Breathtaking landscapes on the scenic F228 Road to the Veiðivötn lakes
F228 (Veiðivatnaleið) is a very exciting drive located in southern Iceland. The drive offers breathtaking landscapes, but it's only suitable for 4x4 vehicles with very high ground clearance and experienced drivers. The track requires crossing two fords, which are often fairly easy to pass but can be quite deep, potentially wrecking or sweeping away a city car. It’s one of the famous F Roads of the country.
Is the F228 Road unpaved?
Situated northeast of Friðland að Fjallabaki and Landmannalaugar, the road is completely unpaved, except for a few miles at the beginning. It is a rough and challenging road, suitable only for a 4-wheel drive vehicle with high clearance.
How long is the F228 Road?
The road is 29 km (18 miles) long, running from Road 26 to Snjóölduvatn Lake.
Is the F228 Road open in winter?
The road crosses an ashy desert and reaches an elevation of 627 m (2,057 ft) above sea level. It is generally only open at the end of June and closes from October onward, making it an ideal destination during the busy summer months.
Are there river crossings on the F228 Road?
Along the route, you’ll have to cross two fords. The first one usually poses no issues, but the second, closer to the lakes, may be deeper. The drive is strongly discouraged, as the river crossings are unpredictable and dangerous.
Crossing large rivers requires experience and should never be attempted alone or during heavy rain. Rising water levels due to rain or warm weather can make crossings treacherous. Only well-equipped jeeps and large vehicles with high ground clearance should attempt it—small jeeps are not safe. It’s suitable only for highly experienced drivers familiar with the crossing, preferably using super trucks. Always check the depth before crossing, as water levels can change rapidly. If you get stuck, call 112 for assistance. Keep in mind that rental car insurance does not cover water damage, including damage from river crossings. While this road offers amazing views during the day, it can be dangerous at night.
Is the F228 Road worth the drive?
Located northeast of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, in the South Highlands of Iceland, the drive provides stunning views as it winds through the lakes of the Veiðivötn area, surrounded by lunar landscapes. The region is home to 50 stunning lakes, formed in 1477 after a Bárðarbunga volcano eruption created a series of craters. Over time, these craters filled with water, becoming maars—a rare geological feature where lakes form inside volcanic craters. Set in the black sand desert of Iceland's central highlands, these lakes shimmer like an oasis, making the area one of the world's best places to see maars. There are many routes around the lakes and endless scenic motifs. The Veiðivötn lakes cover an area nearly 20 km long and 5 km wide, with the lakes connected by rivers. The volcanic atmosphere is unreal. Along the way, you’ll find yourself in a natural wonderland of landscape and geology.
Pic: Bernard Aufrere