Best for
Scenic south coast views
Glacier meets black sand beach.
Hofdabrekkujokull (Höfðabrekkujökull) Glacier Iceland: South Coast Near Vík
A Mýrdalsjökull outlet glacier on Iceland's south coast near Vík—a dramatic icy backdrop to the famous black sand beaches.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Region
South Iceland
Near Vík, above Katla volcano.
Höfðabrekkujökull flows south from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap toward the sea near Vík, one of Iceland's most photographed coastal villages. The glacier provides a stunning white contrast against the dramatic black sand beaches and sea stacks of the area. Beneath the parent ice cap lies Katla, one of Iceland's most powerful volcanoes, adding an element of geological drama to this already spectacular landscape.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This area is within the Katla eruption evacuation zone. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes when visiting Vík. Follow all Civil Protection instructions in case of volcanic activity.
Sources to check
Access
View from Route 1
Visible from Vík area and south coast road.
Pro tip
Know evacuation routes
Katla eruption plans are posted in Vík.
What to Expect
- Dramatic glacier views from the south coast road
- Black sand beaches with the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap as backdrop
- The village of Vík nestled below the ice
- Powerful awareness of Katla volcano hidden beneath the glacier
- Glacial outwash plains (sandur) stretching toward the sea
- Puffin colonies nesting on nearby coastal cliffs in summer
Nearby Attractions
- Reynisfjara black sand beach with basalt columns
- Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean
- Dyrhólaey arch and puffin-watching viewpoint
- Vík village with shops, restaurants, and accommodation
- Sólheimajökull glacier hikes (30 min west)
- Mýrdalsjökull ice cave and super jeep tours
How to Get There
- Route 1 passes through Vík, about 180 km from Reykjavik
- Drive time approximately 2.5 hours from the capital
- The glacier is visible from various viewpoints near Vík
- Regular car fine—it's on the main Ring Road
- Multiple parking areas and viewpoints along the coast
Best Time to Visit
- Year-round from Route 1 and Vík viewpoints
- Summer for longest daylight and best visibility
- Winter brings dramatic light on glacier and black sand
- Check weather—south coast gets frequent storms
- Combine with Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey visits
Planning help
Hofdabrekkujokull (Höfðabrekkujökull) Glacier FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.