Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/basalt-columns/reynisdrangar Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Reynisdrangar: Basalt Sea Stacks near Vík Basalt pillars rising from the North Atlantic; folklore says they are trolls turned to stone at sunrise Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Location South Iceland Near Vík í Mýrdal, off Reynisfjara beach ## Access check: viewpoint only Checked September 10, 2026: [SafeTravel reports viewpoint-only access at Reynisfjara]() because of stormy weather and high waves, even though the sneaker-wave alert is not red. Respect the closures and do not continue onto the beach or toward Hálsanefshellir cave. Recheck the official notice and local signs before visiting; this is a dated conditions report, not a permanent closure. ## Quick Answer Reynisdrangar are basalt sea stacks rising up to 66 meters from the sea off Reynisfjara beach near Vík, tied to a troll legend. Reynisfjara access depends on current restrictions. Reynisdrangar are a cluster of basalt sea stacks rising from the Atlantic near the village of Vík í Mýrdal. Up to 66 meters tall, these dark, jagged pillars are among Iceland's most photographed natural landmarks. Icelandic legend holds that they are two trolls who attempted to haul a three-masted ship to shore but were caught by the dawn and turned to stone. The best views are from the black sands of Reynisfjara or the clifftop at Dyrhólaey. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 This guide is a travel-planning summary, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly; check official alerts, roads, and weather before driving, hiking, or booking around volatile conditions. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [SafeTravel]() - [Road.is]() - [Icelandic Meteorological Office]() - [Environment Agency of Iceland]() Tallest Stack 66 m (217 ft) The tallest of the Reynisdrangar pillars rises 66 meters above sea level. Distance from Reykjavík ~180 km Approximately a 2.5-hour drive east along Route 1 (Ring Road). Annual Visitors 500,000+ Reynisfjara and the sea stacks are among Iceland's most visited natural attractions. ## What to Expect ### Basalt Sea Stacks Three tall rock pillars of columnar basalt standing in the surf, shaped by millennia of erosion and volcanic activity. ### Troll Legend According to folklore, two trolls and their ship were petrified by sunlight while trying to reach shore. The stacks and nearby formations are said to be what remains. ### Reynisfjara Beach Views View the stacks only from areas currently open to visitors. Do not walk toward the cave while beach access is restricted. ### Dyrhólaey Panorama Drive to the Dyrhólaey promontory west of Vík for an elevated view encompassing the sea stacks, the arch, and the entire coastline. ### Birdlife In summer, puffins nest on the cliffs of Dyrhólaey and fulmars circle around the stacks. ### Photography Opportunities The contrast of dark basalt against white surf and heavy skies photographs well in any season. ## Getting There Reynisdrangar are located just off the coast near Vík í Mýrdal in South Iceland. From Reykjavík, drive approximately 180 km east on Route 1 (Ring Road). To reach Reynisfjara beach, turn south onto Route 215 about 5 km before Vík. The parking area is well-signed. For Dyrhólaey viewpoint, take Route 218 off Route 1. Both access roads are paved and suitable for all vehicles. In winter, check road conditions at road.is as ice and wind can affect coastal roads. ## Best Time to Visit Reynisdrangar can be visited year-round. Summer (June-August) offers the longest daylight hours and the calmest weather, plus puffin nesting season at nearby Dyrhólaey. Winter brings storm waves and low light that photographers favor, but wave danger increases significantly. Regardless of season, always exercise extreme caution near the waterline at Reynisfjara due to powerful sneaker waves. Early morning or late afternoon gives the best light for photographing the stacks. Planning help ## Reynisdrangar FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **What are Reynisdrangar sea stacks?** Reynisdrangar are basalt sea stacks rising up to 66 meters from the Atlantic Ocean just off the coast of Vík í Mýrdal in South Iceland. According to Icelandic folklore, they are the remains of two trolls who tried to drag a ship ashore but were caught by the rising sun and turned to stone. **Where is the best viewpoint for Reynisdrangar?** The best viewpoints are from Reynisfjara black sand beach, where you can see the stacks up close, and from the Dyrhólaey promontory to the west, which offers a panoramic elevated perspective of both the sea stacks and the coastline. The view from Vík village hill is also excellent. **Is it safe to visit Reynisfjara beach near the sea stacks?** Reynisfjara is known for powerful sneaker waves that can sweep visitors off the beach without warning. Follow the current closures and local signs. Stay well back from the surf and never turn your back on it; a fixed distance is not a safety guarantee. Several fatalities have occurred here due to unexpected waves. **Can you hike or boat to Reynisdrangar?** The sea stacks are not accessible on foot and are surrounded by rough Atlantic surf. Boat tours occasionally operate from Vík in calm summer conditions, but viewing from shore at Reynisfjara or Dyrhólaey is the standard and safest way to see them. [Back to Basalt Columns]() Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().