The drive from Reykjavik to Vik along Iceland’s southern coast offers a plethora of stunning natural attractions and picturesque landscapes for tourists to enjoy. Some notable sights along the way include:

Seljalandsfoss:

Seljalandsfoss is a stunning waterfall located in southern Iceland, known for its unique feature that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. It stands at a height of 60 meters and is part of the Seljalands River that has its origin in the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Seljalandsfoss is a popular tourist attraction due to its accessibility from the Ring Road and the opportunity it provides for a memorable and immersive experience of nature. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfall from various angles and even witness a rainbow on sunny days.

Skógafoss:

Skógafoss is another iconic waterfall in southern Iceland, located not far from Seljalandsfoss. It is one of the largest waterfalls in the country, standing at a height of 60 meters and with a width of 25 meters. Skógafoss is fed by the Skógá River, which originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. The waterfall is known for its powerful cascade and the mist it creates, often leading to the appearance of vibrant rainbows on sunny days. Visitors can climb a staircase next to the waterfall to get a closer look at the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Skógafoss is a popular stop for tourists exploring the southern region of Iceland and offers a truly awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

Sólheimajökull:

Sólheimajökull is a glacier in southern Iceland, located between the Katla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes. It is a part of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and is known for its rugged and crevassed terrain, making it a popular destination for glacier hiking and ice climbing tours. Sólheimajökull offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a glacier up close and witness the effects of climate change on Iceland’s ice caps. Guided tours are available for those interested in experiencing the beauty and power of this glacier firsthand.

Dyrhólaey:

Dyrhólaey is a promontory located near the village of Vík. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding black sand beaches, rock formations, and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The name “Dyrhólaey” translates to “Door Hill Island” in Icelandic, referring to the massive arch-shaped rock formation that juts out into the sea.

One of the main attractions at Dyrhólaey is the iconic Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding area. Visitors can also spot various seabirds nesting on the cliffs, including puffins during the summer months.

Dyrhólaey is a popular stop for tourists exploring the southern region of Iceland, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities.

The Black Beach:

The Black Beach, also known as Reynisfjara Beach, is a unique and strikingly beautiful stretch of coastline characterized by its black volcanic sand and basalt rock formations. The beach is located near the village of Vík í Mýrdal and is known for its dramatic scenery, including towering basalt columns, sea stacks, and caves.

Reynisfjara Beach is not only visually stunning but also holds cultural significance in Icelandic folklore. Legend has it that the basalt columns were once trolls who were turned to stone when caught by the sunlight.

However, it is important to note that the beach can be dangerous due to powerful waves and strong currents. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and pay attention to warning signs to ensure their safety while exploring this natural wonder.

Vík:

Vík í Mýrdal, commonly referred to as Vík, is a small village that is known for its picturesque black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Reynisfjara beach with its basalt columns. Vík is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and Dyrhólaey promontory, making it a popular stop for tourists exploring the southern coast of Iceland. The village itself offers amenities such as restaurants, accommodations, and shops, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding attractions.