Hvítserkur, just about 15 meters (49 feet) above sea level, is relatively pale due to the effects of guano, but its black basalt background creates a captivating contrast. The action of the ocean's surf eroded the sea stack, creating its present-day form. Locals, concerned that erosion would destroy Hvítserkur, reinforced its base with concrete.

The east coast of the Vatnsnes Peninsula is the best place to view Hvítserkur, named after the bird that nests on it. In Icelandic, the name translates to "white shirt," a nod to the color of the guano coating the rock.

Photographing Hvítserkur is every photographer's dream. There are many ways to frame Hvítserkur, but it's best to use something to anchor the frame in the foreground. Look for interesting foreground elements, such as patterns in the sand, which might capture reflections in shallow water, tree branches, or even mossy rocks. While most photographers will try to capture the rock pile like a dinosaur drinking water, you can also capture it from different angles for a more unique look. Experiment with positioning your camera at different heights and angles to create completely different perspectives on this iconic location.

These two kids were very brave. They saw the sign telling them not to go down the slope, but they ignored it and walked down. We were dumbfounded. We talked to each other, became friends, took photos of each other, and took a commemorative photo with them. When we went back, we followed them up.