Rest Stops & Scenic Pull-Offs
Rest Stops & Scenic Parking
Whether you need a break or want to capture that perfect photo, Iceland’s official rest stops and scenic pull-offs offer safe places to pause your journey. These marked stops let you enjoy amazing views without hiking — ideal for road trips and spontaneous photo ops.
Dyrhólaey Viewpoint
Panoramic ocean views from this popular South Coast viewpoint. A short drive up gives you a perfect pull-off for photos, puffins, and sea arches.
Hvalfjörður Scenic Stop
Located along the beautiful fjord route just north of Reykjavík. Perfect for a peaceful break with picnic tables and great mountain views.
Fjallsárlón Glacier View
A quiet alternative to Jökulsárlón. Park and walk just a few steps for serene views of a glacier lagoon backed by icy peaks.
Tips for Scenic Stops & Pull-Offs
Scenic stops in Iceland can be stunning — but always prioritize safety and avoid stopping in random or dangerous places. Use these tips to make the most of your breaks.
- 🛑 Only stop where it's legal and marked — never on narrow shoulders or hills.
- 📷 Wind can be strong — hold car doors firmly and be cautious near cliffs.
- 🚾 Toilets are available at some larger rest areas but not all pull-offs.
- 🥪 Use picnic areas for lunch — leave no trace and respect nature.
Gýgjarfoss Rest Area
Located near Landmannalaugar, this peaceful stop offers views of a hidden waterfall in the Highlands — perfect for a quick break on remote routes.
Eldhraun Lava Field
Park in a small gravel bay to admire this surreal moss-covered lava field — formed by one of the largest eruptions in history.
Hvalnes Peninsula Pull-Off
One of Iceland’s most photogenic roadside stops with ocean cliffs, a lighthouse, and views of Vestrahorn Mountain in the distance.
Plan the Perfect Road Trip
Our premium Iceland map includes hand-picked rest stops, picnic areas, photo pull-offs, toilet stops, and roadside gems — so you can focus on the journey, not what you missed.
FAQ – Rest Stops & Scenic Parking 💬
Can I stop anywhere to take photos?
No — you should only pull over at safe, marked places. Iceland’s roads are narrow and stopping in random spots can be dangerous and illegal.
Are there toilets at rest stops?
Some large rest areas have public toilets, but many smaller ones and scenic pull-offs do not. Plan ahead, especially in remote regions.
Can I stay overnight at these spots?
Overnight parking or sleeping in your car is only allowed in designated camping areas. It is not permitted at normal rest stops or roadside pull-offs.
How do I find these stops?
Our interactive map marks all the top-rated and safe stops — perfect for planning your journey and finding scenic breaks along the Ring Road.
