westfjords

Latrabjarg

About Latrabjarg

Látrabjarg is a remarkable beach in Iceland. Látrabjarg is a stunning beach located in Westfjords. This dramatic coastal area features Iceland's distinctive black volcanic sand, shaped by powerfu... Látrabjarg is Europe's largest sea bird cliff — a 14-kilometre basalt escarpment rising up to 440 metres above the Atlantic, hosting millions of nesting seabirds. Razorbills, common murres, kittiwakes and fulmars nest in the cracks and ledges, but th. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

🐉 The Seal Woman of Látrabjarg

An old tale tells of a seal woman (selkie) who came ashore at Látrabjarg and transformed into a beautiful woman. She lived among humans for many years before returning to the sea. On quiet evenings, locals claim you can still hear her singing from the waves, calling to her family on land.

📖 History

Látrabjarg has been used for egg and bird hunting by local farmers for centuries, with men being lowered on ropes over the cliff edge. In 1947, the crew of the British trawler Dhoon wrecked on the rocks below during a severe storm. Despite the impossible conditions, local farmers rappelled down the cliffs and rescued all 12 crew members over two days. The rescue was headline news across Britain and stands as one of the most heroic maritime rescues in Icelandic history.