Best elopement locations in Iceland.
The ultimate guide

A comprehensive overview of Iceland’s regions to help you find the one that feels perfectly yours

Hello, friends! Daria here.

Today I’m tackling a topic that has been discussed to death across the world wide web – choosing a perfect location for your elopement in Iceland. First of all, let me just say, HECK YES! You’re about to embark on one of the most epic adventures of your life. But before you start packing your bags, hear me out for a second. If you’ve done a quick search already, you’ve probably seen the same list pop up over and over again. Seljalandsfoss, Reynisfjara, Skógafoss.. *rolls eyes*. Don’t get me wrong, these places are stunning – but they’re also full of people, campers, selfie sticks and big tour buses. Not exactly the intimate, magical vibe you’re dreaming of for your elopement, am I right?
That’s where this guide comes in. Instead of listing the same overused (and overcrowded) locations that have been instagrammed to oblivion, I’m going to give you an insider’s look at Iceland’s regions – each with its own vibe, quirks and unique landscapes. By the end of reading this opus, you’ll have a solid idea of which part of Iceland feels like your love story, and it will be much easier to figure out the rest.

Are you ready?

The South

A classic itinerary
for those who want to see the most iconic locations of Iceland
without venturing too far from the capital

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 2-3 hours
Suitable for: mini, half day and full day elopements
Type of landscapes: waterfalls, black sand beaches, mountains, cliffs, caves, glacier, ice caves, geothermal pools

I’ll be honest, the south is the most visited region of Iceland but for a very good reason: it’s absolutely stunning, and I guarantee, a lot of images hashtagged iceland that you see online have been taken somewhere around this area. From numerous waterfalls to mountains and glaciers, to rugged coast and black sand beaches, the south has it all. Another major advantage? Many incredible locations are relatively close to each other, so you won’t waste precious time driving from place to place. That means more time for exploring, and actually enjoying your elopement instead of being stuck in a car.

The biggest downside? Yep, the crowds. The south is packed! But don’t worry, with a little strategic planning (midnight sun adventure, anyone?), avoiding the busiest times, or venturing just slightly off the beaten path, you can still have a magical and intimate elopement without a sea of tourists in the background.

Did you know? According to the local legend, the famous basalt sea stacks known as Reynisdrangar (first photo on the left) were once trolls attempting to drag a ship ashore. They were caught by the dawn’s sunlight and turned to stone, standing as eerie sentinels ever since.

Would you like to elope in the south of Iceland? see what’s possible by checking this Adventurous summer elopement with a pagan ceremony

South East

A little further, a little wilder,
for those who don’t mind a longer drive
and prefer less people around

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 4-6 hours
Suitable for: half day and full day elopements
Type of landscapes: waterfalls, black sand beaches, mountains, canyons, glaciers, ice caves, glacial lagoons

We’ve noticed, South-East Iceland has been gaining traction in recent years. But, while some iconic spots, like Jökulsárlón, can get pretty packed with tourists, a lot of the area still feels quieter and more remote. Thanks to the giant Vatnajökull glacier, you’ll see numerous glacier tongues stretching toward the Ring Road – a lot of them can be enjoyed up close. And because of this massive ice cap, south east is home to some of the most incredible ice caves in Iceland – visiting one is definitely a very special, one-of-a-kind experience.
Beyond the ice, you’ll find beautiful waterfalls, never-ending black sand beaches, and lush green canyons, perfect for a longer hike – if that’s your thing!

Disadvantages? Well, you’ll need to drive further and stay a couple of nights in the area. Accommodation here tends to be pricier compared to the south or near the capital, so budget accordingly. Plus, locations are more spread out, meaning more time on the road between spots. That’s why we think shorter elopements are a no-go here – you simply won’t have enough time to explore the area properly.

Did you know? Vatnajökull glacier is the largest glacier in Iceland, and the second largest in Europe! In fact, it’s so enormous that it has mountains hidden inside it. Some peaks, like Hvannadalshnúkur (Iceland’s highest point), poke through the ice, making it look like something out of a fantasy movie.

