Vopnafjörður Travel Guide: Where the Road Less Travelled Leads
Most travellers exploring Austurland (East Iceland) never make it to Vopnafjörður. That is exactly what makes this remote fjord community so special. Located on the northeastern coast of Austurland (East Iceland), Vopnafjörður is one of the communities waiting to be discovered along The Fjord Way. Surrounded by dramatic coastlines, black-sand beaches, rugged mountains, canyons, waterfalls and wide-open landscapes, it offers a chance to experience a quieter side of the region. It is a place where you can spend a day exploring, or stay longer and discover the landscapes, stories, local traditions and experiences that make Vopnafjörður unique. From scenic drives and coastal hikes to local swimming pool, historic turf farms, kayaking and local food, there are plenty of things to see and do in Vopnafjörður and its surroundings.
Getting to Vopnafjörður
Vopnafjörður makes a rewarding detour from the main Ring Road. From Egilsstaðir, you can take the scenic Hellisheiði route during summer, towards the coast and into Vopnafjörður. The journey is part of the experience, with changing landscapes along the way. What begins as an inland drive through the mountains eventually opens towards the fjord and the North Atlantic coastline.
Vopnafjörður can be visited as a day trip from Egilsstaðir or other nearby accommodation, but if you have the time, consider staying overnight. An extra day allows you to explore further along the coast, take a hike, visit local attractions and experience the area without having to rush.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Things to See and Do in Vopnafjörður
1. Explore Skjólfjörur and Ljósastapi
Follow the coastline towards Skjólfjörur, where black sand meets the sea and the striking Ljósastapi sea stack rises from the coastline.
The combination of dark sand, ocean, cliffs and the sea stack creates one of the more dramatic coastal landscapes around Vopnafjörður. It is a beautiful place to stop, walk along the shore and take in the feeling of the open North Atlantic.
Photographer: Jessica Auer
2. Discover Gljúfursárfoss
Hidden away in a rugged canyon, Gljúfursárfoss is one of Vopnafjörður's lesser-known waterfalls.
The waterfall is surrounded by the raw landscape of the East Iceland countryside and is a great example of how rewarding it can be to explore beyond the main sights. Take your time and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
3. Step Back in Time at Bustarfell
One of the highlights of visiting Vopnafjörður is Bustarfell, one of Iceland's best-preserved traditional turf farms.
The historic farm gives visitors a glimpse into rural Icelandic life and how people lived and worked in the region over generations. You can explore the old buildings, learn about the history of the farm and meet some of the animals.
After exploring Bustarfell, stop at Café Hjáleigan for homemade lunch, coffee and cakes. It is a lovely way to combine local history with a taste of Icelandic hospitality.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
4. Hike at Fuglabjarganes
For spectacular coastal scenery and birdlife, head to Fuglabjarganes.
Walking along the coastline, you will encounter dramatic cliffs, open ocean and views across the surrounding landscape. The area is particularly rewarding for those who enjoy birdwatching and coastal walks.
It is also a place where you can simply slow down, listen to the sea and enjoy the feeling of having the landscape largely to yourself.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
5. Hike Through Þverárgil Canyon
Þverárgil offers another opportunity to explore the landscape on foot.
The canyon is known for its colourful rock formations, winding streams and rugged surroundings. Walking through the canyon gives you a different perspective of the geology and landscapes around Vopnafjörður.
For travellers who enjoy hiking, it is an excellent way to spend a few hours away from the road.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
6. Take a Dip at Selárlaug
After a day of exploring, relax in Selárlaug, a peaceful geothermal pool surrounded by mountains and nature.
The setting makes the experience particularly special. Rather than being a busy attraction, Selárlaug offers a chance to slow down, warm up and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Photographer: Jessica Auer
7. Explore Vopnafjörður by Kayak
See the fjord from a different perspective with Saga Kayak.
Getting out onto the water allows you to experience Vopnafjörður from the sea, with views back towards the mountains and coastline. Kayaking is a great option for anyone looking to add an active experience to their East Iceland itinerary.
8. Discover Iceland's Eiderdown Tradition
Vopnafjörður is also home to a fascinating local tradition: eiderdown farming.
Visit Eiderdowncomforters to learn about the relationship between farmers and wild eider ducks and how this centuries-old tradition continues today.
Eiderdown is collected from nests after the birds have left, meaning the tradition can continue without harming the ducks. The farmers provide safe nesting areas and protect the birds, creating a unique relationship between local communities and the surrounding wildlife.
It is an opportunity to learn about a lesser-known part of Icelandic culture and one of the region's distinctive traditions.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
9. Learn About Icelandic Emigration
At the East Iceland Emigration Center, discover the stories of Icelanders who left their homes and travelled overseas in search of new opportunities.
The centre explores the experiences of emigrants and the challenges and hopes that shaped their journeys. It offers a fascinating insight into Icelandic history and the people whose lives took them far beyond the fjords of East Iceland.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Where to Eat in Vopnafjörður
Local food is an important part of experiencing Vopnafjörður.
