The ocean and fishing are deeply rooted in Icelandic culture and lives. Iceland’s lighthouses have called boats home through the darkest storms for hundreds of years. They have guided Icelanders through wild waves, gale-force winds, and the long darkness of winter.
Since our country was first settled, Icelandic fisherman have put their lives on the line to bring home an essential food source. Our economy was established on this foundation, and respect for nature and the ocean is part of our heritage.
But many would never have made it home without lighthouses, beacons of hope for fishermen at sea for long weeks. Our beautiful lighthouses remain historical monuments to those who dared the sea at its worst to bring home food for their homes and families. Let us explore some of these symbols of resilience, learning their unique stories.
Grotta Lighthouse: Iceland’s Must-See Near Reykjavik
Grótta Lighthouse has been a nature reserve since 1974 due to its abundant and flourishing flocks of migratory birds. Grótta sits on the tip of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, located in the northwestern area of Greater Reykjavik.
While Grótta has always had a lighthouse since 1897, the lighthouse you can visit today was reconstructed in 1947, connected to electricity in 1956, and has remained mostly unchanged. Its stark white structure is a silent sentinel against the wild landscapes and ocean’s deep blue.
For those of you traveling in our camper vans, the areas around Grótta lighthouse in summer are peaceful and the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
During winter, the lighthouse becomes even more magical. Far enough away from the city’s bright lights, you’ll find Grótta offers one of the best views of the Northern Lights. Here, you can watch the aurora dance across the sky with the lighthouse silhouetted in the background, a perfect place to star-gaze and take in the wonder of our island.
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse: Iceland’s Coastal Marvel
Dyrhólaey Peninsula, where a 120-meter, or 393-foot, stroll famed for its iconic views is also found, is the home of the Dyrhólaey lighthouse. Rich with legendary scenery, you can also see the Dyrhólaey Arch here. Due to erosion, the arch is a massive natural structure made of stone, large enough that boats could cruise right through the opening.
On top of Dyrhólaey stands Dyrhólaeyjarviti, a lighthouse that resembles a white, square concrete tower with a distinctive red top. The first lighthouse was built in 1919, and this one was completed in 1927. Every ten seconds, the lighthouse sends bursts of light across the sea.
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse looks over some of our most dramatic scenery, from black sand beaches to the sea stacks arising from the sea. It is truly an awe-inspiring sight.
Pridrangar Lighthouse: Iceland’s Remote Adventure
If you crave adventure and love discovering what may be hidden along the wilder paths, Pridrangar Lighthouse should be marked as a must-see on your itinerary. This lighthouse in Iceland, on top of rocks, perches dramatically on one of the most remote and difficult-to-access places in the world.
To visit Pridrangar Lighthouse directly, you will need to make special arrangements. If those arrangements are not in your travel budget, planning a boat tour to see this extraordinary building from the water is more than worth it.
The Lighthouse Inn, Iceland: A Charming Stopover
Just a short drive from Keflavik International Airport, you’ll find the enchanting Lighthouse Inn. Despite its name, it is not a lighthouse—but don’t be discouraged. It’s the perfect place to rest while you embark or return on your adventure to see Iceland’s Iconic lighthouses.
Being so close to the airport makes this cozy inn an ideal place to start or end your lighthouse journey while exploring the local coasts or simply relaxing.
Experience Iceland’s Lighthouses in the Comfort and Freedom You Deserve
More than just navigational tools, these landmarks tell the rich story of our people’s history and connection to the sea. Whether you are captivated by the ocean or the beauty of lighthouses, a perfect experience awaits you within Iceland with our most comfortable camper vans.
Find yourself captivated by the serene vistas of Grotta lighthouse, the stunning coastal majesty of Dyrhólaey, or the engineering marvel of Pridgranger and journey as you like in the best way possible.
When it comes to experiences of a lifetime, we only get one chance, so why wait?
Search for your ideal camper van for the Lighthouse tour you’ll never forget!
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