Thinking about eloping in the south east of Iceland? Then you must see this Playful summer elopement in the south east

The Highlands

A region of extremes
untamed, hard to access and utterly breathtaking,
for those who seek true adventure

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 3-5 hours
Suitable for: full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, craters, lava fields, waterfalls, crater lakes, canyons, geothermal areas

Ahh, the Highlands! This area remains a mystery to many visitors simply because it’s completely desolate, with terrible roads and very little tourist infrastructure – heck, you probably won’t even have cell service for most of the time you’re there! And forget about driving a Yaris – conquering this region requires a solid 4×4 and a lot of adventurous spirit.
Granted, this otherworldly area is not for everyone, but I promise you will be rewarded greatly for your bravery – think ancient craters with lakes, colorful mountains, endless lava fields, and hidden waterfalls. The Highlands are particularly beloved by aerial photographers, and for a good reason! The landscapes from above are so unique and alien, you may forget which planet you’re actually on.

What’s not so exciting? Well, the roads. They are notoriously bad, lovingly called F-roads by the locals (side note, it’s not what you think – the F actually comes from the Icelandic word fjall which means mountain). You can expect rough terrain, rocks, potholes and river crossings, that’ll test both your driving skills and your nerves. And then there’s the weather – with the area being accessible late June through September only, summer doesn’t really reach the Highlands. Get ready for strong winds, lower temperatures, and possibly some snow!

Did you know? The Highlands are home to one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. The Laki eruption in 1783 lasted for eight months and covered over 500 km² in lava, causing a global climate shift. The resulting ash cloud led to famine across Europe and even weakened the monsoon season in India.
Also, some of the Highlands look so extraterrestrial, NASA actually used them to train astronauts. The Lunar-like lava fields of the region were where Apollo astronauts practiced moon landings before the real deal.

Did you fall in love with the Highlands already? check our Off the grid moody summer elopement in the Highlands

The Westfjords

Winding roads, towering mountains and deep fjords,
for those who want an adventure at the edge of the world

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 6-7 hours
Suitable for: full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, black / white / red sand beaches, cliffs, waterfalls, geothermal pools

It’s all in the name: the Westfjords is the remote region in the north-western Iceland, where dramatic fjords carve through staggering mountains, black (and red!) sand beaches stretch along the coastline, and one of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls can also be found here. I’ll admit, we’re completely biased when it comes to the Westfjords – we love this area and visit at least twice a year for our own ‘vacations.’
Geologically speaking, the Westfjords are one of the oldest parts of Iceland, and due to their remoteness, they remain sparsely populated, dotted with small fishing villages and the informal capital of the region, Ísafjörður. It’s hard to put into words just how breathtaking this region is – there’s nothing quite like following an old, forgotten road along a fjord, only to stumble upon a hidden valley or an abandoned farm with a view that stops you in your tracks. And since the Ring Road omits the Westfjords completely, you can be sure to enjoy all their beauty in solitude.

What’s not to like? Well, when I wrote remote, I meant remote. That said, you could jump on a short flight from Reykjavik to Ísafjörður, if you’re feeling too lazy to make the drive. And while the government has been working on improving the infrastructure, some roads are still in pretty rough shape, especially when you venture deep into the wild. But honestly? The few small inconveniences pale in comparison to what you gain from choosing this incredible region as your elopement destination.

Did you know? The Westfjords are home to Látrabjarg, the largest bird cliff in Europe and the westernmost point of Iceland. And there you’ll find the friendliest puffins in Iceland! Unlike their shyer cousins elsewhere, the puffins at Látrabjarg have no natural predators, so they’re totally unbothered by humans and will often waddle right up to visitors. In addition, the Westfjords are the only place in Iceland where Arctic foxes have full protection. Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is a fox paradise – completely uninhabited by humans and untouched since 1952, meaning the fluffy little tricksters roam freely without fear of hunters.

