Öxnadalur Valley

Öxnadalur (“Ox Valley”) is one of the most scenic valley drives in North Iceland, located on Route 1 between Akureyri and the Norðurárdalur junction. The valley floor is a patchwork of green farmsteads and meandering rivers, while the surrounding mountains rise in jagged, snow-dusted ridges that remain dramatic well into summer.

The most eye-catching feature is Króksbjarg, a sheer, angular cliff face that drops precipitously to the valley floor and has a distinctive reddish-brown hue from iron-rich volcanic rock. Several rivers crossing the valley floor support healthy populations of brown trout, and the valley has a remote, unhurried atmosphere despite lying on the main coastal ring road.

No special access is required — Route 1 passes directly through the valley, and several pull-offs allow you to stop and take in the scenery. Short hikes into the mountains from the valley floor are possible for those with a full day to spare. Accessible year-round, though winter driving requires caution.