The old Djupvegur road is mostly washed away
Tucked away on the Westfjords peninsula, in Iceland, the Djúpvegur was one of the most dangerous roads in the country due to falling rocks and sudden avalanches. The road is currently closed to vehicles and accessible on foot.
Is the old Djupvegur road dangerous?
It was one of the most dangerous roads in Iceland. It was built in 1949 and caused many casualties and deaths due the rockfalls and avalanches. It was closed to vehicles in 2010 and now it’s mostly washed away. Always check your surroundings and keep an eye on the steep cliffs. The road provides very good views over the large bay, called "Ísafjarðardjúp". Extreme care is required: the road and its tunnels (very small ones) aren't being maintained anymore. Large holes can be present in the old tarmac and old fallen rocks are on the track. Also, after heavy snowfall, the road can be blocked by large heaps of snow.
How long is Djupvegur road?
Located in the northwestern part of the country, the road was totally paved and linked the small towns of Bolungarvík and Hnífsdalur. It is 8km (4.97 miles) long. You can park your car at both sides of the old road and walk or bike to the other side and back again. On September 25, 2010, the old road was bypassed by a 5.4km long tunnel called Bolungarvíkurgöng, built through the mountains.
Pic: Andrew Slomka