How Challenging is the Road to Hellisheiði Eystri?
Iceland, europe
70.7 km
644 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for a wild ride on Hellisheiði Eystri, a mountain pass nestled in Northeast Iceland! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a seriously steep climb, reaching a dizzying 644 meters (that's over 2,100 feet!).
The road itself, known as Hlíðarvegur (Road 917), is mostly unpaved and stretches for about 70 kilometers (44 miles) from Vopnafjörður (on Road 85) heading south. Be prepared for 15 hairpin turns that will test your driving skills, and some seriously steep sections with gradients hitting 15%!
This road earns its reputation as the steepest mountain road in Iceland! While passable in good conditions, those in a front-wheel-drive motorhome might find it a bit dicey, especially if it's wet. And heads up: being one of the highest roads in Iceland, it's usually one of the first to close when the snow starts falling.
But hey, the views are totally worth it! At the summit, you'll find an old weather station and panoramic vistas of Héraðsflói Bay. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the coastal cliffs at Drangsnes, and the abandoned farm Krummsholt, a Viking ruin site! There are a few small parking spots up top, perfect for snapping some photos and soaking it all in. Just be warned, there are some serious drop-offs, so maybe not for those with a fear of heights!
Road Details
- Country
- Iceland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 70.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 644 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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