Breiðdalsvík Travel Guide: Things to Do in One of Iceland's Most Peaceful Villages
Where is Breiðdalsvík?
Breiðdalsvík is a charming coastal village located in the Eastfjords of Iceland (East Iceland/Austurland), right along the Ring Road (Route 1). Nestled at the mouth of the beautiful Breiðdalur Valley, the village is surrounded by colourful mountains, rivers, black sand beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Its location on the southern edge of the Eastfjords makes Breiðdalsvík a natural stop for travellers driving the Ring Road. Whether you're arriving from South Iceland or continuing north through the Eastfjords, it's a great place to slow down and explore the landscapes, history, and culture of East Iceland.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Top Things to Do in Breiðdalsvík
1. Visit Beljandi and Flögufoss Waterfalls
Breiðdalsvík is surrounded by spectacular waterfalls, each offering its own unique character.
Beljandi is an elegant waterfall cascading through peaceful surroundings, while Flögufoss tumbles dramatically from the cliffs above Breiðdalur Valley. Both are easily combined into a scenic drive and are perfect for photography, short walks, and enjoying East Iceland's unspoiled landscapes.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
2. Explore Streitisviti Lighthouse and Streitishvarf
A short drive from the village takes you to Streitisviti Lighthouse and Streitishvarf dyke, where steep cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean.
The Streitishvarf Dyke is a remarkable geological formation that preserves evidence of two different magmas, basaltic and rhyolitic, mixing beneath an ancient volcano. The contrast between the dark basalt along the edges and the lighter rhyolitic core makes it an exceptional place to see the volcanic processes that built East Iceland.
This rugged coastline offers breathtaking views, dramatic sea cliffs, and excellent opportunities to experience the raw beauty of East Iceland. It's also a wonderful place to watch seabirds and enjoy the ever-changing light along the coast.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
3. Find Peace at Meleyri
Meleyri is one of those places that locals treasure.
Here, black sands, open sea, and surrounding mountains create a unique sense of calm. Whether you're enjoying a quiet walk, breathing in the fresh sea air, or simply taking in the scenery, Meleyri is a wonderful place to slow down and reconnect with nature.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
4. Hike Through the Colourful Blágil Ravine
For those who enjoy hiking and geology, Blágil is one of Breiðdalur's most remarkable natural attractions.
The ravine is known for its striking blue-green rock formations, colourful rhyolite mountains, and fascinating volcanic history. Formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity and geothermal processes, Blágil offers visitors a glimpse into the geological forces that shaped East Iceland.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
5. Discover the History of Heydalir
Located in Breiðdalur Valley, Heydalir has been an important historic site since the early days of Christianity in Iceland.
Once home to a vicarage, the area is closely connected to hymn poet Einar Sigurðsson, whose work continues to hold an important place in Icelandic culture. Today, Heydalir combines centuries of history with the peaceful landscapes that surround it.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
6. Learn About Austurland at Breiðdalssetur
If you want to understand why Austurland (East Iceland) looks the way it does, Breiðdalssetur is the perfect place to visit.
The exhibition explores the geology of Breiðdalur and East Iceland, explaining how ancient volcanoes shaped today's landscapes. Visitors can also learn about two remarkable people connected to the valley:
- George Walker, one of the world's leading volcanologists, whose research transformed our understanding of Iceland's volcanic history and plate tectonics.
- Stefán Einarsson, a linguist from Breiðdalur who introduced Icelandic language and literature to generations of English-speaking students and scholars.
Breiðdalssetur beautifully combines science, history, and local heritage under one roof.
Photographer: Jessica Auer
7. Experience Breiðdalsvík with Local Guides
The landscapes around Breiðdalsvík are best explored with people who know them well.
Tinna Adventure offers tailor-made Super Jeep tours through the surrounding wilderness, along the dramatic coastline, and into the mountains where visitors may even spot Austurland‘s wild reindeer.
For longer adventures, Travel East Iceland creates multi-day experiences including hiking, horseback riding, and tailor-made self-drive itineraries throughout Austurland.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
8. Taste local flavours in Breiðdalsvík
Despite its size, Breiðdalsvík offers several excellent places to enjoy local food.
Visitors can dine at:
- Bláfell Restaurant at Hótel Breiðdalsvík
- Hótel Staðarborg Restaurant
For locally crafted drinks, stop by Beljandi Brewery, where you can sample beers brewed in Breiðdalsvík.
