Mighty Vestrahorn in Stokksnes, Iceland

Vestrahorn is a breathtaking mountain in south-east Iceland. You will find it in Stokksnes Peninsula, close to the town of Höfn. To get to Vestrahorn you will have to drive about six hours from Reykjavík. Therefore it is most often visited by those travelling the South Coast of Iceland or are on a road trip around the ring road of the island. On the Ring Road drive east past Höfn and after around 7km, just before reaching the tunnel, turn right onto an unmarked gravel road. Follow this road for around 5 km and you will have reached the black sand beach of Vestrahorn. Keep in mind though that since Vestrahorn is on private land you will have to pay a fee to get there!

Vestrahorn is a quite wild and remote location. It is made out of iron and magnesium rich gabbro rock, which leads to its dark and jagged appearance. Vestrahorn translates to “West Mountain” due to its proximity to the similar Eystrahorn, or “East Mountain”. Its dramatic peaks reach up to 454 meters (1490 ft.). The mountain rises behind a beautiful black sand beach with sand dunes scattered all around.

You might ask what time of the year is best to visit Vestrahorn. No matter whether you visit this place in Autumn, Winter or Summer it has a lot to offer for sure. If you are a photographer this iconic mountain could be described as a playground! There are so many different compositions to choose from! If you are lucky and there is no wind you will also be able to see the reflection of Vestrahorn into the calm ocean water. No wonder why this is such a famous tourist location.

In this photo you see the reflection of Vestrahorn mountain into the calm sea water during sunrise. Snow covers one of its peaks. The warm sun light is painting the mountain with red and orange tones. A small opening in the clouds allows the morning sun light to paint with beautiful red and purple tones the whole landscape. A few fluffy clouds are filing the blue sky making this scene look dreamy! Vestrahorn is such a beautiful mountain!