Fuglabjarganes
An easy 6 km coastal loop at Fuglabjarganes north of Vopnafjörður, past sea stacks, coves and seabird ledges.
- Distance
- 6 km
- Loop
- Time
- 1.5–2 hours
- Ascent
- 90 m
- Max 40 m
- Difficulty
- Easy
The Fuglabjarganes hike is an easy coastal loop on the shore north of Vopnafjörður in East Iceland. The name means 'bird cliff headland', and the low cliffs here host seabirds in summer, along with sea stacks, arches and small coves. The loop is about 6 km with roughly 90 m of ascent and a high point near 40 m, and takes 1.5–2 hours.
This is a quiet, gentle walk with few visitors, suited to anyone who wants to stretch their legs by the sea on a drive through the East. The trail follows the cliff tops over grass and heath, with the Atlantic on one side and open moorland on the other. Puffins can sometimes be seen in early summer along with fulmars and kittiwakes. It is rated easy, with no real climbs, and is a good walk for families.
Highlights
- Sea stacks and arches along the coast
- Seabirds on the low cliffs in summer
- Quiet coastal scenery with few visitors
- Easy walking over grass and heath
The route
Along the coast
From the trailhead an access path of about 1.8 km leads out to the coast, where the route follows the low cliff tops, passing sea stacks, rock arches and small coves where waves wash in. The going is easy over grass and heath, with only gentle rises. Stop at the headlands to look down on the ledges, where seabirds nest in early summer.
Round the headland and back
The route makes a loop around the headland, then returns to the start along the same access path across open moorland. The ground can be wet and tussocky in places after rain, but the route is easy to follow in good visibility. Look back for views over the coastline and toward the mountains around Vopnafjörður.
Getting to the trailhead
Fuglabjarganes is on the coast a short drive north of the village of Vopnafjörður. Head north from the village on Route 85, then turn onto road 913 (Strandhafnarvegur) toward the coast to reach the trailhead. Parking is limited, so park considerately and do not block farm gates or tracks. Check road.is before driving, especially early in the season.
Where to stay
Vopnafjörður has a hotel, a few guesthouses, a campsite, a swimming pool and a shop. The riverside geothermal pool at Selárdalur, north of the village, is a popular stop after a walk. Egilsstaðir, around two hours' drive south, has more choice.
Best time to hike
May to October is the season. For seabirds, May to August is best, with puffins typically present from about May to August. September is quiet, with autumn colours on the moorland.
Safety
The cliff edges are unfenced and can be loose, so keep back, especially in wind. Weather can change quickly on the coast. Stay on the path to avoid disturbing nesting birds. Check SafeTravel.is and vedur.is, and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Fuglabjarganes hike
CampingEast Iceland Campsites
Campsites around Egilsstaðir and Hallormsstaður forest.
Tjalda.is directory
Guided tourEast Iceland Tours from Egilsstaðir
Stuðlagil, Hengifoss and the eastern fjords with a local guide.
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Fuglabjarganes FAQ
How long is the Fuglabjarganes hike?+
The loop is about 6 km with roughly 90 m of ascent and takes 1.5–2 hours.
Can you see puffins at Fuglabjarganes?+
Puffins can sometimes be seen between roughly May and August, along with other seabirds such as fulmars and kittiwakes.
Is the Fuglabjarganes hike easy?+
Yes, it is a gentle coastal walk with little climbing.
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