Solar Eclipse 2026: Plan Your East Iceland Stay
On 12 August 2026 Iceland sees a rare solar eclipse. Here is a quick, visual way to plan it from peaceful Breiddalsvik: what happens on the day, why East Iceland makes a calm base, the best places to explore, and a relaxed itinerary idea.
What happens on 12 August 2026?
A total solar eclipse crosses West Iceland (the Westfjords, Snaefellsnes, Reykjavik and Reykjanes). East Iceland sits just outside the path of totality and sees a deep partial eclipse.
- Parts of West Iceland experience a brief total solar eclipse.
- East Iceland experiences a strong partial solar eclipse.
- In Breiddalsvik, roughly 94 to 96 percent of the Sun is obscured at the peak.
- The light, temperature and atmosphere may change noticeably as the eclipse deepens.
- Certified solar eclipse glasses are required throughout the entire event.
Why stay in Breiddalsvik?
Breiddalsvik is a small fishing village between the mountains and the sea, a calm counterpoint to the crowds expected in the west.
- A peaceful village well away from the busiest eclipse crowds.
- A natural stop on the Ring Road for a longer Iceland journey.
- Dramatic mountains and open coastline in every direction.
- A comfortable base before or after travelling to the path of totality.
- A cozy hotel with a restaurant, lounge, sauna and outdoor hot tub and cold tub.
Make the eclipse part of a longer Iceland journey
Rather than chasing the eclipse for a single day, build it into a 10 to 20 day trip around Iceland. We ourselves recommend around two to three weeks, with roughly 14 days being a comfortable balance.
With more time, extend any stage. Hotel Breiddalsvik is ideal for travellers who want to turn the eclipse into a meaningful Iceland journey, not just a one day event. For the full story, read our in-depth eclipse guide.
What to do in East Iceland during your stay
Some of the quietest and most striking corners of Iceland sit within easy reach of the hotel.
Close to the hotel
Flogufoss waterfall
The highest waterfall in Breiddalur, more than 60 metres tall, reached by a short and easy walk from the road.
Beljandi waterfall
Two falls, outer and inner, on the Breiddalsa river, each with a deep pool. A beautiful spot for a walk and a picnic.
Breiddalsa salmon river
A strikingly beautiful salmon river running to the sea at Breiddalsvik. Season June to September.
Day trips along the Ring Road
Vok Baths
Geothermal floating pools on Lake Urridavatn, ideal after a day on the road.
Hengifoss waterfall
The third tallest waterfall in Iceland at 128 metres, past the basalt columns of Litlanesfoss.
Studlagil canyon
One of Iceland’s most striking basalt column canyons.
Djupivogur
A calm harbour village with a vibrant art scene and the Eggs of Gledivik.
Vestrahorn and Jokulsarlon
The dramatic mountain at Stokksnes and Iceland’s largest glacier lagoon, an easy south-coast pairing.
Borgarfjordur Eystri
Puffin colonies and rugged hiking through colourful mountains, in season.
Stay at Hotel Breiddalsvik
A cozy, family run hotel in a tiny town between the mountains and the sea in East Iceland.
- 37 rooms in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
- A restaurant serving dishes built around local ingredients.
- A lounge with a fireplace, books and board games.
- An outdoor sauna, plus a hot tub and a cold tub.
- Self check-in available for later arrivals, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
- Ideal for couples, nature lovers, road trippers and small groups.
Important note about visibility and safety
Breiddalsvik is outside the path of totality. Guests in East Iceland must use certified solar eclipse glasses during the entire eclipse. Weather conditions in Iceland can change quickly, and eclipse visibility depends on cloud cover. Never look at the partially eclipsed Sun without certified eye protection.
Frequently asked questions
Will Breiddalsvik experience the total solar eclipse?
No. Breiddalsvik is in East Iceland, outside the path of totality. The path of totality on 12 August 2026 crosses West Iceland, including the Westfjords, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Reykjavik and the Reykjanes Peninsula. East Iceland will see a deep partial eclipse instead.
How much of the Sun will be covered in East Iceland?
In East Iceland most of the Sun will be obscured. In Breiddalsvik you can expect roughly 94 to 96 percent coverage at the peak of the eclipse, which still creates a dramatic change in light and atmosphere.
Do I need eclipse glasses in East Iceland?
Yes. Because the Sun is never fully covered in East Iceland, certified solar eclipse glasses are required for the entire event. Never look at the partially eclipsed Sun without proper certified eye protection.
Is East Iceland a good place to stay for the 2026 eclipse?
Yes, especially for travellers who want a calmer experience with fewer crowds. West Iceland and Reykjanes are expected to be very busy on eclipse day. East Iceland offers space, quiet roads and dramatic scenery, and makes an ideal base before or after you travel toward the path of totality.
Can I combine Breiddalsvik with a Ring Road trip?
Yes. Breiddalsvik sits directly on Iceland's Ring Road and works well as a stop on a longer journey. We recommend turning the eclipse into a 10 to 20 day trip around Iceland, with around two to three weeks being ideal for an unhurried experience.
How early should I book accommodation?
As early as possible. Demand for accommodation across Iceland in summer 2026 is expected to be very high because of the eclipse. Booking well in advance is the best way to secure your stay in Breiddalsvik.
Is Hotel Breiddalsvik good for groups?
Yes. With 37 rooms, a restaurant, a lounge, an outdoor sauna and hot and cold tubs, the hotel suits couples, families, road trippers and small groups travelling together for the eclipse.
What can I do in Breiddalsvik before or after the eclipse?
You can explore the Breiddalur valley, walk along black beaches and the coastline, visit waterfalls such as Flogufoss and Beljandi, relax at Vok Baths, or take day trips to Studlagil, Vestrahorn and Jokulsarlon, all within reach of the hotel.
Book your eclipse stay in East Iceland
Summer 2026 will be busy across Iceland. Reserve your rooms in Breiddalsvik early and make the 2026 solar eclipse the start of a slower, deeper Iceland journey.
