Bolafjall Viewing Platform
A dramatic viewing platform perched on a cliff edge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Iceland's rugged coastline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Bolafjall Viewing Platform
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic viewing platform perched on a cliff edge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Iceland's rugged coastline.
"Absolutely amazing. If you wait 5-10 min clouds will clear out and the view will be spectacular."
Check Weather Before You Go
Clouds can obscure views quickly. Wait 5-10 mins, they might clear!
Drive Carefully on Gravel Road
Road is narrow & winding with no guardrails. Small cars can manage in good weather.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Viewing Platform
Summit of Bolafjall
A newly constructed platform offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and mountains.
Coastal Vistas
From the platform
On clear days, witness stunning vistas stretching all the way to Hornstrandir friðland.
Old Radar Station
Summit of Bolafjall
Explore the remnants of a historic US-built radar station at the summit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weather is Key
The Drive Up
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Highly recommend a drive to the top of Bolafjall to catch the Midnight Sun.
Check Weather Before You Go
Clouds can obscure views quickly. Wait 5-10 mins, they might clear!
Drive Carefully on Gravel Road
Road is narrow & winding with no guardrails. Small cars can manage in good weather.
Is it possible to hike Bolafjall in October?
1-day guided hike in Hornstandir, worth it? waste of time?
Dress in Layers
Significant temperature drop and fog possible, even in good weather.
Be Patient for Views
Clouds can be persistent, but patience often rewards with spectacular clearings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Weather Before You Go
Clouds can obscure views quickly. Wait 5-10 mins, they might clear!
Drive Carefully on Gravel Road
Road is narrow & winding with no guardrails. Small cars can manage in good weather.
Dress in Layers
Significant temperature drop and fog possible, even in good weather.
Be Patient for Views
Clouds can be persistent, but patience often rewards with spectacular clearings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely amazing and spectacular views from the Bolafjall Viewing Platform, especially on clear days. However, the drive up the narrow, winding gravel road with no guardrails is a significant concern for many, with some describing it as terrifying. It's a destination that offers incredible rewards but demands careful consideration of the challenging access.
"Absolutely amazing. When I went up it was very cloudy but if you wait 5-10 min clouds will clear out and the view will be spectacular. Definitely recommend it. The drive up there is a different story. Would I drive up there myself? Maybe yes 🤭"
Agnese Snorina
"Most terrifying drive of my entire life! Absolutely would NOT recommend this to anyone. Could not even enjoy the view because I was so traumatized by the insane drive up the cliff. No guard rails, basically single lane winding dirt road on the edge of the cliff. Thank God it was beautiful weather because I cannot even imagine doing that in any kind of rain/fog. If I could leave zero stars, I would."
Becky Salata
"With nice weather you can see all the way to Hornstrandir friðland. With bad weather there is a significant temperature drop and the road gets foggy too."
Samuel L.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The platform is accessed via a gravel road from Bolungarvík. While small cars can manage in good weather, the road is narrow, winding, and lacks guardrails, making the drive challenging for some.
The F-road to the top is typically closed in October. Access might be limited to hiking routes from the base of the mountain, depending on snow conditions.
Yes, small cars can drive up the gravel road to Bolafjall, provided the weather is good. Be prepared for a steep and winding ascent.
The road is gravel and can be challenging, with steep inclines and sharp turns along the cliff edge. It's advisable to drive cautiously.
Access in winter can be difficult due to snow and ice. The F-road is usually closed, and hiking may be the only option, requiring appropriate winter gear and experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit the Bolafjall Viewing Platform. It is a publicly accessible viewpoint.
The viewing platform is accessible year-round during daylight hours, weather permitting. The road access may be restricted during winter months.
No, there is no entrance fee to access the Bolafjall Viewing Platform.
The platform was newly constructed and was almost finished in spring 2022.
While the platform is physically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to the challenging road conditions and potential for extreme weather, especially if you plan to see the Northern Lights.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing platform itself offers the most dramatic angles. Capture the sweeping coastal views and the unique radar station against the sky.
While theoretically possible, the challenging drive and unpredictable weather make it a risky location for Northern Lights photography. Clear skies are essential.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive landscapes. A sturdy tripod can be useful if you plan for longer exposures, especially if conditions are less than ideal.
Even with clouds, dramatic and moody shots are possible. The interplay of light and shadow can create unique photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful light. However, clear skies at any time will provide spectacular photographic conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Adventurous Drivers
Ensure your vehicle is suitable for unpaved roads. The reward for navigating this route is access to some of the most dramatic coastal views in the region. It's an adventure that many find well worth the effort.
Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to include the unique, old US-built radar station in your shots for added visual interest. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the expansive scenery. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, which can lead to both challenging and incredibly rewarding photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Bolafjall Road
It's crucial to check the weather forecast before attempting the drive. Fog, rain, or strong winds can make the road significantly more hazardous. If you are uncomfortable with heights or steep, narrow roads, it might be best to reconsider or assess your vehicle's capabilities thoroughly. The road is generally closed in October due to potential winter conditions.
Key takeaway: Assess your driving comfort and the current weather conditions before ascending. The views are spectacular, but safety on this unique road is paramount.
Maximizing Your Visit: Timing and Views
On a clear day, the views are described as 'spectacular' and can extend all the way to Hornstrandir friðland. The newly constructed viewing platform, opened in spring 2022, offers an excellent vantage point. Be prepared for a noticeable drop in temperature and potential fog, even if the weather seems fair at the base.
Pro-tip: If the weather is initially poor, consider waiting for a short period. The dynamic Icelandic weather can change rapidly, and your patience might be rewarded with a clear, unforgettable vista. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best visual experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit