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Iceland Travel Guide

South Iceland

Land of fire and ice

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South Iceland Travel Guides

Waterfalls, black sand beaches, glaciers and volcanoes — the ultimate guide to South Iceland's iconic landscapes.

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Norðurljósaspá Ísland í kvöldSkoðaðu norðurljósaspá Íslands í kvöld með snjöllri tímasetningu, skýjaráðum og bestu staðunum til að auka líkurnar á að sjá norðurljós.Besti tíminn fyrir norðurljós ÍslandFinndu besta tímann fyrir norðurljósaferðir til Íslands, allt frá kjörmánuðum og klukkutímum til veðurábendinga, tunglstiga og hvar á að fara fyrir heiðskíru lofti.Gullhringur vs suðurstrandarferðGolden Circle vs South Coast ferð - berðu saman stopp, landslag, aksturstíma og passa ferðalanga svo þú getir valið réttu Íslandsdagsferðina hratt.Kostnaður við Golden Circle Tour: Við hverju má búastKostnaður við Golden Circle ferðina getur verið allt frá ódýrum dagsferðum til einkalúxusferða. Sjáðu hvað hefur áhrif á verðlagningu og hvernig á að bóka rétta passa.Hvað er Gullni hringferðin löng?Ertu að spá í hversu löng Gullna hringferðin er? Flestar ferðir taka 6-10 klukkustundir, en tímasetning fer eftir stoppum, árstíð, veðri og ferðastíl.Hvað inniheldur Gullna hringferðin?Hvað inniheldur Gullna hringferðin? Sjáðu klassísku stoppin, algengar viðbætur, tímasetningu og hvernig á að velja réttu Íslandsferðina fyrir ferðina þína.10 Gullna hringferðastoppin sem eru tímans virðiSkipuleggðu snjallara með þessum gullna hringferðastoppum, frá Þingvöllum að Gullfossi, ásamt ráðleggingum um tímasetningu, krókaleiðir og hvernig á að velja réttu leiðina.
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🧌 Troll Legend

Did you know? The Reynisdrangar sea stacks were once trolls dragging a ship to shore. When sunrise arrived, they turned into stone and remain frozen there today.

About South Iceland

South Iceland is one of the country’s most iconic regions, known for its powerful waterfalls, black sand beaches, and vast glaciers. Landmarks like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss draw visitors from around the world, while the dramatic Reynisfjara showcases the raw force of the Atlantic Ocean.

The region is also home to the massive Vatnajökull glacier, Europe’s largest, as well as volcanoes, lava fields, and fertile farmland. South Iceland combines accessibility with some of the most diverse and photogenic landscapes in the country.

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South Iceland
Location
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June-August
Best Season
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1-3 hours
From Reykjavík
⏱️
1-3 days
Recommended Stay

🗺️ Travel Guides for South Iceland

In-depth destination guides written by local experts

Top Experiences in South Iceland

Natural wonders and bookable adventures along the South Coast

Fimmvörðuháls Pass Trailhead

Fimmvörðuháls Pass Trailhead

The Fimmvörðuháls trail is one of Iceland's most spectacular hikes, running 25 km from Skógar to Þórsmörk valley. It passes 26 waterfalls, two glaciers, and the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption craters.

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Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant

Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant

Hellisheiði is one of the largest geothermal power plants in the world, generating electricity and hot water from underground steam and heat. The visitor centre offers interactive exhibitions about geothermal energy, Iceland's volcanic geology, and renewable power.

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Krafla Lava Cave (near Vík)

Krafla Lava Cave (near Vík)

Krafla is a lava tube cave near Vík formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. The cave features interesting rock formations, stalactites, and a glimpse into Iceland's volcanic geology. Access requires a guide or caving experience.

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Laugavegur Trail Starting Point

Laugavegur Trail Starting Point

The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland's most famous long-distance hike, running 55 km from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk. The trail passes through diverse landscapes including hot springs, volcanic deserts, glacial rivers, and green valleys.

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Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
🎟 Bookable

Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos

From $899

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Lava Show Vík

Lava Show Vík

Lava Show Vík is a cultural attraction in South Iceland. This museum offers visitors fascinating insights into Iceland's rich history and heritage. Explore captivating exhibitions and learn about the country's people, traditions and remarkable story from the age of the Vikings to today.

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Rauða Húsið (The Red House)

Rauða Húsið (The Red House)

Step into Rauða Húsið, a charming restaurant housed in a distinctive, over-100-year-old bright red building in Eyrarbakki. This beloved spot, easily identifiable by its vibrant facade and white-trimmed windows, specializes in exquisite fresh Icelandic seafood, lamb, and traditional dishes, all served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

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Veiðisafnið

Veiðisafnið

Veiðisafnið, or the Fishing and Hunting Museum, offers a compelling journey into Iceland's profound connection with its natural resources. Housed in a practical, corrugated metal building, it explores the history of the vital fishing industry and the cultural heritage sustained by both land and sea.

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Ægisíðufoss

Ægisíðufoss

Tucked away in the South Iceland landscape, Ægisíðufoss is a captivating waterfall often overlooked by larger tours. Its gentle cascade over moss-covered rocks creates a tranquil atmosphere, inviting moments of quiet contemplation amidst Iceland's dramatic scenery.

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Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
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Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike

From $7240

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Ærfjallshöfuð

Ærfjallshöfuð

Ærfjallshöfuð is a mountain peak in North Iceland, located in Eyjafjarðarsveit east of Eyjafjörður near Akureyri. The mountain forms part of a high ridge system above the fjord and offers expansive views across surrounding valleys, farmland, and the mountainous landscape of northern Iceland. It is a rewarding destination for experienced hikers exploring the uplands of the Eyjafjörður region.

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Æskulýðskrossinn - The Youth Cross

Æskulýðskrossinn - The Youth Cross

The Youth Cross (Æskulýðskrossinn) is a prominent hilltop landmark overlooking the town of Akranes on Iceland’s west coast. Standing above the surrounding neighborhoods, the cross serves as both a symbolic monument and a scenic viewpoint with wide views across Faxaflói and the nearby coastline. The site is a popular local walking destination and a quiet place to enjoy panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and town below. Today, the Youth Cross remains an important community landmark and a recognizable feature of the Akranes skyline.

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Affall

Affall

Affall is a lowland river in Rangárþing eystra flowing between the eastern and western districts of Landeyjar in South Iceland. The river passes through wetlands and shallow lagoons that support rich birdlife, making the area a rewarding destination for birdwatching. Historically, Affall carried glacial sediment due to its connection with Markarfljót. After engineering works on the Markarfljót outwash plains altered the water flow, the river gradually became clearer and now behaves more like a typical lowland freshwater river. Affall also supports fish populations, including sea trout and Arctic char, and efforts have been made to establish salmon in the river with some success.

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Alda aldanna

Alda aldanna

"Alda aldanna er höggmynd" (The Wave of the Ages is a Sculpture) is a profound concrete artwork near Hraunfossar, inviting contemplation on deep time. It elegantly merges human creativity with the raw power of Icelandic geology, offering a unique perspective on the landscape.

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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
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Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights

From $7400

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Aldamótaskógur á Gaddstöðum

Aldamótaskógur á Gaddstöðum

Step into Aldamótaskógur á Gaddstöðum, a testament to Iceland's reforestation efforts, where young trees flourish amidst captivating landscapes. This serene forest offers a refreshing escape, inviting visitors to wander its paths and breathe in the crisp, clean air. It’s a beautiful example of nature reclaiming its space, providing both ecological value and scenic beauty.

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Álftaversgígar

Álftaversgígar

Álftaversgígar is a scenic viewpoint in South Iceland, Iceland. This spot offers panoramic views of Iceland's dramatic landscapes, including mountains, lava fields, glaciers, and coastline.

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Almannagjá

Almannagjá

Almannagjá is a breathtaking geological rift, a dramatic testament to Iceland's active tectonic plates. This ancient lava fissure, part of Þingvellir National Park, holds deep historical significance and is rumored to be a dwelling place for hidden folk.

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Öxará River & Almannagjá Rift

Öxará River & Almannagjá Rift

Almannagjá ('Everyman's Gorge') is a dramatic fissure in Þingvellir National Park marking the edge of the North American tectonic plate. The Öxará river flows through this rift valley, creating a stunning gorge with 40-metre-high lava walls. The ancient parliament site sat at the top of these cliffs, where the Lögsögumaður (Lawspeaker) would recite Iceland's laws to assembled farmers below. The Law Rock (Lögberg) is marked at the traditional speaking point.

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Reykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
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Reykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals

From $205.57

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Álútur

Álútur

Álútur is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Alviðruhamraviti

Alviðruhamraviti

Perched on the desolate black sands of Mýrdalssandur, the iconic Alviðruhamraviti lighthouse stands as a solitary sentinel against the raw power of the Atlantic. Its warm light cuts through the driving rain and crashing waves, a testament to its vital role in guiding ships through treacherous waters since 1929.

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Antafjallstindur

Antafjallstindur

Antafjallstindur is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Árbæjarkirkja í Holtum

Árbæjarkirkja í Holtum

Árbæjarkirkja í Holtum is a picturesque white church, built in 1887, standing proudly with its striking red roof against the vibrant green fields of South Iceland. This historic site, dedicated to Mary Mother of God and John the Baptist, offers a glimpse into Iceland's enduring religious heritage amidst a tranquil, rural landscape. Its distinctive corrugated iron exterior and charming steeple make it a memorable stop.

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Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
🎟 Bookable

Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour

From $381.77

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Árbær Farm Museum

Árbær Farm Museum

Árbær is a preserved historic farm near Hvolsvöllur, now a museum displaying traditional Icelandic farm buildings, tools, and daily life from centuries past.

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Arnardrangur

Arnardrangur

Arnardrangur, or 'Eagle Rock,' stands as a solitary sentinel on Iceland's dramatic south coast, its dark, columnar basalt rising sharply from the famous black sands. This striking sea stack offers a powerful visual spectacle, set against the backdrop of the vast Atlantic and rugged cliffs, embodying the raw beauty of Icelandic nature.

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Arnarfell hið litla

Arnarfell hið litla

Arnarfell hið litla is a mountain peak in Highlands, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Arnarfell hið mikla

Arnarfell hið mikla

Arnarfell hið mikla is a mountain peak in Highlands, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
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Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer

From $1632.79

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Arnarfell Þingvellir

Arnarfell Þingvellir

Arnarfell mountain dominates the landscape with its rugged, moss-draped slopes, offering a dramatic contrast to the vibrant, choppy blue waters of Lake Þingvallavatn. Lush green shrubbery carpets the foreground, framing a scene of serene wilderness and distant, hazy peaks under a vast sky.

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Arnarfellsjökull

Arnarfellsjökull

Arnarfellsjökull, an impressive outlet glacier branching from the mighty Hofsjökull, carves a dramatic landscape in South Iceland. Its deeply crevassed, blue-tinged ice flows majestically between rugged, dark mountains, feeding milky meltwater rivers below. This remote wonder offers a breathtaking glimpse into Iceland's untamed wilderness and the powerful forces of nature.

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Arnarker

Arnarker

Arnarker, a captivating lava tube in South Iceland, invites exploration into the Earth's volcanic past. A distinctive spiral staircase, visible at its entrance, leads visitors down into its impressive, moss-fringed cavern, revealing formations sculpted by ancient molten rock.

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Árnessýsla Folk Museum

Árnessýsla Folk Museum

Discover South Iceland's rich cultural heritage at the Árnessýsla Folk Museum, nestled in Eyrarbakki's historic heart. Housed in distinctive buildings, including a striking black-clad structure with white windows and a charming light green house, it offers a vivid journey through centuries of daily life.

