Fjallsárlón is a smaller, quieter glacier lagoon about ten minutes west of Jökulsárlón. Here the glacier, Fjallsjökull, comes right down to the water, so you get a much closer look at the ice front itself.
It is a good stop if Jökulsárlón is busy, and many people prefer its wilder feel.
Getting there
Turn off Route 1 at the sign for Fjallsárlón, about 10 km west of Jökulsárlón. A short track leads to the car park and a café; the lagoon is a few minutes' walk.
When to go
All year. Boat tours to the glacier front run in the warmer months.
Good to know
- Combine it with Jökulsárlón on the same stop.
- The light on the ice is best early and late in the day.
- Stay on the shore; the lagoon edges can be soft.
Read more in the journal
- Iceland's Glaciers: Where to See, Walk and Explore
- Things to Do in Iceland: 29 Top Sights on One Map
- Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach: Visitor Guide
- Vatnajökull National Park: A First-Timer's Guide
- Fjallsárlón and Iceland's Other Glacier Lagoons
Drive times are approximate and depend on weather and road conditions. Check road.is and vedur.is before you set off.
