Vík: Reynisfjall Ridge

Of all the Vik hiking trails, the walk up Reynisfjall is the best way to see the village and its famous sea stacks from above. Reynisfjall is the steep-sided mountain that rises just west of Vík í Mýrdal in south Iceland, and from its top you look straight down on the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, along the black-sand beaches and across to the arch of Dyrhólaey. In summer, puffins nest in the grassy cliffs along the edge.

The loop is about 7 km with around 350 m of ascent and takes two and a half to three hours. It follows a gravel track that climbs from the western edge of the village up onto the flat top of the mountain, continues along the plateau to viewpoints near the southern tip above Reynisdrangar, and returns along a lower path below the bird cliffs on the eastern face. The track is steep at first but easy underfoot.

It is a quieter alternative to the crowded beach at Reynisfjara on the other side of the mountain. Go in the evening for golden light and fewer people, and keep an eye on the wind, which can be fierce on top. In summer, bring binoculars for the puffins and other seabirds on the cliffs. Fulmars and other seabirds ride the updrafts along the edge too, and in late summer the plateau is carpeted with wildflowers and berries.

Highlights

• Bird's-eye view of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks
• Puffins nesting on the cliffs in summer
• Views along the black-sand beaches to Dyrhólaey
• A quiet alternative to busy Reynisfjara

The route

Getting to the trailhead

Vík is on the Ring Road about two and a half hours' drive from Reykjavík. The track up Reynisfjall starts at the western edge of the village; parking is available nearby. Public buses along the south coast stop in Vík, and many south coast tours pass through.

Where to stay

Vík has hotels, guesthouses and a campsite on the edge of the village. Nearby farms and guesthouses along the coast offer more options. Wild camping on Reynisfjall is not permitted.

Best time to hike

Reynisfjall can be walked year-round. Summer is best for puffins, which usually nest from around May to August, and for long daylight. Winter brings short days, strong winds and icy tracks. Evenings are quietest and have the best light over the sea stacks.

Safety

The cliff edges are sheer and undercut; keep well back, especially in strong wind. Wind on the plateau can be severe, so check vedur.is. In winter the track can be icy. If you visit Reynisfjara afterwards, beware of sneaker waves, which have killed visitors; never turn your back on the sea. Call 112 in an emergency.