Polar City Guide logo
Polar City Guide
Polar City Guide logo
Polar City Guide

Best Sunset Locations in Seyðisfjörður Winter Season

December 23, 2022
By Editor
Best Sunset Locations in Seyðisfjörður Winter Season

Where to Find the Best Sunset Locations in Seyðisfjörður

Seyðisfjörður is a hidden gem located in the heart of the rugged East Iceland region. You can find the best sunset locations in Seyðisfjörður winter season with our expert guide. The snowy mountains create a stunning backdrop for the colorful sky during the evening hours. Visitors in 2026 will enjoy the unique light that only the northern winter can provide.

The sun stays very low on the horizon during the cold months of the year. This low angle creates long shadows and soft light that looks amazing in your photos. Most photographers visit this town specifically to capture the fjord during the magical golden hour. We have selected the top spots where you can see the sky turn bright orange.

Magical Views from the Harbor Front

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Lonely Planet Seyðisfjörður.

You can find the latest updates on Múlaþing Municipality.

The harbor area provides a wide view of the sky reflecting on the still water. You can stand near the ferry terminal to see the sun dip below the mountains. This spot is very easy to reach even when the snow is quite deep outside. Cold air makes the colors in the sky look much more vibrant and clear.

Local fishing boats add a traditional feel to your winter landscape photos in the harbor. The metal hulls often catch the pink light of the setting sun during late afternoon. Most people enjoy walking along the shore to find a unique angle for their shots. You might see small blocks of ice floating gently on the surface of the fjord.

Parking is available near the town center for those who want to stay warm inside. You should arrive at least thirty minutes before the sun disappears behind the steep cliffs. This timing allows you to set up your tripod and check your camera settings properly. Wearing warm boots is essential if you plan to stand on the snowy harbor wall.

The reflection of the village lights begins to shimmer on the dark water at dusk. You can capture the transition from the golden hour to the blue hour very easily. Many photographers find this to be the most relaxing place to end their winter day. The sound of the small waves hitting the shore adds to the peaceful sunset atmosphere.

Looking towards the mouth of the fjord offers a different perspective on the setting sun. The high peaks on either side frame the glowing sky like a natural picture frame. This view is especially powerful when the clouds are scattered across the vast horizon line. Bring a thermos of hot coffee to stay warm while you wait for the light.

Sunset at the Iconic Blue Church

The Blue Church is one of the most famous landmarks in the entire town area. Seeing this building during the sunset is a highlights of the winter season in Iceland. The soft blue walls contrast beautifully with the warm orange glow of the fading sun. This location is perfect for capturing the spirit of this small and creative mountain village.

You can capture the church while walking up the famous Rainbow Street in the center. Read our guide on photographing the Blue Church for more expert tips. The mountains in the background will turn a deep purple as the light starts fading. You should use a tripod to keep your images sharp during the low light conditions.

Most visitors find that a wide lens works best for capturing the whole snowy scene. The church often looks best when there is a fresh layer of white winter snow. You might even see the first stars appearing in the sky during the late sunset. Take several photos from different heights to see how the light hits the wooden walls.

The path leading to the church is usually cleared of snow for the local residents. This makes it a very safe place to take photos during the cold winter evening. You will notice that the street lights add a warm yellow glow to the foreground. This mix of light sources creates a very professional look in your final digital images.

Try to include the surrounding mountains to show the scale of the landscape in Seyðisfjörður. These peaks tower over the town and create a dramatic silhouette against the sunset sky. The church looks very small and cozy when framed by the massive walls of rock. This is truly one of the best sunset locations in Seyðisfjörður winter season.

Gufufoss Waterfall Sunset Heights

Gufufoss waterfall sits just a short drive up the road leading out of the town. This location offers an elevated view of the valley and the fjord far below you. It is one of the best winter photography spots in the region. The waterfall often freezes into giant icicles during the coldest weeks of the winter season.

