Vestrahorn Beach

Vestrahorn, on the Stokksnes peninsula is one of those extremes of natural beauty that make Iceland such a fascinating destination. A wide, flat plain of volcanic black sand, backed by the still waters of a lagoon, suddenly rises up to the phenomenal heights of a series of jagged peaks of snow-capped gabbro rock. This is a photographer’s paradise and even if you are not familiar with the name you will probably have seen photos of this awe-inspiring location.

Just beyond the initial set of peaks is the so-called “Batman Mountain” - three towering peaks that somewhat resemble the logo of this particular super hero. This is not the beach’s only link to the film industry; just beyond the beach is the Viking village film set which remains from a 2009 film. The village contains a number of turf-roofed wooden huts, surrounded by a defensive wooden fence. It’s all very atmospheric and well worth a look.

Vestrahorn is also home to other abandoned reminders of the past. There is an old N.A.T.O. radar station, a little lighthouse and the remains of a wooden shipwreck.