The pass lies 705 m above sea level between the bays Eskifiord and Nordfiord.  On both sides are valleys, Oddsdalur with a few rare species of plants on the northern side and Sellatradalur to the south.  The peak to the west of the pass is called Mt Svartafjall and to the east Mt Magnusartindur.

During winter the pass was frequently closed because of snow conditions.  To improve the communications it was decided to build a tunnel under it.  Work on the tunnel started in 1974 and was finished in 1977.  The tunnel is at 632 m above sea level and 626 m long.  The people in the surrounding area enjoy the healthy sport of skiing in the resort in the pass.