Best Spots in Iceland for Elopement Photos
September 22, 2025
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If your idea of a wedding backdrop leans more Lord of the Rings than city skyline, Iceland delivers in spades. Think roaring waterfalls, secret canyons, sweeping black sand beaches, and glaciers that feel straight out of another world. To help couples navigate the endless list of breathtaking options, we asked Iceland-based photographer Daria of Ást og Hraun to share her expert insights on the best spots in Iceland for elopement photos. From well-known icons like Skógafoss to hidden treasures like Kvernufoss, and from the rugged Highlands to the cinematic black sands of Stokksnes, Daria breaks down what makes each spot ethereal and picture-perfect! Plus, our expert offers some insider tips you’ll want before lacing up your boots and saying “I do” in the land of fire and ice.
Skógafoss (South Coast)
One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, and for a very good reason! A perfect 60‑meter curtain of water drops onto a black sand riverbed, with mist that creates eye-catching rainbows on a sunny day. It’s grand, cinematic, and an easy win for epic portraits.
Access: Just off the Ring Road, Skogafoss is very easy to reach. There’s a spacious parking lot (expect to pay 7-8 USD for a day’s stay), and from there it’s a 2-minute walk to the base of the falls – no hiking required.
Time you need to explore: Plan to spend at least 30 minutes at the base of the waterfall. If you’re up for some exercise, you can also climb the steep stairs on the right till you get to the top platform with a breathtaking view.
Pro-tip: The base can be busy, especially during the high summer season, which is not ideal for a private vows exchange. To avoid the crowds, try to visit at sunrise/late evening, and consider doing your ceremony elsewhere with Skógafoss as one of the stunning locations on your itinerary.
Kvernufoss (South Coast)
Often dubbed Skógafoss’s quieter sibling, Kvernufoss is a hidden gem, usually overlooked by most tourists. The 30-meter waterfall is located in a narrow gorge and has a special trick up its sleeve: you can walk behind it for that truly magical experience (and likely a light mist shower).
Access: Park at the Skógar Museum (the admission fee is 7-8 USD for one day) and follow the small trail east. It’s about a 15–20 minute easy walk, and there are a couple smaller trails closer to the waterfall that you should most definitely check out.
Time you need to explore: Plan for around 45–60 minutes to fully enjoy it and get some amazing portraits while you’re at it.
Pro-tip: Kvernufoss is considerably less crowded than its famous neighbor, especially early in the morning or later in the evening, so it can be the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. And seriously, go behind it! Yes, you will get slightly wet but it’s most definitely worth it!
The Icelandic Highlands
The Highlands in central Iceland are wild, remote, and ridiculously beautiful – a volcanic wonderland of endless lava fields, glacial rivers, black sand deserts, and jagged mountains. It’s hands-down one of the best places for couples looking to elope off the beaten path.
Access: Only accessible in summer (usually late June to mid-September), and only with a 4×4 vehicle, preferably with higher clearance. There are no paved roads here, just adventurous F-roads (F comes from the Icelandic word “fjell” which means “mountain”), and sometimes river crossings. You can self-drive if you’re comfortable or book a super jeep tour with a local guide.
Time you need to explore: It’s very easy to get lost in the Highlands for a full day, but you can choose shorter tracks that will require 2-3 hours of your time. Our personal favorite is Þakgil in the South – it offers a 45 min road trip (one way) with stunning views and varied types of landscapes.
Pro-tip: Cell service can be really bad in the Highlands, and weather changes fast, so make sure you are well prepared. If you plan to elope here, work with a local team – we know the area and can help craft a safe, unforgettable route.
Fjallsárlón Glacial Lagoon (Southeast Iceland)
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón is more peaceful and less touristy – and that’s why we love it. Imagine a serene lagoon filled with icebergs, and glacier tongue creeping down the mountains right in front of you. It’s hauntingly beautiful, and perfect if you’re looking for an epic, otherworldly backdrop without the crowds.
Access: Just a short detour off the Ring Road (look out for the signs about 10 km before Jökulsárlón when coming from the west). The parking is currently free, and from there it’s a short and easy walk down to the lagoon – no hiking required.
Time you need to explore: About 30-45 minutes, or longer if you plan for a ceremony here.
Pro-tip: Make sure to have an extra layer of clothes with you, as the temperatures tend to be a bit lower around the glaciers. And if you’re feeling truly adventurous, book a kayaking tour to glide between the icebergs!
Múlagljúfur Canyon (Southeast Iceland)
With misty peaks, steep green cliffs, and winding river trails far below, Múlagljúfur feels like something out of Middle Earth. It’s especially beautiful during late September, and with a little effort, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views that look straight out of a fantasy film.
Access: Just off the Ring Road near Fjallsárlón. The turn-off is easy to miss, and the gravel road to the trailhead can be rough – definitely more comfortable with a 4×4, though doable in a regular car if you’re careful. Parking fee is 7-8 USD for a day’s stay.
Time you need to explore: Set aside about 2.5-3 hours for the round-trip hike. It’s a moderate trail with some uphill stretches, but we promise, the hike is doable in a wedding dress and the payoff is absolutely worth it.
Pro-tip: Wear proper hiking shoes – the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain, and you’ll have to cross a small river mid-way. There are several viewpoints but the best will be the first one you’ll reach, so if you’re feeling a bit tired, you don’t need to hike further up.
Stokksnes (Southeast Iceland)
This black sand beach with dramatic dunes and the jagged peaks of Vestrahorn in the background is a magnet for photographers and adventurous couples alike. The shifting weather, mirrored reflections, and eerie, cinematic vibe make Stokksnes feel like you’re on another planet (in the best way possible).
Access: Located just a short drive from Höfn, Stokksnes is privately owned, so you’ll need to pay an entrance fee (about 8–10 USD per person). Once you drive through the automatic gate, you’ll be able to park your car at several designated spots, and then it’s a short walk to the dunes and the ocean.
Time you need to explore: Give yourself 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on how much exploring you’d like to do. The view of the mountain ridge will change the further you go!
Pro-tip: To catch that picture-perfect mirrored reflection of the mountain ridge, try to visit early in the morning and keep an eye on the forecast for the wind – you’ll want as little of it as possible. And yes, your dress, especially with a long trail, will get both wet and dirty, so if you’d like to keep it dry and (relatively) clean, save Stokksnes for the end of your elopement day.
From hidden waterfalls to dramatic black sand beaches, Iceland is full of stunning settings for your elopement. Discover the best spots in Iceland for elopement photos and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
