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Dyrhólaey, Southern Iceland

 

Dyrhólaey is a small promontory providing fabulous views over the surrounding area. The one shown above is to the east, in the direction of the black beach of Reynisfjara.  

The following photo shows the view towards the west.

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You might just be able to make out the two arches in the rock face in the centre of the picture. The larger one (on the left) is what gives Dyrhólaey its name: it apparently translates as "hill island with the door hole".

The large monolith in the earlier shot is called Arnardrangur ("Eagle rock"). It draws its name from eagles nesting there, but they have not done so since the 1850s.

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Dyrhólaey is pretty exposed and I doubt whether there are many days without ferocious winds buffeting the visitor. After about twenty minutes we decided to return to the shelter of our car - and a short drive to Reynisfjara beach. The far end of the beach is known for its strange rock formations.  

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These hexagonal basalt columns—created by lava cooling and contracting rapidly when exposed to the air—are not unique to the Reynisfjara area, but it is one of the best (and easiest to reach) sites for viewing them.

The little church pictured below is just a short walk up from the beach.

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The small town of Vik is also close by and provides opportunities for replenishing the energies you have expended on exploring the local attractions. We thoroughly enjoyed an hour in the surprisingly warm July sunshine at one of the outdoor tables of the cafe below.

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