For more information about Svartifoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Svartifoss 8. Arnarstapi - Hellnar in Snæfellsnes Peninsula Arnarstapi basalt columns by the shoreline There are many reasons to walk the hiking path, from the small hamlet Arnarstapi, in the Snæfellsnes peninsula, to the tiny hamlet Hellnar. One is to view the many basalt column formations by the seashore. On this somewhat easy walk, there are many formations, and most of them are cliffs packed with birds, especially in spring and early summer. It is a very lively and enjoyable walk for everyone, and one of the attractions is the many basalt column formations. For more information about Arnarstapi - Hellnar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Arnarstapi – Hellnar 9. Stuðlafoss Stuðlafoss basalt columns The newly discovered Stuðlagil canyon in the Jökuldalur Valley drew more attention to the Stuðlafoss waterfall and the basalt columns cliffs. The waterfall is in many ways similar to Svaritfoss, although the stacks are reversed. It is also a combination of a small waterfall and a small cliff of basalt column formation. For more information about Stuðlafoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Stuðlafoss 10. Aldeyjarfoss Aldeyjarfoss basalt columns In contrast to the Svartifoss waterfall and Stuðlafoss waterfall, Aldeyjarfoss is fed by a mighty glacial river. The river falls from a cliff, which is a major artwork of basalt columns. It is a waterfall viewed by many as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, although it did not make it to our list of 10 most impressive waterfalls. The basalt column surrounding the waterfall is one of the most impressive ones in Iceland. On August 16th, 2016 when, Stuðlagil was named, positioned, discovered, and introduced to the public. For more information about Aldeyjarfoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Aldeyjarfoss

Dynkur is one of the most beautiful and unusual waterfalls in the Icelandic Highland. It is located on Þjórsá, Iceland’s longest river, in a remote part of the southwest Highland where access is difficult, seasonal, and only suitable for well-prepared travelers in a proper 4×4 vehicle. This is not a normal waterfall stop, and it should never be treated as one. Unlike Dettifoss, Gullfoss, Skógafoss, or Goðafoss, Dynkur is not a place most visitors can simply add to an ordinary travel itinerary. It sits high in the Highland, far from regular services and away from the safe predictability of paved roads. The route to Dynkur is rough, slow, and highly dependent on weather, snowmelt, road damage, and summer conditions. In a good year, the realistic visiting season may only be a short period in high summer. In a bad year, or after heavy rain, it may not be a sensible destination at all. That difficulty is part of the experience. Dynkur is not only a waterfall. It is a Highland journey, a wide view over Þjórsá, a rough track, an isolated river landscape, and a reminder that many of Iceland’s most remarkable places are not available on demand. Dynkur waterfall in the river Þjósrá Dynkur at a glance Dynkur is a waterfall in the river Þjórsá in the southwest part of the Icelandic Highland. The waterfall is also known as Búðarhálsfoss, and the two names reflect how people on opposite sides of the river historically named the same place. The waterfall is about 38 meters high and is not a single narrow drop, but a broad waterfall system where Þjórsá falls over several steps, ledges, and channels. Visit South Iceland describes Dynkur as about 38 meters high and formed where the river falls from many ledges into one waterfall system. Þjórsá itself is one of the great rivers of Iceland. It is widely described as Iceland’s longest river, about 230 km long, and it has played a major role in Icelandic hydroelectric development because of its volume, drop, and Highland catchment. The most important thing to know before visiting Dynkur is simple: this is a Highland destination for experienced drivers, not a regular sightseeing stop. A proper high-clearance 4×4 is necessary. A normal rental car, a small SUV, or an unprepared vehicle should not be used. The road or track can be slow, rough, damaged, wet, stony, and difficult even in summer. The river Þjórsá is the longest river in Iceland Where is Dynkur? Dynkur is located in the southwest Highland, on Þjórsá, southeast of Búðarháls and not far from the larger system of Highland roads and power-development areas connected to Þjórsá and Tungnaá. It belongs to a landscape of open views, barren ridges, rough tracks, glacial rivers, reservoirs, and old Highland grazing routes. Although Dynkur is not far from better-known parts of the south Icelandic interior on a map, distance on a map means very little here. The real question is not how many kilometers it is from the lowland, but what kind of road or track lies between you and