Vestrahorn and Stokksnes

Vestrahorn is a saw-toothed gabbro massif that rises to roughly 450 metres directly behind the Stokksnes headland, with almost nothing between the peaks and the sea. The ground in front of it is black volcanic sand blown into low dunes and tufted with pale grass, and at low tide a wet flat forms that mirrors the mountain when the wind drops. The land is privately owned and access is through a gate where a fee is collected; a replica turf-and-timber film set stands near the track and is included. It is a photographers' site above all, and the combination of dark rock, dunes and reflection has made it one of the most reproduced views in the country.

What you actually see

• The peaks - the gabbro ridge rising abruptly behind the beach.
• The black dunes - low sand hills tufted with grass in front of the mountain.
• The tidal flats - wet sand that mirrors the ridge at low tide in calm weather.
• The film set - a replica turf-and-timber village near the access track.

When to go

Any season. Winter brings snow on the ridge and a chance of northern lights over the peaks; summer gives long light and easier driving. Reflections need two things at once, low tide and no wind, which is not a common combination on this coast. Check the tide table before you pay at the gate.

Honest expectations

You pay to walk on a beach, which some visitors resent. Wind is relentless and blowing sand gets into cameras and eyes. Without the right tide and stillness the reflection everyone comes for simply is not there. The site is small and can feel crowded with tripods at sunrise and sunset.

Nearby

Hofn and the eastern edge of Vatnajokull are a short drive west.