Fjallsárlón is a pretty lagoon in the south east of Iceland. Like its larger neighbour Jökulsárlón, it’s formed by glacial processes, but the two places have a few differences that makes each unique. Let’s take a look at Fjallsárlón and find out why it is worth a visit.
The pictureseque setting of Fjallsárlón
Both glacial lagoons form part of Vatnajökull National Park and sit below glaciers. While Jökulsárlón is in the shadow of Breiðamerkurjökull, a different glacier rises behind Fjallsárlón called Fjallsjökull. Despite being an outlet glacier of Öræfajökull, it still measures around two kilometres across and covers almost the same distance down the valley.
Another landmark that forms the backdrop to Fjallsárlón is a triangular shaped mountain peak called Miðaftanstindur. Fjallsárlón is Iceland’s fourth deepest lake, but because the lagoon isn’t as large as Jökulsárlón, you see more clearly how these different features work together and the view is utterly breathtaking as a result.
How did Fjallsárlón form?
The Fjallsjökull glacier has been in a state of retreat for some time. Like all glaciers, the extent of the ice fluctuates according to the climate and other conditions. It seems likely that the maximum size of this particular glacier was seen in the 1870s, though it hasn’t been shrinking at a steady rate since then.
Earlier in its history when it was advancing, the glacier scraped away the valley to form a huge hollow. The water that now fills it comes from three separate sources. Two glaciers, Fjallsjökull and also Hrútárjökull, contribute some and a river on the east side of the lagoon called Breiðá keeps a smaller lagoon called Breiðárlón topped up, whose water then flows into Fjallsárlón.
This is why the lake Fjallsárlón has been able to form. Today, icebergs calve off this glacier. Huge chunks of ice crash or slide down into the water, where they float until the temperatures are high enough for the ice to melt. These pieces of ice vary considerably in size, shape and colour. Some look opaque and are streaked with grey and black, while others are a vibrant blue.
Aside from the view, why should you visit Fjallsárlón?
- Boat trips
There are a number of things you can do at Fjallsárlón and the most popular is to take a boat trip out onto the lagoon. Kitted out in weatherproof gear and lifejackets, you’ll set out onto the water as a group in a Zodiac, a type of rigid inflatable that is nimble enough to weave in and out of the icebergs and get close to the snout of the glacier where it meets the lake.
As you’re sitting quite low to the water, you’ll get a real sense of the scale of the glacier and feel the drama. Your guide will explain the processes that have combined to create the scene in which you’re now immersed, adding vital context that will enhance your understanding and elevate the experience.
- Glacier hikes
Having been this close to a glacier, you may also wish to get up onto its icy surface. It’s possible to do so at Fjallsárlón with a guided glacier hike. Typically, you’ll cover about five to seven kilometres on foot and mostly it’s not too steep, making this an enjoyable activity for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
You’ll be given specialist equipment such as crampons, helmet and harness. There’ll be a full safety briefing as glaciers are dynamic and potentially dangerous environments. Then after a ride up onto the glacier in a suitably capable vehicle, you’ll set out on an adventure which gives you the unmissable opportunity to witness the crevasses, ridges and other glacial landforms that make these tongues of ice such captivating places.
- Northern Lights
Though there are no guarantees, this winter promises to be a good one for seeing the aurora borealis as we approach what’s known as the solar maximum. To have a decent chance of sighting the Northern Lights, you need a dark location, clear skies and plenty of solar activity.
Light pollution makes seeing the Northern Lights tricky, so by coming to somewhere like Fjallsárlón, you improve your chances of seeing this incredible celestial phenomenon. It’s worth checking the forecasts before you set out, so you can stay abreast of how strong the Kp index is and where to expect breaks in the cloud.
What’s the best time of year to visit Fjallsárlón?
You can visit Fjallsárlón year-round. It’s a natural landscape and as such, never closes. However, many of the activities that you might enjoy at Fjallsárlón are seasonal. For instance, the water of the lagoon freezes over in winter so boat trips can’t take place; instead, come between April and November to get out onto the water.
Glacier hikes have a slightly shorter season; they take place between May and October. However if you’re keen to see the Northern Lights dance over Fjallsárlón you’ll want to plan your trip for between late August and the middle of April. Statistically, the time of the equinox in September and March is best, though you’ll still need to encounter fine weather and clear skies.
What wildlife can you expect to see in and around Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon?
Though glaciers are generally inhospitable environments, wildlife sightings are another reason to come here. You might be lucky enough to spot an Arctic fox, a species that has existed in Iceland for more than a thousand years. They are rare in these parts, but keep your eyes peeled as you never know who’ll be the fortunate ones to catch sight of these furry creatures. In the wider East Iceland area, reindeer herds also roam.
More commonly encountered are the harbour seals that swim lazily around the floating ice, hauling up onto sizeable icebergs whenever the fancy takes them. You’ll also see some of the birds that inhabit the area, perhaps a great skua – known for their aggression when protecting their young – or the barnacle geese that come here to nest.
How do you reach Fjallsárlón?
Fjallsárlón is located close to Iceland’s ring road, so access is very straightforward even for those who have rented a 2WD car. This beautiful lagoon is located in the south east of the country and the drive takes around five hours from Reykjavik or from Keflavik Airport. Though in theory it’s possible to drive there and back in a day, there’s so much to see along the way it wouldn’t be prudent to rush.
Fortunately, you can stay in nearby overnight accommodation, such as at Hotel Jökulsárlón. Our property is situated just a twenty minute drive east of Fjallsárlón, close enough for you to return for a second visit should you wish – such as to see the Northern Lights after dinner one evening, for example. Why not book your next stay with us?