Stop at Café Hjáleigan at Bustarfell for homemade lunch, coffee and cakes, or visit Hjá Okkur at Síreksstaðir for another taste of local hospitality.
These smaller places are part of what makes travelling through Vopnafjörður special. Rather than simply passing through, take the opportunity to stop, eat, talk and experience the local character of the area.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Where to Stay in Vopnafjörður
If you have the time, stay overnight and use Vopnafjörður as a base for exploring the surrounding area.
Accommodation options include Ásbrandsstaðir and Síreksstaðir, both offering a chance to stay close to the landscapes and experiences that make the region unique.
Staying the night also means you can spend more time exploring without having to fit everything into a single day.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Stay an Extra Day for Hiking
If you have more time, Vopnafjörður is worth extending by another day.
Longer hikes to Þerribjörg or Landsendi take you further into the dramatic coastal landscapes around the fjord. These adventures reward you with sea cliffs, expansive views and some of the more spectacular scenery in Austurland.
An extra day also gives you the freedom to explore at a slower pace, something that suits Vopnafjörður particularly well.
Photographer: Þráinn Kolbeinsson
Vopnafjörður: A Quieter Side of East Iceland
Vopnafjörður is the kind of place that rewards curiosity.
Take the scenic road from Egilsstaðir. Follow the coastline. Discover a waterfall hidden in a canyon. Learn about life on a historic turf farm and eiderdown farm. Soak in a local swimming pool. Paddle across the fjord. Listen to the stories of those who left Iceland for new lives overseas.
And then stay another night.
The more time you spend in Vopnafjörður, the more you begin to discover.
For travellers following the Fjord Way through Austurland, Vopnafjörður offers the chance to experience a quieter, wilder and less-visited side of Austurland, one that many visitors never see.
Photographer: Esther Ösp Gunnarsdóttir
Is Vopnafjörður worth visiting?
Yes. Vopnafjörður is a great destination for travellers looking for dramatic scenery, hiking, history, local culture and fewer crowds. Its surroundings offer a wide variety of experiences, from waterfalls and coastal walks to historic farms and geothermal bathing.
What is there to do in Vopnafjörður?
Things to do in Vopnafjörður include visiting Bustarfell, hiking at Fuglabjarganes and Þverárgil, exploring Skjólfjörur and Ljósastapi, visiting Gljúfurárfoss, swimming at Selárlaug, kayaking with Saga Kayak and learning about eiderdown farming and Icelandic emigration.
How do you get to Vopnafjörður?
Vopnafjörður can be reached from Egilsstaðir via the scenic Hellisheiði route. It is a worthwhile detour from Iceland's Ring Road and can be visited as a day trip or as an overnight stop.
Can you visit Vopnafjörður as a day trip?
Yes. Vopnafjörður can be visited on a day trip from Egilsstaðir, particularly if you want to see some of the main highlights. However, staying overnight or adding an extra day gives you much more time to explore the surrounding coastline, hiking trails and local attractions.
How long should you spend in Vopnafjörður?
We recommend at least one full day to experience Vopnafjörður and its surroundings. If you enjoy hiking or want to explore further along the coast, consider staying for two days or more.
What is Bustarfell?
Bustarfell is one of Iceland's best-preserved traditional turf farms. The historic farm offers an insight into rural life in Iceland and can be visited as part of a trip around Vopnafjörður. Café Hjáleigan at Bustarfell also serves homemade food, coffee and cakes.
Where can you hike in Vopnafjörður?
There are several hiking opportunities around Vopnafjörður. Fuglabjarganes offers coastal scenery and birdlife, while Þverárgil is known for its colourful rock formations and canyon landscape. Longer hikes to Þerribjörg and Landsendi offer dramatic coastal views and sea cliffs.
Can you swim in Vopnafjörður?
Yes. Selárlaug is a local swimmingpool in the Vopnafjörður area, surrounded by mountains and nature. It offers a peaceful place to relax after exploring the region.
Can you go kayaking in Vopnafjörður?
Yes. Saga Kayak offers the opportunity to experience Vopnafjörður from the water and see the fjord, mountains and coastline from a different perspective.
What is eiderdown farming in Vopnafjörður?
Eiderdown farming is a traditional practice where farmers create protected nesting areas for wild eider ducks and collect the down from nests while making sure it does not harm the eiderducks. At Eiderdowncomforters, visitors can learn more about this tradition and the relationship between the farmers and the birds.
When is the best time to visit Vopnafjörður?
Summer is a particularly good time to explore Vopnafjörður, with long daylight hours and easier access to hiking and outdoor activities. However, the area has a different character in every season, and conditions should always be checked before travelling, particularly in winter.
Is Vopnafjörður part of the Eastfjords?
Vopnafjörður is located in Austurland (East Iceland) on the northeastern coast. It is included as one of the communities to discover along the wider Fjord Way journey through the region.