Around Iceland 2016 PDF

A FREE C
OPY
bus lin
e map
2016
around iceland
A COMPREHENSIVE AND CONCISE
VISITORS’ GUIDE TO ICELAND
1
2
e l i
H Toursc o p t er
Reykjavík Summit
I’ve been flying before but completely nothing can be compared to flying in Iceland.
The views you see… it just made me speechless, my heart was racing, a big smile on my face… as if I was in love!
Geothermal Tour
. •+
COME AND MEET
THE ICELANDIC
HORSE
IN PERSON
HORSE THEATER - RESTAURANT - SHOP

VISIT THE STABLE
At Iceland’s only horse park, Fákasel, visitors can meet
the unique Icelandic horse, either at the stables or the
ONLY
daily horse theatre show. OM
30 MIN. FR
Daily excursions available from hotels in Reykjavik, REYKJAVÍK
contact your tour desk for further information.
Restaurant serves fresh Icelandic food and is open

daily from 10am to 10pm.
icelandichorsepark.com
4
Dear traveler,
We who travel around this country the weather can change rapidly and with little warning. Travelers need
know that Iceland is a traveler´s to pay special attention to safety and should always carry equipment
dream. The landscape here is incredi- in keeping with the conditions at the time.
bly diverse and each region offers its
own uniqueness and special charm. One of the proposals we have agreed to relates to enhanced education
Iceland is all at once spectacular, for tourists. A key component is being undertaken by search and res-
beautiful and exotic. Iceland´s popular- cue teams around the country and involves the project “Safe Travel”
ity as a tourist destination has never which provides tourists with access to important information on road
been greater than now and this in- conditions, emergency services and other details necessary to keep in
volves facing a range of challenges mind when organising a journey around Iceland.
and numerous projects. This year the focus of our “Inspired by Iceland” marketing campaign is
One of these projects is to promote on educating tourists and comes under the heading “Iceland Acade-
tourist safety. Recently extensive suggestions for improvement have my”. This unique online program provides tourists with essential infor-
been finalized which local authorities around the country are working mation on what to consider when traveling in Iceland. I encourage you
on implementing. Here the state takes its share of responsibility – but all to visit “Iceland Academy” and learn as much as you can.
each traveler takes on a good deal of the responsibility as well. The overall aim is to ensure better travel safety for us all. I wish you all
It is not enough to have good footpaths or clear signposting indicating a pleasant journey in the coming year. Please respect the land, travel
where one may go and where not, if the traveler chooses to leave the carefully and safe journey home!
path or not to respect notice of closure. We must all, each individual Ragnheiður Elín Árnadóttir
traveler, show responsibility because we all want to reach our jour- Minister of Industry and Commerce
ney´s end safely. We also know that Icelandic nature can be harsh and
6
STAY IN THE CENTER
SIX FIRST C�SS HOTELS

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www.centerhotels.com | +354 595 8500

FROM THE EDITOR
Iceland is now published for the 40th Accompanying each chapter is a map of the area, with listings of the
time. It was first published when the main camping sites, accommodation, and swimming pools with co-
ring road was opened in 1976. This lours and numbers, which in turn correspond to service listings ac-
travel guide has been immensely pop- companying the chapters on rural areas in the booklet. These maps
ular and has had a circulation of are not accurate enough to be intended as roadmaps. You will also find
100,000 copies annually for many maps of towns with service listings in the book.
years now. This popularity is based on
the accurate and detailed information Over three hundred and fifty advertisers introduce their services in the
about most things that can be of use booklet, making it possible for us to distribute it in 100,000 copies
to visitors when they travel Around free of charge to tourists. The pages of Around Iceland are graced with
Iceland. This information has been beautiful photographs of Iceland by our top photographers. These pho-
gathered through excellent coopera- tos are for sale on our website (www.heimur.is). At the beginning of
tion with tourist agents and locals all over the country. It is updated each chapter, you will find concise landscape descriptions and infor-
annually with great care, in close cooperation with tourist information mation on the area, such as history, culture, places of interest, leisure
offices and locals all over the country, to make sure that the informa- activities, and communications.
tion is as accurate as possible. At the very beginning of the booklet, you will also find useful general
The contents are arranged in order of their geographical location, go- information on Iceland and its people. Finally, I hope that travellers will
ing clockwise around the country from its south-west corner, then respect Iceland’s fragile nature on their journey. I wish you all a won-
north and back through south Iceland. derful trip around Iceland and a safe return.
Ágústa Einarsdóttir, editor,

