travelguaidewithme
Related Articles
If you are looking for a quiet hiking experience in Iceland away from the busiest tourist spots, the Stapavík Iceland hiking trail is a place worth adding to your travel plans. This beautiful coastal walk takes you through a peaceful part of East Iceland, where a river, black sand beach, colorful mountains, cliffs, and the open sea come together in one impressive landscape.
Stapavík is located near Héraðsflói Bay in East Iceland, not far from Borgarfjörður Eystri. The hike begins near Unaós farm and follows the Selfljót River toward the coast before reaching the small and dramatic inlet of Stapavík. The standard route is relatively easy and takes around two to three hours as a round trip, depending on your walking speed and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery.
What makes this trail especially interesting is that it is not only about nature. Stapavík also has an important connection with the local history of East Iceland. The area was once used as an unloading port for ships, and visitors can still see remains connected with its former activity.
For me, this is the kind of Icelandic hike that feels different from the famous waterfalls and crowded viewpoints. You have more space, fewer people, and a stronger feeling that you are exploring a remote corner of the country.
Where Is Stapavík in Iceland?
Stapavík is situated on the eastern side of Héraðsflói Bay in East Iceland. The hiking route begins near Unaós farm and follows the Selfljót River toward its mouth. From there, the trail continues toward the black sands and cliffs around Stapavík.
The area is part of the wider hiking region around Borgarfjörður Eystri, which is famous for its colorful mountains, coastal scenery, old walking routes, and remote valleys. The region has a large network of marked hiking trails known as Víknaslóðir.
One reason I would recommend this part of Iceland is that it feels much quieter than many popular destinations around the country. Borgarfjörður Eystri itself is a small community with around 100 residents and is known for its excellent hiking opportunities.
Stapavík Iceland Hiking Trail at a Glance
Before starting the hike, it helps to know what to expect.
Location: East Iceland near Héraðsflói Bay
Starting point: Unaós farm
Distance: About 9 km round trip
Walking time: Around 2 to 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate depending on conditions
Terrain: Mostly gentle and relatively flat
Main attraction: Stapavík inlet and coastal scenery
Nearby river: Selfljót
Beach: Héraðssandur black sand beach
Longer option: Continue across Gönguskarð toward Njarðvík
Official regional tourism information describes the basic route as a family friendly walk of about two hours, while more recent regional hiking information gives around 9 km and two to three hours for the round trip.
The exact time can change depending on weather, your pace, and how long you spend at the coast.
What Makes Stapavík Hiking Trail Special?
There are many hiking trails in Iceland, but Stapavík has a combination that makes it memorable.
The trail is not simply a walk from one viewpoint to another. Instead, the landscape slowly changes as you move toward the sea. You begin near the farm and river, continue through open countryside, reach the black sands of Héraðssandur, and finally arrive at the cliffs and inlet of Stapavík.
The open landscape also gives you impressive views toward the Hellisheiði Eystri mountain ridge. The colorful rhyolite mountains are one of the visual highlights of East Iceland and add beautiful contrast to the darker sand and coastal rocks.
Another interesting part of the walk is its history. Stapavík was used as an unloading port from 1930 to 1945. The remains of the old facilities can still be found around the inlet, giving the place a strong connection with the past.
Starting the Stapavík Hike at Unaós
The hiking trail to Stapavík starts near Unaós farm. From here, the route follows the Selfljót River downstream toward the coast.
The beginning of the hike is generally gentle. You do not immediately face a steep mountain climb, which makes the route appealing for travelers who want to experience Icelandic wilderness without committing to a difficult mountain trek.
As you walk, take your time to look around instead of focusing only on reaching Stapavík. The open surroundings are part of the experience.
You may notice birds in the area, open fields, distant mountains, and the changing character of the river. The quietness can be just as enjoyable as the views.
The route is marked, and local tourism authorities describe it as well marked and relatively easy to follow.
Walking Along the Selfljót River
One of the nicest parts of the Stapavík hiking trail is the section beside the Selfljót River.
