Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/landmarks/dyrholaey 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. --- # Dyrhólaey: Rock Arch & Puffin Colony Near Vík A 120-meter promontory on Iceland's South Coast with a large natural rock arch, nesting puffins, and views over black sand beaches and glaciers. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Location Near Vík South Iceland • Off Route 218 ## Quick Answer Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter promontory near Vík with a large natural rock arch, nesting puffins in summer, and views over the South Coast's black sand beaches. Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high promontory of volcanic origin jutting out into the North Atlantic near the village of Vík on Iceland's South Coast. The headland's defining feature is a massive natural rock arch at its tip, large enough for small boats and even aircraft to pass through, which gives the place its name: "door hole island" in Icelandic. From the top, the view stretches east along the black sand beach toward Reynisfjara and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, north to Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and west along the coastline. The cliffs host large Atlantic puffin colonies from May through August, and Dyrhólaey is one of the easier places in Iceland to watch puffins. A lighthouse has stood on the promontory since 1910, warning ships off this stretch of coast. 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]() - [Katla UNESCO Global Geopark]() - [Visit Iceland]() Height 120 meters Volcanic headland with massive natural rock arch at the tip Puffin Season May–August Atlantic puffins nest on the cliffs; access restrictions protect nesting birds Region South Iceland Near Vík, about 190 km from Reykjavik via Route 1 ## What to Expect ### The Rock Arch A massive natural stone arch at the tip of the promontory, carved by wave action and large enough for boats to pass through ### Puffin Colony Atlantic puffins nest in burrows on the cliff edges from May to August; bring binoculars for close-up views ### Panoramic Views 360-degree views of black sand beaches, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and the Atlantic ### Dyrhólaey Lighthouse A lighthouse in operation since 1910, standing on the headland and visible from far along the coast ### Kirkjufjara Beach A black sand beach at the base of the cliffs; be aware of rockfall and dangerous waves ### Reynisdrangar Views The Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise from the ocean to the east, set against the black sand coastline ## Getting There From Route 1 (Ring Road), turn south onto Route 218, signposted for Dyrhólaey, approximately 10 km west of Vík. The road forks into upper and lower viewpoint roads. The upper road is steeper and may have access restrictions to protect nesting birds. The drive from Reykjavik takes approximately 2.5 hours (190 km). Parking is available at both viewpoint levels. The site is about 15 minutes' drive from Reynisfjara beach. ## Best Time to Visit Summer is the main season for Dyrhólaey: puffin viewing where paths are open, long daylight hours, and the mildest weather. Sunset from the upper viewpoint is worth staying for. Winter can bring northern lights, but days are short and roads sometimes close. The site is wind-exposed year-round, so bring warm layers regardless of season. Check road conditions and seasonal closures before visiting. ## Restrictions apply to particular places A closed path does not create an alternative route across the headland. [Visit South Iceland]() distinguishes seasonal restrictions from areas closed throughout the year. Check the signs at the viewpoint you reach. The [reserve’s published visitor rules]() prohibit overnight stays, require pets to be leashed and controlled, and restrict cycling to roads. Drone flights require the conservation authority’s permission. Plan photography from an open viewpoint rather than assuming a drone or beach route is available. Planning help ## Dyrhólaey FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **What is the arch at Dyrhólaey?** Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high promontory with a massive natural rock arch at its seaward end. The name means 'door hole island' in Icelandic, referring to this arch, which is large enough for small boats and aircraft to pass through. The arch was formed by wave erosion over thousands of years. **Can I see puffins at Dyrhólaey?** Puffins nest on Dyrhólaey’s cliffs, but viewing depends on the birds’ presence and which routes are open. Nesting protection can restrict access. Stay on permitted paths and bring binoculars rather than approaching burrows or cliff edges. **When is the upper road at Dyrhólaey closed?** Access restrictions vary by area and current conditions. Visit South Iceland notes both seasonal and year-round closures within the reserve. Follow the current signs and authority notices; do not assume the lower area or Kirkjufjara beach is open when another section closes. **Can I walk between Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara?** No, you cannot safely walk between Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara along the beach. The tidal conditions at Kirkjufjara beach (below Dyrhólaey) are extremely dangerous with powerful waves and rockfall risk from the cliffs. Drive between the two sites; they are about 15 minutes apart by car. [Back to Landmarks]() Country reference: [Iceland statistics]().