Where to stay in Vík while exploring the south of Iceland? This small village on the southern coast boasts several unique Iceland attractions that should not be missed on your Iceland itinerary. Moreover, it is centrally located near many other highlights of southern Iceland. However, finding truly exceptional places to stay amidst the wide range of options can be a challenge. Both within the village itself and just outside of it, there are many beautiful hotels and unique accommodations to choose from. In this blog post, we will help you find them. What are the best places to stay in Vík? And which unique accommodations and hotels in Vík are highly recommended?
Booking.comHow to get to Vík in Iceland
Vik, also known as Vík í Mýrdal meaning “bay in the marsh valley”, is a renowned location in southern Iceland and is the southernmost point of the country. Despite its small population, this village serves as a well-known base for exploring numerous attractions in the area. The most significant landmarks in Iceland are mainly situated in the southern region of the island.
Located on the Ring Road and the southern coast of Iceland, Vik is a convenient stop for travelers exploring the south and driving the Ring Road. The village is 190 kilometers from Reykjavik, which takes approximately 2.5 hours to drive. The nearest international airport is in Kevlakvik, approximately a 3-hour drive away. One of the easternmost attractions in the south is the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, which can be reached in about 2.5 hours from Vik.
Why Vik is worth visiting
Vik is a charming village with a picturesque red and white church on a green hill, and is an essential destination in Iceland due to the nearby famous attractions. Popular sights such as Iceland’s glaciers, Black Sand Beaches, and an abandoned airplane wreck are all close to Vik. As a base, Vik is ideal for exploring southern Iceland. Additionally, the village itself offers beautiful places to visit.
Read more: 10 best things to do in Vik
Vik is characterized by its photogenic white and red church situated on a hill adjacent to the village. The church, known as Víkurkirkja, is one of Vik’s icons. Even more famous are the unique Black Sand Beaches near the village. Vik Black Sand Beach is located directly next to the village, while Reynisfjara Black Beach is a little further away, and is one of the most stunning attractions in southern Iceland. Adjacent to this beach are the almost otherworldly basalt cliffs with sharp black rocks that protrude from the ground like organ pipes. Additionally, you have a beautiful view of the spectacularly shaped Reynisdrangar rock formations in the sea, as well as the prominent Dyrhólaey rock arch. Near the rock arch, you will find the Dyrhólaey Lighthouse, a prime location for spotting puffins in the spring. Further on, you can visit Sólheimasandur, which is mainly known for the unique airplane wreck that has been situated there since the 1970s. You can hike to the wreck from Vik.
Vik is not just any town; it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring extraordinary destinations in southern Iceland. The Katla Ice Cave is located beneath the Kötlujökull glacier, which is conveniently close to Vik and is open for tours. Additionally, other glaciers, a glacier lake, waterfalls, and more can be reached by car from Vik.
Unique places to stay in Vik
The village of Vík í Mýrdal is a small community consisting of only a few streets. Apart from the notable church, there are also a supermarket, petrol station, tour companies, and many hotels and hostels. Vík has excellent public transportation connections, but since most visitors travel around Iceland by rental car, we suggest considering the unique accommodations located outside of Vík. The rugged landscape surrounding Vik boasts stunning hotels and cabins with the most beautiful views.
Where to stay in Vik
#1 Hótel Kría for a modern wooden hotel with stunning mountain views surrounding Vik. The black sand beaches are just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. Praised for its stylish decor, beautiful location, and delicious restaurant serving Icelandic specialties, the reviews are outstanding.
#2 Vik Cottages for charming cottages with stylish, contemporary decor nestled in the lush green hills adjacent to Vik. These cozy cottages are situated less than 500 meters from the black sand beach and have garnered rave reviews from guests.
#3 Black Beach Suites for a stay at one of the highest-rated accommodations in Vik. This hotel is praised for its beautiful location, breathtaking views, and charming rooms and cottages. With large windows in both the rooms and cottages, you can see the Northern Lights and enjoy a spectacular view of the surroundings and the sea. The impressive Dyrholæy cliff is visible from Black Beach Suites and the black beach is within walking distance.
#4 Hotel Vík í Mýrdal for a modern hotel just 400 meters from the black sand beach, offering a fitness center, bar, and restaurant. The spacious and comfortable rooms are tastefully furnished with modern decor, in addition to the convenience of a delicious breakfast and practical location, making this an ideal sleeping arrangement to explore Vik and its surroundings.
#5 Puffin Hostel for a popular hostel in Vik offering simple private rooms with shared bathrooms. Housed in a historic building in Vik, it’s only a 10-minute walk from the famous black beach. While Puffin Hostel may not be the ideal choice for a unique or luxurious stay, it is one of the most budget-friendly accommodations in the village.
#6 Vik Apartments for apartments with a breathtaking ocean view. They come equipped with a full kitchen, allowing guests to save money on Iceland’s notoriously expensive restaurants. Vik Apartments boasts high ratings due to its stylish decor, central location, beautiful surroundings, and comfortable accommodations.
Where to stay near Vik
#7 Farmhouse Lodge for stunning lodging at The Lodge, featuring the newly renovated guesthouse Cowhouse, and luxurious Glamping accommodations for two to four people. This exceptional sleeping destination is situated in a secluded location within an old farm, where the Northern Lights can be witnessed on clear nights.
#8 The Barn for a comfortable and cool hostel located just 7 kilometers from Vík, nestled between the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the southern coast of Iceland. Choose from private rooms with shared bathrooms or dormitories. The guests rave about the stunning decor, picturesque location, chance to witness the northern lights, and welcoming staff.
#9 Mid Hvoll Cottages for cute wooden cottages are located 2 kilometers from Vik. Each cottage comes with a well-equipped kitchenette and a terrace boasting views of the sea and mountains. The cottages feature simple decor that blends harmoniously with the vast landscape.
#10 Hotel Katla for a comfortable hotel with spacious rooms just 5 kilometers east of Vik. Guests have complimentary access to the outdoor hot tub, sauna, and fitness center. The hotel boasts rave reviews for its delicious cuisine, beautiful rooms, friendly staff, and hot tub and sauna amenities.
#11 Hrifunes Guesthouse for small guesthouse situated in a remote location with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It has received excellent reviews from its guests. They commend the delicious food served in the restaurant, the cozy atmosphere, the peaceful location, and the opportunity to witness the northern lights.
#12 Hótel Dyrhólaey for a cozy hotel boasting breathtaking views of the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the Atlantic Ocean. From the hotel, embark on a leisurely stroll to the Dyrhólaey promontory where you can observe puffins and marvel at the dramatic panoramas of Vík’s black beaches.