The river guides you naturally toward the coast, making the walk easy to understand. Instead of climbing through complicated mountain terrain, you can concentrate on the scenery around you.
As you continue, the landscape gradually opens toward Héraðssandur. The black sand creates a dramatic contrast with the green land and colorful mountain ridges.
This is a good place to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere. Iceland’s landscapes often look almost unreal, but there is something particularly peaceful about watching a river move toward the ocean while mountains rise in the distance.
Héraðssandur Black Sand Beach
When the trail reaches the coast, you will encounter Héraðssandur, a large black sand beach north of the river.
Black sand beaches are one of Iceland’s most recognizable natural features. They were created through Iceland’s volcanic history, and their dark appearance becomes even more impressive when combined with the bright colors of the surrounding landscape.
At Héraðssandur, the view opens toward the sea and the mountains. Depending on the weather, the atmosphere can change quickly. On a calm and sunny day, the area can feel peaceful and almost dreamlike. On a windy day, the same landscape can look wild and powerful.
This is one reason I would not judge the Stapavík trail only by photographs. The experience changes with the weather.
Reaching Stapavík Inlet
The final approach to Stapavík is where the hike becomes particularly impressive.
Stapavík is a small inlet surrounded by steep cliffs and the open sea. The combination of dark sand, rocky formations, cliffs, and water creates a dramatic coastal scene.
Once you arrive, give yourself some time to explore carefully and enjoy the surroundings.
The old remains near the inlet are a reminder that this remote looking location once had an important role in local transportation and trade.
The area was used for unloading goods from ships, and its history is closely connected with Borgarfjörður Eystri and the surrounding region. Historical information from the local area also notes that Stapavík had facilities for unloading goods until road transport became more practical.
The History of Stapavík
One of the reasons I find Stapavík particularly interesting is its history.
Today, the place looks remote and peaceful. It is easy to imagine that almost nobody has ever been there. However, Stapavík once played a role in transporting goods to the surrounding communities.
From 1930 to 1945, ships used the area as an unloading port. Remains of the former facilities can still be seen around the inlet.
Before modern roads and transportation made travel easier, coastal access was extremely important for Icelandic communities.
There was also an old route connecting the area with Borgarfjörður. Travelers could walk or ride along the Selfljót River and then continue over Gönguskarð toward Njarðvík. Parts of the old horse trail can still be recognized in the landscape.
This makes Stapavík more than just a scenic viewpoint. It is a place where Iceland’s natural and human history meet.
Stapavík to Njarðvík: The Longer Hiking Option
If the short Stapavík walk is not enough for you, there is a longer option.
From Stapavík, experienced hikers can continue over Gönguskarð toward Njarðvík. This adds roughly another two hours to the hike according to regional tourism information.
This option should be planned more carefully because it involves mountain terrain rather than simply following the easy coastal section.
You should also think about transportation. The longer route can work better if you have arranged transportation from Njarðvík rather than planning to walk back the same way.
For casual travelers, I would choose the return walk to Unaós. For experienced hikers who want a longer adventure in East Iceland, the Gönguskarð route can make the day much more interesting.
Is Stapavík Hiking Trail Difficult?
The standard Stapavík Iceland hiking trail is generally considered an easy route compared with many mountain hikes in East Iceland.
The main walk from Unaós to Stapavík and back is mostly gentle, and official regional information describes it as family friendly.
However, easy does not mean you should ignore Icelandic weather.
The trail is located in an open coastal environment where wind can be strong. Weather can change quickly in Iceland, so even an easy trail can become uncomfortable if you are not prepared.
The longer route over Gönguskarð is a different experience and should be treated as a more demanding mountain hike.
Best Time to Hike Stapavík
The best time for the Stapavík hiking trail is generally during the warmer and more accessible months of the year.
Late spring, summer, and early autumn can provide better conditions for walking. Recent regional tourism information describes the trail as suitable from early spring through late autumn, although actual conditions can vary.
Summer gives you longer daylight hours, which is a major advantage when exploring East Iceland.
Early autumn can also be beautiful because the landscape starts taking on seasonal colors and there are often fewer visitors.
