The path along the Arctic coast - you will leave the usual routes behind and get off the beaten track. The Arctic coast way gives you the opportunity to discover some of the most remote places in the north of Iceland; a unique 900 km long road along the coast, close to the Arctic Circle.
The route along the Arctic coast was officially opened on June 8, 2019. Here, where the volcanic earth meets the icy ocean, the force of nature has carved a coastline of wild and pure beauty.
The route includes six peninsulas stretching far into the ocean, from black sandy beaches to impressive cliffs, along glacial river deltas and fjords to high mountains. If you are ready to go even further, then five beautiful islands will give you an unforgettable experience, and you may even want to cross the Arctic Circle.
Each of the small towns along the way will tell you unique stories about life on the edge of the Arctic.
Migratory birds arrive in the spring and their cries can be heard all summer. Here you can discover some of the best bird watching spots in Iceland, and boat tours will get you to unforgettable encounters with friendly whales and charming seals.
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Narrow roads, often covered with gravel, run along the coastline where the ocean meets the endless horizon, or you can turn onto roads carved into steep mountains. You will feel the power of the ocean and its influence on the ever-changing weather. In a storm, roaring waves crash against the shore while you enjoy the comfort of a cafe or relax in your room. However, in the sun, the ocean turns turquoise blue, and a barefoot walk along the beach would be a tempting idea.
The entire route can be completed in just a couple of days, but this is not necessary. It is better to slow down and pamper yourself by discovering the wonders of the way along the Arctic coast. Moving in the rhythm of the waves and wind, feel a surge of energy in amazing hikes, meet friendly people who will make you want to come back again and again.
The Arctic Coast Way opened on June 8, 2019 and became the first official tourist route in Iceland.
A few facts about the Arctic Coast way:
- About 900 km of roads along the North Atlantic Ocean
- The only place beyond the Arctic Circle in Iceland
- Marked by Lonely Planet: The 30 best destinations in Europe
- 27 available places where you can see the midnight sun
- The opportunity to travel to 6 islands
- 21 towns and a fishing villages
- The gateway to Europe's largest national park
- 5 Whale Watching Spots
- Some of the best places to watch seals
- 15 Arctic Coast Hiking Trails
- 9 lighthouses that can be reached by car
- 21 geothermal pools
- 16 places where you can taste local cuisine
- 6 local microbreweries
- 11 different outdoor activities
Content:
- Map of the route along the Arctic coast
- How do I calculate the travel time along the Arctic coast?
- How do I get to the Arctic Coast Way?
- How to get around the route and where to stay?
- Sections of the road along the Arctic coast
Map of the route along the Arctic coast
The route along the Arctic coast differs in winter and summer, and all because of snowfall, which can block part of the road. So if you plan to drive this route in winter, then you should carefully check the current condition of the roads
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How do I calculate the travel time along the Arctic coast?
How much time do I need?
The conditions of the Arctic Coast Way, roads, weather and remoteness require that you have plenty of time. It will take you about 9 days to relax, admire the sights and visit all the islands. However, if you are limited in time, you can do it in two days.
Are you planning to come outside the summer season?
Spring, autumn and winter are the perfect time of year to explore the Arctic coast. But since it may snow in autumn, winter and spring (so generally from September till May), you should be aware of difficult weather conditions and road conditions and have a very flexible schedule.
How do I get to the Arctic Coast Way?
By plane:
If you want to fly north, there are three local airlines that offer scheduled flights, to Akureyri and Husavik. Flights can be viewed on the Akureyri Airport website: www.akureyriairport.is .
Charter flights / Sightseeing flights:
If scheduled flights are not suitable for you, you can contact these airlines about special charter flights:
www.airiceland.is , www.circleair.is , www.eagleair.is and www.myflug.is
By Bus:
Strætó bs. operates 7 days a week all year round, except holidays. The distance from Reykjavik to Akureyri is 380 km, and the trip takes about 6 1/2 hours. For more information and schedules, visit their homepage www.straeto.is
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By car:
Another option is to rent a car and go on your own. Highway 1 runs around the island and is basically an asphalt two-lane road. While traveling on the Arctic Coast Way, you will have narrow gravel areas. On the road administrator's page www.vegagerdin.is distances and road conditions are indicated.
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How to get around the route and where to stay?
Traveling through the Arctic region is different from what you may be used to. This is a real wilderness route that will take you through beautiful remote areas. This means not only leaving the crowd of tourists behind, but also going on a journey in the spirit of adventure and exploration.
We recommend taking a 4x4 car. There are many gravel roads along the route, and a four-wheel drive car provides greater safety and comfort.
The route signs along the Arctic coast look like this
Sections of the road along the Arctic coast
The Coast of Sagas and Mythology
The western part of the Arctic coast is an area with an atmospheric coast and high mountains, offering excellent places to explore the Arctic wildlife with seals and birds.
The coast of fishing villages and cultural heritage
At the center of the Arctic Coast Way is a coastline rich in culture and entertainment - the capital of Northern Iceland and a number of fishing towns, harbors and ports are connected by an exciting route with gravel roads, mountain tunnels, ferries and bridges over fjords. This section is the gateway to Grimsey Island and the Arctic Circle.
The coast of nature
Leave the tourists behind and become a traveler through this fascinating, mysterious landscape that changes dramatically depending on the time of year - from summer with millions of birds to emptiness, gloomy skies and the absolute silence of winter. Whenever you arrive, you will find peace, solitude and contemplation inspired by unforgettable views, traces of nature and history.
