For our second to last stop on day one of our Iceland road trip we are stopping by the Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Just a short drive off of the Ring Road and only 20 minutes from Diamond Beach. The lagoon offers visitors a short hike with the payoff of an incredible view of one of Iceland’s famous glaciers. Taking only 30-60 minutes to fully enjoy. This one should definitely make your short list in your planning a trip. Below is a video, tips and photos from our trip.
Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon – Tips and Info
AllTrails Link: Click Here
Type: Out and Back (This can be done in a loop like shown in the video)
Distance: 1.5 Miles / 2.4 Kilometers
Elevation Gain: 100+ Feet / 30+ Meters
The Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon is conveniently situated just a short drive off the Ring Road in the southeast part of Iceland. Its parking lot is easily accessible for all types of vehicles, and there’s a small visitor center on-site, although it has limited opening hours. However, the trails are open 24 hours a day. Please note that when the visitor center is closed, restroom facilities may not be available. The hike is a manageable 1.5-mile (2.5km) out-and-back route, which can also be completed as a loop for most of the year, a recommended option. With only about 100 feet (30 meters) of elevation gain throughout the trail, it is well-marked and leads to the picturesque lagoon.
Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tips
- The Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon is located just a short drive off of the Ring Road on the south east part of Iceland.
- The lagoons parking lot is easily accessible for all vehicles.
- There is a small visitor center on site. But it is only open certain hours.
- The trails in open 24 hours a day.
- When the visitor center is closed, we didn’t see any restrooms.
- The hike is a 1.5 mile (2.5km) out and back.
- This hike can be done as a loop during most of the year. Which I recommend.
- There is only bout 100 feet (30 meters) of elevation gain on the whole trail.
- The trail is well marked leading to the lagoon.
Common Questions and Answers
What is Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon?
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a stunning glacial lagoon located in South Iceland, near the larger and more famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It is nestled at the foot of the Vatnajökull Glacier, which is the largest glacier in Europe.
How do I get to Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon?
To reach Fjallsárlón, you can drive along the Ring Road (Route 1) in Iceland. It’s approximately 10 kilometers (about 6 miles) east of the town of Höfn. There are clear road signs marking the entrance to the lagoon, making it relatively easy to find.
What can I see at Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon?
At Fjallsárlón, you can witness the breathtaking sight of icebergs breaking off from the glacier and floating in the lagoon’s calm waters. The lagoon offers a more peaceful and less crowded experience compared to its neighbor, Jökulsárlón. Visitors can also take boat tours to get up close to the icebergs.
Is it safe to visit Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon?
Generally, Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is safe to visit, but it’s essential to exercise caution. Stay at a safe distance from the edge of the lagoon, as the icebergs can be unstable and may suddenly calve or flip. Follow any safety guidelines provided by tour operators if you choose to take a boat tour.
When is the best time to visit Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon?
The best time to visit Fjallsárlón is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is milder, and the daylight hours are longer. This is when you can enjoy boat tours and the surrounding scenery to the fullest. However, the lagoon is accessible year-round, and winter visits offer the opportunity to see the glacier and icebergs in a snow-covered landscape.
Photos
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon wasn’t the number one thing on our todo list when visiting Iceland. But it ended up being a true hidden gem of a find. It’s the perfect short stop allowing you to experience how impressive the glaciers truly are. Just carving out a path through volcanic rock mountains. The all trails link has the hike as sort of a horse shoe. But in the video you will see that we did it as a loop. Which we really enjoyed. In the winter the beach may freeze over making the horse shoe the better route.