The Hvalfjörður Tunnel is a subsea road tunnel running beneath Hvalfjörður fjord, connecting West Iceland with the Capital Region. Opened in 1998, the tunnel marked a major milestone in Icelandic transportation by reducing travel time between regions by up to 45 minutes.
Before the tunnel opened, drivers had to travel the long coastal road around the fjord, a route that could be difficult during winter conditions. The tunnel greatly improved road safety and accessibility, opening easier access to the natural and historical sites located at the inner part of the fjord.
Near the southern entrance of the tunnel lies the Hvalfjörður Whaling Station, an abandoned industrial site that operated from 1948 to 1986 and today stands as one of Iceland’s most striking industrial heritage locations.
At the head of the fjord is Botnsdalur Valley, home to Glymur, Iceland’s highest waterfall. Glymur is among the country’s most popular hiking destinations, known for its dramatic canyon, river crossings, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Staðir nálægt mér
© Anton Stefánsson | antonstefans@gmail.com