Though small and simple, the church has a quiet presence that’s hard to overlook. Surrounded by black sand beaches, basalt cliffs, and the endless Atlantic Ocean, it offers one of the most dramatic views in the region. From its hillside perch, you can see the village below, the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks rising from the ocean, and the slopes of Katla Volcano stretching inland.
Most visitors come for the photo but end up staying longer, drawn by the stillness and the calm contrast to the wild landscape below.
Visible from the Ring Road and just minutes from the center of Vik, the church is a frequent stop on South Coast tours and an easy detour for self-drive travelers. Whether you visit before heading to Reynisfjara Beach or as a quick stop along your route, Vik i Myrdal Church offers one of the most rewarding views in Iceland—quiet, dramatic, and unmistakably Icelandic.
Key Takeaways
- Scenic and Photogenic Spot: Perched above Vik with panoramic views, the church’s red roof and dramatic backdrop make it one of Iceland’s most famous landmarks and iconic photo stops.
- Easy to Reach: Just off the Ring Road and minutes from town, it's a convenient stop on any South Coast itinerary.
- Close to Major Sights: Ideal to pair with nearby attractions like Reynisfjara Beach, Dyrholaey Peninsula (Dyrhólaey), and the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks.
- Best Time to Visit: Stunning year-round, but late spring to early autumn offers the clearest skies and best light; winter brings a moody, snow-covered landscape.
Features of Vik i Myrdal Church
Vik i Myrdal Church is a classic example of rural Icelandic church architecture.
Modest in scale but striking in presence, the church features a white wooden exterior and a bright red roof, standing out cleanly against the dark volcanic cliffs and coastal landscape. Its minimalist form and balanced lines are typical of churches across the country, offering simplicity that complements rather than competes with its dramatic setting.
The interior continues this quiet elegance. The wooden walls are adorned with classic Icelandic carvings, and the space is finished with beautiful timber details that give it a cozy, welcoming feel.
The church’s interior features stained glass windows created by artist Hrafnhildur Agustsdottir (Hrafnhildur Ágústsdóttir). A beautifully crafted wooden organ built by Katli Sigurjonsson (Katli Sigurjónsson) also adds warmth to its otherwise minimalist design.
Scenic Viewpoints
Vik i Myrdal Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Iceland, and it looks remarkable from every angle. Whether you see it from below, up close, or from the ridge behind, each viewpoint highlights a different side of its dramatic setting.
Here are a few of the best spots to view Vik i Myrdal Church:
- From below (Ring Road or Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach): As you approach Vik along the Ring Road or stand on the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, the church's white walls and red roof stand out prominently on the hill above the town, offering a picturesque view against the dramatic landscape.
- From the churchyard: Standing beside the church, you’ll get sweeping views over the village of Vik—the southernmost in Iceland—as well as the rugged coastline, Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks, and the wide stretch of black sand beach below.
- From the graveyard behind the church: A short trail next to the parking area leads up to the hilltop cemetery, where you’ll get a stunning view of the church with the village of Vik and the coastline spread out below, perfect for a more unique angle and a quieter photo spot.
Significance of Vik i Myrdal Church
While the church is best known for its scenic views, it also holds an important place in the life of the village. It has long served as both a spiritual center and a point of safety, playing a meaningful role in the community’s history and its readiness for the natural forces that shape the region.
The First Church Built in Vik
Vik i Myrdal Church was the first church ever built in the village of Vik. Before its construction, residents had to travel to a neighboring town for mass, which became increasingly impractical as the local population grew in the early 20th century.
The church was designed by Iceland’s state architect Gudjon Samuelsson (Guðjón Samúelsson), the same architect responsible for Hallgrimskirkja Church (Hallgrímskirkja) in Reykjavik (Reykjavík). Construction began in 1931, and the church was consecrated in 1934 by Bishop Jon Helgason (Jón Helgason).
Though small and simple, it provided the village with a long-needed place of worship and community gathering.
An Emergency Evacuation Center for Volcanic Eruptions
While Vik i Myrdal Church is a peaceful landmark today, it also plays a serious role in the village’s emergency planning. Vik sits directly south of the Myrdalsjokull Glacier (Mýrdalsjökull), which covers the powerful Katla Volcano. If Katla erupts, the resulting glacial melt could trigger a massive flash flood, or jokullhlaup (jökulhlaup), strong enough to destroy the town.
The church stands on higher ground and is believed to be one of the few buildings that could withstand such a flood. As a result, it's become the village's designated evacuation point. Locals are trained to reach the church within minutes if an alert is issued, with regular drills reminding residents that they may have as little as 15 minutes to get to safety.
Tip: If you want to dive deeper into Vik’s history and culture, browse guided cultural tours in Iceland for a more enriching experience.
