1. Fljótshlíð
Only 20 minutes from Hotel Rangá, the beautiful Fljótshlíð valley is worth a visit. Drive to see Gluggafoss, a stunning waterfall that pours through crevices in between rocks and features both an upper and lower falls. Then go for a quick but steep hike up Stóra Dímon, a nearby hill that features fantastic 360° views.
2. Seljalandsfoss
Located only 25 minutes from Hotel Rangá, this dramatic waterfall cascades over a 65 m cliff flanked by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano glacier. In the summer months, visitors are able to follow a path behind the falls and witness a truly unique perspective.
3. Gljúfrábúi
When visiting Seljalandsfoss don’t forget to see its neighboring waterfall, Gljúfrábúi. Partially hidden by a cliff, catching a glimpse of the falls requires visitors to wade through a small stream. Once inside, you will be rewarded by an astounding sight. Be sure to wear sturdy, waterproof shoes if you want to take a closer look.
4. Westman Islands
One of the best kept secrets in Iceland, the Westman Islands are a short 30 minute ferry ride away. The islands’ craggy cliffs offer fantastic views and are a summertime home to a large puffin colony. Visitors can also climb to the top of Eldfell, a volcanic cone that formed in after an eruption in 1973.
5. Skógafoss
The mighty Skógafoss waterfall is situated on Iceland’s south coast, approximately 40 minutes from Hotel Rangá. Steps lead to an observation platform directly above the falls, allowing visitors to witness the water’s power up close and see beautiful views of the coast.
6. Skógar Museum
After visiting Skógafoss, why not visit the Skógar Museum located in the nearby town of Skógar. The museum features a cultural heritage collection of 18,000 regional folk craft artifacts and an Open Air Museum with various examples of traditional Icelandic architecture including a turf farmhouse.
7. Kvernufoss
Kvernufoss is a hidden waterfall just minutes from the Skógar Museum. To get there, you follow the path starting behind the museum. After climbing over a few steps to cross a fence, follow the path to the left to enter Kvernugil gorge. Kvernufoss waterfall is located at the end of the gorge. In the summer, you can walk behind this hidden gem.
8. Dyrhólaey
As you drive down the coast towards Vík make sure to top at Dyrhólaey, a beautiful promontory that is the southernmost point of Iceland. From atop the peninsula, you will have access to amazing views of the Icelandic coastline. Dyrhólaey is also an important bird nesting site and summertime visitors are likely to see puffins.
9. Reynisfjara
One of the most mesmerizing landmarks of the South Coast, Reynisfjara is a black sand beach located just outside the town of Vík. The cliffs along the beach are made of incredible basalt columns worn into regular steps by the ocean waves. When visiting the beach, it is important to be careful due to strong and unpredictable waves.
10. Vík
Vík is a small town on Iceland’s south coast, only about 80 minutes from Hotel Rangá. While well-known for its proximity to Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey, Vík is also beautiful in its own right. You can walk from the town to the beach and see some lovely ocean views. The town also has several restaurants, a swimming pool, a brewery and a beautiful country church.
