Located on the southern coast of Iceland, Vik is a picturesque village that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. With its black sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and stunning waterfalls, Vik is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about visiting Vik, including the best time to go, how to get there, and the top things to do in the area.
Weather in Vik
Vik’s weather is typically cool and rainy, with temperatures ranging from around 5°C (41°F) in winter to 15°C (59°F) in summer. The village is also prone to strong winds and occasional storms, so visitors should be prepared for inclement weather regardless of the season.
Best Time to Visit Vik
The best time to visit Vik is during the summer months, when the weather is relatively mild and the days are long. This is also the best time to see the area’s wildflowers in bloom and to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and whale watching. However, visitors should be prepared for crowds during peak season, as Vik is a popular tourist destination.
How to Get to Vik
Vik is located about 180 kilometers (110 miles) southeast of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city. The most convenient way to get there is by car, either by renting a vehicle in Reykjavik or by taking a guided tour. Visitors can also take a bus from Reykjavik, but this is a slower and less flexible option.
Getting Around Vik
Vik is a small village that can easily be explored on foot. However, many of the area’s top attractions are located outside of the village and require a vehicle to reach. Visitors can rent a car or take a guided tour to see these sights, or take advantage of the local bus service, which operates throughout the region.
FUN FACT: Vik is home to one of Iceland’s most famous ghosts, a woman known as the “White Lady” who is said to haunt the area’s rocky coastline.
Top 10 Things to Do in Vik
1. Reynisfjara Beach
Reynisfjara Beach is a stunning black sand beach located on Iceland’s South Coast, and it’s a popular destination for tourists. As a first-time visitor, it’s important to keep some key things in mind to ensure that your visit is safe and enjoyable.
First and foremost, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers associated with the beach. The waves and currents at Reynisfjara can be very strong and unpredictable, so it’s important to be cautious when swimming or walking near the water. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go, as Iceland’s weather can be quite unpredictable.
One of the highlights of Reynisfjara Beach is its unique basalt columns, which are the result of volcanic activity. These columns are a popular spot for photography, but it’s important to respect the environment and avoid climbing on them or disturbing any wildlife.
Facilities at the beach are limited, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and water. There is a small café nearby, but it can be busy during peak season. With these tips in mind, a visit to Reynisfjara Beach can be a memorable and enjoyable experience, filled with stunning scenery and natural wonders.
2. Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks are located just off the shore of Reynisfjara Beach and are another popular attraction for visitors. These sea stacks are towering basalt pillars that rise up from the sea, and are said to be the remains of two trolls who were caught in the sunlight and turned to stone.
While the sea stacks are impressive to see from a distance, it’s important to note that the waters around them can be very dangerous due to strong currents and unpredictable waves. Visitors should always stay on the designated paths and avoid getting too close to the water’s edge.
If you’re interested in photography, the sea stacks can make for some stunning shots, especially during sunrise or sunset. However, it’s important to respect the environment and avoid climbing on the sea stacks or disturbing any wildlife.
3. Dyrhólaey Arch
Dyrhólaey Arch is a natural arch formation located on the southern coast of Iceland. The climb up to the arch can be quite steep and strenuous, but the views from the top are worth it. Visitors can also visit the nearby lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The area around the arch is a popular spot for birdwatching, particularly during the summer months when puffins can be seen in the area.
The arch is located off of Route 1 (the Ring Road), and there is a small parking area nearby. Visitors should be aware that there are no facilities at the parking area or near the arch, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and water.
4. Skógafoss Waterfall
Skógafoss Waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, located in the southern part of the country. The waterfall is over 60 meters tall and is known for the sheer power of its cascading water. Visitors can take a short walk to the base of the falls, where they’ll experience the mist and spray created by the waterfall. There are also stairs that lead to the top of the waterfall, providing a unique vantage point from which to view the surrounding landscape.
The area around Skógafoss Waterfall is surrounded by natural beauty, including glaciers, mountains, and lush green fields. There is a small parking area nearby, as well as restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.
FUN FACT: The village of Vik was once known for its production of woolen goods, and many of the traditional Icelandic sweaters that are still popular today were made in Vik.
5. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is another popular destination in southern Iceland, known for the unique experience of being able to walk behind the waterfall. The waterfall drops about 60 meters and is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a picturesque spot for photography. Visitors can take a short walk to the base of the waterfall or follow a trail that leads behind the falls for a truly unforgettable experience. However, be prepared to get wet from the mist created by the waterfall.
The area around Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is also surrounded by natural beauty, including glaciers and mountains. There is a small parking area nearby, as well as restrooms and a small café. Visitors should be aware that the path behind the waterfall can be slippery and should exercise caution when walking.
6. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a breathtaking canyon located in southern Iceland. Visitors are advised to stay on the designated paths for safety as the canyon is quite deep. During peak season, the canyon can get quite crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
The canyon is surrounded by stunning natural scenery including waterfalls and moss-covered cliffs, so it’s worth taking some time to explore the area and appreciate its beauty. The canyon is located off of Route 1 (the Ring Road), and it’s about a 5-10 minute walk from the parking area to the canyon itself. There are restrooms and a small café nearby, but no other facilities.
