South Coast Iceland hotels
Where to stay along Iceland's most popular road trip route, from Reykjavik to Vík and beyond.
Vík: the black-beach base
Vík í Mýrdal is the most popular overnight stop on the South Coast. It sits between Reynisfjara black sand beach, Dyrhólaey arch and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Hotels and guesthouses here fill up first in summer, so book well in advance.
Selfoss, Hella and Hvolsvöllur
These inland towns are convenient for the Golden Circle and the western South Coast waterfalls. They tend to offer better value than Vík and are only 30–60 minutes from Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. A good option if you want a single base for several days.
Skógar and Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Smaller villages east of Vík with limited but well-placed accommodation. Skógar is perfect for the Skógafoss waterfall and Fimmvörðuháls trailhead. Kirkjubæjarklaustur is a quiet base for exploring Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón on day trips.
South Coast hotel tips
- Book early: summer inventory along Route 1 disappears quickly.
- Stay two nights: one night rushes the main sights; two lets you reach Jökulsárlón.
- Check breakfast: many rural hotels include a generous Icelandic breakfast.
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Compare hotels in Vík, the South Coast and nearby destinations.