Take in the view at Dyrhólaey

I put Dyrhólaey on my to-visit list because of the rock arch that gives the peninsula its name. What made it memorable, however, was its breathtaking view—the flat, treeless coastline jutting into rock shelves and glacier peaks is typical for Iceland’s south coast but was absolutely remarkable to view from above.

I recommend that you spend the night in Vik, which has a number of sleeping options. My preferred spot is Vik Campground, because it’s relatively inexpensive and has a communal indoor cooking and eating space for when you’re camping in inclement weather. Dyrhólaey is a 20-minute drive from Vik. Take the Ring Road west and turn south onto Highway 218 (Dyrhólavegur), which is marked with a yellow sign for Dyrhólaey. You can then follow 218 all the way to the top of the promontory. The last section of the road has a set of switchbacks that might be impassable in winter weather.

At the top, there is a wide parking lot from which you can explore the rocks and views to the north, or an out-and-back path to the lighthouse and view of the rock arch above the ocean. Bring your camera, but be aware that drones are prohibited to ensure the wellbeing of the numerous ocean birds—including puffins and Arctic terns—that call Dyrhólaey home.