Vegakerfið

Vegakerfið is the Icelandic term for the road network of Iceland. It encompasses all public roads maintained by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin). The network is divided into different categories based on road surface and importance. The primary classification includes paved roads, gravel roads, and mountain roads. Paved roads are typically the main arteries connecting major towns and cities, while gravel roads are more common in rural and less populated areas. Mountain roads, often designated with an F prefix, are unpaved and generally only accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles during the summer months.

The total length of the Vegakerfið is approximately 48,000 kilometers, with a significant portion being unpaved. The Ring Road, or Route 1, is the most famous and vital route, circumnavigating the entire island and connecting most of its populated areas. Other important roads include the Westfjords Road and various routes leading to the Highlands. Maintaining the Vegakerfið presents unique challenges due to Iceland's harsh climate, including volcanic activity, extreme weather conditions, and frost heave, which can damage road surfaces. Seasonal closures, particularly for mountain roads, are common.