Visiting Iceland is on many travelers’ bucketlists, with many visitors coming to explore the country’s volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches, and rugged coastlines. There is so much to see on this unique island.Iceland’s lighthouses are vital navigation aids with significant historical importance. They enhance maritime safety, crucial for the fishing industry. Established by the Danish Lighthouse Commission, these lighthouses not only improve navigation but also attract tourists with their mysterious charm.
In this article, we will explore the five best and most beautiful lighthouses in Iceland, the best times to visit them, and the ideal Hertz rental cars to make your trip as comfortable as possible.
Top Lighthouses to Visit in Iceland
While all Iceland lighthouses are one-of-a-kind, these five truly stand out among the rest:
1. Akranes Lighthouse: A Blend of History and Scenic Beauty
The Akranes Lighthouse is rather well-preserved, and it’s an important part of the history of the coastal town of Akranes. It was built in 1947 next to a smaller concrete lighthouse, which was built in 1918 (and is one of the oldest in the country), which has since been deactivated. It was added to the National Museum of Iceland’s collection and thus further confirmed as a historical monument.
Its picturesque surroundings offer an unmatched view out onto Faxaflói Bay, making it popular with people interested in photography or bird-watching. And it’s also a great place to spot whales in Iceland, especially in the summer. Besides its historical meaning, Akranes Lighthouse is frequently used for concerts and art exhibitions and serves as a meeting point for communities.
- Best time to visit: During summer, when temperatures are mild and daylight is considerably longer, meaning you have more time for excursions.
- Recommended car: A Hertz compact SUV is the best option for easy navigation to and around the small town of Akranes.
2. Dyrhólaey Lighthouse: Marking the Southernmost Point of Iceland
Sitting atop Dyrhólaey promontory, the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse features views of Iceland’s southernmost point and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach. Built in 1927 right next to the village of Vik, it has since become one of the most iconic landmarks, offering views of the surrounding South Coast of Iceland, glaciers, cliffs, and ocean. On clear days, you can see as far as Mýrdalsjökull Glacier!
Not to mention its iconic appearance. The name Dyrhólaey means “the hill island with the door hole,” and when you see the 120-meter-high stone arch right next to it, it’s easy to see why. This is also a great spot to spot Iceland puffins in summer.
- Best time to visit: Summer, when there are plenty of puffins and the skies are clear enough to see the stunning panoramic views.
- Recommended car: A Hertz 4×4 vehicle that provides you with safe travels along the sometimes rugged and variable roads of the South Coast.
3. Reykjanes Lighthouse: A Beacon on the Reykjanes Peninsula
Reykjanesviti was constructed in 1908 to replace an older lighthouse that had been destroyed in an earthquake. It is one of the oldest lighthouses currently in operation in Iceland, and the peninsula itself represents one of the most geothermally active areas in the world. Therefore, it combines two important areas of interest: natural wonders and maritime history. The surrounding landscape has a mix of lava fields and cliffs, making the area ideal for Iceland hiking and exploring.
The Reykjanes Lighthouse stands on the southwestern part of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Since it was constructed, it has maintained very important attachments to Iceland’s development process, especially since the peninsula was annexed to the country’s electrical grid in 1956. In winter, this lighthouse offers one of the best viewpoints of the Northern Lights in Iceland.
- Best time to visit: Winter months, as this is your best chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Recommended car: Hertz all-wheel drive vehicles are the best choice for tackling winter road conditions.
4. The Bright Orange Lighthouse of Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Bright Orange Lighthouse, known as Svörtuloft Lighthouse, is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. It was built in 1913 and sits at 19 feet tall on a dramatic cliff overlooking the ocean, providing stunning views of the surrounding volcanic coastline. The lighthouse’s bright orange color is a stark contrast with the natural black lava rock of the peninsula, making it a popular spot for photographers and travelers. From the lighthouse, you can also see a natural arc in the cliff, which is another aesthetic feature, and make sure to look out for the seabirds that live in the cliffs.
- Best time to visit: Summer, when the weather is mild, the days are long, and the roads are easily accessible.
- Recommended car: A Hertz 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to explore other parts of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula where gravel roads can be common.
5. Garður Old Lighthouse: One of Iceland’s Oldest Lighthouses
This lighthouse, built in 1897, was one of the first lighthouses in Iceland. It stands next to a newer lighthouse, built in the 1940s. The lighthouse is on the Reykjanes Peninsula, just a short drive from Reykjavik. Different to the other lighthouses around the country, this one isn’t very tall. It was built this way intentionally, as its low height meant the beam wouldn’t be blocked out by mist. Because it’s so close to the ocean, it was eventually deemed unsafe, which is why the new one was built. That said, it has now been structurally reinforced and operates as a small café/restaurant.
