Vík í Mýrdal, or Vík for short, is Iceland’s most southerly village and one of the country’s most photographed areas. The peaceful seafront village sits along a dramatic stretch of coastline, quaintly poised between glacier topped mountains, rugged sea cliffs and black sand beaches.
Few other places in Iceland offer as many contrasts in nature as Vík, with the iconic Reynisdrangar cliffs jutting out from the sea and the Dyrhólaey unique stone arch. Lush green pastures, rich birdlife, and glacial rivers all sit under the shadow of Myrdalsjökull glacier and the ominous Katla glacier-volcano.
There are a number of wonderful hiking trails in the Vík area, as well as a campground with a natural cave that serves as a kitchen for travellers with its grill and fireplace. The nearby freshwater Heiðarvatn Lake makes for excellent trout fishing. Some unique adventures include guided Zipline tours and horseback riding on the black sand beach, and SuperJeep safaris to view rare ice caves.
What to see in Vík?
Vík is situated near the Reynisfjara black sand beach and the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks. Both are within a hiking distance and easily accessible. Please be aware that the Black Sand Beach is not a regular beach, and the waves can get very dangerous. Make sure you do not wade in the water and if you are travelling with children, hold their hands at all times, especially during windy conditions and at high tide. The pull is very strong, and one wave can easily pull you out.
We also recommend that you hike to the top of the small hill where Vík’s church stands. It offers a great view of the village and the Black Sand Beach
There’s also a superb Lava Show, where you can see real, glowing red hot lava combine with ice to simulate a glacier volcanic eruption. Make sure you book a seat in advance, since this is a really popular show.
How to get there
It takes about two and half hour to drive from Reykjavík to Vík on the Ring Road. The trip is approximately 180 km. The route is beautiful and you can make a few scenic stops along way at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls.
