Self-Drive Adventures to Iceland’s Remote Lighthouses

Iceland is a land of contrasts: fire and ice, mountains and oceans, wild landscapes and quiet corners where nature meets history. One of the most fascinating ways to explore the island is by visiting its remote lighthouses — coastal beacons that have guided sailors for centuries. Many are perched on rugged cliffs, standing as sentinels against the North Atlantic’s power, and each has a story to tell.

For adventurous travellers, a self-drive road trip to Iceland’s lighthouses offers something special. You’ll combine scenic drives with cultural heritage, discover places far from the main tourist trails, and enjoy the freedom to linger as long as you like.

With Höldur’s nationwide network — including convenient pick-up at Reykjavík city centre and directly in the Arrivals Hall at Keflavík International Airport — you can plan your lighthouse journey with confidence, knowing reliable service is never far away.

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Why Explore Iceland’s Lighthouses on a Self-Drive?

• Freedom: Lighthouses are often in remote coastal locations, where public transport doesn’t reach. A rental car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

• Scenery: The drives to lighthouses often pass black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and windswept plains.

• Heritage: Each lighthouse reflects Iceland’s maritime history, from fishing communities to global shipping routes.

• Photography: From sunrise over the ocean to stormy Atlantic skies, lighthouses are among the most photogenic spots in Iceland.

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Iceland’s Most Remarkable Lighthouses

Here are some of the most scenic and historically important lighthouses to include in your self-drive itinerary:

Grótta Lighthouse (Seltjarnarnes, near Reykjavík)

Just a short drive from central Reykjavík, Grótta lighthouse sits on a small island connected by a causeway accessible at low tide. It’s a local favourite for watching sunsets and, in winter, the northern lights.

• Drive time: 10 minutes from downtown Reykjavík.

• Tip: Check tide times before visiting; the causeway is impassable at high tide.

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Reykjanesviti Lighthouse (Reykjanes Peninsula)

The oldest lighthouse in Iceland, Reykjanesviti dates back to 1878 (rebuilt in 1908). Perched above crashing waves and surrounded by geothermal activity, it’s a dramatic introduction to Iceland’s coast.

• Drive time: 30 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.

• Tip: Combine with the nearby Bridge Between Continents and Gunnuhver hot springs.

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Garðskagi Lighthouses (Southwest Iceland)

At Garðskagi point, north of Keflavík, you’ll find two lighthouses: the taller, modern beacon and the older, charming red-and-white striped tower. The area is rich in birdlife and offers panoramic sea views.

• Drive time: 15 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.

• Tip: Ideal first or last stop on a trip, due to its proximity to the airport.

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Dyrhólaey Lighthouse (South Coast)

Overlooking the black sand beaches of Vík, Dyrhólaey lighthouse commands one of the most breathtaking views in Iceland. From here, you’ll see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, endless Atlantic waves, and puffin colonies in summer.

• Drive time: 2.5 hours from Reykjavík.

• Tip: The road up to the lighthouse is steep; a 4x4 is recommended, especially in winter.

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Látrabjarg Lighthouse (Westfjords, Iceland)

Built in 1910, Látrabjarg Lighthouse is a striking landmark perched on the cliffs of the Westfjords. Its location offers dramatic views over the North Atlantic and is a prime spot for birdwatching, including puffins.

• Drive time: Approximately 6–7 hours from Reykjavík (best visited as part of a Westfjords trip).
• Tip: Perfect stop to combine with a visit to the Látrabjarg cliffs for a quieter, scenic lighthouse experience.

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Knarrarós Lighthouse (West Iceland)

One of the few Icelandic lighthouses you can enter, Knarrarós Lighthouse has an exhibition space and sometimes hosts concerts. The views from the tower stretch across Faxaflói Bay toward Reykjavík.

• Drive time: 45 minutes from Reykjavík.
• Tip: Perfect half-day trip from Reykjavík, combined with the scenic Hvalfjörður fjord.

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Hvalsnesviti Lighthouse (Reykjanes Peninsula)

Standing tall on the rugged Reykjanes coastline, Hvalsnesviti lighthouse was built in 1956 and remains one of the most striking beacons in Southwest Iceland. Its bright orange tower contrasts beautifully with the surrounding black lava fields and crashing Atlantic waves. Located just east of Keflavík International Airport, it’s an easy stop for travellers starting or ending their journey.

• Drive time: 15 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.

• Tip: Combine with visits to nearby Garðskagi or Reykjanesviti for a full day of lighthouse exploration.

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Planning Your Lighthouse Road Trip

Vehicle Choice

• For lighthouses near Reykjavík or Keflavík, a compact car is sufficient.

• For South Coast or Westfjords journeys, especially in winter, a 4x4 rental from Höldur provides extra security.

Driving Tips

• Check conditions: Roads near lighthouses can be gravel or steep. Always check umferdin.is before driving.

• Pack for the coast: Weather can be windy and wet. Bring waterproof layers and sturdy shoes.

• Respect safety zones: Some lighthouses sit on cliffs — stay behind barriers and respect signage.

Where to Start

• Keflavík International Airport (Arrivals Hall): Perfect for picking up your rental and starting a Reykjanes or South Coast lighthouse tour right away.

• Reykjavík city centre: Ideal for short day trips to Grótta or Knarrarós, or for beginning longer itineraries.

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Höldur: Your Trusted Travel Companion

With Höldur - Europcar Car Rental, exploring Iceland’s remote lighthouses is simple and stress-free. Here’s why:

• Nationwide service: Branches across Iceland, with premium locations in Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport Arrivals Hall.

• Reliable fleet: From city-friendly compacts to rugged 4x4s.

• Studded winter tyres: Standard in winter, ensuring safety on icy coastal roads.

• Eco-conscious travel: Optional carbon offset add-on through Kolviður – the Iceland Carbon Fund.

• Decades of experience: Serving travellers since 1966, combining local knowledge with Europcar’s global standards.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets at Grótta or venturing deep into the Westfjords, Höldur is with you every mile of the way.

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FAQs: Self-Drive Lighthouse Adventures

Are Iceland’s lighthouses open to the public?

Most are exterior visits only, though Knarrarós lighthouse allows entry. Always respect closures or safety signs.

Do I need a 4x4 to visit lighthouses?

Not for those near Reykjavík or Keflavík. For remote lighthouses, especially in the Westfjords or South Coast high cliffs, a 4x4 is recommended.

Can I hire a car directly at Keflavík Airport?

Yes. Höldur offers car hire in the Arrivals Hall at Keflavík International Airport, so you can start your lighthouse trip as soon as you land.

How many lighthouses are in Iceland?

There are over 100 lighthouses and beacons across the country, though only a handful are easily accessible.

When is the best time to visit Iceland’s lighthouses?

They’re accessible year-round, but summer offers easier driving, while winter provides dramatic scenery.

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Final Thoughts

Iceland’s lighthouses are more than navigational aids — they are cultural landmarks, guardians of the coast, and windows into the island’s maritime history. Exploring them by car means experiencing some of the country’s most dramatic coastlines, far from the crowds.

Whether you’re planning a short detour to Garðskagi after landing at Keflavík Airport, or a multi-day Westfjords adventure from Reykjavík, a self-drive trip with Höldur Car Hire makes it possible. With reliable vehicles, nationwide support, and premium locations in Reykjavík and Keflavík, your lighthouse journey will be as smooth as it is inspiring.

Your Icelandic adventure starts with Höldur — let the beacons guide your way.

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