Size
Largest valley
The biggest valley in the East Fjords region
Breiddalur (Breiðdalur): East Iceland's Widest Valley
Breiðdalur — Wide Valley
Updated February 10, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
The largest valley in the East Fjords, home to the fishing village Breiðdalsvík. Known for salmon-rich rivers, sheep farming, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Region
East Iceland
Best time: June – August
Breiðdalur, meaning "Wide Valley," is the largest valley in the East Fjords region. The salmon-rich Breiðdalsá river runs through grassy countryside ideal for sheep farming. The valley splits into Norðurdalur and Suðurdalur sub-valleys further inland, each offering peaceful landscapes and traditional Icelandic rural life. At the valley's mouth sits the charming fishing village of Breiðdalsvík.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-10
Roads in the valley are generally well-maintained. Check weather forecasts before mountain hikes, as conditions can change quickly in the East Fjords.
Sources to check
Fishing
Salmon river
Breiðdalsá — one of East Iceland's best
Best Season
Jun–Aug
Warmest weather and salmon season
Village
Breiðdalsvík
Fishing village at the valley's mouth
Geology
Ancient Caldera
The valley sits within a collapsed volcanic caldera, visible in the surrounding rock layers
Hiking
Sub-Valleys
Several side valleys branch off with trails through diverse landscapes and river gorges
Key Highlights
Breiðdalsvík Village
Charming fishing village with local services, museum, and swimming pool
Salmon Fishing
Breiðdalsá river offers excellent Atlantic salmon, arctic char, and trout fishing
Sheep Farming
Traditional Icelandic sheep farming in grassy countryside
Two Sub-Valleys
Norðurdalur and Suðurdalur branch inland with peaceful mountain scenery
How to Get There
- Access via Route 95 from the Ring Road at Breiðdalsheiði pass in East Iceland
- About 80 km (1.5 hours) south of Egilsstaðir via Route 1 and then Route 95
- Breiðdalsvík village at the valley mouth has fuel, a small store, and accommodation
- The valley road continues inland offering scenic drives through farming country
- Egilsstaðir Airport offers domestic flights from Reykjavik, shortening the journey considerably
Best Time to Visit
- June-August: Best fishing season for Atlantic salmon in the Breiðdalsá river
- July: Peak summer with midnight sun, wildflowers in the valley meadows, 8-15°C
- September: Autumn colors in the valley's birch patches, reindeer sometimes visible
- October-May: Valley accessible but services in Breiðdalsvík may be limited
- Late June: River conditions typically ideal for fly fishing
Planning help
Breiddalur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.