Discover Vík í Mýrdal

The black lava beach Reynisfjara captivates with hexagonal basalt columns, a dark cave and powerful surf; the waves can rush in unpredictably far, so visitors should always keep a clear distance from the water.

The striking sea stacks Reynisdrangar rise from the sea off the coast and, according to legend, are said to be two trolls that were caught by sunlight and turned to stone while trying to pull a ship ashore.

The striking rock arch Dyrhólaey juts far out into the sea and offers sweeping views over black sand beaches from its headland; in early summer, numerous puffins also nest on the cliffs.

The small red wooden church on the hill above Vík once served as a refuge from floods caused by the Katla volcano, which slumbers beneath the nearby Mýrdalsjökull glacier and shapes the region's landscape.

Vík sits on Ring Road Route 1 about two and a half hours' drive east of Reykjavik and is visited on nearly every south coast road trip. A rental car offers the greatest flexibility for exploring the surrounding natural attractions.

The black lava beach Reynisfjara captivates with hexagonal basalt columns, a dark cave and powerful surf; the waves can rush in unpredictably far, so visitors should always keep a clear distance from the water.

The striking sea stacks Reynisdrangar rise from the sea off the coast and, according to legend, are said to be two trolls that were caught by sunlight and turned to stone while trying to pull a ship ashore.

The striking rock arch Dyrhólaey juts far out into the sea and offers sweeping views over black sand beaches from its headland; in early summer, numerous puffins also nest on the cliffs.