Vik i Myrdal

Basic Information

Vík í Mýrdal or Vik Village is the southernmost part of Iceland stretched along a magnificent coastline. With around 300 inhabitants, this village is the most densely populated area of the island. It has no inhabitation for around 70 km that makes it a perfect stopover for those traveling on the Ring Road or the Route One. Serving a substantial purpose of uniting the eastern and western parts of Iceland, the Vik Village offers a warm welcome to the tourists with its decent infrastructure that includes hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and much more. It has a breathtakingly beautiful outdoor swimming pool which is a common picnic spot for the Icelandic families. Irrespective of the season or the climate, the water in the pool feels warm. It heats with the geothermal energy, enticing tourists all year long.

Where to Visit and What to Expect

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach escalated tourism around the place with its jaw-dropping landscape and scenic views. The colossal basalt stacks, gigantic Atlantic waves, and the dark black sand make it a popular sightseeing spot. Since there exists no significant landmass between the Reynisfjara beach and Antarctica, the waves build up for thousands of kilometers. The rock formations are known to be the remains of a mammoth Reynisfjall cliff, showcasing the vigorous power and unpredictable nature of the roaring waves and water currents. One of the local Icelandic folklore states that the enormous basalt columns are the solidified bodies of trolls that used to wade in the waters and were turned into stone when sunlight shone upon them.

Majestic Víkurkirkja Church

Marking the popularity of the Vik Village, the Víkurkirkja Church is the most photographed and iconic spot with the highest tourist footfall. Popularly known as the red-roof church, this area is believed to be one of the safest spots in the Vik Village. It is settled close of the Katla Volcano, and if lead to eruption it could potentially melt ice in enormous amounts, leading to a tremendous flood and since the church is located on a high hill, it is believed to be the only infrastructure that would survive. The Icelandic families have been practicing drills to race towards the Church when the signs of eruption appear.

Spectacular Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

Covering Iceland’s largest volcano Katla, the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier serves as a spot for various thrilling adventures that lure the explorers from all around the world. The volcano is under constant supervision of the scientists and is believed to be safe for now. The enormous glacier is covered with spectacular hiking trails with picturesque views, leading you to the stunning and captivating landscapes that make them popular among the adventure enthusiasts.

You can find a popular ice cave located in Mýrdalsjökull Glacier. It is possible to visit the ice cave all year round, but you have to go on a guided tour with a professional glacier guide.

Voyages Friendship Statue

Located opposite the black sand beach, the Voyages Friendship Statue is a short walk away from the Vik Village. The art piece symbolizes the bond of friendship between the UK and Iceland, who were the economic rivals. It was crafted by the Icelandic sculptor, Steinunn Thorarinsdottir in the year 2006, and one among the two statues was gifted to the city of Kingston, England. The artist was inspired by the people who worked hard to make a living at the sea and their families who feared their return, due to the ravaging waters.

Best Time to Visit

Known to be the warmest and the wettest place of Iceland, the Vik village enjoys fairly mild weather. Savoring the constant ocean breeze and with surrounding mountains shadowing the warm sun, it witnesses the highest average temperature of around 12.8°C in August and the minimum average temperature of around 4°C in February. If you wish to relish the heavenly view of Northern Lights and explore the captivating ice caves, September to April are the best months to pay a visit, whilst you want to delight in the pleasant weather a visit in summers would be a great choice.