On the east side of Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s tallest mountain, there is a beautiful and serene glacier lagoon called Fjallsárlón. This one is smaller than more famous lagoon a little bit further east but just as breathtakingly beautiful. Surrounded by stunning mountains and a steep icefall in the background, this lagoon offers truly unique views, with large icebergs floating peacefully in the crystal-clear water that mirrors the blue sky above.
Fjallsárlón
South East Coast, Iceland
Photos
Video
Climate
The weather in the South East Coast is known for its unpredictability and harshness. The region experiences a subarctic climate, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The temperature can drop as low as -10°C during winter months at low altitudes. The region is also known for its strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Data source Temperature averages
Lighting
The longest day in Iceland is multiple days from May through July when the sun doesn't set. The daylight hours in Iceland on the shortest days of the year are 4-5 hours per day (December to January).
Data source Accessibility
From route no 1, you reach the parking lot after 600 meters. From there, it is an easy hike towards the lagoon’s panoramic viewpoint. There are paths that lead down to the lagoon and could be navigated by 4-wheelers. On the east side of the lagoon lies a road that is private and with a permission you could access the lagoon from there.
Permits
Want to film hassle-free? Partner up with the local production studio through Massif and let them
handle all the paperwork.
Learn more
Basecamp and facilities
There is a very large parking lot 600 meters from the main road. There is also a restaurant and facilities for visitors at this location. Phone coverage is excellent.
Risk factors
Icefall glaciers are constantly moving from the pressure above, they are also covered in crevasses, deep and narrow. Ice blocks can collapse without warning and the temperature is cooler than elsewhere with a risk of hypothermia. Climbing the glacier should not be attempted without climbing guides and a safety team. The lagoons can be deep, and the water is cold and not suitable for swimming.
Visitors
Fjallsárlón is a popular tourist destination on Iceland’s most travelled route, the south coast. There is a tourist company that sells boat trips around the lagoon.
Where does our information come from?
In collaboration with a team of experienced producers, we scoured through every location on
massif.network to bring you the most relevant and up-to-date information.
We provide photos and videos and all other location information.
Know something we don’t?
Noticed wrong information about permits? Is there a restaurant closer nearby? Tell us anything that may be wrong or missing.
