South Iceland

The South Region is an important area of tourism with various interesting tourist attractions.

It extends from the National Park Þingvellir (Thingvellir) and the Golden Circle down to the South Coast ending at Vík in Mýrdalur.

The National Park is best known for the Alþing (Althing), the site of the national parliament of Iceland that was founded there in the year 930 and assembled there until 1800. The spectacular nature of the park invites for longer and shorter hikes and the area is of geological interest because of the tectonic plates that meet here and the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian Plates can be clearly seen.

Gullfoss - the Golden Waterfall - and the erupting Geysir - called Strokkur - are the most famous highlights of the South, natural wonders that you don’t want to miss. The waterfall descends in two stages 11 meters and then 21 meters down into the Gullfossgljúfur Canyon with its 70 meters high walls on each side. Geysir is a famous hot spring in the geothermal area of Haukadalur Valley, found in south-west Iceland.

On the way to the most Southern part of Iceland, you will find more impressive waterfalls. Take for example a small hike behind Seljalandsfoss and walk up the main stairs to the top of the impressive 60-meter high Skógafoss waterfall. You will be rewarded with a breath-taking view along the southern coastline.

Around Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village in Iceland with a population of ca 300, you can actually visit the black sand beach. Please note, the beach is not for bathing and visitors are asked to keep a safe distance from the water. Sneaker waves and dangerous currents can pose a deadly risk. The enormous basalt stacks and rock formations of Reynisdrangar will amaze you and the stunning view of the sea will make it worth your while.