
By Monika
Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of Iceland.
The South Coast is one of the most visited regions of Iceland.
It is definitely one closest to my heart. It’s what comes to mind when I think of Iceland.
It is studded with awe-inspiring natural wonders: waterfalls, gorgeous black beaches, fairy tale canyons to hike, and of course glaciers and volcanoes.
In this “Iceland South Coast Itinerary” I’ve listed not only my favorite stops but all the “must-see” places that usually make every visitor’s to-do list.
Bonus! I also included a unique fun stop near Höfn, that doesn’t usually make many lists but in my opinion is definitely worth your time.
So keep reding till the end to find out what it is!
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- Best Places to Visit on the South Coast of Iceland.
- What exactly is considered the South Coast of Iceland?
- How to get there:
- Best time to visit Iceland's South Coast
- Self-drive from Reykjavik
- Map of the South Coast of Iceland:
- 1. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- 2. Gljúfrabúi Waterfall
- 3. Fence of Bras
- 4. Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
- 5. Rútshellir Cave
- 6. Drangurinn í Drangshlíð 2
- 7. Skógafoss Waterfall
- 8. Kvernufoss Waterfall
- 9. Sólheimajökull Glacier
- 10. Dyrhólaey Cliffs
- 11. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- 12. Vík
- 13. Yoda Cave ("Gígjagjá")
- 14. Eldhraun Lava Field
- 15. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
- 16. Kirkjugólf National Monument
- 17. Dverghamrar Cliffs
- 18. Foss a Síðu waterfall
- 19. Lómagnúpur / Núpsstaður
- 20. Skeiðará Bridge Monument
- 21. Skaftafel (Vatnajökull National Park) hikes
- 22. Vatnajökull (Skaftafellsjökull) glacier
- 23. Hofskirkja
- 24. Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour
- 25. Múlagljúfur Canyon
- 26. Fjallsárlón Lagoon
- 27. Diamond Beach
- 28. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- 29. Vestrahorn/Stokksnes Beach
- 30. Höfn
- Bonus attraction – the "Big Red Chair"
- Where to stay on the South Coast of Iceland?
What exactly is considered the South Coast of Iceland?
It is a stretch of land along the main road encompassing Iceland, called the Ring Road (or just rt.1), located between Reykjavik and Höfn.
The area between Reykjavik and Vik is considered Southwest Iceland and past Vik, all the way to Höfn you have Southeast Iceland.
How to get there:
By car:
The easiest way to visit all the attractions of Iceland’s South Coast is by car. This way you can see all the famous places, as well as those less-known, but equally beautiful sites on your own schedule.

