After enduring a frightful snowstorm that took a toll more on our mental capacities than our physical bodies, we rested up in Höfn. Early the next morning, we continued on our journey in Southeast Iceland towards one of our highly anticipated attractions, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. While many people may travel to white sandy beaches, we were in search of black moody ones…particularly one with “diamonds” otherwise known as Diamond Beach!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links.
This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate link.
You may read my full disclosure policy here.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s natural crown jewels & is a breathtaking sight on the border of Vatnajökull National Park, the largest ice cap in Europe. It emcompasses a massive lake containing huge blocks of ice that have broken off from the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. These large icebergs slowly drift their way out into the North Atlantic while some lay stranded on the black Diamond Beach across the street. 

Like many other spectacular regions in Iceland, walking around Jökulsárlón feels as if you have set foot on another planet. The enormous icebergs with its extraterrestrial shapes exude a cool prehistoric Ice Age vibe. We watched in silent awe as the sun continued to rise from the east & the color of the ice began to change. Meditating to the gentle clinks of the glaciers & the soft crackling of the ice felt soothing to the soul. There was no experience quite like it.

Natural Iridescent Ice Sculptures

The glaciers give off various shades of blue-green created from a mixture of salt & freshwater. When glacial ice freezes over repeatedly, the air bubbles compress & eventually squeeze out. The absence of air allows light to shine through the ice, allowing for absorption of long wavelengths (red & yellow) & reflection of shorter ones (blue & violet). Older icebergs have sharper tones of blue-green as they have a heavier concentration of microorganisms. Newer icebergs, on the other hand, tend to be more pure white. Several others are streaked with black volcanic ash that have trapped inside the ice.

The mystical Jökulsárlón with its panoramic Arctic views make it a highly sought after filming location. Many blockbuster movies such as Tomb Raider, Batman Begins & the James Bond series were shot here! Once you experience the lagoon for yourself, you will understand why the area was chosen to depict the Siberian wilderness & even the remoteness of Antarctica!

The Consequences of Global Warming

The unfortunate downside to this magnificent beauty is the undeniable fact that Jökulsárlón is only continuing to grow. Originally formed in the 1940’s by cycles of change & global warming, the lagoon has since quadrupled in size. Today, it measures 814 feet deep & approximately 7 square miles wide! The bottom of the lagoon is also the lowest point in Iceland reaching 660 feet below sea level!

The lagoon is abundant with different species of fish & if you’re lucky enough, you may witness arctic terns or harbour seals hanging around. Some wildlife enthusiasts have even claimed to have spotted a pod of orca whales swim by! Sadly, we encountered no such animals during our visit here.

The Sparkling Diamond Beach

Across the street from Jökulsárlón is the sparkling Diamond Beach, aka Breiðamerkursandur. Its name derives from the thousands of “diamond” pieces that lay scattered like intricate ice sculptures placed on display. Some of the ice have a smooth, polished appearance created by the constant erosion of the waves. Many other formations stand tall, alienistic in their jagged appearance & appear almost threatening.

The distinct contrast of the opaque ice against the volcanic black sand creates for spectacular photo opportunities. Combine it with the serene backdrop of Iceland’s winter wonderland & you will capture some epic photographs that you cannot obtain anywhere else.

Vík

As you drive along Route 1 in Southern Iceland, you will come across the quaint little town of Vík. Due to natural circumstances, it is the only seaside settlement without its own harbor. Vík sits under the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier & on top of the active volcano, Katla, which geologists predict is due for a powerful eruption much larger than that of Eyjafjallajökull that occurred back in 2010. 

While driving through Vík, look for the iconic red roofed church, Víkurkirkja, that sits high on top of a hill. Its location plays an important role as the 300 or so inhabitants frequently practice evacuation drills here in case of sudden flash floods. Aside from Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík, this picturesque church is one of Iceland’s most photographed buildings, especially during summer months when wildflowers bloom all around.

Whether you are driving clockwise or counter-clockwise, you should plan to fuel up at the one & only gas station located here in Vík.

Angella’s Travel Tips

• The best times for photography is at sunrise or sunset, when the light hits the ice at different angles to produce a rainbow of colors. You will also have a better chance of avoiding the crowds of tourist buses & photobombers.
• Please do not attempt to climb on to the floating glaciers for your selfless selfies! Recently, there have been several incidents involving careless tourists drifting out to sea. Consider yourself forewarned, the currents in Iceland can be unpredictable & have the power to even flip over large glaciers!
• For those interested in getting safely up close & personal with the glaciers can book a professionally guided boat tour. Depending on the weather conditions, two types of tours operate from May through September (Zodiac) & November (Amphibian). The more popular Zodiac excursion is about an hour long & allows tourists to explore the glacier tongue in a zippy boat (channel your inner James Bond). Make sure to book your reservation ahead of time as spots sell out quick during peak seasons!