What is Vaglaskógur?

Vaglaskógur is one of Iceland's largest natural birch forests, located in Fnjóskadalur. It covers a significant area of the valley and is a popular spot for hiking and camping in rare Icelandic woodland. The forest has been protected since 1970.

Can I fish in the Fnjóská river?

Yes, the Fnjóská river is one of Iceland's best-known salmon and trout fishing rivers. Fishing permits are required and are managed by local fishing associations. The season typically runs from June to September, with peak salmon runs in July and August.

What is special about the stone bridge in Fnjóskadalur?

The stone arch bridge over the Fnjóská river, built in 1908, was Iceland's first stone arch bridge. It's a protected cultural heritage site and still stands, an early example of Icelandic bridge engineering. The bridge is located near the farm Grund.

Is there camping in Fnjóskadalur?

Yes, Vaglaskógur has a good campsite surrounded by birch forest, unusual in a country with so little woodland. Facilities include toilets, water, and basic amenities. The campsite is open during summer months, typically June through August.

How do I get to Fnjóskadalur?

Fnjóskadalur is easily accessible from Akureyri, about 20 km east of the city. Turn south from Route 1 onto Route 833 (Fnjóskadalsvegur). The valley road is paved and suitable for all vehicles in summer. Winter conditions may vary.

Fnjoskadalur (Fnjóskadalur): Green Valley Near Akureyri

Fnjóskadalur

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

A green, fertile valley near Akureyri, home to Vaglaskógur, one of Iceland's largest birch forests. The Fnjóská river is a well-known fishing river, and the valley has Iceland's first stone arch bridge (1908) and a forest campsite.

Region

Northeast Iceland

Best time: May to September

Fnjóskadalur is green, fertile, and unusually forested by Icelandic standards. Vaglaskógur, one of the country's largest surviving natural birch forests, dominates the valley and allows rare woodland walking in a landscape more often defined by open tundra. The clear Fnjóská river draws anglers, and the valley's 1908 stone arch bridge was the first of its kind in Iceland.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

Fnjóskadalur is easily accessible from Akureyri via Route 833. The valley road is suitable for all vehicles in summer. Fishing permits are required for the Fnjóská river.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Vaglaskógur

Birch Forest

One of Iceland's largest natural birch forests, protected since 1970

Fnjóská River

Fishing

One of Iceland's best-known salmon and trout rivers

Stone Bridge

Built 1908

Iceland's first stone arch bridge, now a heritage landmark

Best Season

May–Sep

Green valley with camping and forest walks

Church

Laufás Turf

Historic turf-roofed church and vicarage, a preserved heritage site

Farming

Horse Breeding

Rich farmland supports horse breeding and traditional agriculture in the valley

Key Highlights

Vaglaskógur Forest

Extensive birch woodland with walking trails and picnic areas

Fnjóská River Fishing

Salmon and trout fishing in clear water

Historic Stone Bridge

Iceland's first stone arch bridge (1908), a protected cultural monument

Forest Camping

A campsite set among birch trees, rare in Iceland

Near Akureyri

Just 20 km from Iceland's northern capital, easy day trip

Birdwatching

Rich birdlife in the forest and along the river valley

How to Get There

Route 83 leads into the valley from Route 1, about 20 km east of Akureyri
Vaglaskógur forest campsite is well-signposted along Route 83
Only 30 minutes from Akureyri, so it works as a day trip or afternoon outing
The road is paved for the first section, then good gravel further into the valley
Akureyri Airport has daily flights from Reykjavik for quick access to the area

Best Time to Visit

June-August: Vaglaskógur birch forest at its greenest, campsite open, hiking trails dry
September: Autumn colors in one of Iceland's largest birch woodlands
July: Longest days, wildflowers, good conditions for camping and forest walks
Year-round: Lower valley accessible via Route 83, but forest trails can be snowy in winter
May: Birdsong returns to the forest, spring flowers in the woodland clearings

Planning help

Fnjoskadalur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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