Breiddalsvík Iceland: Quiet Village & Breiddalur Valley Guide

A quiet fishing village at Iceland's widest valley—colorful mountains, salmon rivers, and the peaceful side of the Eastfjords.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~140
Eastfjords • Breiddalur valley
Breiddalsvík offers travelers something increasingly rare—authentic quiet. This tiny fishing village sits at the mouth of Breiddalur, Iceland's widest valley, where colorful rhyolite mountains frame salmon rivers and hiking trails. With only 140 residents, it's a genuine slice of rural Icelandic life.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01

Breiddalsvík is a great base for exploring Breiddalur valley's colorful geology and fishing rivers.

Region
Eastfjords

600 km from Reykjavik

Population
~140

Quiet fishing village

Known for
Breiddalur valley

Iceland's widest valley

Top Attractions in Breiddalsvík

Breiddalur Valley

Iceland's widest valley with colorful mountains

Rhyolite Mountains

Stunning reds, yellows, and orange rock formations

Breiddalsa River

Renowned salmon and trout fishing

Geology Museum

Local geological history and rock samples

Valley Hiking

Trails through colorful landscapes

Fishing Harbor

Small working fishing port

How to Get to Breiddalsvík

From Egilsstadir: 80 km (1 hour) via Route 1 south.

From Djupivogur: 45 km (35 minutes) via Route 1 north.

Ring Road: Directly on Route 1, an easy stop between the Eastfjords and Höfn.

Best Time to Visit Breiddalsvík

Summer: Best for hiking and fishing (June-September). Colorful valley at its most vibrant.

Winter: Very quiet. Hotel remains open. Beautiful snow-covered valley. Northern Lights.

Planning help

Breiddalsvík FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.