📍 About Route 51
Main South Coast artery — waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches
Line 51 is the primary long-distance countryside route along Iceland's South Coast. Running from Reykjavík (Mjódd) through Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, and Vík, extending to Höfn in summer, it's the lifeline for reaching iconic sights by public bus.
Key Stops & Attractions
- Selfoss: Gateway to the South Coast, shopping, food.
- Hveragerði: Geothermal town, hot springs, hiking.
- Hvolsvöllur: Access to Seljalandsfoss & Gljúfrabúi waterfalls (taxi/hike from stop).
- Vík í Mýrdal: Black sand beach (Reynisfjara), basalt columns, puffins in summer.Kirkjubæjarklaustur: Access to Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, Eldhraun lava field.Skaftafell / Jökulsárlón: Glacier lagoon, diamond beach (summer extension).
- Höfn: Lobster capital, gateway to Vatnajökull (summer only).
Frequency & Timing
Summer (Jun–Aug): 2–3 daily departures each direction from Reykjavík Mjódd (~07:00, ~13:00, ~18:00). Winter: reduced to 1 daily or Mon–Fri only. Journey Reykjavík→Vík ≈ 3.5 hrs; Reykjavík→Höfn ≈ 6 hrs. Always check current timetable in Klapp app or live map before travelling.
Drivers don't wait for late connecting buses. Build 60+ min buffers at transfer points (Selfoss, Vík). Miss a connection = overnight stay. Book accommodation near stops in advance.