Reynisfjara beach

Reynisfjara (Reynisfjara Beach) – one of the most popular destinations in recent times. The beach secured second place in the ranking of the best in Europe, even the Mediterranean, despite the fact that it is located in the North Atlantic. Further – only Antarctica. A little aside – the villages of Vic and Mirdal. The nature is mesmerizing with its unique untouched beauty and dramatic nature.

Beach description

This word cannot be used in the usual sense. Reinisfjara was not created for a relaxed pastime with alternating swims and sunbathing. Nobody is swimming here. Tourists arrive at the exotic black coast to see the beauty that you will not meet in the southern latitudes, to observe the elements of the northern winds and waves, to make a photo shoot on the background of volcanic black sands, basalt columns, rocks, caves and fancy stone arches.

Powerful waves break on the famous natural stone structures near the coast, which are called stacks or petrified trolls, and are the hallmark of the area. The black sand near the coast is actually not sand at all, but the cooled volcanic remains, which upon closer inspection turn out to be small rounded pebbles. The coast has a rich black color, as it is always wet. It often rains, and the ocean generously shares water.

According to one legend, the mysterious stone pillars in the ocean are trolls caught by daylight, who have remained here to stand here since ancient times. Most likely, these are the remains of coastal cliffs, which gradually collapsed under the influence of nature.

Complex geometric shapes appear before the eyes of astonished travelers. Gardar is a columnar formation at the very edge of the beach. Under the influence of the temperature difference, the basalt massif went symmetrical cracks. Basically, you can see columns up to 1m in diameter, arranged vertically. Where they are curved, a spacious unusual cave has formed.

Those interested in ornithology will note a large number of puffins, fulmars, and guillemots nesting here.

The landscape is likely to undergo changes under the attack of wind, water and waves, so in the coming centuries you need to hurry to capture it in your memory.

When is it better to go?

"Summer" with a temperature in the region of +10 degrees lasts up to 3 months. The best time to travel is from July to August when last year’s snows have already disappeared, and  tourists enjoy the Martian landscapes, fjords, and glaciers on "white" nights. Since September, the daytime is declined, public transport activity drops, and nature gives fewer smiles. Due to the unpredictability of the climate, it is worth stocking up a raincoat and windproof clothing. The Gulf Stream helps warm green meadows and a mass of rare birds.

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Video: Beach Reynisfjara

Infrastructure

After exploring the natural attractions, tourists will probably want to eat. Near Reinisfjara, light snacks and hot coffee are offered. The nearby village of Vic has a service station, where fast food establishments also work, there are small pretty cafes.

One of the best accommodation options is Black Beach Suites. This is a trendy modern aparthotel with a great location and facilities. The rooms with stunning views are spacious and comfortable, equipped with comfortable beds. Futuristic view not only from the window. The bathroom and kitchen are equipped with everything necessary for comfort. The hotel is warm, which is important in the local climate.

The territory is equipped with free parking, in the vicinity there is the opportunity to go skiing. A golf course is within 3 km. Guests and not only practice horseback riding, conquer hiking trails, go fishing.

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Useful information

  1. To the black beach from the capital of Reykjavik, about 180 km. To visit the unique coast, and even admire all the local attractions, it will take 1-2 days. From highway 1 you need to turn before reaching Vika. Road 215 leads directly to the beach, bypassing a restaurant located near the coast. You can get there on your own or with a one-day tour organized from the capital.
  2. Precautions are mandatory for everyone. Even when the coast is not blown by a gusty wind, and the ocean is relatively calm, you need not to approach it closer than 30 meters, not to take pictures, turning your back. A stray wave can lick an unlucky traveler; precedents have been more than once. Particular care must be taken with children.
  3. You can visit the caves under the basalt stones only at low tide, otherwise there is a risk of being locked there.
  4. Proper equipment is very important. In the wardrobe, layering, the presence of a waterproof jacket, ski trousers, allowing you to sit on a wet and cold stone, comfortable reliable shoes are required. A cap or headband covering the ears is required. A cozy woolen scarf and moisture-resistant gloves will not interfere.

Attractions nearby:

  • Dyrholaey Arch.
  • Waterfalls and glaciers.
  • Vatnajokull, a national park where tourists get acquainted with white glaciers and black deserts, visit the Skaftafetl nature reserve.
  • Enjoy the incredible proximity of the ice cave and the fiery Katla. It is located directly under the volcano.

The beach participates in ratings:

87 place in rating Europe 1 place in rating Iceland 39 place in rating TOP-50: Best sandy beaches in Europe
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