As the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is known for its fascinating geological sites created by the extreme elements here on the island. Londrangar is one of these sites, shrouded in legend, and a beloved spot amongst avid bird watchers.

Want to know how all this can be true of just one place in Iceland? Then read on because we’ll tell you everything you need to know for a trip to Londrangar and what you can expect from a visit to this unique landmark.

A white car driving on a dirt road through a barren, mountainous landscape in Iceland under a partly cloudy sky.

What makes Londrangar So Special?

Londrangar are basalt cliffs lining the coast here in Iceland, remnants of the volcanic activity here on the island. What makes Londrangar stand out amongst the rest of the basalt cliffs on the island are the two giant peaks towering into the sky like the towers of a castle, hence the reason it is often referred to as the ‘rocky castle’.

Most visit Londrangar because of three reasons:

  1. They want to view and take a snapshot of this unusual sight. With the towers reaching 75 and 61 meters, respectively, this geological wonder feels like you’ve entered the location of a fantasy movie.
  2. They want to enjoy and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the Iceland landscape from the Londrangar viewpoint.
  3. They want to tick off a few bird species on their birdwatchers list. Londrangar is a favorite breeding ground for various bird species, and if you visit during the months of May to August, you’ll even get to see the famous Iceland Puffins.

Where is Londrangar in Iceland?

Londrangar can be found in one of the Icelandic regions in the west of the island, most known for its incredible beauty: the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. While Londrangar is not too far from the capital city (a 192-kilometer drive), most prefer to make it a stop along their road trip since the site is conveniently located along the famous Ring Road route.

Dramatic view of Londrangar cliffs in Iceland with rugged coastline, dark volcanic rocks, and turbulent blue-green ocean waves under a cloudy sky.

How to Get to Londrangar Cliffs

There are two ways for you to get to Londrangar Cliffs:

Take a Tour

You can book a spot on a tour that has Londrangar as a destination spot, or you can arrange for it to be on a customized private tour. You will find many tour operators and private guides who offer these services all around the island.

Drive Yourself

This is the best way to explore the island if you want to stay in complete control of your time and itinerary. Driving to Londrangar from Reykjavik will take you just 2 hours, and the directions are simple. Start driving in the direction of Mosfellsbær once you get on the Ring Road. Go through the Hvalfjördur Tunnel towards Borgarnes.

Turn off on Road 54 at Borgarnes and continue for another hour before turning left towards Arnarstapi. Continue for another 10 minutes or so, and you would’ve reached Londrangar.

The Myths & Folklore Surrounding Londrangar

You will find that the locals have a profound respect for Londrangar. This is because it is said that the ‘rocky castle’ and surroundings are home to our Hidden Folk or Elves. They are renowned for their retribution when people start messing about on their territory. So, to this day, you won’t find any agricultural activity here, and great care is shown during a visit.

Another legend surrounding Londrangar is about how the two towers came to be in the first place. It is believed that a troll couple loved sitting on the cliff, staring out over the ocean. But they made a fatal error and stayed up too late. As the sun rose and daylight touched their skin, they turned into stone.

Things to Do & See at Londrangar and Surrounds

Besides birdwatching and mythological creature spotting, you’ll find plenty of other things to do at Londrangar and its surroundings. These are just a few things you can add to your trip itinerary of the area:

  • Visit the seal colony at Ytri Tunga.
  • Explore Raudfeldsgja Gorge.
  • Go on a whale watching tour (from May to September, you might even spot some of our migratory whale species).
  • Visit Arnarstapi Village.
  • Check out Bjarnafoss Waterfall.
  • Explore Londrangar and the surrounding area on a horseback riding tour.

Beautiful coastal landscape in Iceland with a road leading to a white house, surrounded by green fields, rocky formations, and turquoise waters.

Londrangar: A Magical Ring Road Stop

With so much to see and do at Londrangar and the surrounding area, and the mythology surrounding the site, it’s no surprise that Londrangar is such a popular stop along a Ring Road road trip. So, rent a car in Iceland and head out on Route 1 to check out Londrangar for yourself.