How to Get to Vik i Myrdal Church
Vik i Myrdal Church is easy to reach from Route 1 (the Ring Road), making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring Iceland’s South Coast. Whether you're driving yourself or joining a tour, getting there is straightforward.
By Car
Vik i Myrdal Church is located just off Route 1 (Ring Road), making it very easy to reach by car. From Reykjavik, the drive takes about 2.5 hours (112 miles / 180 kilometers) heading east along the South Coast. As you approach the village of Vik, the church becomes clearly visible on the hillside above the town.
A paved road leads directly up to the church from the main road. The drive up is short and manageable for most vehicles, with a small parking area available next to the church.
By Public Transport
Staeto (Strætó), Iceland’s public bus service, operates regular buses between Reykjavik and Vik. The most common route is Bus 51, which departs from Mjodd Bus Terminal (Mjódd) in Reykjavik and stops at Vik i Myrdal, located in the center of the village.
The journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, and depending on the schedule, especially in winter or during low travel periods, you may need to transfer at Selfoss Town.
From the bus stop in Vik, it’s about a 10 to 15 minute walk uphill to the church. The road is paved but moderately steep, so allow a bit of time for the climb.
Note: Check current schedules and book tickets at straeto.is.
By Self-Drive Tours
Vik i Myrdal Church is a featured stop on many self-drive tours of Iceland’s South Coast, thanks to its unbeatable location just off the Ring Road. Driving yourself gives you the flexibility to stop at the church on your own schedule.
If you’re planning a road trip around Iceland, consider booking one of the best self-drive tours in Iceland that includes this iconic landmark along the way.
Best Time To Visit Vik i Myrdal Church
Vik i Myrdal Church offers something special in every season, but the experience can vary depending on the time of year and day.
From late spring to early autumn, the weather is generally clearer, the days are longer, and the surrounding landscape comes alive with color. This period offers the best light for photography, with green hillsides, blooming wildflowers, and wide visibility across the South Coast.
In contrast, winter transforms the area into a quieter, moodier scene. Snow often covers the hills and rooftops, adding a peaceful, cinematic quality to the church’s silhouette. While it’s less predictable due to weather and road conditions, the low winter light and fewer crowds can make for a memorable visit, especially for those seeking a more atmospheric experience.
Regardless of the season, early morning and late afternoon offer the most striking views. The soft light during these hours enhances the contrast between the red roof, the white church walls, and the surrounding cliffs, sea stacks, and black sand. Whether you’re there for photos or just to enjoy the view, timing your visit around sunrise or sunset can make all the difference.
Tip: Book one of the top-rated photo tours in Iceland for memorable keepsakes!
Nearby Attractions to Explore
A visit to Vik i Myrdal Church pairs perfectly with some of the South Coast’s most iconic natural sights. If you’re looking for more things to do in Vik, here are some major nearby attractions worth exploring:
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: Just 10 minutes from the church, this world-famous beach is known for its jet-black sand, crashing waves, and towering basalt columns.
- Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks: These jagged sea stacks rising from the ocean are visible from several points in Vik, including the churchyard and beach.
- Dyrholaey Peninsula (Dyrhólaey): About 20 minutes west of Vik, this cliffside viewpoint offers sweeping coastal views, a dramatic stone arch, and puffins in summer.
- Skogafoss Waterfall (Skógafoss): Located 30 minutes from Vik, this powerful waterfall drops 60 meters and is a favorite for both photographers and road-trippers.
- Solheimasandur Plane Wreck (Sólheimasandur): A 25-minute drive followed by a 45-minute walk brings you to this haunting aircraft wreck on a vast black sand plain.
- Reynisfjall Mountain: Just outside the village, this steep hill offers panoramic views of the coastline, especially beautiful during puffin season.
- Halsanefshellir Cave: A short walk from Reynisfjara’s parking area, this basalt sea cave is best visited at low tide for dramatic photos.
- Vik Swimming Pool: Right in the village, this quiet outdoor pool offers warm water, mountain views, and a relaxing break between sightseeing tours in Iceland.
Pro tip: To make the most of your time in the area, consider booking one of the best Vik tours or travel packages. They’re a convenient way to explore these nearby highlights without having to plan each stop yourself.
Why Visit Vik i Myrdal Church in Iceland
Vik i Myrdal Church isn’t just a pretty landmark. It’s a place that captures the essence of Iceland’s South Coast in one quiet, powerful scene. With its striking contrast to the surrounding landscape, sweeping views over land and sea, and deep roots in the local community, it offers more than just a photo opportunity.
If you’d like to explore more of what Vik has to offer, check out our comprehensive Vik travel guide. For those craving a bigger adventure, browse the best Ring Road tours and discover how this scenic stop fits into Iceland’s ultimate road trip.
