Iceland is a highlight in itself with its spectacular northern lights, spraying geysers and mysterious volcanoes. But another mystical experience awaits in the southeast of the island: Diamond Beach. And it is fascinating, just as you would imagine it to be. Icebergs that resemble glittering diamonds make sure of that.

How a black volcanic beach becomes a worldwide highlight

Iceland has countless glaciers and volcanoes. Both natural wonders combined, result in one of the most spectacular phenomena in the world. Because right next to the famous Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, about 327 km from Reykjavík, stretches a pitch-black volcanic beach on which numerous crystal-clear ice chunks gather.

The small icebergs are washed up by the waves and take on a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Everything can be found from small diamond-like pieces to large sculptures during a walk on the beach at Diamond Beach. Because the ice has a lot of contact with moving water, the surfaces are polished smooth, enhancing the diamond effect. The ice pieces come from the glacier tongue of Breiðamerkurjökull, a small spur of the large Vatnajökull, which extends over a large part of southeast Iceland. It can take several years from the time the ice breaks off until it drifts onto the beach.

An ever-changing beach

Another highlight of Diamond Beach is the fact that it never looks the same. Not even if you visit it several times a day. This is due to the ice sculptures that melt and wash up again in the meantime.

By the way: Diamond Beach is an important habitat for Icelandic birds such as the Arctic tern as well as great skuas and is therefore considered a nature reserve.

The best time to travel

Since the winter days in Iceland can often be very short, it is recommended to visit the diamond beach in the lighter months, such as spring or summer - especially when the sun is rising or setting. The sunlight bathes the ice blocks in a mystical light and you will experience unforgettable moments! As the beach is located five hours away from the capital and six hours from the airport, it is better to plan two or more days at this end of the island. This way, one can also comfortably and stress-free participate in a guided tour and not risk getting lost.

If you still want to visit this magical place in winter, you have the chance to see the fascinating northern lights in the sky. Due to the cold and the rough sea, the washed-up pieces of ice can also sometimes take on size of more than two meters.