Rent a proper car for your adventure with a 5% discount automatically applied to your reservation from a trusted local company I always rent from – Blue Car Rental!
How long is the drive?
Here are some distances and drive times (without any stops) to help you plan your trip:
Reykjavik – Höfn: about 5.5 – 6 hrs (457 km)
Reykjavik – Vik: about 2.5 hrs (186 km)
Vik – Höfn: 3 hrs 15 min (271 km)
With a tour:
It is also very easy to join one of many organized tours (and they really are very well organized) and visit this incredible region with a knowledgeable guide.
Here are some best reviewed day tours you may like:
- From Reykjavik: South of Iceland Full-Day Trip – this tour will take you as far as the town of Vik and you’ll see the waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier and Reynisfjara black sand beach.
- Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Guided Trip – this tour offers the visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, plus a visit to Seljalandsfoss and Vik.
- Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour – this tour is a mix of attractions from both tours listed above.
Which day tour should you choose? That will be determined by what the “must-see” is on your list!
If you’d like to see more of the South Coast of Iceland than a day trip can offer, consider a 2-day tour, which will allow you to visit and experience a lot more!
By bus:
If you like traveling independently, but don’t necessarily want to drive yourself, you have an option of public bus transportation.
Reykjavik-based Strætó bus line taking tourists to locations outside of the capital city is called “Countryside” and has multiple stops along the route from Reykjavik to Höfn.
Line #52 will provide transportation as far as Seljalandsfoss waterfall area and the nearby Landeyjahöfn ferry dock for the Westman Islands.
Line #51 will take you all the way to Höfn, with stops at most major attractions of the area, such as Skógafoss waterfall, the charming village of Vik, Skaftafel (Vatnajökull National Park) and the iconic Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
You don’t prebook your trips online or reserve tickets in advance. Just come to the bus stop and purchase tickets onboard. The drivers accept cash, credit and debit cards.
Best time to visit Iceland’s South Coast
Any time of the year is great to visit this beautiful area.
Super long days of the summer months give you lots of time to visit as many attractions as you want to pack in your itinerary. Driving is easy, and the route is extremely scenic – you’ll be tempted to stop all the time, so allow time for spontaneous photo ops!
Just remember – never just stop on the main road, always find a safe spot to pull over.
Spring and fall are a bit more of a lottery when it comes to weather conditions, and the days are shorter, but you’ll definitely see fewer tourists and the usually crowded places will be a lot less busy.
Winter months come with its own set of challenges, especially if you’re planning to travel in your rental car.
Make sure you check the most up-to-date road conditions on the official website of the Icelandic Road and Coast Administration and the weather forecast on the Icelandic Meteorological Office website before you embark on your journey.
However, the amazing winter landscapes are a huge reward for the effort it will take to get there!
Winter is also the prime time to visit the ice caves located near Vik and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
And if you’re not up for the challenge of winter driving in Iceland, don’t worry! There are SO MANY TOUR options! All tours listed above operate year-round.
Self-drive from Reykjavik
Once you leave the capital of Iceland, you’ll be driving through some volcanic landscapes, passing green pastures and farms, and later moss-covered mountains, with sheep and adorable Icelandic horses grazing by the road.

The towns of Selfoss, Hella, and Hvolsvöllur are good places to stop for restroom breaks and snacks, with the N1 gas station in Hvolsvöllur offering the most amenities as it has a convenience store, a bakery, and a café.
Below you’ll find a list of the best things to see and do in South Iceland during your road trip.
The stops are listed in the direction from Reykjavik to Höfn. If you are traveling the Ring Road clockwise, your first stop will be the last place listed in this post.
The driving distances between the attractions are usually short and making frequent stops break up what would otherwise be a very long drive!
Map of the South Coast of Iceland:

1. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Distance from Reykjavik: 1 hour 45 minutes (127 km)
Seljalandsfoss is a truly impressive waterfall, with water cascading down from a cliff about 60 meters high.

It is best known the fact that you can walk behind it. There is a footpath at its base encircling the waterfall. Most people start on the right side of the loop and come out on the left. It can get pretty crowded as it is one of the most famous and unique waterfalls in Iceland, but it’s well worth it to brave the crowds.

Standing in the wide cavern behind the massive stream of water, is a magical experience!
I strongly suggest putting rain gear and protecting your phones and cameras – it gets wet!
Before you go back to the parking lot, you’ll pass by a small gift shop, which doesn’t look like much from the outside but inside is full of Icelandic sweaters, beautiful wool hats and other souvenirs. Next to it, there is a coffee and snack booth and, conveniently, restrooms.
2. Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem located right next to the famous Seljalandsfoss.
It’s a 5-minute walk to get to the opening in a cliff wall, which lets you into a short narrow canyon finally opening up to a cave with a large boulder. Behind the boulder you can see the waterfall.

The cliff from which the water comes down from, forms a small opening at its top and creates an opportunity for some amazing photos.
For more details about how to visit both Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi waterfalls read this guide!
3. Fence of Bras

This is a fun stop right along the Ring Road, located about 17 km past Seljalandsfoss waterfall parking lot. According to a local tale the first bras showed up on the Brekkukot Farm’s fence after a party in 2012 and since then many more were added, creating another South Coast attraction.
It is also said that the bras represent support for breast cancer awareness and research.
4. Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool

Built in 1923, it is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland and was originally build for teaching Icelandic kids to swim. It is now open to everyone free of charge.

