Iceland's Southern Coast: Must-See Spots

• Thingvellir National Park: Definitely worth a stop as the scenery is beautiful! I would also recommend a snorkel tour of the Silfra Fissure; not many places where you can say you swam between 2 tectonic plates!

• Bruarfoss: An easy hike to waterfall with some of the prettiest water. In the fall, it was nice to have the difference of the leaves turning.

• Gullfoss: Very accessible and magnificent to see power of this iconic waterfall. Gullfoss' raw power and thunderous roar make it a must-see for visitors, combining natural grandeur with a sense of awe-inspiring serenity.

• Seljalandsfoss is a stunning waterfall in Iceland’s southern region, known for its unique feature that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. It plunges 60 meters from a rocky cliff into a serene pool below. Be sure to follow the trail to Gljúfrabúi, which is tucked away behind a narrow canyon. To fully experience Gljúfrabúi, visitors often venture through a shallow stream and into the canyon, where they are rewarded with an intimate view of the waterfall in a magical, moss-covered grotto. Its secluded setting makes it feel like a secret, enchanting natural wonder.

• Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most famous and picturesque waterfalls that drops 60 meters from old sea cliffs, creating a powerful and misty plunge into the river below. Visitors can also climb a staircase to view the falls from above, but it isn't for the faint of heart as it is ~500 steps up! The climb is worth it as you can continue along Fimmvörðuháls trail which follows Skógá River and has views of 20 smaller waterfalls.

• Kvernufoss is a hidden waterfall located near Skógafoss, tucked away in a narrow canyon in southern Iceland. This 30-meter-high cascade flows over a cliff into a tranquil, moss-covered gorge. It offers a quieter and more intimate experience compared to some of Iceland's more popular waterfalls. A short, scenic hike through the Kvernugil gorge leads visitors to the waterfall. They can also walk behind the cascading water for a unique perspective, much like at Seljalandsfoss. Kvernufoss’ secluded beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect escape for those seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience.

• Dyrhólaey Lighthouse is a striking beacon perched atop a 120-meter-high promontory on the southern coast of Iceland, offering panoramic views of the dramatic coastline. From the lighthouse, visitors can take in sweeping vistas of the famous Reynisfjara beach, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and even Mýrdalsjökull glacier on clear days. Note- it can be very windy, making the winding road that leads up to the parking lot tricky.

• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is surrounded by cliffs and rugged landscapes, making this beach feel both otherworldly and awe-inspiring. Towering basalt columns line the cliffs, sea stacks and often wild waves make for a dramatic background.

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a breathtaking natural wonder in southeastern Iceland, where icebergs from the retreating Breiðamerkurjökull glacier break off and float in a serene, icy lagoon. The icebergs, in shades of blue and white, drift slowly across the lagoon's calm waters, creating a surreal and ever-changing landscape. The lagoon is connected to the Atlantic Ocean. Some icebergs eventually drift out to sea, while others wash up on the nearby Diamond Beach, sparkling like gems against the black sand. Note- that depending on the time of year, there may not be many "diamonds" on the beach.

• Múlagljúfur Canyon is a gem in southeastern Iceland, offering a rugged and otherworldly landscape shaped by glacial rivers and volcanic activity. This narrow, steep-sided canyon is flanked by towering cliffs, with lush green moss carpeting the walls and waterfalls cascading into the canyon below. The hike to Múlagljúfur reveals breathtaking views of the winding river and distant glaciers, as well as a dramatic panorama of the canyon’s depths. Its remote location and untouched beauty make it a peaceful, lesser-known destination for nature lovers seeking solitude and stunning scenery.

Breakfast/Coffee/Pastries

• Skool Beans in Vik: Recommend hot chocolates and the chai latte.

• Braud & Co (multiple locations in Reykjavik): Known for Snúður aka cinnamon roll and is a must try!

• Sandholt: Good for takeaway or dining in. Highly recommend their sourdough loaf and Swiss mocha.

Lunch/Dinner/Drinks

• Strondin Pub: Great fish and chips in a laid-back atmosphere.

• Hotel Geysir Restaurant: Great drinks and good food.