Road Trip Edition: The Road to Vik

One of the best days I had in Iceland was on a road trip to Vik. Visiting the black sand beaches of Vik had been at the top of my to do list, and it did not disappoint. Google maps estimated the trip would take 2.25hrs from Reykjavik. I knew the ride would be long, but one thing I learned very quickly in Iceland was that no matter what road I travelled on the landscape was always insanely beautiful. the landscape and the stops made the ride fly by. I made the following stops along the way to Vik.

Stop 1 -Seljalandsfoss Waterfall (Iceland's most famous waterfall)

Seljalandsfoss was a stones throw from Route 1. I could actually see it in the distance as I grew closer and closer. When I arrived I pulled into a large parking lot and was able to jump out of the car and put on some additional layers I had packed. After throwing on an extra layer and my rain jacket, I made my way over to a small stand that was serving hot chocolate. As I grabbed a small cup of hot coco, I walked through a very small store selling hand made items, and many other Iceland inspired gifts.The waterfall itself was gorgeous and in October hosted few tourists. I made the trek all the way around the waterfall. I highly recommend wearing rain gear as the water gets everywhere, even if its only just a light spray. The walk around offers stairs, slippery rocks, and steep inclines. It is not a difficult trek, but does require effort.

Stop 2- Gljúfrabúi Waterfall

Gljufrabui waterfall is located next to Seljalandsfoss waterfall, but is not visible from the road. As I made my way to this waterfall, I noticed that there was no one else around. Many tourists completely missed this hidden gem because it is situated behind a cliff. Rain boots are required if you wish to get close to the waterfall, as well as rain gear, unless you don't mind getting wet.

Stop 3- Skogafoss Waterfall

This waterfall is the biggest waterfall in the country with a width of 25 metres and a drop of 60 m. They say a single or double rainbow is normally visible on sunny days. The waterfall was massive and many tourists were crowded around the base. I was surprised to see more visitors at this waterfall than the last. Along side the right side of the waterfall is a set of stairs that leads all the way to the top should you make the trek.

Stop4- Mia's Country Grill

This small red food truck is located just a short distance from the Skogafoss waterfall. Specializing in fish and chips, and certainly worth a try!

Final Destination - Vik

Once reaching Vik, I headed to the black sand beach,Vík í Mýrdal. Offshore lie fingers of basalt rock, stacks, remnants of a once more extensive cliffline called Reynisfjall. There is a large parking lot at the entrance to the beach, and a restaurant with public restrooms. The beach only had two other people on it which allowed for perfect pictures. The sand was dark black and the waves crashing were bright white. It was a very peaceful and rewarding stop. Public restrooms and a restaurant are located at the entrance to this beach.

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