To get there you have to hike for about 20 minutes through a gorgeous valley.
The hike is more of a walk along a riverbank and at the end you reach the pool.
Set in a secluded location, with only the mountains around, it makes for a very peaceful spot to swim. You’ll notice that the water is green – yes, algae is growing there, as it’s completely natural, with no chemicals added.
Even if you don’t venture into the water, just hiking there is a great experience, and the views are amazing.
READ MORE: Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool – All You Need to Know and Why You Should Visit.
5. Rútshellir Cave

This is a quick stop, but one definitely worth making.
Rútshellir is a man-made cave at the base of Mount Hrútafell, used as a shelter in the past, for both humans and animals.
It’s located about 10 min. (6.5 km) from Seljalavallalaug Swimming Pool. Driving towards Vik you’ll see a sign and a small parking lot on your left.

Climb over a beautiful carved wooden stile and find yourself on a path to the grotto.
Nestled in a massive moss-covered rock, it looks like a turf house from the outside. You can enter the cave and look around.
6. Drangurinn í Drangshlíð 2

Only 3 min past Rútshellir, you’ll see a sign for Drangurinn. There is a small parking lot, where you can leave your car and walk to the turf houses.


Drangurinn is a giant boulder, located on Drangshlíð farm. According to Icelandic folklore, its caves are believed to be home to elves protecting livestock.
Both the Rútshellir Cave and the Drangurinn turf houses are protected sites.
7. Skógafoss Waterfall

Distance from Seljalandsfoss: 26 min. (30 km)
This mighty waterfall is about 60 m (about 197 ft) tall and is famous for rainbows (sometimes double!) forming at its base due to the amount of mist it produces. We were lucky to see one even though by the time we got there it wasn’t even that sunny out!
You can get as close to the waterfall as you want but keep in mind that it’s very powerful and you will get wet just from the spray from the water coming down from the cliff!

Once you see everything at the base, climb the staircase on the right of Skógafoss for more phenomenal views.
527 steps! It’s absolutely worth the effort as the staircase takes you to the viewing platform where you can see this incredible waterfall from above.
For more details on how to visit Skógafoss, read: Skógafoss Waterfall – a Complete Guide (+ a Hidden Gem)
Option: there is a path at the top of the staircase, marking the beginning of the Waterfall Way – an 8 km hiking trail, also known as the Skógafoss Hike. It’s part of the longer Fimmvörðuháls Trail and will take you through some amazing landscapes, and past many stunning waterfalls. I hiked a good chunk of it and absolutely loved the experience!
8. Kvernufoss Waterfall

Another waterfall you can walk behind!
It’s located right next to Skógafoss – you just have to drive 2 minutes to the parking lot for the Skógar Museum where the hiking trail begins.
It takes a short hike to get to this hidden gem but is a flat easy 20-minute walk through a lush green canyon. The path is easy to find and follow and the scenery makes you feel like you’re in a fairy tale!

At the end of the trail you reach Kvernufoss and the cave behind the water.
Read more about this hike in my photo guide to Kvernufoss Waterfall.
9. Sólheimajökull Glacier

Distance from Reykjavik: 2 hrs 15 min. (165 km) and from Vik: 30 min. (30 km)
Sólheimajökull is a part of a much larger Mýrdalsjökull glacier and one of the most visited glaciers in Iceland. It can easily be reached from the Ring Road and its proximity to Iceland’s capital makes it a convenient stop for many tours that include a glacier hike and/or ice climbing.

It is still covered in some areas by volcanic ashes from the Eyjafjallajökull eruption in 2010, which paralyzed air traffic for weeks!
From the parking lot you can easily walk along the marked path to its lagoon (which takes about 5 min.) and then a little farther (another 10 min.) to the glacier wall.
DO NOT walk on a glacier without a guide and proper equipment – it’s dangerous!
Take a look at this glacier hike tour we did during our first trip to Iceland – we had a great time!
To learn more about visiting glaciers in Iceland, including essential safety tips and fun activities available READ THIS DETAILED GUIDE!
READ MORE: Best Glacier Hikes in Iceland – Top Tours + Tips for a Great Experience.
10. Dyrhólaey Cliffs

Dyrhólaey is a protected nature reserve, best known for the magnificent stone arch rising dramatically from the ocean.

