Dyrhólaey, meaning “Door Hill Island,” is a dramatic promontory on Iceland’s South Coast near the village of Vík. This majestic cape rises about 120 meters (393 feet) above the sea and is famous for its massive natural stone arch carved by centuries of ocean waves and winds. The arch is so large that boats and even small planes have passed through it, with the first successful airplane pass recorded in 1993.
The area features sweeping views of the North Atlantic, black sand beaches, and the imposing Reynisdrangar sea stacks nearby. At the top sits the iconic Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, built in 1927, which guides maritime traffic in the region.
The cliffs are a vital nesting ground for various seabirds during spring and summer, including the Atlantic puffin, eider ducks, and Arctic terns. Due to the importance of the bird colonies, some areas are limited to visitors during nesting season to protect the wildlife. Dyrhólaey combines stunning geological features, rich wildlife, and panoramic coastal vistas, making it a must-visit on Iceland’s South Coast.
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Scenic beauty
Dyrhólaey offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs, the black sand beaches below, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and glaciers in the distance. The dramatic stone arch and sea cliffs provide fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Accessibility
Dyrhólaey is easily reachable by car from Vík, with parking lots near the upper and lower areas of the cape. Walking paths provide safe access to viewpoints and the lighthouse, with some steep and narrow areas for more adventurous visitors.
Cost
The parking fee at Dyrhólaey is 836 ISK (6 EUR/USD).
Crowd level
While Dyrhólaey is a popular attraction, especially in summer, the spacious area and multiple viewpoints ensure visitors can often find quiet spots. Nesting season closures limit access to parts of the cape, so checking ahead is recommended.