Want to know what it’s like to elope here? Check out our fav Intimate Midnight Sun Elopement in the Westfjords

Snæfellsnes

A perfect mix of everything,
For those who want all of Iceland’s beauty
in one breathtaking region

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 2-3 hours
Suitable for: half day and full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, waterfalls, black sand beaches, cliffs, glacier, lava fields

Snæfellsnes is often called “Iceland in miniature,” and it’s completely justified – this peninsula packs an incredible variety of landscapes into one compact region. Think dramatic cliffs, moss-covered lava fields, waterfalls, mountains and a glacier. In addition the famous black church of Búðir can also be found here – a perfect choice for a ceremony! Better yet, Snæfellsnes is only a few hours’ drive from Reykjavik, with decent roads and generally easier access than some of Iceland’s more remote areas. Exploring this region feels like a relaxed road trip – many locations are just a short walk from the car, making it perfect for couples who want epic scenery without a hardcore hike. To fully enjoy it, visiting both the northern and southern sides of the peninsula is a must – ideal for a full-day adventure!

Downsides? Honestly, I can’t think of any. While Snæfellsnes is definitely touristy, it’s not as crowded as the South Coast. The infrastructure is solid, and (this might be a sheer coincidence though) we always seem to catch the best weather there!

Did you know? The beach at Djúpalónssandur is home to four “lifting stones” of varying weights, historically used by fishermen to test their strength. To qualify for work on a fishing boat, a man had to lift at least the “Hálfdrættingur” stone, weighing 54 kilograms, onto a ledge at hip-height.
And the Snæfellsjökull glacier, perched atop a 700,000-year-old stratovolcano, is not only a stunning natural wonder but also the fictional entrance to the subterranean journey in Jules Verne’s classic novel, Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Wondering if Snæfellsnes is right for you? Take a look at this Búðir black church Elopement with Icelandic horses

Þórsmörk

Iceland’s hidden gem
a valley with dramatic mountains and crazy hikes,
For those who want an elopement straight out of a fantasy novel

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 2-3 hours
Suitable for: full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, waterfalls, glacier, caves, gorges, rivers

Technically, Þórsmörk is part of South Iceland, but it absolutely deserves its own introduction. This region is unlike any other, and you could easily spend a full day exploring its stunning landscapes. It’s no coincidence that several Game of Thrones scenes were filmed here – when I call it a fantasy novel setting, I’m not exaggerating. Only a couple of hours from Reykjavik, Þórsmörk is an incredibly tempting destination, but due to how difficult it is to reach, chances are you won’t see a lot of people around. In addition, this region is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from easy strolls to extreme climbs. Trust me, the views from those mountain tops are absolutely jaw-dropping.

Disadvantages? Well, let’s talk about the rivers. Þórsmörk is crisscrossed by glacial rivers that get progressively bigger and more treacherous the further in you go. Attempting them in a regular 4×4 on your own is not just a bad idea – it’s outright dangerous. Every year, cars get swept away, drowning in the powerful streams and leaving their owners with massive rental car fees and towing nightmares. To avoid all that stress (and a potential disaster), we highly recommend venturing into Þórsmörk in a super jeep with a seasoned guide (we obviously know a guy!). A super jeep drive is an adventure on it’s own – all you’ll have to do is relax in the back seat and enjoy the views.

Did you know? Þórsmörk is cradled between glaciers, with Mýrdalsjökull towering at the valley’s rear, and this creates a surprisingly mild microclimate, making it warmer than in the rest of the South Iceland. Thanks to this natural protection, the valley flourishes with lush greenery – moss-covered slopes, ferns, and pockets of birchwood, giving it an almost fairytale-like feel. And when autumn arrives, Þórsmörk transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of colors, making it one of the most beautiful places in Iceland to witness the changing seasons. Bonus? You are bound to see some Arctic foxes around!

Reykjanes

Active volcanic region
A moody, geothermal wonderland just a stone’s throw from Reykjavik
For those who want to add a bit of fire to their elopement day

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 30 minutes
Suitable for: mini and half day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, lakes, lava fields (old and new), sometimes active volcanoes, rugged coast, geothermal areas

Reykjanes has gotten a bit of a bad rep in recent years due to the frequent volcanic eruptions on the peninsula. But don’t let that scare you away from considering this stunning region for your elopement! Most of the area is perfectly safe to visit, and unless you’re planning to walk straight into the lava flow (or stay at the Blue Lagoon), you have nothing to worry about.
This is also an ideal option if you’re short on time or want to stay in Reykjavik – getting here takes just under 40 minutes. And while the volcanoes may steal the spotlight (not always accessible, by the way), the region offers so much more – gorgeous mountains, shimmering lakes, rugged coastline, colorful cliffs, and some of Iceland’s most enchanting geothermal areas (side note: prepare to smell like sulfur for a while after visiting!)

