Attractions and Places To See in Mýrdalshreppur - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Mýrdalshreppur, a municipality in southern Iceland, features dramatic landscapes, black sand beaches, and unique geological formations. The region is characterized by its volcanic activity, including the Mýrdalsjökull glacier which conceals the Katla volcano. Visitors can explore a diverse range of natural wonders and cultural sites, with the village of Vík í Mýrdal serving as a central hub.
Best attractions and places to see in Mýrdalshreppur
- The most popular attraction is Dyrhólaey Arch, a natural monument that rises 115 meters above the sea. It offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a significant nesting site for seabirds.
- Another must-see spot is Reynisfjara — Black Sand Beach and Basalt Columns, a beach known for its black lava sand and impressive basalt columns. This location features the Hálsanefshellir Cave and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
- Visitors also love Dyrhólaeyjarviti lighthouse, a man-made monument located atop the Dyrhólaey promontory. It provides picturesque views and adds to the rugged charm of the area.
- Mýrdalshreppur is known for its black sand beaches, glaciers, and unique rock formations. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural landmarks to cultural insights.
- The attractions in Mýrdalshreppur are appreciated by the komoot community, with 183 upvotes and 208 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck
Highlight • Monument
Nevertheless worth the hike! ;-)
Tip by
Dyrhólaey Arch
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Reynisfjara — Black Sand Beach and Basalt Columns
Highlight • Beach
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Hálsanefshellir Cave
Highlight • Cave
There are actually two sea caves at the beach looking quite similar. Even some websites mix them up. Hálsanefshellir has the pillars on the right, the other cave on the left side of the entrance.
The beach is named after the mountain above, the Reynisdrangar (Three Trolls). It is formed by three huge basalt flows which look like an irregular stack. According to legend, there were three trolls who tried to pull a ship to shore, but took so long they were caught by the sunrise and turned into the three spiky rocks you see today. The mountain has various spots consisting of basalt pillars.
The beach is not only famous, it is also infamous, because it is one of the two beaches on Iceland with dangerous undercurrent.
Source: Showcaves.com
Tip by
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Highlight • Natural
Sólheimajökull is an 11 km long outlet glacier that originates from the southwestern part of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. Sólheimajökull has undergone large-scale changes over the last century, mainly due to climate change, with measurements of its glacier snout having been recorded annually since the year 1930.
Between 1930 and 1969, the glacier retreated 977 m but after 1969, the climate cooled, causing the glacier to advance by 495 m until 1995. Ever since, the glacier has been receding continuously or by 1312 m as measured in 2019. The first recorded measurement in 1930 indicates that the snout of the glacier was located 1794 m further from its point today.
In 2011, a glacier lagoon started to form in front of the glacier and has been growing steadily as the glacier continues to melt and retreat. The elementary school Hvolsskóli in Hvolsvöllur, Geoschool of Katla Geopark, visits the site every year to measure both the depth of the lagoon (-60 m) as well as the retreating śnout.
Outlet glaciers
Glaciers in Iceland are normally temperate glaciers meaning that the temperature of the ice is at freezing point and liquid water is found both under and within the ice. Glaciers move forward due to their own weight and gravity. The rate of movement depends on how much water is underneath the glacier, the temperature of the ice and the incline of the landscape.
Glacier crevasses are common and form when glaciers move over uneven grounds or along a mountain side. High quantity of rock fragments and debris in glaciers is known as glacial till. The till collects on the glaciers because of erosion into adjacent surroundings, rock fall from higher landscapes and plucking of the bedrock below the glaciers. In volcanic eruptions ashfall can occur on glaciers as well. The glaciers carry the material before depositing it near the glacial margins. These sediments and landforms are of high importance in understanding the glacial and environmental history of the area. It is therefore very important that visitors behave responsibly to help preserve these formations.
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier and Katla Volcano
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is the fourth largest glacier in Iceland. It covers an area of 535 km² and has an estimated volume of 140 km³. The glacier has an uneven thickness which measures most in the northern part of the Katla Caldera, about 740 m. The highest points of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier are Hábunga (1497m), Goðabunga (1510 m), Austmannsbunga (1377 m) and Kötlukollar (1320 m), which form the outer line of the caldera of Katla Volcano. Many cauldrons, up to 50 m deep and a few hundred meters in diameter, are visible on the glacier. They are formed due to melting from geothermal areas underneath the glacier.
Katla Volcano is one of the largest and most active volcanic systems in Iceland and its central. Sólheimajökull Glacier 2015 volcano, the 100 km² Katla Caldera, lies below Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. The volcanic system of Katla is much larger, it reaches NE about 70 km towards Síðujökull Glacier. The last volcanic eruption in Katla to break through the ice was in 1918, but there are at least 21 known eruptions since settlement (c. 874 AD) and many of them have caused large glacial outburst floods (jökulhlaup) and heavy ash fall.
Source: Local signage
Tip by
Pakgil Campsite
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Puffin colony at Dyrhólaey
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Puffins on the Cliffs at Dyrhólaey
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Vík Church
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in Mýrdalshreppur.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Mýrdalshreppur
Tips from the Community
Great view, unfortunately totally overrun with tourists
0
0
Built in 1934, it perched above the village as a lookout for the landscape. It serves as a place of worship, a refuge in the event of the Katla volcano eruption, and a natural balcony offering unspoiled views of Reynisdrangar, the black beach, and the volcanic heart of southern Iceland.
