5 Best Sights in Eyrarbakki, Reykjanes Peninsula and the South Coast (with the Golden Circle)

At 1,360 meters (4,462 feet) the Lava Tunnel is the fourth-longest lava cave discovered in Iceland. The cave is remarkably spacious—from 10 to 30 meters (33 to 98½ feet) wide and up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall—making it quite easy and accessible for most people. Walking along the lava's 5,200-year-old path is a humbling experience in itself, and the views of the geological formations and spectacular colors are extraordinary. In winter, big crystal-like ice sculptures form inside the cave entrance. The standard Lava Tunnel tour takes about an hour.

In the late 1800s, Húsið, owned by Danish merchants, was the grandest home in Iceland, housing European art and other luxuries when most Icelanders still lived in turf houses. Now, along with several surrounding buildings, it forms this Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of relics and striking vintage photography.

“The miracle church,” as it often called by locals, was built in the 12th century. The southern coast of Iceland is known for its severe weather, rough coast, and hidden reefs. Legend has it that a group of sailors were negotiating with God while trying to get back to harbor in a bad storm and promised to build a new church wherever the ship landed. Suddenly a light appeared in the sky and guided the sailors to shore. The sailors kept their promise, and the bay nearby was named Engilsvík (Angel’s Bay). Since then, Icelanders have donated to Strandarkirkja when their family is going through rough times in hopes that their prayers will be answered.

The pleasant folk museum, in an older gentry house, has interesting exhibits. Its surrounding turf walls were the most effective means of shelter from stiff onshore breezes.

The maritime museum displays fishing artifacts from the 19th century. There are photographs, a baiting hut from 1925, and a 12-oared fishing boat. Nearby tidal marshes are a bird-watcher's wonderland.