Iceland’s glaciers and the effects of coastal erosion mean that the vast majority of its coastline is rocky and jagged, with fjords defining the West, North and East. Much of the South Coast, however, is vulnerable to glacial flooding, which has flattened the rocks into black sand.

Most famous of these black sand beaches is Reynisfjara. Like many of the most beautiful places in Iceland, Reynisfjara’s beauty comes from how stark and haunting its landscapes are.

Powerful waves regularly beat the dark sands and retreat out to sea towards two basalt pillars called Reynisdrangar.

Like many of Iceland’s most striking rock formations, these pillars are said to be trolls, frozen in the light of the morning sun. They face out to Reynisfjall mountain, where you can find rare hexagonal columns carved by nature into the black rock.

In walking distance of Reynisfjara is the magnificent sea-arch of Dyrhólaey. From its peak, visitors can achieve incredible views of the surrounding area, and in summer, the arch will be covered in nesting puffins. This is just one of the many beautiful places to see puffins in Iceland.

Reynisfjara is not the only beach on the South Coast worthy of note, however. Further east is ‘the crown jewel of Iceland’s nature’, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, which sits by the Diamond Beach.

All year long, the lagoon is full of icebergs, which, after breaking from a glacial tongue, slowly make their way towards the ocean. When they reach it, the waves push them onto the beach, and the result is mesmerising.

The blue in the ice and the white of the surf contrast with the black sands. These contrasts are what make the Diamond Beach so beautiful.

Add in the colours of the Northern Lights (low light pollution and low cloud coverage is crucial to catch sight of them) or the hues of the midnight sun, and you have yourself a sight that appears as if created by a fantasy novelist.

As if the site were not complete enough, it’s possible to watch seals playing in the lagoon and out to sea. Nearby Vatnajokull glacier is home to lots of stunning ice caves: a truly marvellous feat of nature.

When visiting either of these beaches, remember that the sea is dangerous due to cold water temperatures and heavy currents. Reynisfjara is particularly perilous, due to the sneaker waves that unexpectedly surge upon the shore.

Swimming is forbidden and you should keep at least 20 to 30 metres (67 to 100 feet) from the surf at all times. Any safety advice provided at attractions should be taken extremely seriously during your time in Iceland.

8. Enjoy Natural Treatments at the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa and perhaps the country’s most visited geothermal spa. The water here is an opaque, milky blue, unlike anything found elsewhere on earth.

The hot pool is rich in minerals and thriving with good bacteria. Silica masks are available for all guests, too. Both the water and masks have granted the lagoon a reputation for healing.

The Blue Lagoon sits within incredible nature. It is located on the volcanic Reykjanes Peninsula, known for its stark and haunting landscapes.

Lava fields coated in grey moss, therefore, stretch all around the spa. When witnessing this through a veil of steam, the impact is otherworldly.

A trip here will rejuvenate even the most worn-out guests. Those looking for something even more luxurious may want to consider some of the private treatments available.

There are, for example, a range of in-water massages you can enjoy. Natural beauty treatments tailored for your skin, using rare algae and minerals and specific procedures for those with skin conditions such as psoriasis.

The lagoon is conveniently located just ten minutes from Keflavík International Airport and thirty minutes from Reykjavik city centre, making it the perfect place to start or end a holiday. There is a range of airport transfers to choose from, many of which will stop at The Blue Lagoon.

Please note that the Blue Lagoon is a top-rated attraction in Iceland and you must, therefore, book your admission ticket in advance.