Lón Lagoon (Lónsfjörður): A Fjord of Peace at the Edge of the East

Lónsfjörður—commonly referred to as Lón Lagoon—is one of the most tranquil and photogenic spots in East Iceland. Nestled between dramatic mountain ranges such as Brunnhorn and Eystrahorn, and backed by the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier, this tidal fjord is known for its surreal stillness and stunning mirror-like reflections on calm days.

Despite its name, Lónsfjörður is more of a shallow tidal lagoon than a traditional deep fjord. It’s the result of complex geological and glacial activity that has shaped this low-lying area between volcanic ridges. This unique coastal environment is a mix of black sand beaches, braided rivers, and wetlands—ideal for wildlife and photography.

What makes Lón special is its relative obscurity. Unlike the busy South Coast attractions, this part of the Hvalnes Peninsula is seldom crowded, offering visitors a rare sense of isolation and connection with Iceland’s elemental landscape.

Lónsfjörður: A Haven for Wildlife and Birdwatchers

The lagoon is part of the Lón Nature Reserve (Lónsöræfi), a protected wilderness that stretches inland toward the Vatnajökull highlands. The area supports an incredible range of migratory birds, including Arctic terns, red-necked phalaropes, and whooper swans in the summer months. This makes it one of Iceland’s premier spots for birdwatching.

Seals are frequently seen lounging on the coastal sandbars or swimming near the fjord’s mouth. Occasionally, even reindeer can be spotted in the distance, especially in winter, when they migrate to lower elevations.

Access is easy via the Ring Road (Route 1), between the towns of Höfn and Djúpivogur. There are scenic pull-offs near the Hvalnes lighthouse and Hvalnesviti viewpoint, both of which offer spectacular panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding mountains.

Though services are limited in the immediate area, nearby towns like Höfn (to the west) and Djúpivogur (to the east) provide accommodation and amenities.

Lónsfjörður and Lónsöræfi: Cultural Solitude and Natural Majesty

Lónsfjörður has long attracted painters, photographers, and writers seeking quiet inspiration. Its delicate interplay of light, water, and volcanic mountain silhouettes offers a subject as challenging as it is beautiful. In calm conditions, the lagoon becomes a perfect mirror, reflecting the towering forms of Eystrahorn and Brunnhorn like a living oil painting.

Nearby lies the Lónsöræfi region—a remote highland hiking area prized for its colorful rhyolite mountains, geothermal streams, and rugged valleys. Though access to Lónsöræfi requires a 4×4 and good planning, Lón Lagoon is far easier to reach and acts as a gateway to the untamed East.

For visitors seeking silence, reflection, and raw natural form, Lónsfjörður is one of the best-kept secrets in Iceland. It’s not just a stop on the Ring Road—it’s a destination for those who move slowly and observe deeply.