Selvogur Coast

Selvogur is a sparsely populated coastal district on Iceland’s southern coast, east of the Reykjanes Peninsula and west of Þorlákshöfn. The shoreline here is wide and windswept, backed by low lava heath, and centred on the remarkable Strandarkirkja — a small white church that sailors guided by a vision supposedly built as an offering after surviving a storm.

The coast attracts birdwatchers, particularly in spring and autumn when waders and shorebirds congregate along the tide-line. The wide dark beach is uncrowded and offers an authentic glimpse of Iceland’s quieter south.

Selvogur is reached via Route 38 south from the Ring Road. The church and coast are freely accessible; a small donation box for church upkeep is located at the entrance.