VÍK Í MÝRDAL

Vík is an ideal base for exploring the stunning southern coast of Iceland. During our trip, we spent three nights in Vík, spread out between the outbound and return legs of our journey. This gave us the flexibility to explore the surrounding area without rushing and allowed us to experience the town in different moods and weather conditions.

Read on to discover all the amazing things to do in the area!

HIGHLIGHTS VÍK Í MÝRDAL

1. DC-3 Plain wreck

One of the hikes you can do near Vík is the walk to the famous DC-3 plane wreck on Sólheimasandur beach.

You park your car at the following coordinates: 63.491234, -19.363685. From there, it’s quite a boring walk back and forth, as you cross a vast stretch of black sand until you finally see the wreck. That’s why we decided to turn it into a morning jog—it makes the whole thing go a bit faster. Later in the morning, a shuttle bus starts running, but that also means it gets a lot busier. And honestly, seeing this in a big crowd just isn’t worth it, in my opinion.

2. Dyrhólaey Viewpoint

Perched high above the roaring Atlantic Ocean, Dyrhólaey is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in southern Iceland. From the top, you’re treated to sweeping views of black sand beaches stretching endlessly in both directions, the dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the waves, and on clear days, even the distant Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

This promontory is also a haven for bird lovers—during summer months, puffins nest along the cliffs, making it a perfect spot for wildlife photography. The iconic Dyrhólaey arch, a massive rock formation with a hole large enough for boats (and even small planes) to pass through, adds to the dramatic scenery.

3. Hálsanefshellir Cave and Reynisfjara black sand beach

Located near the iconic Reynisfjara black sand beach, Hálsanefshellir is a striking sea cave carved into the cliffs at the base of Reynisfjall mountain. What makes this cave truly mesmerizing is the dramatic wall of basalt columns that frames its entrance—towering geometric formations that look like something out of a fantasy novel.

The cave itself is shallow but atmospheric, offering a moment of shelter from the roaring waves and wind. As you step inside, you’ll notice how the light plays off the stone, creating a surreal contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the shimmering beach outside.

It’s a popular stop for photographers and nature lovers alike, especially when the tide is low and the cave is safely accessible. Just be cautious—waves at Reynisfjara can be unpredictable and dangerous, so always keep a safe distance from the water.

4. Skógafoss & Kvernufoss

Just a short drive from Vík, you'll find two spectacular waterfalls that showcase Iceland’s raw natural beauty. Skógafoss is one of the country’s most iconic falls—powerful, wide, and often graced with rainbows on sunny days. You can walk right up to its base or climb the staircase to the top for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

Hidden just behind the Skógar Museum lies Kvernufoss, a lesser-known gem tucked into a mossy canyon. It’s quieter, more intimate, and even allows you to walk behind the cascading water—a magical experience that feels like stepping into a secret world.

Want to dive deeper into these two waterfalls? You can read more in the next article!

6. Hjörleifshöfði Cave or Yoda Cave

Deep in the cliffs of Hjörleifshöfði, near Vík, lies a cave that has earned the nickname “Yoda Cave”—and for good reason. When viewed from the right angle, the entrance to the cave resembles the silhouette of Yoda’s iconic head, complete with his pointed ears and wise expression. It’s a fun surprise for Star Wars fans and a quirky photo opportunity in an already surreal landscape.

Location: Hjörleifshöfði, about 15 minutes east of Vík. You’ll drive a gravel road across the black sand plains to reach the base of the hill.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our journey along Iceland’s south coast, we stayed in Vík twice—once on the way out and again on the return. That gave us the chance to try two different accommodations, both of which we can recommend:

The Barn: Stylish, modern, and definitely the most fun of the two. It’s a bit more expensive, but the vibe is great—especially if you’re up for a drink in the cozy on-site bar after a day of exploring. The design is sleek and social, perfect for travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Farmhouse Lodge: A more budget-friendly option, but still charming and comfortable. It’s quieter and has a homier feel, ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful night’s rest surrounded by nature.

Both places offer easy access to the major sights around Vík, so it really depends on your travel style and budget.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

Black Crust Pizza: Known for its delicious pizzas with a signature black crust, this spot is a must for pizza lovers. The toppings are fresh, the crust is perfectly crisp, and the vibe is casual and welcoming—ideal for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring.
Smidjan Brugghús: A cozy brewpub that serves up juicy burgers, hearty comfort food, and craft beers brewed on-site. It’s a great place to unwind, grab a drink, and enjoy a warm meal in a laid-back atmosphere.