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Hvitserkur
Hvítserkur is a fascinating rock formation located off the coast of northwest Iceland. Standing 15 meters high, it resembles a giant creature, often compared to a dragon or a rhinoceros drinking from the sea. This natural monument is made of volcanic rock and has been eroded over time by the relentless forces of wind and water. The name Hvítserkur means "white shirt" in Icelandic, likely due to the white color that guano stains give it. Many seabirds use Hvítserkur as a resting place, adding to its unique appearance. This creates an interesting contrast against the dark rock, making it a popular subject for photographers. Hvítserkur sits in Húnaflói Bay, near the Vatnsnes Peninsula. It's accessible by a short walk from the parking area, where visitors can get closer to admire its impressive size and shape. During low tide, you can even walk up to its base. The surrounding area offers beautiful views of mountains and sea, enhancing the experience. This striking formation is not just a natural wonder but also steeped in local folklore. Legends suggest it was once a troll caught in sunlight and turned to stone, adding an element of mystery to this captivating landmark.
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
The Area
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Hvitserkur
What other travelers are saying about
Hvitserkur
Big awesome rock with fun history. It’s a really long drive on gravel/dirt road (that has lovely scenery horse and several single lane bridges). Parking area is smallish. I bus took up almost 1/3 of parking. No services. Very windy bluff. We enjoyed the view and took the official path to the beach. Rocky seaweed covered beach. The rock is on a sandy spit with lots of birds. When the tide is out you can walk right up to it. Since it was not much more to do or see, we ate lunch in our camper van before heading out to our next stop. We read other reviews and decided our relaxed paced allowed for this detour. If you are on a tight schedule, maybe skip this one in favor of more dramatic and popular spots.
Getting there is half the “fun.” When I visited 9-16-25, about 15km of road was unpaved, so it was a bumpy ride. But it’s still a worthwhile trip, even if it’s to visit the nearby seal beach!!
Absolutely stunning. The road to get there is gravel, but not too bad. There is a viewing platform from above, but it’s worth hiking down and viewing from below.
Nearby attractions to see
Frequently asked questions
What is Hvitserkur?
Hvitserkur is a unique basalt rock formation located on the Vatnsnes Peninsula in North Iceland, known for its striking shape that resembles a dragon or rhinoceros drinking from the sea.
How did Hvitserkur get its name?
Hvitserkur means 'white shirt' in Icelandic, named for the white guano deposits left by seabirds that nest on this rock formation, giving it a distinctive appearance.
What are some interesting geological facts about Hvitserkur?
Hvitserkur stands about 15 meters tall and was formed by volcanic activity. It is believed to be the remains of a volcano's plug, eroded over time by the sea into its current shape.
Can you visit Hvitserkur year-round?
Yes, visitors can access Hvitserkur throughout the year, but winter conditions can make travel challenging due to snow and ice. The best time to visit is during the summer months when roads are more accessible.
What wildlife can be observed around Hvitserkur?
The area around Hvitserkur is rich in wildlife. It is a popular spot for birdwatching, especially for observing fulmars and other seabirds. Seals can also often be seen lounging on nearby shores.
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