The less exciting news? Well, there are no waterfalls on Reykjanes. So if this is something you absolutely need to have on your special day, you’re out of luck here. Otherwise, it’s a great alternative to more remote areas – the roads are in decent condition, the landscapes are diverse, tourists are scarce, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to exchange vows with an erupting volcano in the background!

Did you know? The geothermal area of Gunnuhver on the Reykjanes Peninsula is named after a ghostly legend. According to the tale, a woman named Gunna lived in the area about 400 years ago. After a dispute over a cooking pot with a local lawyer, she died under mysterious circumstances. Following her death, the lawyer was found dead, and the community believed Gunna’s restless spirit was responsible. A priest named Eiríkur devised a plan to trap her ghost by luring it into a hot spring with a ball of yarn. The plan succeeded, and the area has since been known as Gunnuhver, or “Gunna’s hot spring.”

The Eastfjords

More fjords and epic mountains in the land of the reindeer
For those who want to excape the crowds
and are not daunted by driving across the whole country

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 8 hours
Suitable for: full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, fjords, canyons, waterfalls, black sand beaches, forests (yep, you’ve read it right!)

A cousin to the Westfjords, the Eastfjords are ancient, dating back 10 to 15 million years, and just as remote and breathtakingly beautiful. Winding roads hug the massive fjords, leading to the easternmost corners of Iceland, where the landscapes feel vast and overpowering (in the best way possible).
This region is also home to Iceland’s only wild reindeer population – you might spot them grazing in the distance or meet them up close at the country’s only reindeer park, located near Egilsstaðir. And if that wasn’t surprising enough, the Eastfjords also boast Iceland’s largest national forest, Hallormsstaðaskógur, a lush, tree-filled oasis that feels completely out of place in this otherwise rugged land. Staying in a cozy Airbnb in one of the fishing villages and exploring this area at your own pace is an amazing way to spend your elopement day.

What’s not so great? Like the Westfjords, the Eastfjords are really remote and require a good chunk of time to explore. The good news is you can ditch the car and hop on a plane from Reykjavik to Egilsstaðir, but you’ll miss out on all the stunning sights along the way.
Also, some fjord roads can be rough, and venturing all the way to the tip of a fjord isn’t always easy – but always worth it. If you’re not in a rush and staying in Iceland for a couple of weeks, the Eastfjords are a worthy contender for your elopement itinerary!

Did you know? The Eastfjords are home to unique geological formations, including basaltic columns and hyaloclastite ridges. These structures result from ancient volcanic activity, where lava interacted with water, rapidly cooling and fracturing to create distinctive shapes. On a more supernatural, folklore inspired side, Lagarfljót Worm, a legendary lake monster is said to inhabit Lake Lagarfljót near Egilsstaðir. Sightings of this serpentine creature date back all the way to 1345!

Vestmannaeyjar

enchanted islands in the middle of the ocean
home to puffins, an ancient volcano and rugged coastline
for those who want to add a ferry ride to their adventure

Driving (and sailing) distance from Reykjavik: 3 hours
Suitable for: full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, volcano (not active as of now), cliffs, black sand beaches, lava fields

Vestmannaeyjar, also known as the Westman Islands, is a tiny volcanic archipelago off Iceland’s south coast. The main island, Heimaey, is the only inhabited one, home to around 4,000 people, with a history shaped by one of Iceland’s most dramatic volcanic eruptions. In 1973, Eldfell erupted without warning, forcing the entire population to evacuate overnight. When the eruption finally stopped, part of the town was buried under lava, but instead of abandoning it, the locals came back and rebuilt, turning the disaster into a part of the island’s identity.
Beyond its fiery past, Vestmannaeyjar is also one of the best places to see puffins up close – these little seabirds absolutely love the island’s cliffs, and during summer, thousands of them return here to nest. Add secluded beaches, Eldfell volcano with stunning views over the island, massive cliffs, endless lava fields, generally few tourists around, and you’ve got yourself a one-of-a-kind elopement destination.

