Driving the scenic Route 61, a coastal road in Iceland

Embark on an exhilarating journey along Route 61, also known as Djúpavegur, a captivating coastal road weaving through the picturesque landscapes of Iceland.

Route 61 (Djúpavegur)

Is Road 61 in Iceland paved?

Tucked away in the northwestern part of the country, Route 61 (Djúpavegur) is totally paved. It’s nicknamed the Midnight Sun Road.

How long is Road 61 in Iceland?

The road is 249 km (155 miles) long, running from Vestjarðavegur (Road 60) to Ísafjörður, the largest town in the Westfjords peninsula, with around 2,600 inhabitants, in the Westfjords region.

Is Route 61 (Djúpavegur) open?

The road has steep sections and tops out at 440m (1,443ft) above sea level at Steingrimsfjörðurheiði Pass. If you travel by car during winter, remember to get updates on weather and road conditions as adverse conditions are common. The pass often gets closed due to high winds or when a winter storm blows in, so just be mindful of that possibility. Along the side of the road, man-made stone piles, known as cairns, help fellow travelers know they’re on the right path.

How long does it take to drive Road 61 in Iceland?

The road is in very good condition. To drive the road without stopping will take most people between 3 and 4 hours. It’s a very scenic drive with relatively little traffic.

 

 

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