7. Sólheimajökull Glacier
Sólheimajökull Glacier is a stunning glacier located in southern Iceland. The glacier is easily accessible by foot and is a popular spot for glacier hiking and ice climbing tours. Visitors can book a tour with a guide to explore the glacier’s crevasses, ice caves, and stunning blue ice formations. It’s important to note that visitors should never attempt to explore the glacier on their own, as it can be dangerous without a guide.
The glacier is located off of Route 1 (the Ring Road), and there is a small parking area nearby. Visitors should also be aware that the glacier is constantly changing due to climate change, so it’s worth checking with a guide about the current conditions and safety measures.
FUN FACT: The nearby Dyrhólaey peninsula was once used as a filming location for the popular HBO series “Game of Thrones,” where it served as the setting for scenes set in the icy wastelands beyond the Wall.
8. Víkurfjara Beach
Víkurfjara Beach is a beautiful black sand beach located in southern Iceland. The beach is known for its dramatic basalt columns and towering cliffs, making it a popular spot for photography. Visitors can also see a unique rock formation known as the “Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks” in the distance. However, visitors should be aware of the powerful waves and rip currents that can make the beach dangerous for swimming.
There are signs posted along the beach warning visitors about the potential hazards. The beach is located off of Route 1 (the Ring Road), and there is a small parking area nearby. Visitors should also be aware that there are no facilities at the parking area or near the beach, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and water.
9. Lava Centre
The Lava Centre is an interactive museum located in Hvolsvöllur, about a 45-minute drive from the town of Vík í Mýrdal. The museum is dedicated to the geological history of Iceland and its volcanic activity. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and simulations that showcase the forces of nature that have shaped Iceland’s unique landscape. There are also guided tours available for visitors who want to learn more about the science behind the exhibits. The museum has a café and gift shop, as well as restrooms and a parking area. It’s a great place to stop and learn about Iceland’s natural wonders before heading out to explore them in person. Admission fees apply and vary depending on age and whether you choose to take a guided tour.
10. Vik Church
Vik Church, also known as the Reyniskirkja Church, is a picturesque church located in the small town of Vík í Mýrdal in southern Iceland. The church is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks, with its red roof and white walls standing out against the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a short walk from the town center to reach the church and explore its interior. The church is open to visitors during the day and there is no admission fee. Visitors should also be aware that the church is an active place of worship and should be respectful of any ongoing services.
Day Trips from Vik
In addition to exploring Vik itself, there are several great day trip options in the surrounding area. These include:
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a stunning glacial lake located in southeastern Iceland, approximately 2.5 hours from Vik by car. The lake is filled with icebergs that have calved off of the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs and see them from a unique perspective. The area around the lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals and seabirds. Visitors can spend several hours exploring the lake and surrounding area before making the journey back to Vik.
Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is a stunning geothermal area located in the highlands of Iceland, approximately 2.5 hours from Vik by car. The area is known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, natural hot springs, and otherworldly landscape. Visitors can take a hike along one of the many trails that wind through the area, taking in the stunning scenery and soaking in the hot springs along the way. It’s important to note that the roads leading to Landmannalaugar are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate, particularly in bad weather. Visitors should also be aware that the area is only accessible by 4×4 vehicles, and should plan accordingly. A day trip to Landmannalaugar from Vik is a long journey, but the unique landscape and hot springs make it well worth the effort.
Thorsmork
Thorsmork is a stunning nature reserve located in the southern highlands of Iceland, approximately 2 hours from Vik by car. The area is known for its rugged terrain, deep valleys, and glaciers, and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can take a hike along one of the many trails that wind through the area, taking in the stunning scenery and exploring the unique landscape. It’s important to note that the roads leading to Thorsmork are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate, particularly in bad weather. Visitors should also be aware that the area is only accessible by 4×4 vehicles, and should plan accordingly. A day trip to Thorsmork from Vik is a long journey, but the unique landscape and hiking opportunities make it well worth the effort.
Westman Islands
The Westman Islands are a group of islands located off the southern coast of Iceland, approximately 1.5 hours from Vik by ferry. The islands are known for their stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history. Visitors can take a ferry to the main island of Heimaey and spend the day exploring the island’s many attractions, including the Eldfell volcano, the puffin colonies, and the Viking ruins. The island also has several restaurants and cafes, as well as a golf course and swimming pool. Visitors should be aware that the ferry schedule can be affected by weather conditions, and should plan accordingly. A day trip to the Westman Islands from Vik is a great way to experience a unique and lesser-known side of Iceland.
Whether you choose to spend your time exploring the natural wonders of Vik and the surrounding area, or venture further afield to one of these amazing day trip destinations, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this part of Iceland. So why not plan your visit today and discover all that Vik has to offer?