Don't leave without trying Goðaborg's locally dried fish, a traditional Icelandic snack enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
Photographer: Hótel Breiðdalsvík
9. Stay and slow down in Breiðdalsvík
Breiðdalsvík is an ideal place to spend the night while exploring Austurland.
Choose between:
Staying overnight allows you to experience the village's peaceful atmosphere, enjoy quiet mornings surrounded by mountains, and explore the surrounding landscapes without rushing.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
10. Visit Kaupfélagið – The Old General Store
Before heading off on your next adventure, stop by Kaupfélagið – The Old General Store.
Part grocery store and part local landmark, it's a great place to stock up on supplies while also experiencing a piece of Breiðdalsvík's history. The building reflects generations of local life and remains an important place within the community.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Best Time to Visit Breiðdalsvík
Summer (June–August)
- Long daylight hours
- Excellent hiking conditions
- Waterfalls at their most powerful
- Ideal for exploring the coastline and valleys
Autumn (September–October)
- Beautiful autumn colours
- Fewer visitors
- Excellent photography conditions
- Northern Lights season begins
Winter (November–March)
- Snow-covered mountains
- Peaceful coastal landscapes
- Northern Lights opportunities
- A quieter side of East Iceland
Spring (April–May)
- Returning birdlife
- Flowing rivers and waterfalls
- Quiet hiking trails
- Fresh green landscapes
How to Get to Breiðdalsvík
Breiðdalsvík is located directly on Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1), making it easy to include in any Austurland (East Iceland) itinerary.
Approximate driving distances:
- 90 km from Egilsstaðir (via route 1) (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
- 160 km from Höfn (about 2 hours)
- 220 km from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon (about 3 hours)
- 330 km from Akureyri (about 4.5 hours)
- 600 km from Reykjavík (about 8 hours)
The drive to Breiðdalsvík is an experience in itself, taking you through spectacular Eastfjord scenery with winding coastlines, mountain passes, and picturesque fishing villages.
Discover the Peaceful Side of Iceland
Breiðdalsvík may be one of Iceland's smaller villages, but it offers an unforgettable combination of nature, history, geology, local food, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're passing through on the Ring Road or exploring Austurland in depth, it's a place that rewards those who take the time to slow down.
From colourful valleys and hidden waterfalls to dramatic coastlines and warm local hospitality, Breiðdalsvík is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Is Breiðdalsvík worth visiting?
Absolutely. Breiðdalsvík is ideal for travellers looking to experience East Iceland's dramatic landscapes, fascinating geology, peaceful atmosphere, and authentic local culture.
How much time should I spend in Breiðdalsvík?
You can see some of Breiðdalsvík's highlights in a few hours, but to experience everything the area has to offer, plan to spend at least 1–2 days. Adding a hike, such as Blágil, can easily take half a day, while exploring the surrounding waterfalls, coastline, museums, and local attractions is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.
If you're using Breiðdalsvík as a base to explore the Eastfjords, including nearby villages, hiking trails, and natural attractions, 3 or more nights is a great option and allows you to discover much more of this beautiful region without rushing.
What is Breiðdalsvík known for?
Breiðdalsvík is known for its colourful mountains, Breiðdalur Valley, waterfalls, unique geology, Breiðdalssetur, hiking opportunities, and peaceful coastal landscapes.
Can I see waterfalls near Breiðdalsvík?
Yes. Beljandi and Flögufoss are two of the area's most beautiful waterfalls and are both easy to visit from the village.
What outdoor activities are available?
Breiðdalsvík is a great base for outdoor adventures, including hiking, Super Jeep tours, birdwatching, photography, coastal walks, and exploring the surrounding valleys and mountains. For those wanting to experience the fjords from the water, nearby Djúpivogur offers kayak trips and speedboat tours with the companies Arctic Fun & Voxey trips, providing a unique perspective on the dramatic coastline and marine life of Austurland (East Iceland).
Can I see wildlife near Breiðdalsvík?
Yes. Depending on the season, you may spot seabirds and seals along the coast and, with local guides, even Austurland‘s (East Iceland's) wild reindeer in the surrounding mountains.
Why should I stay overnight?
Spending the night allows you to enjoy Breiðdalsvík's peaceful atmosphere, dine locally, explore nearby attractions without rushing, and experience one of Austurland‘s (East Iceland's) most tranquil villages.