Austurland Freeride Festival – Fun and Authentic
There was no particular plan when Steve Wall, a cinematographer and surfer from Australia, set off for Iceland in search of new adventures. He dreamed of combining his two biggest passions—surfing and freeriding—on this remote yet fascinating island. But when he heard about the Austurland Freeride Festival, a small but spectacular ski and snowboard event in the Eastfjords, his journey took an unexpected turn. What was meant to be a short adventure ended up changing his life forever.
“I dreamed of days where I could surf in the morning and ski in the afternoon,” says Steve. He and his friend arrived in Iceland without a concrete plan, but when they landed in Keflavík, they heard about the Austurland Freeride Festival—a small but powerful ski and snowboard gathering held in and around Oddsskarð ski area, often referred to as the "Alps of the East."
“I messaged the festival organizer to ask about the conditions for skiing and surfing. I got a short reply: ‘Just come east, there’s both snow and waves.’ That was all we needed,” Steve says with a smile.
The Adventure Begins – and Life Changes
Steve and his friend immediately set off for the East and settled at Randulff’s Sea House in Eskifjörður, near Oddsskarð. There, Steve met a group of people who are now among his best friends in Iceland.
“There was a unique atmosphere at the festival. It was put together by people who wanted to share their passion for the mountains and the sea. There were snowboarders and skiers from all over the world, but it still felt very personal and relaxed.”
But this was more than just one good weekend. On his way home, at the airport in Helsinki, Steve coincidentally met Icelandic photographer Berglind Jóhannsdóttir. They spent a few days together in Finland, and shortly after, she flew to Australia, where they embarked on a two-month road trip across the Australian desert in a Land Cruiser with a rooftop tent.
“If you can be with someone on a trip like that, you can be with them anywhere,” Steve says slyly. There was no doubt in his mind—he was moving to Iceland.
What Makes Austurland So Special?
Today, Steve lives in Grímsnes with Berglind, and together they run Crosswave, a company specializing in underwater cinematography and photography. But Austurland still holds a special place in his heart:
“The mountains, the fjords, the little villages where the community is built around the sea—it’s like stepping into another dimension,” he says. “I love how raw and isolated the region is, yet at the same time, how close-knit the communities are. Literally, everyone knows everyone.”
What sets the Austurland Freeride Festival apart from other events, in his opinion, is the fact that it has remained a “grassroots” festival.
“Many ski festivals grow so much that the experience changes, but here, everyone is on the same wavelength. That creates an incredible energy. Also, getting all the way out east takes some effort, which tightens the group. Everyone who’s there, unless they’re locals, has made an effort to get there.”
An Unforgettable Experience
Steve believes there is still so much potential to develop the festival.
“I hope the organizers continue creating new experiences around the area. It’s amazing to be able to ski, surf, and end the day in a hot tub—it’s unique.”
Steve has no doubt about what makes the festival so magical:
“The adventure begins before you even start skiing. You travel through breathtaking landscapes to get to the East, meet an amazing group of people, explore new terrain, and learn to appreciate and love the wild beauty of Iceland. Oh, and the food there is incredible,” he says with a grin.
When asked to describe Austurland in three words for outdoor enthusiasts, he doesn’t hesitate: “Fun. Community. Authentic.”
What You Need to Know About Austurland Freeride Festival
- Where: Oddsskarð and surrounding mountains, East Iceland
- When: March 7–9, 2025
- What: Austurland Freeride Festival is a unique ski and snowboard event that blends outdoor adventure and culture in the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastfjords. The festival offers guided mountain tours, cultural events, and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone—from seasoned riders to beginners—is invited to join the fun.
- How: Free for all! Guided mountain tours, cultural events, food, and entertainment included.
- Getting There: Drive from Reykjavík (~8 hrs) or fly to Egilsstaðir + rental car.
- Weather: Looking good! Snow in the forecast, solid base, and hopefully some sunshine.
- Why Join?
A one-of-a-kind chance to ski above the sea, meet great people, and experience an authentic Icelandic mountain adventure. - Extra: A soak in the hot tub at Mjóeyri after a long day in the mountains!
- More Info:
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