From the main parking lot, you can take one of many paths to explore the area and take in the views of the cliffs along the shore and Reynisdrangar basalt stacks of the nearby Reynisfjara Beach (more about the beach below).

In the summer months Dyrhólaey is also one of the prime puffin-viewing spots.
You can also take an uphill path to the lighthouse and from there enjoy a clear view of the stone arch.
11. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

One of the best-known black sand beaches in Iceland, it’s located only about 20 minutes from Dyrhólaey Cliffs. Famous for a wall of unique columnar basalt stacks and stunning Reynisdrangar sea stacks standing tall in the ocean, it’s a very popular stop for tourists. You can also see Dyrhólaey Cliffs from the shore.
Another stunning feature of Reynisfjara Beach is the Hálsanefshellir Cave – a large cavern made of twisted basalt columns, creating a one-of-a-kind black wall.
Please know that you should only go inside the cave at low tide!


A word of caution – this beach is not only known for its beauty but also for being dangerous at times. The danger comes from the so-called “sneaker waves” – strong, fast rising sudden waves that can cover the beach quickly and sweep you into the ocean. So enjoy the stunning scenery but be careful! Keep a safe distance from the ocean and never turn your back to the water.
Read more: How to Visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach (+ Must-Know Safety Tips)
Read more: Best Black Sand Beaches in Iceland – a Practical Guide
12. Vík

Vík is the southernmost village in Iceland and is best known for the Vík í Mýrdal Church and the nearby Reynisfjara Black Beach.
It’s also a perfect place to stop for food and hotels during your travels. Don’t miss Black Crust Pizzeria and Skool Beans Café – a coffee shop in a converted school bus! Delicious brew and a really cool place to visit.

Looking to make friends with adorable Icelandic horses? Vik Horse Adventure will take you on an unforgettable black beach ride.
READ MORE: “Best Things to Do in Vik – Your Ultimate Guide”
13. Yoda Cave (“Gígjagjá”)

Yoda Cave is a cavern on Hjörleifshöfði promontory, famous for its opening shaped like a silhouette of the Star Wars movie character – Master Yoda. It was also a filming location of “Star Wars – Rogue One” movie.
It is a beautiful spot to visit even if you’re not a Star Wars fan! The views of the surrounding area are amazing!
Read my detailed photo guide to Yoda Cave and Hjörleifshöfði for more information and helpful tips for visiting!
14. Eldhraun Lava Field

Eldhraun is the largest lava field in the world, formed by the Laki volcanic eruption in the 1700s.
It’s located about 45 minutes (60 km) from Vik and only 7 minutes (6 km) from the next stop listed below – Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon.

One of many walking paths at Eldhraun Lava Field.
We only made it as far as the edge of it due to the lack of time but it’s definitely worth visiting if you allow yourself a more relaxed schedule than we did during our 11-day journey along the Ring Road!
We’ve already had the unforgettable experience of walking through a lava field while visiting Snæfellsnes Peninsula during our prior trip to Iceland, so we decided to skip exploring Eldhraun in greater detail.
15. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is located less than 10 minutes past the Eldhraun Lava Field.
Also known as “Feather River Canyon”, it will make you wonder if you stepped into a fairy tale – again! Iceland has so many magical spots like that…
As you follow the well-marked path above the canyon you are immediately surrounded by mesmerizing views of moss-colored steep cliffs with the Fjaðrá river winding through at their base.

There are viewing platforms along the way to look down into the bottom of the canyon.
Of course, Justin Bieber’s video for his song “I’ll Show You” (partially filmed here) made this previously hidden gem a very popular tourist attraction in Iceland. You can see the edge of the Eldhraun Lava Field as you walk back towards the parking lot.
Inspired to visit? Read my full guide for more details on how to visit this fairytale canyon.
Helpful hint: Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon area (and the nearby village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur) is a great starting point for a day trip to Laki Craters (Lakagígar) – a stunning volcanic area in the Highlands.
16. Kirkjugólf National Monument

