Vestrahorn is a unique destination in southeastern Iceland, situated between Jökulsárlón Glacier Lake and the eastern fjords on the south coast. It's renowned for its distinctive shape, earning it nicknames such as "Bat Mountain," "Reflecting Mountain," and "Mirror of the Sky."


West Cape Mountain can be found on the Stokksnes peninsula, adjacent to the town of Höfn, on the edge of Vatnajökull National Park. Made of gabbro, a mineral rich in iron and magnesium, its texture and shape differ from other Icelandic peaks, with more prominent angles and metallic colors.


West Cape Mountain rises 454 meters above sea level, with its south side facing the sea. At the foot of the mountain lies a stunning black sand beach, created by volcanic eruptions like most black sand beaches in Iceland.


A similar peak, Eystrahorn, can be found to the east of West Cape Mountain. It's easy to locate by driving along the south coast of Iceland on the Ring Road and following GPS navigation. Visitors will have to go through a tunnel and a gravel road to reach Eystrahorn, so it's recommended to rent a 4WD vehicle.


Since it takes around six hours to drive from Reykjavik to West Cape Mountain, it's best to combine a visit there with a trip to the south coast or around the island. Beyond the mountain, visitors will find the mysterious and stunning Eastern Fjords region.


West Cape Mountain is a popular destination for photographers, thanks to its layered peaks reflected in the tranquil bay at the base. In summer, the midnight sun adds to the gentleness of the landscape, while in winter, the Northern Lights often illuminate the summit. It was also the setting for the Bollywood movie "A Generous Heart."


The black sand beach at the foot of the mountain is privately owned, and visitors have to pay a small entrance fee to visit and admire the beauty of the mountain up close. A Viking village is also located close to the mountain.


The Viking Village, located in southeastern Iceland, is a noteworthy attraction on the Ring Road. Although not directly on Route 1, the movie set is easily explored on an Icelandic road trip.


This eastern Icelandic attraction features wooden structures with grass roofs, similar to traditional Icelandic sod houses. The houses have intricately carved door frames with Viking designs, and a dungeon located at the base of a built-up boulder.


Here, visitors can learn about how the Vikings constructed their structures and experience the feel of a sod roof in a house. The intricate building construction and carvings make this Icelandic landmark an educational site.


The village sits between the ocean and towering mountains, experiencing dramatic weather patterns that make for special photo sessions. Iceland's unpredictable weather adds a weathered look to the buildings, enhancing their authenticity.


The Viking Village movie set is open year-round. The family that owns the land and village also runs a cafe in the area, where visitors can pay a small entrance fee to enjoy the attraction.