Dyrholaey Photography Guide
Dyrhólaey (Icelandic for door hill island, formerly known by seamen as Cape Portland) is a picturesque promontory located on the south coast of Iceland, known for its dramatic cliffs, black sand beaches, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The peninsula has an elevation of 120 meters and the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse sits at the top of the formation facing the sea.
Getting There
Dyrhólaey is located about 190 kilometers southeast of Reykjavik. You can get there by car in about 2.5 hours, or by bus from Reykjavik. If you are driving, take the Ring Road (Route 1) east from Reykjavik and turn off onto Route 218 at Hvolsvöllur, which will take you directly to the promontory.
Travel Information
Dyrhólaey is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer months. The area is also subject to strong winds and changing weather conditions, so be sure to bring warm and waterproof clothing, as well as sturdy shoes or boots. Additionally, it's important to be respectful of the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles, which include packing out all your trash and not disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
Photography Locations
Dyrhólaey Arch: This natural arch is a striking feature of the promontory, with the ocean crashing against the rocks below. The arch makes for a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach: This iconic beach is located just east of Dyrhólaey and features striking black sand, basalt columns, and sea stacks. The beach is a great spot for landscape photography and long exposures.
Dyrhólaey Lighthouse: The lighthouse, which dates back to 1910, is perched atop the promontory and offers panoramic views of the coastline. The area around the lighthouse is a great spot for capturing sweeping vistas and dramatic seascapes.
Dyrhólaey Cliffs: The cliffs along the promontory offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sea birds soaring overhead. The cliffs are a great spot for capturing dramatic landscapes and wildlife photography.
In the summertime, many Atlantic puffins can be found nesting on the cliff faces of Dyrhólaey.