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Djúpalónssandur Beach Hike

By François · updated in June 202506/2025My rating

Key facts about the hike

Difficulty
Easy Hikes are rated from very easy to very hard: my difficulty scale
Duration
1h15 Estimated time, short breaks included (photos, water, snacks), picnic not included: how it is calculated
Distance
3km
out and back
Elevation gain
130m
Type of route
Out and back
Maximum altitude
35 m
Vertiginous Five levels, depending on how exposed the route is: the levels in detail
No
Marked
No
Popularity
Moderate
Region
West
Start point
64.75351, -23.89541
Activity
Hiking

Hike overview

Explore Djúpalónssandur, a black sand beach on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This beach is known for its impressive rock formations and is one of the most amazing places to discover in western Iceland. When you visit, you'll feel as if you've stepped into a magical world of lava.

Djúpalónssandur is steeped in history and is home to the rusted remains of the British trawler Epine GY7, which sank in 1948. It is also home to the four lifting stones that fishermen once used to test their strength.

Map and elevation profile of the hike

Djúpalónssandur Beach Hike

Difficulties of the hike

The hike follows the shoreline from Djúpalónssandur Beach to Drítvik Bay, winding through a lava field along the way. Although the route is not marked, there are directional signs throughout. The terrain presents no particular difficulties, allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in this otherworldly landscape.

What you'll love

  • A captivating volcanic setting: Admire the enormous rock formations lining the beach and the famous black, perfectly round, and smooth pebbles. The Snæfellsjökull glacier in the background enhances this exceptional natural setting even more.
  • The tranquility of Drítvik Bay: This small cove is accessible by walking along the shore and is generally much quieter than the main beach.
Lava field
Lava field
Djúpalónssandur beach in front of the Snæfellsjökull glacier
Djúpalónssandur beach in front of the Snæfellsjökull glacier
Lava field and Snæfellsjökull
Lava field and Snæfellsjökull
Dritvik beach
Dritvik beach
Dritvik beach
Dritvik beach
Rock formations along the coast
Rock formations along the coast
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach
Djúpalónssandur beach

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Printed from www.horizonrando.fr/en/iceland/djupalonssandur-beach/