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Ásgarðsfjall

Ásgarðsfjall

Ásgarðsfjall is a mountain peak in North Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Ásgrindur

Ásgrindur

Ásgrindur is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Ash column

Ash column

Ash column is a notable attraction in South Iceland, Iceland, offering visitors an authentic experience of Iceland's landscapes, culture, and natural wonders.

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Assa

Assa

Assa is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Aurora Basecamp

Aurora Basecamp

Nestled within a vast, moss-covered lava field, Aurora Basecamp offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Northern Lights from specially designed geodesic domes. It's an authentic immersion into Iceland's dramatic natural beauty and celestial wonders.

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Bárðarbunga

Bárðarbunga

Hidden beneath the vast, serene expanse of Vatnajökull glacier, Bárðarbunga is one of Iceland's most formidable subglacial volcanoes. This active giant, seen as a subtle swell in the immense ice sheet from above, embodies the raw, untamed geological power that shapes this unique island nation.

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Bergþór úr Bláfelli

Bergþór úr Bláfelli

Bergþór úr Bláfelli is a memorial in South Iceland, Iceland, commemorating an important person or event in Icelandic history.

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Bergþórshvoll

Bergþórshvoll

Step into the heart of Iceland's saga country at Bergþórshvoll, where a striking white church with a bright red roof and golden window frames presides over a serene landscape. This culturally significant site is intimately tied to ancient Icelandic stories and folklore, inviting visitors to connect with generations of history amidst its peaceful graveyard and rolling green fields.

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Bíldsfell

Bíldsfell

Bíldsfell is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bjarnarey

Bjarnarey

Bjarnarey is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Black sand beach Vík í Mýrdal

Black sand beach Vík í Mýrdal

Black sand beach Vík í Mýrdal is a scenic viewpoint in South Iceland, Iceland. This spot offers panoramic views of Iceland's dramatic landscapes, including mountains, lava fields, glaciers, and coastline.

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Bláfell

Bláfell

Bláfell is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bláfjallahorn

Bláfjallahorn

Bláfjallahorn is a mountain peak in Capital Region, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bláfjöll

Bláfjöll

Bláfjöll is a mountain peak in Capital Region, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bláhnúkur

Bláhnúkur

Bláhnúkur is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bláhnjúkur Peak

Bláhnjúkur Peak

A steep obsidian-rich peak offering panoramic views over the Landmannalaugar highlands. The area features unique rock formations, lava fields, and evidence of past eruptions that tell the story of Iceland's fiery origins. It offers visitors an up-close look at the forces that continue to shape this island nation.

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Bláhver

Bláhver

Bláhver is a geothermal hot spring in Highlands, Iceland. Iceland's volcanic activity creates thousands of natural hot springs, ranging from gentle warm pools to boiling vents.

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Blákollur

Blákollur

Blákollur is a mountain peak in Capital Region, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Blátindur

Blátindur

Blátindur is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bleiksárgljúfur

Bleiksárgljúfur

Hidden within the verdant Fljótshlíð valley, Bleiksárgljúfur unveils a graceful, towering waterfall that slices through a dramatic, narrow gorge. The surrounding hills, painted in vivid green, create a striking contrast to the rugged rock face from which the Bleiksá river plunges. It's a serene spot offering both beauty and a sense of secluded discovery.

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Blesárjökull

Blesárjökull

Blesárjökull is a glacier in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland is home to Vatnajökull — Europe's largest glacier — along with dozens of other ice caps and outlet glaciers.

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Blesi

Blesi

Blesi is a geothermal hot spring in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's volcanic activity creates thousands of natural hot springs, ranging from gentle warm pools to boiling vents.

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Bobby Fischer Grave

Bobby Fischer Grave

Nestled in the quiet Laugardælir cemetery near Selfoss, the simple arched headstone of enigmatic chess grandmaster Bobby Fischer offers a poignant moment of reflection. Surrounded by green grass and often adorned with fresh violet pansies, it marks the final chapter for a man whose life was as turbulent as it was brilliant.

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Borgarhafnarfjall

Borgarhafnarfjall

Borgarhafnarfjall is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Bra Fence

Bra Fence

Bra Fence is a notable attraction in South Iceland, Iceland, offering visitors an authentic experience of Iceland's landscapes, culture, and natural wonders.

