South Coast Adventure

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the islands most visited regions. With its numerous waterfalls, glaciers, mountains, volcanoes, beaches, small villages, glacier lagoon and large selection of activities it is one of the most popular tourist destinations.

Seljalandsfoss is one a unique waterfall, not only because it drops 60 meters deep into a pool but also because you can walk behind it. The water comes down from the Seljalandsá river, which comes from the infamous Eyjafjallajökull Glacier. Eyjafjallajökull became famous in 2010 when the underlying volcano erupted and news presenters all over the world struggled to pronounce its name.

A short drive further south, you will not miss the stunning 60 meters tall and 25-meter wide Skógafoss waterfall. You can climb stairs all the way to the top of the waterfall from where you will have an amazing view over the south of Iceland. The stairs of the waterfall also marks the beginning of the famous hiking trail over Fimmvörðurháls all the way to Þórsmörk (Thórsmörk).

Sólheimajökull glacier is a popular tourist destination for those who would like to join a glacier walk and take a closer look at the ice and marvel at the fascinating ice patterns and glacial formations. Even without a guide and gear, you can still get closer to the base of the glacier and marvel at the ice above.

The Sólheimajökull glacier tongue is part of Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland ́s fourth largest glacier. The area around the glacier is marked by rock formations that have been shaped by the glacier for the last couple of centuries.

The most southern village of Iceland is the small village of Vík í Mýrdal, with a population of 300. Despite its size, it is quite busy due to being a popular destination for visitors along the south coast.

In and around Vík you find the infamous black sand beaches. Nearby is the Reynisfjara Beach with its spectacular view of the Reynisdrangar, high basalt sea stacks just off the shore. Legend says that the basalt stack came into being when two trolls dragged a three-masted ship to land. But they were surprised by daylight and when the sun touched them they turned into rock.  

Please note, the beaches around Vík are not for bathing and visitors are asked to keep a safe distance from the waves and water. Sneaker waves and dangerous currents can pose a deadly risk! 

The Skaftafell Nature Reserve is a popular tourist destination and part of the Vatnajökull National Park which covers 14% of Iceland and was founded in 2008, creating one large protected wilderness area. It is difficult to miss this area especially when travelling through the eastern and south-eastern regions of the country.

Skaftafell has several hiking trails, the most popular leading to Svartifoss waterfall. Only a short drive away is Svínafellsjökull, an outlet glacier coming from the large Vatnajökull glacier. After Sólheimarjökull it is the other popular for glacier tours. Here is your chance if you want to join a glacier walk.

A different view of the ice you can get at the infamous glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón, situated at the southern end of the Vatnajökull glacier. Take a boat ride among the icebergs or take a stroll along the beach were you can see smaller blocks of ice lying around. There are often plenty of seals in the area too. If you have patience and keep your eyes open, you can see them popping up their heads between the icebergs.