Remote lighthouse on the lava-covered southwest coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Dark, wild coastal scenery with crashing Atlantic waves and an uninterrupted westward horizon – one of Iceland's finest sunset vantage points with almost no tourists.
Selvogsviti stands on a stretch of lava-covered coastline on the southwest side of the Reykjanes Peninsula, one of Iceland's least visited coastal areas despite sitting within reach of Reykjavik. The white lighthouse rises above a shoreline of black volcanic rock shaped by centuries of Atlantic waves, with no other structures or development in sight, giving the area a stark, exposed feeling distinct from more sheltered parts of the Icelandic coast. An uninterrupted westward horizon over the open ocean makes the site one of the country's better sunset viewpoints, with nothing to block the view of the sun dropping into the sea. Because the road leading to the lighthouse remains gravel and largely unmarked as a tourist route, the site sees very few visitors even in peak season, and it is common to have the entire stretch of coastline to oneself. Wind off the ocean is near-constant and often strong, making warm, windproof layers necessary even on otherwise mild days. There are no facilities, entrance fee, or marked trails, so a visit involves simply parking and walking along the open shoreline near the lighthouse. A visit typically takes 30-45 minutes.
Weather through the year in Iceland
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Iceland.
Highlights
- Remote lighthouse on wild lava-covered coastline
- Uninterrupted westward sunset views over the Atlantic
- Almost no other visitors even in summer
- Dramatic black volcanic rock shoreline
- Easy reach from Reykjavik despite the remote feel
Tips for visiting
- The gravel access road is manageable in a 2WD car but drive carefully
- Bring warm, windproof layers, as the coast is exposed and often windy
- Visit near sunset for the best light over the open horizon
- No facilities on site, so bring water and check fuel beforehand
When to visit
Visit in the evening for sunset over the open Atlantic horizon, dressing warmly for the near-constant coastal wind.
Accessibility
The unpaved gravel road and rocky, uneven shoreline make the site difficult to access for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Selvogsviti take?
About 30-45 minutes to walk the shoreline near the lighthouse and take in the views.
Is Selvogsviti worth it for kids?
Yes, the open shoreline is easy to walk, though the strong coastal wind and rocky terrain call for supervision.
Is photography allowed at the lighthouse?
Photography is unrestricted, and the site is especially popular for sunset shots given its unobstructed western horizon.