0
0
Lots of puffins very close, without any fear of the many tourists 😁
1
0
You can spot them pretty close near the light house
0
0
Puffins are adorable black and white birds with bright orange beaks, legs, and webbed feet. The puffins seen in Iceland spend most of the year at sea. They come to Iceland (and other North Atlantic countries) to breed during the spring and summer months. Puffins in Iceland tend to form breeding colonies on coastal cliffs and islands.
0
0
Dyrhólaey is home to bird cliffs that are populated by many seabirds, including puffins, until August. Access to Dyrhólaey is therefore often restricted for several weeks during the breeding season. The bird breeding season, especially from May to August, is a fascinating time to visit, as you have the opportunity to observe numerous bird species, including the famous puffins, in their natural habitat. These months offer long days and milder weather, increasing your chances of seeing wildlife in action while enjoying the stunning scenery in more pleasant temperatures.
0
0
Cape Dyrhólaey is a small promontory extending into the North Atlantic Ocean. It is particularly known for its striking rock arch, which juts out of the sea. This natural gateway is so large that even boats can pass through it.
0
0
The plateau provides beautiful views and the lighthouse also has worth to pass by. Due to the parking lot on the plateau popular and often overcrowded.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural landmarks and viewpoints should I visit in Mýrdalshreppur?
Mýrdalshreppur is rich in dramatic natural features. Don't miss the iconic Dyrhólaey Arch, a promontory offering panoramic views of the coastline and the Dyrhólaeyjarviti lighthouse. Another must-see is Reynisfjara — Black Sand Beach and Basalt Columns, known for its unique black sands, the Hálsanefshellir Cave, and the striking Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks.
Where can I see puffins in Mýrdalshreppur?
The best place for puffin spotting is Dyrhólaey Arch. This impressive promontory is a significant nesting site for various seabirds, including puffins, especially from May to August. You can often find large colonies, such as the Puffin colony at Dyrhólaey, on the cliffs.
Are there any unique or lesser-known natural spots to explore?
Beyond the famous sites, consider visiting the Sólheimajökull Glacier, an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull, which offers opportunities for glacier walks and ice climbing tours. Another hidden gem is Þakgil Canyon, a beautiful green, overgrown tuff gorge located at the foot of Mýrdalsjökull, offering a unique landscape and camping opportunities at Pakgil Campsite.
What are some popular hiking trails in Mýrdalshreppur?
Mýrdalshreppur offers diverse hiking experiences. You can explore the area around the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck with an easy 7.4 km loop. For coastal views, try the easy 4.2 km loop around Dyrhólaey Arch. If you're looking for a moderate challenge, the 8.6 km loop from Vík to Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks is popular. For more options, check out the Hiking in Mýrdalshreppur guide.
Are there easy hiking options available?
Yes, Mýrdalshreppur has several easy hiking trails. The loop around Dyrhólaey Arch is an easy 4.2 km, and the trail to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck is an easy 7.4 km. You can also find an easy 2.5 km loop around Sólheimajökull Glacier. For a comprehensive list of accessible routes, refer to the Easy hikes in Mýrdalshreppur guide.
What are some family-friendly activities in Mýrdalshreppur?
Families can enjoy the unique experience of the Icelandic Lava Show in Vík, where you can witness real molten lava. Exploring the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and its basalt columns is also a memorable experience, though caution is advised due to sneaker waves. Birdwatching at Dyrhólaey's puffin colony (May-August) is another great option for all ages.
When is the best time to visit Mýrdalshreppur?
The best time to visit largely depends on your interests. For puffin watching and milder weather, May to August is ideal. During these months, the days are long, and most attractions are easily accessible. If you're hoping to see the Northern Lights, the winter months from September to April offer the best chances, provided there's solar activity and clear skies, though some areas might have limited access due to weather.
What can I do in Mýrdalshreppur during winter?
Winter in Mýrdalshreppur offers a magical, often snow-covered landscape. You can still visit iconic sites like Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Dyrhólaey, though conditions may require extra caution. Glacier hiking and ice cave tours on Mýrdalsjökull or Sólheimajökull are popular winter activities. The region is also excellent for Northern Lights viewing from September to April.
Are there any cultural or historic sites in the area?
Yes, Mýrdalshreppur offers cultural insights. The Vík í Mýrdal Church (Víkurkirkja), perched on a hill, is an iconic landmark. In Vík, you can visit the Icelandic Lava Show for an educational experience about Iceland's volcanic activity, or the Katla Centre (Kötlusetur) for exhibitions on the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark. The Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck also serves as a haunting historical site.
What do visitors enjoy most about Mýrdalshreppur?
Visitors consistently praise the dramatic and unique natural beauty of Mýrdalshreppur. The stunning coastal views from Dyrhólaey Arch, the striking black sands and basalt columns of Reynisfjara, and the opportunity to witness puffins are frequently highlighted. The rugged charm and the feeling of being in a truly unique landscape are also highly appreciated.
How can I get around to the attractions in Mýrdalshreppur?
While public transport options are limited, many visitors rent a car to explore Mýrdalshreppur's attractions at their own pace, as most sites are accessible via well-maintained roads. Some tours also offer transportation to popular spots. Parking is generally available at major attractions like Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey.
Are there any waterfall hikes near Mýrdalshreppur?
Yes, there are several beautiful waterfall hikes in the vicinity. You can find easy loops around Skógafoss, such as the 4.2 km 'Skógafoss – Steinbogafoss loop'. For more challenging options, there are longer routes like the 9.8 km 'Skálabrekkufoss – Steinbogafoss loop'. These trails offer stunning views of the waterfalls and surrounding landscapes. Explore more options in the Waterfall hikes in Mýrdalshreppur guide.
Most popular attractions in Mýrdalshreppur
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
