Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/valleys/breiddalur

Content updated: 2026-09-10

This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](<https://www.iceland.org/valleys/breiddalur>). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article.

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# Breiðdalur: choosing the valley road or the coastal Ring Road

Breiðdalur opens inland from Breiðdalsvík on the East Fjords coast. The main planning choice is whether to explore the valley or continue on the coastal Ring Road.

Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org](<https://www.iceland.org/about-us>) · [Writing & review](<https://www.iceland.org/editorial-policy#credits>)

## Route 95 is an alternative to Route 1

Visit Austurland describes Route 95 through Breiðdalur and over Breiðdalsheiði toward Egilsstaðir as an alternative to the Ring Road. Check the mountain route separately before selecting it: a shorter line on a map does not establish the day’s road conditions or driving time.

## Read the mountain scenery as exposed geology

The regional account of Breiðdalseldstöð describes an eroded central volcano, including pale rhyolite and intrusions studied by geologist G. D. L. Walker. That gives the colored mountains a more useful context than treating the entire valley as one intact volcanic crater.

## Use the village for the coastal part of the visit

Breiðdalsvík is the settlement by the coast. The regional guide connects its Beljandi brewery’s name to a waterfall in Breiðdalsá and identifies the Streitisviti lighthouse area south of town as another coastal stop. Check individual businesses for opening times; the valley itself is not a visitor facility with one schedule.

## Sources and nearby guides

Sources checked September 10, 2026: [Breiðdalsvík](<https://www.east.is/en/destinations/communities/breiddalsvik>); [Breiðdalseldstöð](<https://www.east.is/en/place/breiddalseldstod>).

[Compare Iceland’s valleys](<https://www.iceland.org/valleys>)

Planning help

## Questions about Breiðdalur: choosing the valley road or the coastal Ring Road

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

**Is Breiðdalsheiði on the current Ring Road?**

No. Visit Austurland identifies the road over Breiðdalsheiði as Route 95, an alternative route to Egilsstaðir.

**Are Breiðdalur and Breiðdalsvík the same place?**

Breiðdalur is the valley; Breiðdalsvík is the coastal village at its mouth. Plan inland and coastal stops separately.

Country reference: [Iceland statistics](<https://www.iceland.org/statistics>).