east iceland
Skálanes Nature Reserve
About Skálanes Nature Reserve
Skálanes is located at the mouth of Seyðisfjörður on Iceland's east coast, accessible via a rough 15-kilometre track from the town of Seyðisfjörður. The reserve and organic farm cover a dramatic headland where sheer sea cliffs meet a sheltered cove, creating diverse habitats for seabirds, migratory species, and coastal plants. Accommodation in traditional farm buildings is available for guests wishing to spend time at the reserve. Guided birdwatching is a highlight, with species including puffins, Arctic terns, great skuas, and red-necked phalaropes present during summer months. The journey to Skálanes is part of the experience — a rough track offering increasingly dramatic views over the fjord and surrounding mountains. The location is remote enough that guests can experience true Icelandic wilderness silence while remaining within reach of Seyðisfjörður village.
🐉 The Elves of the Eastern Fjords
The steep mountains and narrow fjords of East Iceland are considered one of the most enchanted regions of the country. Local tradition holds that entire communities of elves (álfar) live inside the mountains, with their own towns, churches, and social structures mirroring human society. Fishermen in eastern fjord villages have long reported seeing lights in the mountainsides on dark winter nights — the windows of elf houses, they say. Some families maintain that their ancestors had regular contact with the elf-folk, trading goods and sharing knowledge. The belief is so persistent that construction projects in the region still sometimes account for known elf dwellings.
📖 History of Skálanes Nature Reserve
Accommodation in traditional farm buildings is available for guests wishing to spend time at the reserve. Guided birdwatching is a highlight, with species including puffins, Arctic terns, great skuas, and red-necked phalaropes present during summer months. The journey to Skálanes is part of the experience — a rough track offering increasingly dramatic views over the fjord and surrounding mountains. The location is remote enough that guests can experience true Icelandic wilderness silence while remaining within reach of Seyðisfjörður village.
✈️ Why Visit
Experience one of Iceland's most remote and pristine natural environments with exceptional birdwatching and total isolation.
💡 Did You Know?
Skálanes can only be reached by a rough mountain track — making it one of the few places in Iceland that still feels truly remote.
Key Facts
15 km rough track from Seyðisfjörður
Organic farm and nature reserve
Seabird colonies: puffins, terns, skuas
Accommodation available on site
One of East Iceland's most remote locations
💎 Hidden Gems
Off-Peak Visit
Visit Skálanes Nature Reserve during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
Skálanes Nature Reserve looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
🚗 Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
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