Your guide to Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland
If you're exploring Iceland's stunning South Coast, Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is an absolute must-see. This glacial lagoon sits at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park, where icebergs calve from the Fjallsjökull outlet glacier and drift peacefully across the water.
What makes Fjallsárlón special is its intimate atmosphere. While its famous neighbor Jökulsárlón attracts huge crowds, Fjallsárlón offers a more peaceful experience. The lagoon is filled with stunning icebergs in shades of electric blue, crystal white, and grey-streaked ice – remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions trapped in the glacier.
The lagoon formed as Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, retreated over the decades. Today, massive chunks of ice regularly break away from Fjallsjökull glacier, creating a constantly changing landscape of floating ice sculptures. Each iceberg is unique, shaped by time and the forces of nature.
When visiting, keep your eyes peeled for seals bobbing playfully in the water. During summer months, you might also spot Great Skua seabirds nesting near the shore – though be warned, these protective parents are known to dive-bomb visitors who get too close to their eggs!
Fjallsárlón is perfect for boat tours on small zodiac vessels, giving you an up-close view of the icebergs and the towering glacier face. The tours are intimate, with small group sizes ensuring a personal experience. Some operators even let you taste ancient glacial ice!
Why not also visit the nearby Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon? Both are just a short drive away and make for an unforgettable day exploring Iceland's glacial wonders.
How to get to Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Fjallsárlón is conveniently located just off the Ring Road (Route 1) on Iceland's South Coast. The lagoon is approximately 370 km (230 miles) from Reykjavik – about a 4.5-hour drive heading east along the coast.
From Reykjavik, follow Route 1 counterclockwise around Iceland. You'll pass through stunning South Coast landmarks before reaching Fjallsárlón. The lagoon sits roughly 47 km (29 miles) east of Skaftafell Nature Reserve and about 10 km (6 miles) west of the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Look for the well-marked turnoff from Route 1. There are parking areas near the lagoon – some require a small parking fee via the Parka app, while others are free. The main visitor area includes a restaurant, restrooms (small fee), and tour operators offering boat excursions.
