Vatnsfjörður: Vatnsdalur Loop
Vatnsdalur
A gentle 7 km loop around Vatnsdalur in the Vatnsfjörður reserve near Flókalundur, with lake, birch scrub and waterfalls.
- Distance
- 7 km
- Loop
- Time
- 2–2.5 hours
- Ascent
- 150 m
- Max 160 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate
The Vatnsdalur loop is a short, rewarding hike in the Vatnsfjörður nature reserve in the Westfjords of Iceland, close to Flókalundur at the head of the fjord. The circuit is about 7 km with roughly 150 m of ascent and a high point near 160 m, and most people complete it in 2–2.5 hours. It follows the valley above the fjord past the lake Vatnsdalsvatn, through low birch woodland and heath, with streams and small waterfalls coming down the valley sides.
Vatnsfjörður is one of the more sheltered and green corners of the southern Westfjords, and the reserve is known for its birdlife and woodland. According to the sagas, it was near here that the settler Hrafna-Flóki looked out over a fjord full of drift ice and gave the country its name. The loop is rated moderate, but only because of uneven ground, a few wet sections and gentle climbs. It suits anyone with basic hiking fitness and makes a good leg-stretcher on a Westfjords road trip.
Highlights
- Lake Vatnsdalsvatn set in a quiet, green valley
- Birch woodland that is rare this far north-west in Iceland
- Birdlife on the lake and in the reserve
- Views back down Vatnsfjörður toward Breiðafjörður
- Easy to combine with the small natural hot pool near Flókalundur
The route
Flókalundur to the lake
From the trailhead near Flókalundur the path heads up the valley through birch scrub and heath. The climbing is gradual and the trail is easy to follow, though it can be muddy after rain. Before long the lake comes into view, sitting in a broad valley floor with steep slopes rising on both sides.
Around Vatnsdalur and back
The loop continues along the valley, crossing small streams that are usually easy to step across, before swinging back toward the fjord on the other side. Expect some uneven, rocky and boggy ground. On the return you get open views down Vatnsfjörður to the sea, and in late summer the slopes are covered in berries.
Getting to the trailhead
Flókalundur sits at the junction of Route 60 and Route 62 at the head of Vatnsfjörður, in the southern Westfjords. The Baldur ferry from Stykkishólmur lands at Brjánslækur, a short drive west, which makes this an easy first stop on arrival. There is parking near Flókalundur. Westfjords roads mix paved and gravel stretches, so check road.is before driving.
Where to stay
Flókalundur has a summer hotel and a campsite right at the trailhead area. Further afield, Patreksfjörður and Tálknafjörður have guesthouses, pools and shops. If you arrive on the ferry, Brjánslækur is only a few minutes away.
Best time to hike
June to September is the hiking season. July and August are warmest and greenest, with midnight sun lighting the fjord. September brings autumn colours in the birch woods and berry picking, but also more rain and shorter days. Outside summer, services at Flókalundur are limited.
Safety
This is a low-risk walk, but the ground can be slippery and boggy, and streams rise after heavy rain. Weather in the Westfjords changes quickly, so carry a waterproof layer even on a sunny day. The reserve is a protected area: stay on the path, do not disturb nesting birds and take your litter with you. Check SafeTravel.is for conditions and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Vatnsfjörður hike
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Guided or self-guided packages: huts, luggage transfers, meals and transport, all arranged for you.
Licensed Icelandic operators3–10 days
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Vatnsfjörður FAQ
How long is the Vatnsdalur loop in Vatnsfjörður?+
The loop is about 7 km with roughly 150 m of ascent. Most people take 2–2.5 hours at a relaxed pace.
Is the Vatnsfjörður hike suitable for families?+
Yes, for families with children used to walking. It is rated moderate only because of uneven, sometimes muddy ground. There are no steep or exposed sections.
Where does the Vatnsdalur loop start?+
It starts near Flókalundur at the head of Vatnsfjörður, where Route 60 and Route 62 meet in the southern Westfjords.
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