The Vatnsnes Peninsula in Iceland - All Tips and Highlights

After having bad weather in Iceland for the first two days, the sun finally appeared. With the best weather, we set off with our rental car towards the North of Iceland. We had just left the Golden Circle in the South of Iceland behind, and the next highlights were already waiting for us. We originally wanted to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, but the weather there was too bad. It was much better in the North, so we headed straight there. We spent the night in Hvammstangi at a rather simple but sufficient campsite.

Camping in Iceland is generally very simple and comfortable. After a good night's sleep and with good spirits, we visited the Vatnsnes Peninsula. Why we explored this corner of Iceland is hard to say. We just followed our 'instinct'. It turned out to be a fantastic decision because we had an amazing day in nature. Here are our absolute highlights and tips for the Vatnsnes Peninsula.

Other Important Topics About Iceland:

Other Important Topics About Iceland:

The first few meters on Road 711 on the Vatnsnes Peninsula were still on asphalt before it turned into a gravel road. However, it was quite easy to drive, just much slower. We passed green meadows, the roaring sea, many sheep, and wild horses. The peninsula appeared very untouched and rugged to us, yet charming with views extending to the Westfjords. Our first stop was just before a small lighthouse named Skardsviti Lighthouse.

The wind howled, and it was difficult to open the car door. Please always be cautious here and hold the doors securely when getting in and out. After taking a few photos, we continued our journey. Shortly after the lighthouse, we saw the first signs alerting us about seal spots. We followed the path, but unfortunately, no seals were visible. On the entire peninsula, there are only small farms and scattered houses. Due to the road conditions, we were making slow progress (even though 80 km/h is allowed).

We drove further and further on Route 711 almost to the northernmost tip of the peninsula. We stopped at Illugastadir. This place is located by a farm and a parking lot with an information hut and restrooms. Here, you can even camp. We left the car, grabbed the camera, and strolled along the marked path. A sign told us that there should be seals nearby. The clouds continued to clear, allowing the sun to show itself more often.

While we were capturing images of the landscape, we occasionally spotted a seal in the water curiously poking its head out. When we finally reached the bay, we discovered six, eight, or even ten seals. We're not sure how many were actually there. It seemed like the seals were playing and frolicking. Absolutely adorable! By the way: In the summer months, many birds, such as puffins, also breed here.

We followed the road and repeatedly discovered beautiful natural viewpoints. Even the distant Westfjords and Northfjords provoked our desire for more. Iceland left us speechless several times that day. Eventually, we arrived at a parking lot with a unique view of the sea and the black beaches. We couldn't get enough of this sight.

A path leads down to the beach from above. There, you will find a real Icelandic troll. Okay, not a real one. According to legend, this basalt rock represents a troll. In his attempt to destroy a monastery, he was surprised by sunrise and turned to stone. And there he remains, right in the water. The rock is about 15 meters high and is called 'White Shirt' (Icelandic: Hvítserkur). But why 'White Shirt'? That's because of the droppings from the thousands of birds that live and breed in the rock's crevices.

We took countless photos, walked along the black beach, and enjoyed this beautiful spot to the fullest. The further we drove, the more beautiful the landscapes of this peninsula became. It was somehow incomprehensible to us how this rock came to be right here. It stands alone in the water, with no connection to the coast. What a crazy nature!

The essential facts at a glance:

What we particularly liked were the beautiful landscapes and views. There were also hardly any tourists on the peninsula, so we only had to share the highlights with a few others. The seal colony was very cute to watch, as was the entire area around Illugastadir. On the other side of the peninsula, the scenery became increasingly lush and vibrant. The blue sky, the black beaches, the mountains on the horizon, and the green meadows-simply overwhelming. Of course, the detour to the troll rock is also worth it. We have no regrets about the trip and would go there again.

You can check out our entire trip on YouTube (13 parts). We would be thrilled if you stopped by and subscribed to our channel.

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