The Grumpy Whale joined Ice Pic Journeys on their South Coast captured day tour of the south of Iceland from Reykjavík on a crisp November day. In this post we wanted to show you everywhere we went. If you would like to take part in South Coast Captured you can use my discount code ‘BECCA10’ to get 10% off any tour on the Ice Pic Journeys website.
We started our early morning in the sleepy darkness of downtown Reykjavík and headed straight east along the south coast of Iceland. As the sun began to rise we had views of farmland and fluffy Icelandic horses with manes gently flowing in the breeze.
Seljalandsfoss
Up ahead we start to see mountains and volcanoes rising dramatically out of the land. Over the edge of the mountain, we see water pouring over. This is our first destination- Seljalandsfoss.
Seljalandsfoss is not only beautiful from the front, but as it pours over a cave you can follow a path behind the waterfall. The spray from the waterfall can get you pretty damp, so make sure you’re wearing water-resistant layers.
Skogafoss
Our journey continues to Skogafoss, another powerful waterfall that plunges from a height of 60 meters. Skogafoss is not just a destination but a gateway to further exploration, as the steep staircase next to the waterfall takes you along a hiking trail into the central highlands. We did not have a chance to explore further today as we had so much to pack in on the short winter day.
Sólheimajökull Glacier
Next, we head to the Sólheimajökull glacier outlet. We hike about 15 minutes from the car park to the edge of the glacier and along the lagoon. We see the dramatic contrast of the Blue Ice against the earthy tones of the landscape. This provided the perfect backdrop for a photoshoot. All of Ice Pic Journeys guides are professional photographers and get you the best shots.
The Black Sand Beach
Just before our stop for lunch in the village of Vík we head to the iconic Reynisfjara beach. Vík is famous for its jet-black volcanic sand and basalt columns. Stroll along the shore. Listen to the rhythmic crash of the waves. Marvel in the towering sea stacks that guard the coastline. Just beware of the sneaker waves! Don´t get too close to the ocean– the waves here of very dangerous and can suck you in fast. They get their name as every 10th wave is 10 times more powerful. They sneak up on you as the gentle wave in between lulls you into a false sense of security!
The Village of Vík
In the picturesque village of Vík we headed to a local cafe for a hearty lunch to warm us up after the adventures in the cold.
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse
Our final stop of the day took us to Dyrhólaey lighthouse. From the breathtaking view from cliffs along the black sand beaches and the majestic rock arch. The lighting up here was a perfect sunset glow.
We had so much fun in the winter sun with Ice Pic Journeys. We cannot wait to explore more with them. Remember you can use my discount code ‘BECCA10’ to get 10% off any tour on the Ice Pic Journeys website.
If you would like to see more of our adventures around Iceland please check out our journal, join our mailing list or follow us on our social media.
