Njarðvíkurskriður og Naddi

Background

History & Background

Before modern road construction, Njarðvíkurskriður formed part of the difficult foot-and-horse route into Borgarfjörður Eystri. The first motor-road connection over Vatnsskarð opened in 1954, changing access to the isolated fjord community. The route continued to be improved and was paved in 2019. The modern road follows a landscape whose steep slopes and exposure help explain the long history of hazardous travel associated with the area.

Njarðvíkurskriður are the steep slopes above Njarðvík on the approach to Borgarfjörður Eystri. Before a motor road existed, the route was travelled on foot or horseback and was known for difficult conditions, including steep ground, landslides and winter hazards. A motor road over Vatnsskarð opened in 1954, improving access to Borgarfjörður Eystri, and the route was paved in 2019. Today Route 94 makes the journey far easier, but the landscape still explains why the old passage carried such a strong reputation. The best-known cultural story connected with the slopes is the legend of Naddi. Tradition says a dangerous creature lived in Naddagil and attacked travellers passing through the area. A cross, Naddakross, was erected beside the route and became associated with protection from the creature. The cross bears a Latin inscription and the date 1306, making it a distinctive landmark on the journey. For visitors, Njarðvíkurskriður og Naddi works best as one combined historical and folklore stop rather than separate generic entries for the farm and bay of Njarðvík. The attraction explains both the real transport history of this isolated Eastfjords route and the local story that generations connected with its dangers. Roadside conditions can change quickly, especially outside summer, so travellers should check current conditions and stop only where it is safe.