The stretch of Iceland’s Ring Road between Höfn and Egilsstaðir is one of the country’s most dramatic and least-visited drives. Winding through a series of deep fjords, past remote fishing villages, and under mountains that plunge straight into the sea — this is Iceland as it was before the tourist crowds arrived. Here’s a three-day itinerary with Breiðdalsvík as your central base.
Day 1: Arrive via Höfn — Glacier Views & the Fjord Drive
Fly or drive to Höfn and begin the journey east. Stop at the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon if you haven’t already — it’s unmissable. Then follow Route 1 east as the road climbs over Almannaskarð pass and the East Fjords open up before you. The drive to Breiðdalsvík takes around 2.5 hours from Höfn. Check in to Hotel Breiðdalsvík, settle in, and have dinner at the restaurant — fresh local fish is non-negotiable.
Day 2: Explore Breiðdalur Valley & Neighbouring Fjords
Spend the morning exploring Breiðdalur valley — one of Iceland’s broadest and most beautiful inland valleys, with an excellent river for salmon fishing in season. Drive north along Route 96 into Berufjörður and Hamarsfjörður, stopping at the tiny village of Djúpivogur with its Eggin í Gleðivík sculpture installation. Return via the mountain road for panoramic views. Evening: try a pint of Beljandi craft beer at the hotel bar.
Day 3: North to Egilsstaðir via Reyðarfjörður
Head north along Route 1, passing through the deep inlets of Fáskrúðsfjörður (the „French Fjord“ — fascinating history of French fishermen), Reyðarfjörður, Eskifjörður, and Neskaupstaður before arriving at Egilsstaðir. The East Iceland Museum and Lagarfljót lake (home of Iceland’s own lake monster, the Lagarfljótsormur) are worth a stop. Fly home from Egilsstaðir airport (EGS) or continue on the Ring Road.
Practical Notes
A 4WD is recommended, especially outside summer. Fill up fuel in Höfn, Breiðdalsvík, and Egilsstaðir — stations are sparse. Breiðdalsvík has free parking and EV charging at the hotel. Mobile coverage is patchy in some fjords — download offline maps before you go.
Using Breiðdalsvík as your base? Book direct for the best rate — and ask us about local fishing permits, guided hikes, and hidden spots most visitors never find.