A hearty hike that loops around the Lambamúli mountain and takes route 630 back to town. The hike is a great all day activity with unique land formations, waterfalls and rivers. If you have time, stop by Skálavík.
DINK Details
This is an Icelandic hike so there is no path.
Difficulty: Hard Month: Sept | Time¹: 7 hours Distance: 11.74 mi Elv. Gain: 2,815 ft |
Obstacles: - A steep incline saddle² - Climbing on giant lose rocks | Prep: - Rain gear and boots - Snacks - If you leave early, check out Skalavik |
1. How long we took to walk it with breaks and all
2. I would not attempt in the rain or with a fear of heights
It's starting to feel like Starwars with this poncho
Getting To Trailhead
This one is right outside of town, a Bolungarvik hike. There may be parking at the trailhead since there was construction in 2023.
The path only lasts for a few minutes then you are on your own. That means no trail markings and you survey the ground for best footing.
Be safe, be Icelandic!
The Hike
Start Time: 10:30am
I felt I was hugging the right side too much. The road wraps to the left and I recommend giving that a shot. Try to to keep on the low, flat land and head towards the right when the incline starts.
In good weather, you can survey the land, weave the inclines and find your way. Unlucky for me, a storm with high winds came in. Since I had the saddle coming up, I took shelter behind a rock and waited. Wait for the unpredictable to be predictable, play it safe in a rough terrain.
The Saddle
Same as the hike from Isafjordur to Hnifsdalur, you want good footing and good weather (which I did not have today). Make sure the check the Obstacles section cause this is another trial of bravery.
Down the Valley
The land is mellow and full of waterfalls and rivers. Keep to the right of the valley and river. Eventually thin paths show up and lead towards route 630. Once you see the house on the left, make a hard right before passing it.
Obstacles
Steep Saddle
Saddles (or mountain passes) are the lower, thin points between two mountains that hikers can cross. In the western fjords they are usually steep and have loose dirt which makes footing difficult.
It was scary to climb but not looking down and keeping motion helped. I focused on every step and getting to the top was rewarding. Head down the other side was a workout but not scary with a lot of sure footing.
I would not do in the rain.
Wrap Up
End Time: 5:30pm
Route 630
Victory ... almost. An even road with a nice incline and easy decline into town. If you are up for an extra hour loop, check out Skalavik further down the road to the west. Either or, enjoy the walk back.
Bolungarvik
The entrance to town was guarded by a squad of sheep. The looked tough but with a quick glare of bravery, they stood down. They had respect for my accomplishments, a nod of approval was given as I walked by.
360 Tour
The section around the back
In the Area
Sundlaug Bolungarvíkur (Pool and Sauna)
This is a must do! Its a town pool but spa level. Great facilities and never crowded.
Details
Around $10 entrance
3 outdoor hot pots
A sauna and heated beds
Heated indoor pool
Water slide!
Link:
Maps
AllTrails
Local Map
Notes: The green is the main path, orange is optional. I cannot speak for the trail in the middle, it did not look fun
Mapcarta
Very detailed Icelandic topography map: https://mapcarta.com/N5345577009
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