Before starting your hike, always check local weather and trail conditions. Iceland’s weather can change rapidly, especially in exposed areas.
What Should You Wear for Stapavík?
Even though Stapavík is an easy hike, proper clothing can make a big difference.
I would recommend wearing waterproof hiking shoes or boots because the trail can become wet after rain. A waterproof outer layer is also useful because rain and wind are common possibilities in Iceland.
Dress in layers rather than relying on one thick jacket. Conditions can feel completely different when the wind increases.
It is also worth carrying water, snacks, a phone, and basic outdoor essentials.
Good preparation does not make the adventure less enjoyable. In my opinion, it allows you to relax because you know you are ready if the weather changes.
Wildlife and Nature Around Stapavík
The coastal environment around Stapavík supports a variety of birdlife.
The wider East Iceland region around Borgarfjörður Eystri is particularly well known for birdwatching. Nearby Hafnarhólmi is famous for puffins and other seabirds, while coastal routes around the area provide opportunities to see birds in their natural surroundings.
While hiking Stapavík, avoid disturbing wildlife and keep a respectful distance.
You should also stay on marked paths where possible. Icelandic vegetation can be fragile, especially moss and other slow growing plants. Responsible hiking helps protect the landscape for future visitors.
How to Get to Stapavík
Stapavík is reached from the direction of East Iceland, with the trail starting at Unaós.
The broader Borgarfjörður Eystri area is accessed from Egilsstaðir by Road 94. The drive toward Borgarfjörður Eystri itself is scenic, passing through mountain landscapes before reaching the small coastal community.
If you are planning a road trip through East Iceland, Stapavík can be included as a hiking stop rather than requiring a separate major journey.
It is a good idea to check road and weather conditions before driving into the area, especially outside the main summer season.
Tips for Hiking Stapavík
There are a few simple things I would keep in mind before starting the hike.
Start early if you want a quieter experience.
Wear waterproof footwear because conditions can be wet.
Bring a windproof and waterproof jacket.
Check the weather before leaving.
Stay on the marked route.
Give yourself enough time to enjoy the beach and inlet.
Do not disturb birds or other wildlife.
Take your rubbish with you.
If you continue toward Njarðvík, plan transportation in advance.
Most importantly, do not rush. The beauty of Stapavík comes from its peaceful surroundings.
Nearby Places to Visit
One advantage of visiting Stapavík is that you can combine the hike with other attractions in East Iceland.
Borgarfjörður Eystri is one of the best known hiking areas in the region, with many marked trails leading through colorful mountains, valleys, and remote coastal areas.
Hafnarhólmi is another excellent stop, especially if you enjoy birdwatching. It is known for close views of puffins during the nesting season.
You can also explore Álfaborg near Bakkagerði, a hill connected with Icelandic folklore and stories about hidden people.
For a much longer hiking adventure, the wider Víknaslóðir trail network offers routes through the colorful mountains and remote fjords of the region.
Final Thoughts on Stapavík Iceland Hiking Trail
The Stapavík Iceland hiking trail is one of those places that shows why exploring beyond Iceland’s most famous attractions can be so rewarding.
The trail is relatively easy, but the scenery is impressive. You walk beside the Selfljót River, reach the black sands of Héraðssandur, and eventually arrive at a remote inlet surrounded by cliffs and open ocean.
What makes the experience even better is the history. The old unloading facilities remind you that this quiet coastal location was once connected to an important part of local life.
If you are planning an East Iceland road trip and want a peaceful hike that combines nature, history, and coastal scenery, Stapavík is an excellent choice.
I would especially recommend it to travelers who enjoy quiet places rather than crowded attractions. You do not need to be an expert hiker to appreciate this trail. You simply need comfortable shoes, suitable clothing, a little time, and a desire to explore.
Stapavík may not be the most famous hiking destination in Iceland, and that is exactly what makes it special. Here, the landscape feels open, wild, and wonderfully peaceful. For anyone searching for a hidden hiking trail in East Iceland, a family friendly Iceland hike, or a scenic coastal hike near Borgarfjörður Eystri, Stapavík deserves a place on the list.