agusta@heimur.is
Reykjavík
Bike & Segway Tours
Entertaining and informative tours of the city on bike and Segway.
Great guides.
Ægisgarður 7,
by the old harbor in Reykjavík
Tel. 694 8956 >> www.icelandbike.com
8
NTOEURW
S IN 6
1
0
EYRI 2
AKUR
WHALE WATCHING TOURS

From Reykjavík & Akureyri In ships and RIBs!
Book your tour on Elding.is +354-519-5000

or come meet us by the harbour
REYKJAVÍK
Table of Contents
CITY CARD Address from the Minister of Tourism.................... 6
From the Editor.................................................... 8
Meaning of Symbols............................................. 12
Road Map with Rest Areas.................................... 14-15
Practical Information............................................ 16-20
Country and People.............................................. 22
Adventure Iceland................................................ 24-28
Bus Line Map ..................................................... 30-31
Experience Iceland............................................... 32-33
Map of Southwest Iceland.................................... 34
Southwest Iceland................................................ 34-57
24 Reykjanes Peninsula............................................ 34-44
The Capital Area.................................................. 45-57
48 Map of West Iceland............................................. 58
West Iceland........................................................ 58-85
Map of the West Fjords........................................ 86
72 The West Fjords................................................... 86-105
Map of Northwest Iceland..................................... 106
Northwest Iceland................................................ 106-125
Map of Northeast Iceland ..................................... 126
Northeast Iceland................................................. 126-155
Map of East Iceland.............................................. 156
East Iceland......................................................... 156-183
Map of South Iceland, eastern part........................ 184
Offers unlimited access to: Map of South Iceland, western part....................... 200
• All Reykjavík Art & City Museums South Iceland....................................................... 184-227
• The National Museum and the National The Interior Highlands.......................................... 228-238
Gallery of Iceland Map of the Interior............................................... 230
Index of Places..................................................... 239
• The Culture House
Road distances in km .......................................... 240
• Strætó, Reykjavík City’s transportation,
Zone 1
• All Reykjavík thermal pools
• The ferry to Viðey Island AROUND ICELAND – 40th edition, 2016
Annual guide book published for complimentary distributionto to visitors to Iceland,
• The Family Park and Animal Zoo and for use it overseas sales and information offices, embassies and consulates.
• Discounts at a number of local restaurants, Publishing company and copyright: Heimur hf, Borgartún 23, IS-105 Reykjavík,
stores and activity Iceland, tel. 512-7575. Email: heimur@heimur.is. Printed by Ísafold, April 2016,
print run 45,000 copies. Editor: Ágústa Einarsdóttir. Contributing writers: Friðrik
• Discount for children between 6-18 Olgeirsson, Jón Gauti Jónsson, et al. Contributing photographers: Páll
Stefánsson, Páll Kjartansson, Geir Ólafsson, Sverrir H. Geirmundsson et.al. Cover
www.citycard.is photo: Námafjall and Hverrönd, Mývatnssveit. Photographer Páll Stefánsson.
Maps: Ólafur Valsson. Layout: Ágústa Ragnarsdóttir (Argh ehf.).
Cover design: Ágústa Ragnarsdóttir. Sales managers: Ágústa Einarsdóttir and
Svandís Dagbjartsdóttir.
#reykjavikloves
CHECK OUT THE NEW
REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM
C O M P R I S I N G 5 TO P M U S E U M S :
Árbær Open Air Museum The Settlement Exhibition Reykjavík Maritime Museum
Reykjavík Museum Viðey Island