Kirkjugólf is located only 11 min (10 km) from Fjaðrágljúfur Canyon, just outside of a village called Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
It is an 80 sq. meters area of what looks like hexagonal floor tiles, hence the name “The Church Floor” (a direct translation of Kirkjugolf). There tiles are actually ancient basalt stone formations.
It is a protected national monument, and definitely worth a stop!
17. Dverghamrar Cliffs

Dverghamrar Cliffs are hexagonal basalt rock formations, creating a unique horseshoe-shaped canyon. They are also called “Dwarf Cliffs”, maybe due to their size (smaller than some other cliffs in Iceland), or maybe due to a legend that actual mythical dwarfs live there.
It’s a quick stop, with a free parking area right off the Ring Road, about 20 minutes (20 km) from Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. There is a marked path to go down to the cliffs.



You can also see Foss a Síðu waterfall peeking from a distance.
We’ve seen similar cliffs during our first trip to Iceland (Gerðuberg Cliffs on Snæfellsnes Peninsula), but it was still a great stop during our Ring Road travels – you never get tired of Icelandic landscapes, especially those connected to local tales!
18. Foss a Síðu waterfall

This is the waterfall visible from Dverghamrar Cliffs.
It’s located across from the cliffs – you will actually pass it on your left just before you get to the Dverghamrar parking lot. It’s easily spotted from the main road – just follow the gravel road to a small parking area.
The day I visited, it was being pushed to the side by strong winds with the mist forming a beautiful rainbow.
Watch a short video here:
It is much smaller than the other famous South Coast waterfalls, but just as beautiful.
19. Lómagnúpur / Núpsstaður

Lómagnúpur is a huge majestic looking mountain with a flat top, easily noticeable from the Ring Road, less than 20 minutes (25 km) from Dverghamrar Cliffs parking lot. It towers over the nearby Núpsstaður Farm.

You’ll see a sign for Núpsstaður and a small parking area.
You can’t drive to the farm anymore as the access road is gated, but even from the distance you can see the turf houses and an old turf church among some farm buildings.
I’ve read somewhere that you can walk up to see everything up close, but somehow it didn’t feel right, as it’s all private property, so we didn’t get closer. It’s a quick but scenic stop.
20. Skeiðará Bridge Monument
If you ever wondered about how powerful fire and ice are in the “Land of Fire and Ice”, this monument is the best example of what nature (more specifically volcanic eruptions) can do to man-made structures.

The eruption underneath the Vatnajökull glacier in 1996 caused nearly total destruction of the bridge on Skeiðará river. Only a couple of twisted girders remained, after volcanic heat and glacial flooding destroyed what used to be the longest-spanning bridge in Iceland. Some parts of the bridge were never recovered.
Today this roadside monument is covered in graffiti and serves as a reminder of how powerful and unpredictable forces of nature can be.
It’s literally on the Ring Road, about 20 minutes (27 km) from the previous stop – the Lómagnúpur Mountain.
21. Skaftafel (Vatnajökull National Park) hikes
Skaftafel National Park Visitor Center (Skaftafellsstofa) is located about 30 minutes (36 km) from the Lómagnúpur and Núpsstaður Farm and it’s a start for some great hiking trails.

You can hike to a beautiful Svartifoss waterfall (pictured above).
It’s a unique waterfall, nestled in an oval cove made of black basalt columns. It is said that it has been an inspiration for the design of the famous Hallgrimskirkja in Reykjavik.
This hike takes about 45 minutes from the Visitor Center and afterwards you can either head back the same way you can or continue over the bridge in front of Svartifoss to hike a longer trail loop, going by the Sjónarsker viewpoint, turf houses at Sel, and Lambhagi sheep pastures. This option will take you about 2-3 hours to complete.

You can also take a short easy walk to get close to the Skaftafellsjökull Glacier wall. Read more about it here.
We skipped that walk since we hiked and ice-climbed this very glacier the day before, but if you haven’t had a chance to see a glacier up close yet, I’d definitely recommend it!
22. Vatnajökull (Skaftafellsjökull) glacier

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe and Skaftafellsjökull is one of its glacial tongues, where you can go hiking or ice climbing – always with a guide for your safety! There are many tour companies offering some really great glacier activities.