The daunting part? Well, you’ll have to take a ferry to get to Heimaey, which is all sorts of fun on a calm day, but let me tell you (from personal experience), navigating a stormy ocean for 45 minutes straight is not a pleasant venture, especially if you are prone to sea sickness. In addition Vestmannaeyjar are windy as all hell, and the weather can be less than ideal during any season apart from short-lived summer. But if you have a strong stomach and don’t mind the Atlantic gusts that will most likely ruin your perfect elopement hairdo, this is an incredibly cool area to explore.

Did you know? The archipelago consists of 15 islands and about 30 rock stacks and skerries, all formed by submarine volcanic eruptions. The island of Surtsey, part of Vestmannaeyjar, is one of the world’s youngest islands, emerging from the sea during a volcanic eruption between 1963 and 1967. Another uninhabited island called Elliðaey, is renowned for its solitary white cabin, often dubbed “the world’s loneliest house.” Built in the 1950s by the Elliðaey Hunting Association, the cabin serves as a lodge for puffin hunters. Despite its remote appearance, the island is accessible by boat, though visitors must navigate challenging conditions, including scaling a rock face to reach the cabin, as there is no pier.

The North

a region of contrasts and home to whales,
frozen winters, bubbling earth and midnight sun magic
for those who want to get close to the arctic circle

Driving distance from Reykjavik: 5-6 hours
Suitable for: full day elopements
Type of landscapes: mountains, waterfalls, rugged coast, fjords, geothermal areas

Like all of Iceland’s more remote regions, the North often gets overlooked – which is honestly a pity, because it’s absolutely glorious. Despite the Ring Road cutting straight through it, this area remains untouched by mass tourism and is home to some of Iceland’s most breathtaking sights. From the wild coast to powerful waterfalls, enchanting geothermal areas, and even a couple of fjords added to the mix, the North is full of surprises.
Akureyri, the capital of the North, is the perfect base for exploring while still enjoying cozy accommodations, cute cafés, and a relaxed, local vibe. It’s not touristy like Reykjavik, but has more than enough charm to make for an amazing elopement day with adventures right at your doorstep.
And if you’re fascinated by whales, Húsavík (aka the Whale Watching Capital of Iceland) is the best place to see them up close. The fun part? Instead of boarding a boring modern ferry, you can set sail on a traditional Icelandic oak schooner, giving you a historic seafaring experience straight out of the old days.

What’s less exciting? Getting there! Even if you stick to the Ring Road, you’re looking at about 5 hours of driving. And if you’re feeling really brave and decide to take the Highlands route, your journey can potentially stretch to a whole day. Aside from its remoteness, the North is perfect. Honestly, I wish more couples would consider it for their elopement. It’s shamefully underrated, incredibly diverse, and so worth it.

Did you know? Grímsey Island is the only part of Iceland that lies within the Arctic Circle. Visitors can literally step across the line marking this northern boundary. During summer months, especially around the solstice, North Iceland experiences continuous daylight, offering the unique phenomenon known as the midnight sun. In contrast, the long, dark winters provide optimal conditions for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.

Final thoughts

Wow, I can’t believe you’ve made it this far – thank you so much for reading! I hope this guide has sparked some ideas and made you even more excited about visiting Iceland. My main goal here was to show you that Iceland is so much more than just one black sand beach or an overcrowded waterfall. This island is bursting with spectacular, diverse landscapes – places that feel untouched, wild, and truly special. And honestly, nothing makes us happier than helping couples discover these hidden gems and creating an elopement experience that feels perfect for them.

Did you know? Couples who elope with us get access to our extensive Location Libraries, packed with lovingly handpicked spots in every region. Whatever area and type of landscape you are drawn to, we’ve got you covered! So, what do you say?

Let’s go on an adventure!
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Best elopement locations in Iceland. The ultimate guide