Fjord to Fjord: Fall

Fall in Iceland is relatively short and sweet, and this coastal Austurland travel route offers a good chance to observe autumnal colors on the walking trails, at waterfalls, and on mountain peaks. Fall is harvest time, so the fresh flavors of Austurland take center stage at many local restaurants. You might like to go foraging for wild berries or mushrooms while you’re out exploring the local landscapes.

Traveling Austurland in fall might mean viewing the first northern lights of the season, and maybe experiencing the first snowfall. On certain days in September you have the opportunity to see the rural Icelandic tradition of the réttir, when local farmers round up their sheep after the summer spent roaming in the hillsides. Other local wildlife, such as birds, usually leave Austurland in the fall for their winter homes.

In early fall you can access Mjóifjörður, but the road closes as the weather turns cooler and the snow arrives. It generally remains closed from about October to sometime in May.

Other towns on the Fjord to Fjord route continue to buzz with visitors and local life. Seyðisfjörður, Reyðarfjörður, Eskifjörður and Neskaupstaður continue with cultural events, restaurants, activities and more, as children return to school and family routine returns. The hours of daylight decrease while the coziness factor increases, especially when Austurland stages its annual ‘Days of Darkness’ festival in late October.

You’ll get to see plenty of natural highlights, and maybe even spot reindeer, as you travel this trail. From the route’s end at Neskaupstaður, you might want to rejoin the Ring Road and retrace your steps to Egilsstaðir, or head south, winding through more Austurland fjord highlights. Check out The Coastal Experience travel route to create a fantastic circuit.

You may not have time to see everything we include on this travel route. We recommend you plan your trip using the 'Add to favorites' tool on our page. By bookmarking your favorite attractions and experiences in this way, you can tailor a route through Austurland that's perfect for you!

For great information on the areas covered, check out the Visit Fjarðabyggð website (Fjarðabyggð is the name of the municipality covering many of the fjords) and Visit Seyðisfjörður.

 

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