Vik (Iceland)

Fewer than 200 km from the capital, Vík is often the first stopping place on a holiday along the southern coast of Iceland. The village has a beautiful church with white walls and a red roof. Situated at the summit of a hill, it can serve as a destination for a beautiful stroll, and I like to admire the view it provides of the surroundings. But Vík's essence is, above all, its huge beach of black sand with its famous stacks in the distance that seem as though they were planted in the sea. The legend says that two trolls were surprised by the first rays of sunlight and were thus frozen to the spot... 

I always take the time to go for a long walk along the beach, and I don't neglect to pass by the sculpture by Steinunn Thorarinsdottir. This sculpture, which leans forward as though impelled, is reminiscent of the sculptures in Reykjavik, a harmonious fusion of art and nature. I advise you to be there at sunset—magnificent photos are guaranteed. 

Finally, if you have enough time, it is best to stay here for at least two nights: the accommodation is high quality and there are several options. Then you will have time to visit the surrounding natural sites, such as Reynisdrangar, Reynisfjara and Dyrholaey, each of which offers the opportunity of magnificent strolls between beach and cliffs. In summer, these cliffs are home to hundreds of puffins who go there to nest: not to be missed!