In Iceland’s rugged landscape you’ll come across many references to the island’s rich Viking history. Not only in museums or at archaeological sites, but also subtly woven into modern constructions. A striking example is a bridge shaped like a Viking sword on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula: the Kolgrafafjörður Bridge (also known as Sword Road or Sword Bridge). This modern structure, part of Road 54 (Snaefellsnesvegur), blends seamlessly into the surroundings, as if it had always belonged there. To me, it’s a beautiful way of keeping the Viking heritage alive in Iceland’s landscape. A must-see spot in West Iceland, especially if you’re bringing a drone.
Read this article in DutchWhen and why was the Sword Bridge built?
In 2004 the Kolgrafafjörður Bridge, commonly referred to as the Sword Bridge or Sword Road, was officially opened. Before that, drivers had to circle the entire fjord, a long detour that was especially inconvenient in poor weather conditions. The bridge made the peninsula much more accessible, both for the local community and for travelers exploring Snaefellsnes along Road 54.
Why the Kolgrafafjörður Bridge is so unique
The striking Viking sword shape gives the Kolgrafafjörður Bridge a cultural significance, making it one of the most remarkable crossings in West Iceland. The curves in the design, however, primarily serve a practical purpose. They help distribute forces and guide water currents in the fjord, which increases the bridge’s stability. What makes this bridge special is that the rounded arches extend freely over the water on both sides, clearly showing the sword shape from above. In other parts of Iceland you’ll find bridges with somewhat similar forms, but their arches often rest partly on land or only one side has a curve, making the sword motif far less visible from the air. A good example of this is the bridge near the Sauðárkrókur viewpoint in Norðurland Vestra.
Where exactly is the Kolgrafafjörður Bridge on Snæfellsnes?
The Kolgrafafjörður Bridge connects the towns of Grundarfjörður and Stykkishólmur in the northern part of Snaefellsnes. It is 230 meters long and spans Kolgrafafjörður. Driving the Ring Road (Road 54) across Snæfellsnes, you’ll automatically pass by. At the western end of the bridge there is a small parking area (marked on Google Maps as Long Bridge), where you can stop and take your time to view the bridge. Don’t forget to also check out the impressive Berserkjahraun lava field (Road 558) nearby.
