Dramatic Coastal Rock Formations & Thridrangar Lighthouse, Southern Iceland

Often described as the most isolated lighthouse in the world, Þrídrangar means "three rocky pillars," referring to the rock stacks found there: Klofadrangur, Thufudrangur, and Stóridrangur, the latter being the rock upon which the lighthouse is built. The isolated lighthouse was designed and built just before the outbreak of World War II, in 1939, under the supervision of Icelandic engineer Axel Sveinsson. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1942. A few years after its construction, a helipad was built to allow helicopters to land. History: Construction and commissioning: In 1938, a causeway was built on the rock to facilitate access to the lighthouse site from the cliff. Construction of the building began on June 12, 1939, under the direction of Axel Sveinsson, who worked with a team of technicians, mountaineers, and other professionals to complete the project. Since their climbing equipment didn't allow them to bite into the rock, they built a human pyramid to reach the 30-meter-high summit. According to Árni G. Þórarinsson, who was part of the project, building the lighthouse was extremely difficult. He stated in the Icelandic newspaper Morgunblaðið: "The first thing we had to do was create a route up to the cliff. We gathered experienced mountaineers, all from the Westman Islands. Then we brought drills, hammers, chains, and clamps to secure the chains." Once they approached the summit, there was no way to hold onto the rock, so one of them went down on his knees, the second lay on his back, and then the third climbed over the other two and was able to reach the tip of the cliff above. I can't even tell you what I felt watching this incredibly dangerous procedure. — Árni G. Þórarinsson The lighthouse was built on a large rocky outcrop, and the work was completed almost a month later, on July 3, 1939. On July 5, 1942, following the construction of the lighting system, the lighthouse was put into operation. The work was successful, and most importantly, without any accidents. Many years later, a helipad was installed on Stóridrangur where helicopters can land. A small, unfenced path has been built between the tiny helipad and the lighthouse. The lighthouse was fully automated in 1993 using solar power. Technical Description: This lighthouse, built approximately 30 meters above sea level, is active with a focal plane at 34 meters. It has a light signal: a long white flash followed by a short white flash every 30 seconds. It is a square building made entirely of concrete, 4 meters high, with a lantern; the tower is painted white, and the lantern is red. Access and Visits edit Due to its isolated location, the Þridrangar Lighthouse, code L4802, is only accessible by helicopter with an experienced pilot. However, the FlyOver Iceland website offers a virtual tour of Iceland, with a screen that includes special effects. Most of the people who visit the lighthouse are maintenance workers, but it occasionally welcomes tourists.

A trip here is highly recommended. The view and fresh air are fantastic. It's not so great if you suffer from vertigo, because next to the tiny helicopter landing platform, there's a 30-meter drop. But for cliff divers from Acapulco—men who live on the edge of the abyss—it's easily manageable. There, the drop is a proud 35 meters, and the Pacific Ocean water temperature hovers around 25°C. In contrast, Þrídrangaviti is surrounded by water with a brisk 10°C (summer) to 6°C (winter). Why such high temperatures so close to the polar ice cap, you might ask? Well, that's the Gulf Stream... Incidentally, Iceland's most successful crime writer, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, sets most of the plot of her 2016 novella, 'Why Did You Lie?', right here at the lighthouse. Incidentally, Iceland's most successful crime writer, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, uses this lighthouse as the setting for most of her story. ``` A real page-turner! 👍

That's admirable.

Þrídrangaviti (Thridrangar Lighthouse) is one of the world's most extraordinary and remote lighthouses, dramatically perched atop a towering sea stack off the southern coast of Iceland. Surrounded by the vast Atlantic Ocean and rugged volcanic cliffs, it offers a breathtaking display of nature's raw beauty. Although it isn't accessible to the public except by helicopter, its incredible location makes it a favorite among photographers and adventure enthusiasts. The combination of dramatic landscapes, crashing waves, and the lighthouse's remarkable engineering creates an unforgettable sight. A truly iconic landmark that showcases Iceland's wild and untamed coastline. Highly recommended for anyone fascinated by unique natural wonders and engineering marvels.

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.