Dritvík Beach: Historic Fishing Station & Lifting Stones
Dritvík is a former seasonal fishing station reached by walking from Djúpalónssandur. Plan it as an extension to the beach visit: the park’s route is 1 km to the cove, and you return the same way.
Follow route 22 from the beach
The Snæfellsjökull National Park directions descend from the car park by Nautastígur to the historic lifting stones, then cross the beach toward Sessur and the marked Dritvík path. The stone-lifting site belongs to this approach at Djúpalónssandur, not to the cove at the end of the walk.
What remains of the fishing station
The park describes a seasonal settlement of 200–600 people. That is a population estimate, not a count of fishing crews. Look for the traces of the former station and leave the site as you find it.
Allow for an exposed coast
The same park page warns of heavy surf and strong backwash. Follow the marked route and turn back if conditions prevent a safe return. The published 20-minute figure is a route estimate, not a deadline to reach the cove.
Djúpalónssandur is the useful starting point for this outing, with its pebble shore, lava formations and lifting stones.
Planning help
Questions before you go
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
Can I drive to Dritvík?
The national park says Dritvík is reached on foot. Start at Djúpalónssandur and follow the marked coastal route.
How far is the walk to Dritvík?
The park lists route 22 from Djúpalónssandur to Dritvík at 1 km and 20 minutes. Return by the same route, allowing more time for stops and conditions.
Are the four lifting stones in Dritvík?
The park directions place them below Nautastígur at Djúpalónssandur, before the marked route continues toward Dritvík. Look for them on the approach rather than at the far end.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.