Driving Iceland's East Fjords in October: Höfn to Egilsstaðir

The Route and Why October Is Different

The drive from Höfn to Egilsstaðir via Route 1 is about 260 kilometres and takes roughly three and a half hours without stops. But in October, you will want to stop often, and daylight is limited to around eleven hours. The road hugs the coast for much of the way, passing through the East Fjords where mountains drop steeply into the sea. Key landmarks include the fishing village of Djúpivogur, the valleys of Berufjörður and Breiðdalsvík, and the turn-off to Reyðarfjörður. October brings average highs of 5°C and lows near 0°C, with frequent rain and gusty winds. Snow is possible on higher passes, so check road conditions at road.is and weather at vedur.is before setting out.

The first hour south of Höfn crosses flat, exposed sands where wind can be fierce. Fuel up in Höfn before leaving; the next reliable station is in Djúpivogur, about 100 kilometres north. If you are driving a two-wheel-drive car, stick to the main road and avoid detours into the fjords that involve gravel. The alternative route along Route 96 to Berufjörður is scenic but adds time and can be slippery. For October, I would book a hotel in Egilsstaðir for the first night and start early, giving yourself a buffer for weather delays.

Where to Stay Along the Way

Most travellers break the journey in Djúpivogur or Egilsstaðir. Djúpivogur is a quiet village with a handful of guesthouses and a hotel, typically priced from around 15,000 to 25,000 ISK per night in October. It makes a good halfway stop if you want to explore the coast without rushing. Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the east, has a wider range of hotels and guesthouses, with prices from about 18,000 to 30,000 ISK. It is also a good base for exploring the East Fjords, with easy access to Route 1 and the airport at Egilsstaðir. For a two-night stay, I would choose Egilsstaðir for its amenities and central location.

Further north, the village of Seyðisfjörður, about 27 kilometres east of Egilsstaðir via Route 93, is a picturesque option with a few hotels and guesthouses. The drive over Fjarðarheiði pass can be challenging in October, so check conditions. If you prefer a remote setting, consider the farm stays around Breiðdalsvík, but note that services are limited. Booking ahead is wise even in October, as many places close for the season. Use our site to compare hotels in Egilsstaðir and Djúpivogur, and look for properties with free cancellation in case plans change.

What to See and What to Skip

The East Fjords are best experienced slowly. In Djúpivogur, walk to the small harbour and see the stone eggs at Gleðivík, a sculpture by Sigurður Guðmundsson. The local museum, Langabúð, is worth a quick visit. Further north, the valley of Berufjörður offers dramatic scenery; take Route 96 for a short detour to see the waterfall Fossárfoss. Near Breiðdalsvík, the beach at Beljandi is a pleasant stop. In Egilsstaðir, visit the East Iceland Heritage Museum and take a walk around the lake, Lagarfljót, where you might spot reindeer. The Hallormsstaðaskógur forest, about 25 kilometres south of Egilsstaðir, is beautiful in autumn colours.

Skip the tempting detour to the Westfjords; it is too far for this route. Also, do not attempt the highland roads in October; they are closed or impassable. If you are short on time, prioritise the coastal drive between Djúpivogur and Breiðdalsvík for its views. The optional boat tour to Papey island is not recommended in October due to rough seas. Instead, spend your time exploring the fjords on foot. For dinner, Egilsstaðir has a few restaurants, but options are limited, so check opening hours. I would book a hotel in Egilsstaðir with a restaurant to avoid driving after dark.

Practical Tips for an October Drive

October is shoulder season, so many tourist services have reduced hours. Fuel stations along the route are sparse; fill up in Höfn and Djúpivogur. The roads are generally paved, but watch for sheep and reindeer, especially near dawn and dusk. Winter tyres are not mandatory in October but are recommended; check with your rental company. Daylight fades by around 18:00, so plan to arrive at your hotel before dark. Mobile coverage is patchy in the fjords, so download offline maps. For accommodation, book a hotel in Egilsstaðir or Djúpivogur in advance, as some places close after September.

If you need to break the journey, Djúpivogur is a logical stop, but Egilsstaðir offers more choices for dining and activities. For a single night, I would book Hotel Egilsstaðir or a guesthouse in the town centre. For two nights, consider a hotel in Egilsstaðir with easy access to Route 1. Avoid booking a room in Seyðisfjörður unless you are confident driving the pass. Use our search to filter for properties with free parking and breakfast included. And always check the aurora forecast; October nights can be clear and dark enough for northern lights if you are lucky.