The dramatic 'Batman Mountain' on the Stokksnes peninsula. A photographer's dream with black sand dunes, perfect reflections, and a Viking film set.
Story & Legend
Often called the 'Batman Mountain' due to its jagged peaks, Vestrahorn is one of the most dramatic sites in Iceland. Located on the Stokksnes peninsula, this area was one of the first settlement sites in the country (settled by Hrollaugur, son of Rognvaldur). Today, it is famous for the 'Viking Village' film set built for a movie that was never made, which you can explore. To get the famous reflection shot in the wet sand, try to visit during a receding mid-tide. If the tide is too high, the beach is covered; too low, and the water is too far out.
Geology & Science
Unlike most of Iceland which is made of basalt, Vestrahorn is made of Gabbro and Granophyre rock. This magma cooled slowly deep underground (plutonic rock) around 8-10 million years ago and was later pushed up by tectonic forces. The black sand dunes at its base are constantly reshaped by the harsh Atlantic winds.
Safety
This is private land. You must pay an entrance fee at the Viking Café to drive down to the dunes and lighthouse. Respect the signs. The beach can be treacherous; never turn your back on the ocean as sneaker waves can occur. The area is very exposed to wind.
Photo Tip
This is a photographer's playground. The classic shot involves getting low on the black sand beach to capture the mountain's reflection in the wet sand left by the receding tide. The grassy dunes also make for excellent foreground interest. It is also one of the best spots in Iceland to photograph the Aurora Borealis.
Insider Tip
After passing the Viking cafe, drive all the way to the end of the road near the radar station. From there, walk into the black sand dunes covered in green grass for the iconic framing of the mountain.
Best Time to Visit
Low tide on a calm day. The receding water leaves a thin layer over the black sand, creating a perfect mirror reflection of the mountain peaks.
What to Bring
Rubber boots or high waterproof shoes if you plan to walk onto the wet sand for reflection photos. The wind here is notoriously brutal, so a buff and windbreaker are essential.