We booked ice climbing tour with Tröll Expeditions and had a great time.
Their tour meeting point is a large parking lot, conveniently located about 15-20 minutes (18 km) from Skaftafel Visitor Center.
READ MORE about visiting the glaciers and scenic stops at Vatnajökull outlet glaciers, like Svinafellsjökull and Kviarjökull.
READ MORE about the best glacier hikes in Iceland!
23. Hofskirkja

Hofskirkja is the last turf church built in Iceland and one of only 6 remaining now. There is a small cemetery around it, with burial mounds covered with grass.


You’ll find the turn to Hof Road (Hofsvegur), leading to this well-hidden gem only 2 minutes past the Tröll Expeditions parking lot.
24. Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour
This tour is a real treat! It is fun, informative and the tractor ride through the marsh to the Ingólfshöfði promontory is quite an experience!

AND you can see puffins!
The check in office is located in Öræfi, which is less than 10 minutes away from Tröll Expeditions meeting point (about 25 minutes/26 km from Skaftafel Visitor Center, if you’re bypassing the glacier hike). You’ll see a big sign at the turn and a gravel road will take you right to the check in office.
Book it here.
Read more about our experience on the Ingólfshöfði puffin tour in this photo guide.
25. Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur is a breathtaking canyon in Vatnajökull National Park.
Its unmarked parking lot is located about 30 minutes (23 km) past Ingólfshöfði and just 15 minutes (6 km) before you get to the next stop – Fjallsárlón Lagoon. You can get amazing views of the lagoon right from the parking lot and through most of the hike.
The access road is rough gravel, not the best for smaller cars.
The trail to the main viewpoint for the Hangandifoss Waterfall starts right from the parking area. It took us about an hour to reach the top, and the views of the waterfall and the river, with birds flying inside the canyon are unreal.
Read my detailed guide to Múlagljúfur Canyon hike for more information about the trail, plus a ton of photos and tips for the best experience!
26. Fjallsárlón Lagoon

Only about 20 minutes (26 km) past the Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour turn off, or 40 minutes (47 km) from the Skaftafell Park Visitor Center, you’ll arrive at the Fjallsárlón Lagoon.
This will be the first of the two glacier lagoons located a short distance from each other on Iceland’s South Coast.
It is smaller and less known than nearby Jökulsárlón Lagoon, thus less busy, quieter but absolutely worth a stop. A short walk down the gravel path will take you right to the water with icebergs floating on its surface.

If you’d like to admire the outlet glacier, Fjallsjökull, up close, book a Zodiac Boat Tour – we did it and loved it!
READ MORE: “An Ultimate Guide to Visiting Glacier Lagoons in Iceland”
27. Diamond Beach

This famous black sand beach got its name from the icebergs lining its shore, resembling diamonds, especially when they sparkle on the sun! The proper name of this beach is actually Fellsfjara and it’s located only 10 minutes (11 km) from Fjallsárlón Lagoon and literally across the road from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Lagoon is also the source of these chunks of ice – as they break off from the glacier they float to the shore of Diamond Beach.

It’s a must see! Take your time to walk around and get some fun photos!
READ MORE: “Your Complete Guide to Diamond Beach in Iceland”
28. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Across the street from Diamond Beach is the second glacier lagoon on that stretch of the Ring Road, the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
It’s a spectacular place, definitely not to be missed in your travels. It’s filled with pieces of icebergs, floating or travelling down to Diamond Beach. If you’re lucky, you may hear a groan of a piece breaking of the glacier tongue and watch it flip and float away. Seals also like to hunt for fish in the bright blue waters of this lagoon, so be on the lookout!

Boat tours and kayaking tours are popular activities on Jökulsárlón.
READ MORE: “An Ultimate Guide to Visiting Glacier Lagoons in Iceland”
29. Vestrahorn/Stokksnes Beach

Vestrahorn is a distinctly shaped saw-tooth mountain, best visible from Stokksnes Beach.
It’s located about an hour away from the glacier lagoon and about 15 minutes from Höfn, the last town in Southeast Iceland.
Note: Vestrahorn is actually a bit past Höfn, (the 15 minutes mentioned above), but I reversed the order here to give you a stunning attraction first and the town ending your South Coast journey last!
After you turn from the Ring Road, a winding unpaved track will take you down to the parking lot and the Viking Café. It’s on private land so you have to pay a small entry fee. Then you’re free to roam and admire the magnificent view of the jagged peaks, walk the epic black sand dunes and go down to the tidal lagoon (on a clear day, if the water is still, the mountain will reflect in it, creating a spectacular sight!).

