On the Edge: Fall

Fall in Iceland is relatively short and sweet, and this travel route offers a good chance to observe autumnal colors on the walking trails, at waterfalls, and on mountain peaks. Fall is harvest time, so the fresh flavors of Austurland take center stage at many local restaurants. You might like to go foraging for wild berries or mushrooms while you’re out exploring the local landscapes.

Traveling Austurland in fall might mean viewing the first northern lights of the season, and maybe experiencing the first snowfall. On certain days in September you have the opportunity to see the rural Icelandic tradition of the réttir, when local farmers round up their sheep after the summer spent roaming in the hillsides. Migratory birds usually leave Austurland in the fall for their winter homes. The puffins of Borgarfjörður eystri leave by the end of August, but Hafnarhólmi still has great birdwatching opportunities of other species in September and early October.

The hiking trails are usually in good and accessible condition in early fall, and Bustarfell folk museum is open until late September. In early fall you can access Rte 917 over Hellisheiði, but the road closes as the weather turns cooler and the snow arrives. It generally remains closed from about October to sometime in April: check the status at road.is. The mountain road may close, but the main access roads to each town are open year-round: Rte 85 from Hwy 1 (the Ring Road) to Vopnafjörður, and Rte 94 from Egilsstaðir to Borgarfjörður eystri.

The summer tourist peak may have dwindled but local life continues with cultural events, activities and more, as children return to school and family routine returns. The hours of daylight decrease while the coziness factor increases. Find warmth in the geothermally heated Selárdalslaug swimming pool or enjoy a hot tub with a view at the spa in Borgarfjörður eystri.

If you finish traveling the On the Edge route at Borgarfjörður eystri, head back to Egilsstaðir and the Ring Road to select your next travel route – more Austurland fjords, perhaps, or inland explorations of lakes and highlands? Check out our other travel routes to assess your options.

You may not have time to see everything we include on this travel route. We recommend you plan your trip using the 'Add to favorites' tool on our page. By bookmarking your favorite attractions and experiences in this way, you can tailor a route through Austurland that's perfect for you!

For great information on the areas covered, check out the Borgarfjörður eystri website and Visit Vopnafjörður.