Explore the Arctic Coast Way in Iceland

Crashing waves, lounging seals, driftwood- and seabird-dotted shores, rugged snow-topped peaks, and colorful fishing towns await those looking to venture off the tourist trail in Iceland. To truly make your adventure unique, consider a journey along the Arctic Coast Way (Norðurstrandarleið). Launched in June 2019, this extraordinary route—Iceland’s first official touring pathway—traces 900km of untouched and remote coastline. This exploration provides opportunities to experience captivating extremes, heart-pounding elemental drama, and tranquil escapes from modern life, with welcoming villages along the way.

The route stretches from Hvammstangi in the west to Bakkafjörður in the east, including six peninsulas where black beaches and majestic cliffs alternate with glacial river deltas and fjords. A cluster of petite, unforgettable islands boasts windswept hamlets, one of which, Grímsey, straddles the Arctic Circle. From saga settlements to whale-watching meccas, each small town along the way offers insights into life at the top of the world.

Vatnsnes Peninsula

Start your journey in the sleepy town of Hvammstangi, known for its abundant seal colonies that can be toured by boat. From there, take the serene seafront gravel road (Route 711), which winds for 82km around the gently undulating hills of the Vatnsnes Peninsula. The peacefulness here today belies its history as the site of one of Iceland’s most notorious crimes, immortalized in the novel Burial Rites by Hannah Kent. As you continue around the tip of the peninsula heading south, don’t miss the striking 15m-high sea stack named Hvítserkur. According to local lore, Hvítserkur was a troll who was caught by sunrise while trying to ruin a monastery, and today you can often spot seals basking in the sun nearby.

Skagafjörður

Lush Skagafjörður boasts a plethora of activities, including horse breeding, wild landscapes, historical remains, and adrenaline-filled adventures such as white-water rafting and snowboarding. This region is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets. Just north of Sauðárkrókur, the town serves as a gateway to the western edge of Skagafjörður, featuring silent coastlines and scenic mountains. Tindastóll, the most prominent peak, showcases a geothermal area at its northern end where visitors can discover the famous waterfront bathing pool known as Grettislaug. Offshore, the uninhabited islands of Drangey and Málmey serve as tranquil havens for nesting seabirds, and summertime boat tours of dramatic Drangey depart from the small harbour adjacent to Grettislaug.

Tröllaskagi

Tröllaskagi (Troll Peninsula) stretches between Skagafjörður and Eyjafjörður, characterized by enormous snow-capped mountains. The deep valleys here house some of the best fishing rivers in the country. Begin your adventure in the tranquil fishing village of Hofsós, complete with its spectacular fjord-facing swimming pool. If you can pry yourself away, continue to Siglufjörður (or Sigló, as locals affectionately call it), perched on a sparkling waterfront set against steep mountains. Historically, over 10,000 workers lived here, unloading fishing boats and processing fish, and it remains a prime destination for winter sports, including heli-skiing.

Eyjafjörður and Grímsey

Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest city, sits on the longest fjord in Iceland, Eyjafjörður, where whales are often seen breaching and blowing in the shimmering waters. In addition to visiting lively Akureyri, the surrounding hamlets contribute fantastic seafood experiences and engaging conversations with locals. While ferries run frequently to the small island of Hrísey nestled in the fjord, the noteworthy island of Grímsey is even smaller. As the only part of Iceland situated on the Arctic Circle, this tiny, tranquil island (covering just 5 sq km) is about 40km from the mainland, and its bird population far exceeds that of its human residents. Grímsey’s dramatic coastal cliffs and twisted basalt formations provide homes to numerous seabird species, including a significant number of puffins. The island can be accessed by ferry or plane.

Húsavík

Renowned as Iceland’s whale-watching hub, Húsavík also features intriguing museums, quaint houses, and a historic church, plus captivating views of the grand peaks across the bay. Positioned above the town on its northern point, the salt-water spa GeoSea offers geothermally heated saltwater pools at a comfortable 38-39°C. The on-site café allows guests to enjoy breathtaking fjord views while relaxing post-dip. For a peaceful stay, consider the thoughtfully decorated guesthouse Tungulending, a former fish factory, which offers seasonal dinner specials overlooking the seafront.

Tjörnes Peninsula

To the north of Húsavík via Route 85 lies the geologically rich Tjörnes Peninsula. Make sure to look out for fossil-dotted cliffs now home to seabirds. At Kelduhverfi, the land is marked by grabens (depressions between geological faults) and fissures emerging from tectonic shifts. Near Mánárbakki Museum, an excellent vantage point has been established featuring informative panels on the area’s geological activity. As you proceed, you’ll drop down to discover the bird-rich lagoons and deltas of Vestursandur.

Ásbyrgi

At the northern end of Vatnajökull National Park, the Jökulsárgljúfur section protects a unique subglacial eruptive ridge and a stunning canyon known as Ásbyrgi. Formed by the formidable Jökulsá á Fjöllum, Iceland’s second-longest river, Ásbyrgi extends in a massive horseshoe shape, measuring 3.5km from north to south and averaging 1km in width. From the car park near the visitor centre, several easy trails lead through the forest to viewpoints of the canyon, a small pond friendly to birds, and signposts detailing the area’s unique flora. If conditions permit, consider detouring south from Ásbyrgi to marvel at the magnificent Dettifoss waterfall and the scenic Lake Mývatn.

Melrakkaslétta

Bypassing the tourist trail, the wild, sparsely populated coastal route around Iceland’s northeastern peninsulas draws close to the Arctic Circle and abounds with breathtaking scenery. The rarely traversed coastal road (Route 870) around Melrakkaslétta (Arctic Fox Plain) provides a rugged journey of 55km between Kópasker and Raufarhöfn. The bumpy ride is well worth the reward; enjoy the serenity of unspoiled wetlands and ponds filled with driftwood and vibrant bird life. Venture further on paths to isolated lighthouses situated on rugged ocean cliffs.

Just north of Raufarhöfn, the surreal stone structures forming Arctic Henge create a colossal circle rising up to 7m in height, showcasing sweeping sea vistas. In town, visit the quaint café and gallery Kaupfélagið Raufarhöfn for a delightful breakfast buffet or a cozy dinner.

Complete your exploration with excellent hiking on Þistilfjörður at Rauðanes headland—take the signposted trail leading 7km to discover rippling rock formations, including arches and caves, as well as secluded beaches teeming with birdwatching opportunities, creating the quintessential essence of the Arctic Coast Way.

Practical Information

As a newly established route, the Arctic Coast Way embodies a pioneering spirit—roads in the most remote areas often consist of gravel and can be deeply rutted. Consequently, renting a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended. Although infrastructure along the route is currently adequate, enhancement over the coming years is anticipated.