Then take the time to visit the abandoned Viking Village – built as a set for a movie that never happened, but a fun place to visit!
You’ll find a lot more information about this incredible place in my Guide to Vestrahorn.
30. Höfn

You’ve made it! Höfn is the last stop of Southeast Iceland! A small fishing town, it’s a great place for an overnight stay before continuing your Ring Road journey or heading back south.
Helpful hint: Please keep in mind that restaurants close early in Iceland, so if you plan on arriving late, I strongly suggest you eat on the way!
Learn from our story: We got to our hotel outside of Höfn just after 9 pm, hungry and tired, and were informed that the hotel restaurant was already closed and there was only ONE place in the entire village of Höfn still open. On a recommendation from the hotel staff (thank you!) we rushed to a small diner, called “Hafnarbuðin”, only to find a scary, long line of hungry tourists… We were lucky enough to place our orders before the line was closed. 30 minutes later (yes, definitely not fast-food) we had our burgers, and they were delicious! It was 10:30 pm …
Need help putting all these beautiful places into a great trip? Follow my 7-day South Iceland Itinerary for tips on how to plan a memorable week in South Iceland!
Bonus attraction – the “Big Red Chair”
If you drive for another 15 – 20 minutes (20 km) past Höfn you’ll come across the Big Red Chair. It has no historical value, just a big red chair placed atop a pile of rocks, but nevertheless fun to see. I read about it in a handful of guides and could never find a specific location, so here it is! Driving counterclockwise on the Ring Road from Höfn, the small parking area will be on your right. Enjoy!


Where to stay on the South Coast of Iceland?
If you’re visiting Iceland’s South Coast of Iceland as part of a road trip, you may be wondering where the best places to stay are. Well, Vik and Höfn come to mind as the most obvious choices, however Kalfafel and Kirkjubæjarklaustur are also good accommodation options.
Just remember to book early – this is a popular area and some hotels and guesthouses can sell out months in advance.
For tips on how to best plan your trip to Iceland, read “First trip to Iceland travel tips” and “What not to do in Iceland”.
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Let me help you plan your trip!
Get organized with this printable, fillable 45-page ICELAND TRAVEL PLANNER – keep track of flights, hotels, tours, daily itineraries and even your trip budget!
BONUS! The planner has journal pages for your memories!
You may also like:
- 6-day Iceland Itinerary (How to See the Best of Iceland in a Short Time)
- Golden Circle in One Day – Full Guide to the Main Stops and Best Detours.
- Hverir Geothermal Area – a Detailed Guide + Useful Tips.
- 8 Best Things to do Around Lake Mývatn – a Complete Travel Guide
- Landmannalaugar Travel Guide – All You Need to Know + Best Things to Do.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula – A Complete Guide and Top Things to See.
- The Amazing Kerlingarfjöll and Hveradalir Geothermal Area in Iceland.
- Reykjadalur Valley – a Beautiful Hike to a Hot River (+ Tips for the Best Experience)
- Best Packing List for Iceland – Budget Friendly and Practical
For more Iceland inspiration and travel guides click HERE.
Need more help planning your trip? Join my Explore Iceland: Travel Tips & Advice FB Group community to ask questions, share your experiences, plus get expert travel tips and advice from a supportive community of Iceland enthusiasts! Join today!
🎙️ Prefer to listen to the travel guides instead? Check out my Explore Iceland Travel Podcast and easily plan your trip on the go!

About Monika
An avid traveler and a passionate trip planner, mildly obsessed with being organized and prepared 🙂
Well aware of how precious travel time is, I’m here to share my experience and help you get the most out of your vacation time.
“Taking the hassle out of trip planning”


