Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/beaches/dritvik

Content updated: 2026-09-10

This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](<https://www.iceland.org/beaches/dritvik>). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article.

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# Dritvík Beach: Historic Fishing Station & Lifting Stones

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

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](<https://snaefellsjokull.is/gonguleid/djupalonssandur-dritvik/>) 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](<https://www.iceland.org/beaches/djupalonssandur>) 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.

[Explore Iceland’s beaches](<https://www.iceland.org/beaches>)

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).