the waterfall. In the Highland, a short distance can take a long time, and a rough track can become a serious problem in the wrong conditions. Dynkur is therefore best understood as a Highland destination rather than a waterfall destination. The waterfall is the reward, but the route, the terrain, the river, and the surrounding landscape are all part of the visit. Access to Dynkur: this is not a normal road The usual approach to Dynkur is from the south, using Road 26 into the interior and then continuing toward Búðarháls and the rough track that leads in the direction of the waterfall. From there, the drive becomes much slower and more demanding. The final part is not a comfortable tourist road. It is a rough Highland track suitable only for a good 4×4 vehicle in favorable summer conditions. This distinction matters. Too many visitors now look at remote Icelandic places on a map and assume that if a route exists, it is simply a road. Dynkur is exactly the kind of place where that assumption can become dangerous. The route can include loose material, stones, ruts, wet sections, uneven ground, and slow driving. The weather can change quickly. Snow can remain long into summer. Heavy rain can damage tracks or make them much worse. A road that one experienced driver considers manageable can be completely unsuitable for someone in the wrong vehicle or without Highland driving experience. Vegagerðin, the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, emphasizes that Highland roads receive less service than other roads and are closed during winter. Its mountain road information is updated as conditions change, which is essential for anyone planning travel into the Highland. For Dynkur, do not rely only on a calendar date. The fact that it is July or August does not guarantee that the route is wise. The correct question is always: what are the actual current conditions? When can you visit Dynkur? Dynkur should be considered a short-window summer destination. In practical terms, that usually means high summer, when snow has melted, the ground has dried, and the road or track is open and passable. Even then, the route can remain difficult. It is safer to think of Dynkur as a destination for a few suitable weeks in summer rather than a place that is reliably available from mid-June to mid-September. In some years, conditions may allow a longer window. In other years, the useful period may be much shorter. Early summer can be affected by remaining snow, wet ground, and soft tracks. Late summer and early autumn can bring storms, cold weather, and rapid deterioration of Highland driving conditions. If you are planning to visit Dynkur, check road conditions before departure, check the weather, and be prepared to cancel the visit. A good Highland plan always includes the possibility of turning around. The drive to Dynkur is part of the experience The journey to Dynkur is part of what makes the waterfall memorable. As you leave the lowland and move into the interior, the landscape changes. The farms, roads, and more familiar parts of south Iceland give way to open Highland terrain, river systems, ridges, and long views. The route toward Búðarháls gives a strong sense of the geography of the Þjórsá area. From parts of the route and the parking area, the view over the river and surrounding Highland landscape can be remarkable. The waterfall itself is not the only reason to go. The journey gives context to Þjórsá, to the power of the river, and to the way Icelandic rivers have shaped both the landscape and the country’s energy history. But the beauty of the drive should not hide the reality of the access. This is not a route for speed. It is not a route for careless driving. It is not a route for people who are uncomfortable with rough terrain. The slower you treat it, the better. In the Highland, speed is usually the enemy of both safety and enjoyment. Dynkur and Þjórsá Dynkur is part of Þjórsá, the longest river in Iceland. The river begins in the interior, gathering water from many branches and tributaries before flowing south toward the lowland. Because of its length, volume, and descent from the Highland, Þjórsá has long been important in Iceland’s hydroelectric development. Several power stations use water from Þjórsá and its tributaries, and the river has become one of the central energy rivers in Iceland. This background is important because it explains the scale of the river. Dynkur is not formed by a small mountain stream. It is part of a major Icelandic river system. The water has weight and width. The waterfall spreads across the river in steps and channels, creating a broad, complex formation rather than one clean vertical fall. That is what makes Dynkur visually interesting. It is not just powerful. It is structured. The river breaks over ledges and smaller falls that work together as one waterfall system. In good light, the shapes in the