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Dyr­hóla­ey

Dyrhólaey is a 120 metre high hyaloclastite promontory formed by a volcanic eruption in the sea. It takes its name from the striking natural arch that can be seen when approaching from either the east or west, resembling a vast doorway carved into the sheer cliffs.

Access and information

Dyrhólaey is easily accessible from Route 1, the Ring Road. East of Pétursey, turn onto Dyrhólavegur, Road 218, near Litli Hvammur in Mýrdalur and follow the road through Vatnsskarðshólar to Dyrhólaey.

At Dyrhólaey, the road divides, with one route leading to Lágey and the other climbing up to Háey. Lágey has a car park and toilets that are open year round. Parking at Háey is more limited, and the road leading up to it can be hazardous during winter conditions.

A park ranger is present in the area throughout the year.

Protection status

The conservation value of Dyrhólaey lies primarily in its birdlife. Dyrhólaey was designated a nature reserve in 1978 in recognition of the importance of protecting the area for its distinctive landscape, vegetation and wildlife. The nature reserve covers 1.51 km².

According to the classification system of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Category V, Protected Landscape, is considered the classification that best reflects the characteristics and conservation values of Dyrhólaey.

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