Vik is a picture perfect town with some of Iceland’s most out-of-this-world scenery. It is by far one of the most breathtaking places in Southern Iceland. The South Coast is characterized by mountains, glaciers, volcanos, and stunningly beautiful black sand beaches. Whether you have a week or a day to spend in Vik, it is a must visit area. Here are 7 incredibly interesting things to see and do when in Vik.
Check Out the Black Sand at Reynisfjara Beach
Take a stroll across the black volcanic sand at Reynisfjara Beach. The glittering black sand at Reynisfjara was formed after the eruption of Katla, several centuries ago. Towering basalt columns were formed when the piping hot lava clashed with the freezing cold North Atlantic Sea. Over time, erosion created the beautiful black sand that stretches for miles.
The twisting basalt columns themselves are quite a site to see. These look completely unnatural, but natural they are. Staked against each other, they look a bit like a very large and complicated pipe organ (minus the holes in the pipes). But rather than producing music fit for a silent movie, these provide a wonderful spot for birds to nest.
Also be sure to idle away a little time imagining stories to go with the craggy rock formation sitting just off the coast. Perhaps one is a dragon , or another is a giant endlessly trying to make it to the shore. According to legend, these sea stacks are two trolls who dragged a three-masted ship to land unsuccessfully. Modern legend even speaks of a husband who lost his much-loved wife to the trolls.
Quick warning! Don’t attempt a swim or even get too close to the water as crashing sneaker waves have been known to sweep people out to sea.
Gaze at the Views from Dyrhólaey
The Dyrhólaey Peninsular is famed for its massive rock arch and the view from its castle-like lighthouse. In addition, it is a prime location to go puffin watching in the summer months. Iceland is home to over 60% of the entire Atlantic puffin population. Puffins don’t seem to fear people on the surface but if you get too close to one, it will fly away. Then, as birds of a feather, the whole flock will follow.
Make sure to visit the majestic lighthouse located on Dyrhólaey. It sits at the edge of a cliff at the very southernmost tip of Iceland. The views from this cliff are amazing! On a clear day, you can see as far as the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The lighthouse is open to the public.
The most recognizable attraction at Dyrhólaey’s is the enormous rock arch. The arch is so massive that boast can easily navigate through its opening.
See the Vik i Myrdal Church
Vik i Myrdal Church is a simple little white church perched on top of a hill in Vik. It isn’t just nice on the exterior. Inside you will find a beautiful interior.
The church was built in 1873 and is the only building to survive the 1918 flood caused by a volcanic eruption. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vik due to the stunning views of the surrounding area you get from the top of the hill.
Experience the Breathtaking Waterfalls
Breathtaking waterfalls dot the entire landscape of Iceland and Vik is no exception. There are two you should really try to see near Vik.
Skogafoss, located on the Skoga River, will take your breath away as you watch the water plummet about 200 feet. It is just a 30-minute drive from Vik and well worth the trip. In fact, people flock to this area as it is one of the most popular waterfalls in the country.
Hidden away in the countryside, you will find Kvernufoss. It is small, but beautiful. You do have to take a little hike through a valley to see these falls but it is well worth the effort.
Catch the Lava Show
If time permits, you might want to check out the Icelandic Lava Show. They breathe life into the lava (reheat it), so that you can experience it at its most magnificent stage. You will be able to see, smell, hear, and feel the heat!
If you want to know more about Iceland’s volcanic eruptions, you should definitely check out a Lava Show either while you are in Vik or Reykjavik. What a great way to warm up your winter travels!
Hike to a Plane Crash
If you are up for a trek (about an hour each way), then you might find the remains of a US Navy plane crash worth a visit. The abandoned plane has sat on the black sand of Sólheimasandur beach since it ran out of fuel and crashed in 1973. Afraid this is a bit morbid for your taste? Don’t worry, everyone survived the crash.
Brave an Ice Cave
Intrepid travelers have the unique opportunity to walk through a glacier. There are several ice caves to choose across the country, but the most popular is found just a 45-minute drive from Vik. The Katla Ice Cave is located in the 4th largest glacier in Iceland, Kötlujökull.
Your guide will furnish all the special equipment you need (crampons, helmet, and headlights) but you better dress warmly and be in good physical condition if you plan to brave this hike. It is not for the faint of heart.
What Do You Want to Do in Vik?
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