Top things to do in Iceland
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Location & Nearby
Iceland’s southernmost village provides the scenic setting of this Hi Hostel, which is located just 300m north of the Ring Road, two and a half hour’s southwest of Reykjavik. The idyllic location makes for a perfect spot to settle for visiting a long list of south coast must-see’s, including the volcanos, glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches of the Katla UNESCO Global Geopark.
Self-driving travelers can reach several unique attractions from its pretty position overlooking the village. To the west is Seljalandsfoss waterfall, which is only 38 miles (61 km) away, as well as Skogafoss waterfall and the Skogar Museum, which sits 21 miles (34 km) from the hotel. The world’s famous black sand beach at Reynisdrangar is just 6.8 miles (11 km) away. The massive Myrdalsjokull glacier looms north, and the stunning Dyrholaey promontory is nearby.
On foot, you can visit the quaint village itself, including the striking Reyniskirkja church, the Skaftfellingur shipwreck museum, and the village’s own fantastic black sand beach (a 15-minute walk from the hostel), where you have memorable views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks and Reynisfjara mountain. A disc golf course and the Sudur-Vik restaurant are located next door to the hostel.
Vik is also a great spot to pick up rations, fill up the tank, or relax and slow down. You’ll find a Kronan supermarket, several gas stations, a swimming pool, a wool factory, and other handy shops for odds and ends. Restaurants worth seeking out include the abovementioned Sudur-Vik, which serves up hearty Icelandic cuisine and pizza and Asian dishes; and Smidjan Brugghus, a brewery, and restaurant where you can chase a blue cheeseburger with a New England-style IPA.
Facilities & Amenities
The Vik Hi Hostel’s room inventory includes a mixed six-person dorm; private single, double/twin, quadruple dorms with shared bathrooms; and private A-frame cottages clad in traditional corrugated metal cottages with private bathrooms. On premises, guests have access to a café/Bar, BBQ facilities, self-catering kitchen, cycle rental/storage, and common areas with windows framing the beautiful village of Vik. A wonderful buffet breakfast is available every morning. Of course, there’s free Wi-FI as well as parking for guests.
Hi Hostel staff can also book numerous day tours in the area, including a journey to Myrdalsjokull glacier (Iceland’s fourth largest ice cap), hiking through the spectacular Remundargil canyon, or visiting the first known viking tomb, Hjorleifshaugur burial mound, on Hjorleifshofdi promontory.
Why Choose Vik Hi Hostel?
Solo travelers, groups, and families looking for more budget-friendly accommodations and the chance to mingle with fellow explorers should consider this wonderful Hi Hostel in Vík i Myrdal, which positions guests within convenient and easy reach of some of South Iceland’s biggest attractions. Book ahead as these beds don’t sit empty for long!