water, the dark rock, the riverbanks, and the open Highland surroundings create a scene quite different from most of the famous waterfalls in Iceland. Dynkur or Búðarhálsfoss: two names for the same waterfall Like many places in Iceland, Dynkur has more than one name. It is also known as Búðarhálsfoss. This is not unusual in a country where rivers, mountains, grazing areas, and remote landmarks were often named from different directions by different communities. For centuries, Þjórsá was a serious boundary. In the lowland and the Highland, large rivers separated people, farms, districts, and summer grazing areas. A powerful river like Þjórsá was not something people simply crossed at will. The people on one side could see the same waterfall as the people on the other side, but they approached it from different land, different routes, and different local traditions. The name Dynkur has a strong sound. It suggests noise, resonance, and the deep sound of falling water. Búðarhálsfoss connects the waterfall to Búðarháls, the ridge and area on the eastern side. Both names belong to the place. For a modern visitor, the dual naming is part of the story of how remote landscapes in Iceland were understood from different sides long before tourism arrived. A view to Dynkur from the Parking Lot Dynkur in Popular Culture, The Last Kingdom Dynkur has also reached a wider audience through popular culture. The waterfall appears in the opening of Season 5 of the Netflix series The Last Kingdom, in scenes connected to Brida’s time in Iceland. For anyone familiar with the series, it is a striking moment: a remote Highland waterfall used as a dramatic visual symbol of exile, distance, and a harsh northern world. As a filming location, Dynkur makes perfect visual sense. It looks remote, unusual, and powerful. It is not one of the overused Icelandic locations that appear again and again in international productions. The waterfall has a fresh quality on screen because most viewers have never seen it before. Historically, of course, the scene should not be taken literally. Given the location of Dynkur in the Highland and the difficulty of access, it is highly unlikely that people in settlement-age Iceland were casually spending time there in the way the series suggests. But film uses landscape as atmosphere, and in that sense Dynkur works extremely well. It gives the scene a raw northern character that few places could provide. Walking near Dynkur From the parking or stopping area, visitors can usually walk along the riverbank to see more of the waterfall system and the surrounding landscape. The walk is part of the visit and should not be rushed. Depending on where you stop and how close you want to get, the walk toward better viewpoints can be a few kilometres. The terrain is open, but that does not make it harmless. There may be uneven ground, loose stones, wet patches, fragile vegetation, and steep or dangerous edges near the river. The river itself must be respected. Þjórsá is powerful, cold, and dangerous. The goal is to experience and photograph the waterfall, not to move carelessly close to the river for a better angle. Visitors should also remember that there are no services at Dynkur. No café, no fuel, no rescue nearby, no easy assistance, and possibly limited phone connection. That is part of the Highland reality. You should arrive with enough fuel, proper clothing, food, water, offline maps, and the ability to handle basic problems yourself. Photographing Dynkur For photographers, Dynkur is a remarkable subject. It is visually different from most of the famous waterfalls in Iceland. The shape is broader and more complex, the surroundings are more open, and the Highland setting gives the waterfall a sense of isolation that is difficult to find at the more popular locations. The best photographs of Dynkur are not necessarily close-ups of the falling water. The place works well when the river, the waterfall system, the ridges, the sky, and the open terrain are allowed into the frame. Dynkur is a landscape subject as much as a waterfall subject. Light is critical. In flat light, the waterfall can lose some of its structure. In good directional light, the ledges, channels, spray, and surfaces become much more interesting. Because the location is remote, you do not have the same flexibility as at easier places. You cannot simply return in an hour after coffee. Planning matters. A drone can reveal the structure of Dynkur exceptionally well, but drone use must always follow Icelandic rules, local restrictions, weather limits, and common sense. Wind in the Highland can be difficult, and remote locations are not forgiving if equipment fails. Ground photography remains very strong here, especially when the waterfall is framed as part of the broader Þjórsá landscape. Safety at Dynkur Dynkur requires a different safety mindset from most well-known waterfalls in Iceland. The