capital-region · Iceland
Breið og Akranesviti
About Breið og Akranesviti
Breið and Akranesviti are two iconic lighthouses located on the coast of Akranes. The older lighthouse, Breið, was built in the 19th century and reflects early lighthouse design in Iceland. Nearby stands the newer Akranesviti, constructed in the early 20th century, which replaced Breið as the main navigational light. The two structures stand close together, creating a distinctive visual landmark along the shoreline. The newer lighthouse is open to visitors during certain seasons, allowing access to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and ocean. The area around the lighthouses is popular for walking, photography, and enjoying the dramatic coastal scenery.
History & Background
The lighthouse Breið was built in the late 19th century as one of Iceland’s early navigational aids. In the early 20th century, the larger Akranesviti was constructed to improve maritime safety in the region and eventually replaced Breið as the main operational lighthouse. Both structures were preserved, and today they stand together as an important historical site reflecting the development of lighthouse technology and coastal navigation in Iceland.
Did You Know?
- ✔Breið og Akranesviti is one of many interesting sites in capital-region
- ✔Iceland's diverse landscape makes every region unique and worth exploring
- ✔The best way to experience Iceland is to venture off the beaten path
Tours Near Breið og Akranesviti
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Visit Breið and Akranesviti to experience two generations of Icelandic lighthouse history in one scenic coastal location.
Did You Know?
Akranesviti is one of the few lighthouses in Iceland that visitors can enter and climb, offering views across Faxaflói bay.
Twin lighthouses on the coast of Akranes, representing two eras of Iceland’s maritime navigation history.
On the shoreline of Akranes, the two lighthouses Breið and Akranesviti stand side by side, facing the open waters of Faxaflói. The older lighthouse, Breið, was built in the late 19th century to guide fishermen and ships safely along the coast. As maritime activity increased, a stronger and more visible beacon became necessary. In the early 20th century, Akranesviti was constructed nearby, taking over as the primary lighthouse. Rather than removing the original structure, both towers were preserved, creating a unique coastal landmark. Today, visitors can walk between the two and experience the contrast between past and present, where each lighthouse tells part of the story of Iceland’s relationship with the sea.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
