Hvítserkur is a 15-meter-tall basalt sea stack standing in Húnaflói bay on the eastern shore of the Vatnsnes peninsula in North Iceland. Its shape resembles a drinking dragon or rhinoceros. According to legend, it is a troll that was turned to stone by the rising sun.

How do I get down to the beach at Hvítserkur?

From the parking area, a steep path with steps leads down the cliff to the black sand beach below. The descent takes about 5-10 minutes. The path can be slippery when wet. At low tide, you can walk closer to the sea stack, but be mindful of incoming tides. There is also a viewpoint at the top of the cliff.

Can I see seals at Hvítserkur?

Yes, the Vatnsnes peninsula is one of Iceland's best locations for spotting seals. Harbor seals and grey seals are frequently seen resting on rocks near the beach. The nearby Icelandic Seal Centre in Hvammstangi provides information about seal watching and conservation.

What is the road to Hvítserkur like?

From Route 1, take Route 711 along the Vatnsnes peninsula. The last stretch to the parking area is an unpaved gravel road. It is generally passable in a standard car during summer, but can be rough. In winter, conditions may require a 4x4. Always check road.is for current conditions.

Hvítserkur: The Troll of Northwest Iceland

A dramatic 15-meter basalt sea stack on the Vatnsnes peninsula, known as the "Troll of Northwest Iceland" and one of the country's most photogenic natural formations.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Vatnsnes Peninsula

North Iceland • Off Route 711

Hvítserkur is a 15-meter-tall basalt rock formation standing in the shallow waters of Húnaflói bay on the eastern shore of the Vatnsnes peninsula in North Iceland. Its distinctive two-legged shape, sculpted by centuries of wind and wave erosion, resembles a drinking dragon, rhinoceros, or elephant depending on the angle and the viewer's imagination. According to Icelandic folklore, Hvítserkur is a troll that was caught outside at dawn while trying to tear down the nearby Þingeyraklaustur monastery and was turned to stone by the sunlight. The base of the rock has been reinforced with concrete to slow erosion. The Vatnsnes peninsula is also one of Iceland's premier seal-watching areas, adding another reason to make the detour.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.

Sources to check

Height

15 meters

Basalt sea stack sculpted by wind and wave erosion over millennia

Wildlife

Seal colony

Harbor seals and grey seals frequently spotted along the Vatnsnes coast

Region

North Iceland

Vatnsnes peninsula, off Route 711 from the Ring Road

What to Expect

The Sea Stack

A striking 15-meter basalt formation with two arch-like legs, standing in the shallow bay waters and changing appearance with the tides

Cliff Viewpoint

A panoramic viewpoint at the top of the cliff overlooking Hvítserkur and the bay — no descent required for great photos

Beach Access

A steep path with steps leads down to the black sand beach for closer views and tide-dependent access to the rock

Seal Watching

The Vatnsnes peninsula is one of Iceland's best areas for spotting harbor seals and grey seals on coastal rocks

Tidal Variations

The formation looks dramatically different at high and low tide — at low tide you can walk on the sand near its base

Northern Lights

The remote location with minimal light pollution makes Hvítserkur an excellent northern lights photography spot in winter

Getting There

From Route 1 (Ring Road), take Route 711 north along the Vatnsnes peninsula. Hvítserkur is signposted along Route 711 on the eastern side of the peninsula. The last stretch to the parking area is an unpaved gravel road. The drive from Blönduós is about 30 minutes, and from Akureyri about 2 hours. The parking area is free, and a short walk leads to the cliff viewpoint. The steep descent to the beach takes about 5-10 minutes.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June–August) offers the best weather, longest daylight, and easiest road access. Low tide reveals more of the rock's base and allows closer approach on the beach — check tide tables in advance. Sunrise and sunset provide the best photography light. Winter visits reward with northern lights opportunities but roads may be challenging. The Vatnsnes peninsula is quieter than many tourist areas, so crowds are rarely an issue even in summer.

Planning help

Hvítserkur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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