The South Coast of Iceland is one of the most scenic and adventure-packed regions in the country. Staying at Sky Retreat, you are perfectly positioned to explore waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and charming villages — all within easy driving distance.
Here are our top 10 recommendations for making the most of your stay:
1. Visit Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Just minutes from the retreat, Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. What makes it special? You can walk behind the curtain of water for a truly immersive experience. Bring a waterproof jacket — you will get wet! Visit at sunset for magical golden light on the spray.
2. Explore Skogafoss
This powerful 60-meter waterfall is about 25 km from Sky Retreat. Climb the 527 steps to the top for breathtaking views of the coastline and the beginning of the famous Fimmvorduhals hiking trail. On sunny days, you will almost certainly see a rainbow in the mist.
3. Walk on Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Ranked among the most beautiful non-tropical beaches in the world, Reynisfjara’s dramatic basalt columns and thundering waves are unforgettable. Keep a safe distance from the sneaker waves — they are surprisingly powerful. The Reynisdrangar sea stacks offshore add to the otherworldly atmosphere.
4. Snowmobile on Eyjafjallajokull
Yes, you can ride a snowmobile on the very glacier that made headlines with its 2010 eruption! Tours depart regularly and offer an adrenaline-pumping experience with incredible panoramic views from the ice cap. Ask us to help arrange this during your stay.
5. Take a Glacier Hike on Solheimajokull
Strap on crampons and explore the crevasses, ridges, and blue ice of Solheimajokull glacier with expert guides. It is one of the most accessible glacier hiking experiences in Iceland, and the 3-hour tours are suitable for beginners.
6. Visit the Westman Islands
A 30-minute ferry from Landeyjahofn takes you to Heimaey, the largest of the Westman Islands. Explore the Eldheimar volcano museum, hike to the rim of Eldfell (which erupted in 1973), and in summer, see the world’s largest Atlantic puffin colony.
7. Dine at Gamla Fjosid
This converted cowshed restaurant at Hvassafell serves some of the best farm-to-table food in South Iceland. Their lamb, sourced from the family farm beneath Eyjafjallajokull, is exceptional. Book ahead — it is popular with locals and visitors alike.
8. Explore the Skogar Folk Museum
One of Iceland’s best regional museums, featuring a collection of historical buildings, artifacts, and the charming Freya Cafe. Learn about traditional Icelandic life and grab a homemade cake before or after visiting nearby Skogafoss.
9. Soak in the Seljavallalaug Pool
One of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools, this geothermally-heated pool is nestled in a mountain valley about 20 minutes’ drive from the retreat. The short hike to reach it makes the warm water even more rewarding.
10. Watch the Northern Lights from Your Cabin
If you visit between September and April, you are in prime aurora territory. Our glass-roof cabins let you watch the Northern Lights from your bed, or step outside to the hot tub for an even more magical experience. Check the aurora forecast and keep your eyes on the sky!
Ready to explore? Book your stay at Sky Retreat and use this as your starting guide to the South Coast.
