On the southern coast of Iceland, about six hours from Reykjavik, one of the most visited attractions is Breiðamerkursandur, or Diamond Beach, named after the glittering icebergs that reach it after separating from the Breiðamerkurjökull, the trail of ice which descends from the southern slope of the imposing Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in the country and third in the world after Greenland and Antarctica.
The numerous ice fragments of various sizes that settle on the shore create a stark contrast to the black volcanic sand and resemble small diamonds whose hues vary from brilliant white to deep blue to beautiful turquoise hues.
The black sand stretches for about 18 kilometers along the south coast, in particular from the slopes of the Kvíárjökull glacier to the famous Jökulsárlón lagoon, at the foot of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, and is one of the most evocative natural spectacles in Iceland.
Here the icebergs, thanks to the continuous action of the sea, are smoothed into the most disparate shapes and sizes until they become graceful gems and sculptures in the open air.
Breiðamerkursandur, a glacial plain in the municipality of Hornafjörður, is a favorite destination for photography and wild nature enthusiasts, a magical place out of time where you can meet seals and admire orcas diving into the waves.
The amazing colors of the ice fragments are perfect to be immortalized from the first light of dawn, in a landscape that is constantly changing, with truly special and equally fascinating views and shots appearing under the midnight sun for absolutely unique shots.
The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the amazing diamond beach stand out some 380 kilometers from the capital, and the drive along the Ring Road, road number 1, is at least five to six hours.
For this reason, those who venture here, especially in winter when the daylight hours are few, choose to stay overnight in the surroundings, in Hof which is an hour’s drive away or in Vik which is two hours away.
The beach is accessible all year round, has a car park and a café, and, during the winter season, can give the incredible thrill of the Northern Lights which reflect its bewitching colors on the blocks of ice.
Authentic Icelandic magic.
