Dyrholaey (Dyrhólaey) - A Short Hike
Dyrholaey (Dyrhólaey) - A Short Hike
Duration: 1 hour. Difficulty: a short hike with some steep sections and an ascent and descent of around 100m.
The path can be stony and some sections are badly eroded. Interest: great views of the black sand beaches, puffins and other seabirds (in season) and Iceland’s most impressive natural arch. Start/End: on the approach road to Dyrholaey, instead of bearing right to drive up to the lighthouse, drive straight ahead to a parking area, where puffins can be easily seen. Park here.
From the car park, bear west to follow the path along the coast and up to the lighthouse. There are good views of the natural rock arch and the black sand beaches stretching in both directions. Return by the same route and when you arrive back in the car park, spend some time exploring the interesting rock features close by, as well as the puffins nesting on the cliff north of the car park. Please note: it can be very dangerous to hike at Dyrholaey when it is windy or foggy - whatever the weather stay well back from the cliff edge.
WARNING! Freak waves, rip currents and strong tides combine to make this beach a hazardous spot, at any time of year. Bathing and paddling are prohibited. Please ensure you keep well away from the water’s edge; the local recommendation is at least 20m but we suggest you keep on the side of caution. Freak waves can occur with very little warning with potentially fatal consequences.
Please be aware that during nesting season the access road to the Dyrholaey Cliffs will close at night usually between 7 pm and 9 amduring June month (dates and times may vary). There will be signposts located on road 1 before the turning for Dyrholaey and at the gate at the entrance to the access road which will state the most up to date information.