Guide de Voyage : Meleyri Beach

Meleyri beach, near Breiddalsvik, is a beautiful coastline in East Iceland. Because of its beauty and location by the Ring Road, it is a popular spot among travelers and locals.

The Meleyri beach is characterized by its black volcanic sands framed by towering peaks that add to its dramatic beauty. Visitors can walk on the beach, admire the waves of the North Atlantic Ocean, or see seabirds resting in the area.

Meleyri beach is just a mile from the center of Breiddalsvik town in East Iceland. Although it's quite a distance from Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, Meleyri remains popular for adventurers circling Iceland through Route 1 or the Ring Road.

In particular, this nine-day summer drive of the Ring Road and the northern lights winter tour of Iceland will pass along Meleyri beach in East Iceland. You can easily add a few-minute stop on your itinerary for the beach, whether to take photos or enjoy its peaceful vistas. If you want to spend more time in the area, you can also find great East Iceland accommodation in the vicinity.

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Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Christian Bickel fingalo. No edits made.

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Main Features of Meleyri Beach

The most striking feature of Meleyri beach is its expansive black sand shoreline, a characteristic formed by volcanic activity in the region. The country has many volcanic beaches, but only a few are as scenic and as long as Meleyri.

During winter, the coastline of Meleyri remains black because snow doesn't tend to stick long on its sands.

Complementing the black sand are the towering cliffs and mountains framing the beach. These mountains, formed by geological processes and glaciation over time, create a rugged backdrop perfect for landscapes or portrait photos.

Additionally, the beach and the surrounding mountains enjoy the constant waves of the North Atlantic Ocean.

Meleyri beach is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. Many seabirds can be spotted soaring overhead or nesting in nearby areas. This makes the natural attraction an excellent location for birdwatching.

How to Travel to Meleyri Beach in East Iceland

Photo from Paolo Gregotti. There are beautiful mountain views close to Meleyri.

Traveling to Meleyri beach from Reykjavik takes quite a while since East Iceland is the farthest region from the city. Fortunately, there are many opportunities for scenic stops and exploration along the way.

The best way to visit is by renting a car. If driving in summer, you can choose from a wide selection of affordable rental cars in Iceland. If traveling in winter, four-wheel drives are better options due to the more challenging roads.

From Reykjavik, the drive is pretty much straightforward eastward, as you'll only need to traverse the Ring Road or Route 1. The drive can take at least eight hours, covering 378 miles (609 kilometers). This can take longer, however, depending on the stops you make.

You can find the beach along the coastline after passing Djupivogur town and before reaching Breiddalsvik. The beach can be easily pinned on GPS or online maps. Upon arrival, park your car in designated areas and explore the surroundings on foot.

Why Visit Meleyri Beach?

Meleyri beach near Breiddalsvik holds a unique charm. Unlike some of Iceland's more popular tourist destinations, Meleyri beach remains relatively unknown. The absence of large tourist crowds allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the charm of its coastal surroundings.

Moreover, the beach's proximity to Breiddalsvik and its surrounding attractions adds to its appeal. Travelers can explore the nearby town or embark on scenic drives through Iceland's eastern region, known for its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

Other Attractions to See in East Iceland

While planning your trip to Meleyri beach, don't miss out on adding more attractions to your Eastfjords itinerary.

Situated just a short distance from Meleyri beach, Breiddalsvik village is a quaint and picturesque settlement nestled along Iceland's eastern coast. Visitors can wander through the village streets, lined with colorful houses and traditional fishing boats, and explore its rich cultural heritage. 

The village is known for its friendly locals, charming cafes, cozy Breiddalsvik accommodations, local brewery, and opportunities to learn about history at the local museum.

Another town near Meleyri is Djupivogur, just 37 miles (60 kilometers) away. Known for its picturesque harbor, colorful houses, and thriving art scene, Djupivogur is a delightful destination for exploring local craftsmanship and cuisine. One of its most popular places of interest is the "Eggs of Merry Bay," composed of 34 egg sculptures representing the local birdlife.

Travelers looking for more adventures shouldn't miss out on hiking to the Hengifoss waterfall, 75 miles (120 kilometers) from the beach. Hengifoss is one of Iceland's tallest and most majestic waterfalls, standing at an impressive height of 420 feet (128 meters). Visitors can embark on a moderate hike to reach Hengifoss, traversing through breathtaking landscapes of lush green valleys and volcanic terrain.