One of Iceland’s most popular tourist attractions is also one of the island’s most beautiful places. The Jökulsárlón lagoon is located just off the route 1 below Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The lagoon was formed as a result of the retreat of the glacier over time, and as it retreated it left behind a deep depression that filled with meltwater from the glacier. Towering icebergs break off from the glacier and float down into the lagoon where they slowly melt away due to warmer temperatures at lower altitudes. The size and shape of these icebergs vary, some are small and round, while others are large and jagged. The colours of the icebergs also vary depending on their age and how they broke. Some are brilliant blue while others are milky white. The surroundings are also awe-inspiring, with towering mountains on each side, huge hills of moraine remains and Iceland’s largest mountain as a backdrop. This location is also phantasmagorical, because of the number of floating icebergs, and is equally beautiful in good or bad weather.
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Accessibility
Located just beside route no 1, there are several roads that lead to parking lots for a panoramic view of the lagoon. The main parking lot is also by the main road. The tourist company that manages the lagoon has a working road that leads further inland towards the glacier itself and could be used to drive equipment with permission.
Services nearby
There are many hotels and lodgings options within 50 kilometers from this location. Nearest hospital is in Höfn, 80 kilometers away, where restaurants, shops and other services are plentiful.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
There are a few parking lots at this location. Also a few food trucks, basic facilities and tourist companies on site. Phone coverage is excellent.
Risk factors
Jökulsárlón is a very deep and extensive lagoon. The icebergs are large and can flip over without warning. The river that flows from the lagoon to the sea, a few hundred meters away, is a fast-flowing river.
Visitors
Jökulsárlón is a popular tourist destination on Iceland’s most travelled route, the south coast. There is a tourist company that offers boat trips around the lagoon.
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