The Garður Old Lighthouse played a major role in guiding ships ashore when modern navigation technologies were not developed. To anyone interested in maritime history, this is something worth visiting..
- Best time to visit: This lighthouse is suitable year-round but particularly striking in the autumn months.
- Recommended car: A Hertz economy car is the best option for a quick day trip from Reykjavik.
How to Pick the Best Rental Car for Your Lighthouse Adventure
Choosing a proper rental car is very important when visiting Iceland lighthouses, so here’s what you need to pay attention to:
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rental Car
When choosing a rental car, it’s important to find the one that suits the specific needs of your trip. This includes the type of Iceland road conditions that you’ll encounter, as well as the season. For example, if you plan to drive to the Iceland highlands or through the countryside, an 4WD SUV is a good choice. It offers versatility and higher ground clearance for uneven terrain. In winter, a 4×4 vehicle is usually needed for a safe ride on icy or snowy roads. This is especially true in open areas or on isolated routes. Compact cars are very convenient and fuel-efficient. They are great for city trips or short drives on good roads. This makes driving through Reykjavik or any small town easier.
Hertz has a great collection of rental cars for your needs, from compact, city-friendly cars to strong SUVs and 4x4s.
Seasonal Considerations for Visiting Iceland’s Lighthouses
Because of the country’s ever-changing climate, there are some seasonal considerations you must take into account before visiting Iceland’s lighthouses. These include:
Visiting During the Summer Months
While most people connect Iceland with snow and winter sceneries, there are many advantages of visiting in summer. This includes longer daylight hours (including the midnight sun), milder weather, and more active wildlife. A few of the lighthouses from our list, such as Akranes and Dyrhólaey, are particularly beautiful in summer. Another good thing is that you can be more versatile when traveling during the summer months, as the weather is not as harsh and the roads are more accessible.
Winter Visits: Chasing the Northern Lights
Many travelers visit Iceland in winter to witness the Northern Lights and enjoy the snowy landscapes. However, winter travel demands preparation for unpredictable conditions like snow, ice, and strong winds, which can affect driving. Renting an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle from Hertz is essential for safety and stability on icy roads. AWD vehicles provide better traction, higher ground clearance for deep snow, and come equipped with winter tires for improved grip, ensuring a safer journey.
When traveling in winter, it’s crucial to choose a vehicle that can handle challenging conditions. AWD vehicles enhance confidence while driving on icy or snow-covered roads, especially in rural areas or scenic routes where roads may not be regularly cleared. Hertz’s AWD fleet features winter tires, offering better grip and control, which increases safety and allows drivers to fully enjoy Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Safe Driving Tips for Exploring Iceland’s Lighthouses
No matter the time of the year, here are some safety tips for driving to all of Iceland’s lighthouses:
Navigating Iceland’s Unique Road Conditions
Driving in Iceland can be particularly challenging because of the different and sometimes harsh road conditions. Most rural roads are gravel and may be slippery, requiring careful handling. There are many narrow bridges, some one-lane only, and drivers should be cautious when noticing oncoming traffic ahead.
The conditions in Iceland are also notoriously unpredictable, and they can change at any given moment due to rain, snow, or strong winds. Often, you can run into a fog or even a snowstorm without any warning. This might raise risks while driving, especially on remote or highland routes. This is why it’s mandatory to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and to choose the right vehicle.
A 4×4 or an all-wheel drive vehicle from Hertz is a great option for numerous reasons. These vehicles have better traction and stability on gravel roads and can handle snow and ice much more easily compared to regular cars. They also have higher ground clearance, allowing one to drive over uneven terrain and shallow rivers that one might come across using some of the less-traveled routes in Iceland.
Preparing for Remote Lighthouse Visits
When visiting remote lighthouses, there are some safety precautions you should take. These include:
- Checking weather forecasts via vedur.is ahead of time. This can help you stay prepared.
- Bringing necessary supplies, as well as extra water and snacks.
- Inform a friend or a family member about where you’re going and stay connected with them, especially when exploring off-the-beaten-path locations. This way, someone else knows where you are just in case something happens.
Explore Iceland Lighthouses
Iceland’s lighthouses are an integral part of Iceland’s history as an island and fishing hub as it was primarily accessed by boat until the mid-30th century. These lighthouses were essential for the safety of sea vessels, and they still remain an important part of Iceland’s maritime safety system today. Plus, they are beautiful to look at, each with unique architecture and features.
For safe exploration and travel, you need a proper rental car, and Hertz Iceland can provide you with just that. Their reliable vehicles help travelers enjoy a comfortable trip. From small cars to 4x4s, Hertz has something for every location. Book your rental car online and in advance with Hertz, and get ready to start your Iceland journey.
