Guide to the Ölfusá Overlook in South Iceland
Looking for some of the best viewpoints in South Iceland? The Ölfusá Overlook stands out for its quiet setting and open views. It’s easy to access and often less crowded than other stops along the route.
From the viewpoint, the Ölfusá River stretches across the landscape, with mountains in the distance. The open setting and changing light make it a good place to pause and take in the surroundings.
If you’re planning a South Iceland itinerary, it’s an easy stop to add to your day.
What to Expect at the Ölfusá Overlook
The Ölfusá Overlook is a simple viewpoint with minimal development. There is a wooden picnic table and a small viewing platform. Beyond that, the area remains natural, with open views over the surrounding landscape.
From the Ölfusá Overlook, you can expect:
Open plains stretching across South Iceland
Wide views of the Ölfusá River, the largest river in Iceland by volume
Distant mountains, including Hekla, Ingólfsfjall, and Hengill
Changing light throughout the day, especially at sunrise and sunset
A good location for Northern Lights viewing in Iceland during winter
Occasional sightings of Icelandic horses from nearby farmlands
Access to nearby hiking trails for short walks in the area
The setting feels open and calm rather than dramatic. It’s a good place to pause, enjoy a picnic, and take in the landscape without the usual crowds.
Tip: Conditions can be windy, even in summer, so wearing warm layers is recommended.
Where Is the Ölfusá Overlook?
The Ölfusá Overlook is located in the municipality of Ölfus in South Iceland, just outside the town of Selfoss. It sits along the Ölfusá River, where the Hvítá and Sogið rivers meet before flowing toward the Atlantic Ocean.
The overlook is about 60 km (37 miles) from Reykjavík. The nearby towns of Selfoss and Hveragerði are among the closest main settlements in the area.
How to Get to the Ölfusá Overlook
The viewpoint over Ölfusá is easily reached by car from Reykjavík or anywhere along the South Coast. With paved roads and year-round accessibility, driving is the most convenient option.
From Reykjavík:
Drive east on Route 1 (Ring Road) toward South Iceland
Next, turn left onto Road 35
Then, continue for about 5 minutes to reach the overlook
There’s a small, free parking area next to the viewpoint. Just be sure to park properly to avoid blocking access.
Public transportation options are limited. Strætó bus routes 51 and 52 stop in nearby Hveragerði and Selfoss, but don’t go directly to the viewpoint. Taxis are available in the area, but can be expensive for short distances.
Don’t have a car? Some guided Northern Lights tours in South Iceland may include a stop at the Ölfusá Overlook, depending on the route.
Best Time to Visit the Ölfusá Overlook
The Ölfusá Overlook can be visited year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons.
By season:
Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, lush greens, easier driving conditions, and a stronger river flow due to glacial melt
Winter (November–March): Snow-covered landscapes, fewer visitors, and a good chance to see the Northern Lights
Spring and fall (April–May, September–October): Fewer crowds, changing colors, and a mix of daylight and darker skies
Best time of day:
Sunrise and sunset: Soft, low light across the river and the surrounding landscape
Evening to night (winter): Best conditions for Northern Lights viewing on clear nights
Early morning: Quieter atmosphere with calmer conditions
No matter the season or time of day, the weather in Iceland can change quickly. So, it’s best to check conditions with the Icelandic Met Office (vedur.is) before visiting.
Photography Tips for Capturing the Scenery at the Ölfusá Overlook
The Ölfusá Overlook is a strong location for landscape photography. It works especially well for wide scenes and changing light.
For the best results:
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full width of the Ölfusá River and the surrounding plains
Position the river as a leading line to guide the eye through the frame
Frame the shot with distant mountains like Hekla or Hengill on clear days
Visit during sunrise or sunset when the low light adds depth and contrast to the landscape
Bring a tripod for low-light photography, especially in winter or for long exposures
In winter, the overlook also works well for Northern Lights photography. The open sky and minimal light pollution provide clear visibility when conditions are right.
Pro tip: Look for a small red house on the opposite side of the river. It creates a strong focal point and stands out against the natural surroundings.
Practical Tips When Visiting the Ölfusá Overlook
The Ölfusá Overlook is easy to explore. But, as with many viewpoints in Iceland, a bit of preparation can make your stop more comfortable and rewarding.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Bring a picnic: There’s a wooden table on-site, making it a good place to sit and enjoy the view for a while. Pack something simple, like an Icelandic hot dog or a kleina (twisted donut).
Take time to explore the area: Nearby paths and open terrain offer short hikes beyond the main viewpoint. If you’re lucky, you may spot some friendly Icelandic horses during your walk.
Dress for changing conditions: The area is exposed, and wind can pick up quickly throughout the day. Bring a jacket or an extra layer you can easily put on or remove as needed.
Check weather and road conditions: Conditions in Iceland can change quickly, especially in winter when road closures are possible. It’s best to check updates before heading out.
Plan your stay nearby: Having a base along Iceland’s South Coast makes it easier to include quieter stops like this. Properties like Black Sand Hotel offer convenient access to surrounding landscapes and viewpoints.
Top Attractions Near the Ölfusá Overlook
The Ölfusá Overlook is well-positioned near several of South Iceland's top attractions. This makes it easy to combine with other stops along your route, including:
Town of Selfoss – known for its restored historic buildings, now home to restaurants, cafés, and local shops, along with essential services
Kerið Crater – one of the secret stops along the Golden Circle, it’s a vivid volcanic crater lake with red slopes and a short walking path
Reykjadalur Valley – a popular hiking route leading to a naturally heated river, where you can bathe in warm geothermal water
Thorli Beach – a black sand beach known for its strong waves, making it one of the best surfing spots in Iceland
These stops can easily be combined into a half-day or full-day South Iceland itinerary, depending on your pace.
Why Visit the Ölfusá Overlook
The Ölfusá Overlook offers a quieter stop in South Iceland. It isn’t crowded or heavily developed, but that’s part of its appeal. From here, you get open views over the Ölfusá River, along with distant mountains and wide skies.
It works well as a short break between major attractions. If you’re looking for an uncrowded viewpoint or exploring things to do in Ölfus, it’s worth adding to your route.
FAQs
Is the Ölfusá Overlook worth visiting?
Yes, the Ölfusá Overlook is worth visiting, especially if you’re already traveling near Þorlákshöfn or Selfoss. It’s a quiet viewpoint with wide river views and fewer crowds than major attractions.
Can you see the Northern Lights from the Ölfusá Overlook?
Yes. The area around Ölfusá Overlook has low light pollution, making it a good spot for aurora hunting in winter.
How far is the Ölfusá Overlook from Reykjavík?
The overlook is about 60 km (37 miles) from Reykjavík. The drive usually takes 50–60 minutes along the Ring Road (Route 1).
Are there guided tours to the Ölfusá Overlook?
Some guided Northern Lights tours in Iceland may include a stop at the Ölfusá Overlook, depending on the route. However, it’s more commonly visited on a self-drive trip.
Can you visit the Ölfusá Overlook in winter?
Yes, you can visit the Ölfusá Overlook in winter, but conditions may vary. Roads are usually accessible, but the weather can change quickly. Always check forecasts before traveling.
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