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Brattháls

Brattháls

Brattháls is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Breiðamerkurfjall Mountain Viewpoint

Breiðamerkurfjall Mountain Viewpoint

Breiðamerkurfjall provides one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Southeast Iceland, overlooking the vast Vatnajökull ice cap, glacier tongues, and coastal lagoons. The viewpoint is reached via a moderately challenging hike that rewards visitors with 360-degree panoramas. On clear days, you can see from the glacier to the Atlantic Ocean, including Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

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Brennisteinsalda Mountain

Brennisteinsalda Mountain

A vividly colored rhyolite mountain with active geothermal vents and rainbow-striped mineral slopes. The area features unique rock formations, lava fields, and evidence of past eruptions that tell the story of Iceland's fiery origins. It offers visitors an up-close look at the forces that continue to shape this island nation.

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Brúarfoss Waterfall

Brúarfoss Waterfall

Prepare to be mesmerized by Brúarfoss, a breathtaking waterfall renowned for its impossibly vivid, milky blue glacial water. Cascading over dark volcanic rocks, its unique color is a result of finely ground rock particles suspended in the water, reflecting light in an extraordinary way. The series of cascades creates a truly magical and photogenic spectacle.

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Brúarhlöð

Brúarhlöð

Brúarhlöð is a notable attraction in South Iceland, Iceland, offering visitors an authentic experience of Iceland's landscapes, culture, and natural wonders.

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Brúarpotturinn Hot Pot

Brúarpotturinn Hot Pot

Bruarpotturinn is a natural hot spring located in highlands. This geothermal pool offers visitors a chance to relax in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by Iceland's stunning natural landscape. Perfect for those seeking an authentic Icelandic bathing experience away from the crowds.

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Brúnir

Brúnir

Brúnir is a mountain peak in South Iceland, Iceland. Iceland's peaks range from ancient volcanoes to glacier-capped summits, offering spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

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Hidden Gems

Off the beaten path

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Hidden Gem

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

This serpentine canyon is one of Iceland's best-kept secrets — a 2-kilometer-long gorge carved into ancient palagonite rock over 9,000 years by glacial rivers draining from the highlands. The canyon plunges up to 100 meters deep, with sheer moss-covered walls that glow emerald green in summer. A walking trail along the canyon rim offers breathtaking views into the abyss where the Fjaðrá river snakes below. The canyon became famous when Justin Bieber filmed the music video for 'I'll Show You' here in 2015 — tourism surged so violently afterward that the site was temporarily closed in 2019 to prevent environmental damage. Today it's carefully managed with boardwalks and roped paths. Fjaðrárgljúfur is especially stunning in late spring when waterfalls pour over the cliffs and wildflowers bloom along the rim. Local folklore says the canyon was formed when a troll woman tried to flee the sunrise, her footsteps carving the gorge as she ran.

Seljavallalaug Pool
Hidden Gem

Seljavallalaug Pool

Hidden in a narrow valley beneath towering mountains, Seljavallalaug is one of Iceland's oldest swimming pools — built in 1923 by locals who wanted to teach Icelanders to swim after a tragic shipwreck. The geothermally-heated pool (fed by a natural hot spring) measures 25 meters long and is completely free to use. It's maintained by volunteers and has no lifeguard, so you swim at your own risk. To reach it, you hike 15 minutes along a scenic valley trail from the trailhead on Route 242. The pool often sits empty, giving you the surreal experience of soaking in warm water surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and absolute silence. The changing rooms are basic — just a small concrete building — but that's part of the charm. After the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption, the pool was buried in volcanic ash and had to be excavated by locals. It's one of the most photogenic spots in Iceland, especially in winter when steam rises into the cold air.