main risk is not only the waterfall itself. The main risk is the whole journey: road conditions, isolation, weather, vehicle suitability, navigation, and lack of services. A proper high-clearance 4×4 is essential. Good tyres matter. Experience matters. You should know how to drive slowly on rough tracks, how to judge soft or damaged sections, and when to stop and turn around. You should not continue simply because a map says the road goes there. Weather is another major factor. The Highland can change quickly, and poor visibility, wind, rain, cold, or early snow can turn a difficult trip into an unsafe one. Even in summer, conditions can become unpleasant fast. Travellers should check both road and weather information before leaving the lowland. The most important rule is simple: Dynkur is optional. If the track looks worse than expected, turn around. If the weather changes, turn around. If the vehicle is not suitable, do not go. If you are unsure, choose another destination. The waterfall is not worth damaging a vehicle or placing yourself in danger. Dynkur is actually a flow of many small waterfalls Is Dynkur a hidden gem? Dynkur is often described as a hidden gem, but that phrase is not quite right. Among Icelanders with an interest in the Highland, rivers, waterfalls, or Þjórsá, Dynkur has been known for a long time. It is not hidden because nobody knew about it. It is little visited because it is difficult to reach. That distinction matters. Many places in Iceland are now called hidden gems only because they are less crowded than the famous stops. Dynkur is different. It has remained relatively quiet because access naturally limits the number of visitors. The road, the season, the vehicle requirement, and the isolation all protect it from casual tourism. This is also why information about Dynkur should be careful. The goal is not to encourage everyone to go there. The goal is to explain the place accurately so that only those who are properly prepared consider it. Why Dynkur is worth visiting Dynkur is worth visiting because it combines a beautiful waterfall with a real Highland journey. The waterfall itself is impressive, but the surrounding landscape gives the visit its deeper value. Þjórsá, Búðarháls, the rough track, the open views, the silence, and the remote feeling all contribute to the experience. It is one of those places where the journey filters the visitor. You do not arrive at Dynkur by accident. You go there because you have planned the visit, chosen the right vehicle, checked the conditions, and accepted that the trip may take time. That effort changes the way you experience the place. Dynkur is not for everyone, and that is part of its strength. For travellers with the right preparation, it is one of the most rewarding waterfall visits in the Icelandic Highland. For photographers, it offers a rare combination of water, structure, isolation, and Highland landscape. For anyone interested in Þjórsá, it is one of the most beautiful expressions of Iceland’s longest river. The view on the F-road is spectacular in all directions to the Highland in Iceland Frequently asked questions about Dynkur Is Dynkur the same as Búðarhálsfoss? Yes. Dynkur is also known as Búðarhálsfoss. The two names reflect different local naming traditions connected to the two sides of Þjórsá and the surrounding areas. Can I visit Dynkur in a normal car? No. Dynkur should only be visited in a proper high-clearance 4×4 vehicle and only in good summer conditions. A normal rental car or small SUV is not suitable When is Dynkur accessible? Dynkur is usually only a realistic destination during a short high-summer window, depending on snowmelt, road conditions, wet ground, and weather. Do not rely on the calendar alone. Always check current conditions before attempting the drive. Is the road to Dynkur difficult? Yes. The final access is a rough Highland road or track and can be difficult even in summer. It is slow, remote, and conditions can change. Drivers need suitable vehicles and experience. Is Dynkur suitable for most tourists? No. Dynkur is best for experienced Highland travellers, photographers, and visitors with proper 4×4 vehicles who understand Icelandic interior-road conditions. Most visitors to Iceland should choose more accessible waterfalls. Why is Dynkur worth visiting? Dynkur is worth visiting because it is a beautiful and unusual waterfall system on Þjórsá, set in a remote Highland landscape. The combination of the waterfall, the river, the rough journey, and the open views makes it a rare Icelandic experience. Was Dynkur used in The Last Kingdom? Yes, Dynkur appears in the opening of Season 5 of The Last Kingdom, in scenes connected to Brida’s time in Iceland. The waterfall’s remote Highland appearance made it a strong visual location, even if the historical geography should not be taken literally. Location of Dynkur on the map of Iceland