These ice formations catch the golden light and sparkle like diamonds in the evening air. You should be careful on the icy paths while carrying your heavy camera gear around. The sound of the rushing water is very peaceful as the sun begins to set. Make sure to wear ice cleats on your boots for better grip on the slippery ground.

From this height, you can see the sun setting over the distant mountain peaks clearly. The expansive view makes it feel like you are standing on the very top world. The colors at this altitude often stay vibrant for a longer time than in town. Bring a warm jacket because the wind is often quite strong at this high location.

The waterfall itself acts as a great foreground subject for your wide landscape sunset photos. You can use a long exposure to make the water look smooth and very milky. This technique works well when the sky is filled with soft pink and purple clouds. Watch out for spray from the falls because it can freeze on your lens glass.

There is a small parking lot located right next to the viewing area for Gufufoss. This makes it one of the most accessible spots for winter sunset photography in 2026. You can quickly hop back into your car to warm up between taking your shots. The drive back down into town offers even more views of the glowing fjord.

Photography Tips for Winter Sunsets

Recommendation: Don't miss out on amazing Reykjavik tours - book now!

Shooting in the snow requires you to adjust your camera exposure settings very carefully. Snow can often trick your camera into making the image look too dark or gray. Increase your exposure compensation by one or two stops to keep the snow looking white. This will help you capture the true beauty of the sunset on frozen ground.

Cold temperatures can drain your camera batteries much faster than you might expect during winter. Keep spare batteries in your pocket close to your body to keep them warm. This simple trick ensures that you do not miss the peak of the golden hour. You should also wear thin gloves that allow you to operate camera buttons easily.

Using a circular polarizer can help to reduce glare on the icy water or snow. It also makes the colors of the sky look more saturated and deep in photos. Try to include some foreground interest like a rock or a small frozen bush nearby. This adds a sense of scale and depth to your winter landscape sunset images.

Set your white balance to the cloudy or shade setting to enhance the warm colors. The auto white balance might try to remove the orange tones that make sunsets look beautiful. You can always adjust the colors later if you shoot in the raw image format. Experiment with different settings to find the look that you prefer for your portfolio.

The blue hour happens immediately after the sun disappears behind the high peaks of the fjord. This period offers a soft and cool light that is perfect for long exposure shots. You will see the town lights begin to twinkle in the distance during this time. Stay for at least an hour after the sunset to get the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time is sunset in Seyðisfjörður during winter?

Sunset usually occurs between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM during the peak of the winter. You should check a local weather app for the exact timing of the daily sunset. This early timing means you must plan your day carefully to reach the best spots. Read our winter travel guide for more details on timing.

Is the road to Gufufoss open in the winter?

The road is usually kept open but can be very icy during the winter months. You should always drive a four-wheel drive vehicle when traveling through the eastern fjords. Snow plows work regularly to clear the path for the local ferry traffic and visitors. Check the official road conditions website before you leave your hotel in the morning.

Can I see the Northern Lights after sunset in town?

Seyðisfjörður is a great place to see the Northern Lights when the sky is clear. The high mountains can sometimes block the view if the lights are low on horizon. You should drive a bit out of town to find a darker spot for viewing. The harbor area can also provide great reflections of the aurora on the water.

Finding the best sunset locations in Seyðisfjörður winter season is a rewarding experience for any traveler. The combination of snowy peaks and golden light creates memories that will last a lifetime. Make sure to dress warmly and prepare your camera gear for the cold weather. Start planning your 2026 adventure to this beautiful Icelandic town today for the best views.

Key Takeaways

Recommendation: Don't miss out on amazing Reykjavik tours - book now!

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset to find the best angle.
  • Keep your camera batteries warm to prevent them from dying in the cold.
  • Use a tripod for sharp images during the low light of the blue hour.

Related reads: polarcityguide.com, winter landscape photography at gufufoss waterfall site 2026, capturing the fjord reflection on winter mornings 2026.