Iceland encyclopedia Cliffs

Dyrholaey

Dyrhólaey is a volcanic headland on Iceland's south coast, rising to about 120 metres. Its name refers to the conspicuous natural arch through the rock, resembling a doorway above the sea.

About Dyrholaey

Volcanic origins

The headland formed in at least two eruptions around 100,000 years ago. Its western part, Háey, contains ash consolidated into tuff after a submarine eruption. The lower eastern part, Lágey, includes tuff, pillow lava and columnar basalt. These contrasting rocks record different eruptive conditions, while the coastal cliffs and offshore stacks reveal the later influence of the sea.

Sources: Environment Agency: Dyrhólaey geology ↗

Lighthouse and protection

An iron-frame lighthouse was erected in 1910; the present concrete lighthouse followed in 1927, with an original design by Guðjón Samúelsson and contributions from other engineers. Dyrhólaey received protected status in 1978 for its landscape and birdlife. Together, the lighthouse and reserve reflect the headland's roles as a maritime landmark and coastal habitat.

Sources: Environment Agency: Dyrhólaey lighthouse history ↗Environment Agency: Dyrhólaey protected area ↗

Article reviewed 28 September 2026.

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