DC-3 Plane Wreck (Sólheimasandur)
Hidden Gem

DC-3 Plane Wreck (Sólheimasandur)

In 1973, a US Navy Douglas DC-3 aircraft ran out of fuel and crash-landed on the black sand desert of Sólheimasandur. Miraculously, all crew members survived. The plane was abandoned where it fell — too remote and damaged to salvage — and has sat there rusting for over 50 years, slowly being reclaimed by the elements. The wreck became an icon of post-apocalyptic beauty and has been photographed by millions. It's featured in music videos (Justin Bieber's 'I'll Show You'), fashion shoots, and was even a filming location. The fuselage is largely intact, with its wings torn off and scattered nearby. You can climb inside (carefully) and explore the hollow shell. Reaching the wreck requires a 4-kilometer walk (8 km round trip) across a barren black sand plain — the landowner closed the road to vehicles in 2016 after tourists caused too much damage. The hike takes about 1 hour each way, and there's no shade, so bring water. In winter, the wreck is often dusted with snow, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.

Geology & History

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Volcanoes

Active volcanic zone

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Glaciers

Massive ice caps

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Waterfalls

Powerful cascades

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Haunted South Iceland

Explore the ghost stories...

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✈️ Flights to Iceland

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Supernatural Iceland

Haunted Places in South Iceland

South Iceland contains some of the country's best-known supernatural landmarks — from troll sea stacks to Viking treasure legends and mysterious mountain spirits protecting hidden valleys.

🪨

Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

Legend says these formations were trolls caught dragging a ship to shore — turned to stone the moment sunrise touched them.

💰

Skógafoss

According to saga, the first Viking settler Þrasi hid a treasure chest behind this waterfall. Many have searched — none have found it.

♨️

Seljavallalaug Valley

Mountain spirits were believed to protect travelers bathing in the warm geothermal waters of this hidden natural pool.

🌊

Dyrhólaey Arch

Traditionally described as a gateway arch used by sea spirits traveling between the ocean and the land beneath the black cliffs.

🚐 Getting Around Iceland

Airport Transfers & Sightseeing Rides

Pre-book a private transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík, or explore Iceland by private sightseeing ride. Fixed prices, professional local drivers, instant confirmation.

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🌌 See the Northern Lights

Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.

⚔️ Viking Heritage

Saga sites and Viking routes in this region

Keldur
🏠~1100 ADIngjaldur Geirmundarson

Keldur

One of Iceland's Oldest Viking Age Farm Sites

Keldur was once home to powerful Viking-age families mentioned in medieval sagas. The site includes underground tunnels believed to have been used as defensive escape routes.

💡 Did you know?

Keldur remains one of the best preserved turf farm complexes in Iceland.

Laugarvatn
🧭~930 AD

Laugarvatn

Travel Route of Early Settlers

The Laugarvatn region lay along important inland travel routes used by Viking settlers moving between coastal farms and assembly sites such as Þingvellir.

💡 Did you know?

Many modern hiking routes still follow paths first used by Viking settlers more than 1,000 years ago.

Þingvellir
🏛️930 ADAlþingi Chieftains

Þingvellir

Birthplace of Icelandic Democracy

Þingvellir was the meeting place of Alþingi, Iceland's national assembly founded in the year 930. Viking chieftains gathered here each summer to create laws, settle disputes and govern the country without a king.

💡 Did you know?

At Lögberg, the Law Rock, laws were spoken aloud from memory by the Lawspeaker. This system helped create one of the oldest parliamentary traditions in Europe.

Vestmannaeyjar
🧭~874 ADHjörleifur Hróðmarsson

Vestmannaeyjar

The Story Behind the Name Westman Islands

The Westman Islands were named after Irish slaves who escaped after killing their Viking master Hjörleifur. Ingólfur Arnarson later tracked them to the islands during the settlement period.

💡 Did you know?

The word "Westmen" referred to Irish people living west of Norway during the Viking Age.

Skálholt
~1056 ADÍsleifur Gizurarson

Skálholt

Religious Center of Early Iceland

Skálholt became one of the most important religious centers in Iceland after Christianity was adopted around the year 1000 during the Alþingi assembly at Þingvellir.

💡 Did you know?

For centuries Skálholt served as one of Iceland's two episcopal seats.

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