of Photography
www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is
Skýringar á merkjum í
Explanation
þéttbýlis- og of
landshlutakortum Symbols
on Streets
meaning of Symbols and Regional
on Streets Maps
and Regional Maps
Swimming
Bensínstöð
Filling Station Banki
Bank Sundlaug
Pool Pósthús
Post Office Lögreglustöð
Police Station
Matsala
Restaurant/ Sjúkrahús
Hospital/Health
Veitingahús
Snack Bar Sparisjóður
Savings Bank Kirkja
Church Apótek
Pharmacy Heilsugæsla
Care Centre
Hótel Upplýsingar fyrir
Tourist
Ferja
Ferry Hotel/
Gistihús ferðamenn Safn
Museum Flugvöllur
Airport
Guesthouse Information
Bátur
Boat Íþróttavöllur
Sports Field Golfvöllur
Golf Course Bókasafn
Library Tjaldsvæði
Camping Site
Áhugaverður
Place of
staður
Interest Bílaverkstæði
Garage
Skíðalyfta
Ski Lift ÍB Apartments
Í listum um þjónustu utan þéttbýlis er vísað til þessara númera á landshlutakortum:

vík
el kefla
0-7000
Hotels and Guesthouses 1 Tjaldsvæði - Key

H1 h to Symbols
354 42
Key
1 to Symbols ót flavík - 
Þjóðveganúmer 1 Hótel/Gistihús Sundstaðir Fax 35 4

vegur 12-1
42
4 - 230 Ke - www.kef.is
Vatnsnes 0-7002 - stay@kef
.is
Petrol/
Open
Opiðallallt
year.
árið. Dogs allowed. Sundlaug/Fjarlægð km.
Gasoline. Aðkoma fyrir fatlaða.
Open all year. Swimming pool/Distance km. Access for the disabled.
Das ganze Jahr geöffnet. Schwimmbad/Entfernung km. Zugang für Behinderte.
Only open in Ice cream shop. Internet.
summer.
Aðeins opið yfir sumarið. Heitur pottur. Þvottavél/Þvottaaðstaða.
Only open in summer. Hot tub. Washing machine/Facilities.
Nur im beds/
Made-up Sommer geöffnet. Bank
Tankstelle Cafe.
“Heißer Pott” Wireless
Schwimmbad Waschmaschine/Waschmöglichkeit.
Postamt Polizei
Number. Internet.
Uppbúin rúm/Fjöldi. Ljósabekkir. Internet.
Restaurant/
Made-up
A
Internet. kureyri - vKrankenhaus/
Sleeping
Imbiß bagbeds/Number. Washing machine/Solarium.Kirche
Sparkasse Apotheke ið Þórun
Internet. 462-3379 - Fa Ambulanz nars

Fertige Betten/Anzahl.
places/Number. Solarium. Facebook. 70
70
hamrar@ x træti
Facilities. hamrar.is 461-2267
70
130
- www.ha
rar.is m
Svefnpokapláss/Fjöldi. Hotel/ VeiðileyfiTourist
útveguð. Hundar leyfðir.
7
Rooms with bag

Sleeping show-
places/Number.
Fähre Angling procured.Angling procured.
Gästehaus Information Dogs allowed.
Museum Flugplatz
1
Twitter.
er/Number.
Schlafsacksplätze/Anzahl. Angelschein enthältilich. Hunde Willkommen.
Herbergi
Rooms with með sturtu/Fjöldi. Golf Course/ Golfvöllur/Fjarlægð km. Ferðaþjónusta bænda.
Boot/Schiff
Rooms with shower/Number. Sportplatz
Distance km. Golfplatz
Camping
Golf Course/Distance Huts.
km. Bibliothek Campingplatz
Icelandic Farm Holidays.
telephone.
Zimmer mit Dusche/Anzahl. Golfplatz/Entfernung km. Ferien auf dem Bauernhof.
Interessanter
Rooms with
Herbergi með síma. Horse rental Icelandic Farm
Ort
television.
Autowerkstatt Tjaldsvæði.
Skilift Sumarhús.
near-by. Holidays.
Rooms with telephone. Campsite Holiday Cottage.
Zimmer mit Telefon. Zeltplatz. Ferienhäuser.
Facilities for
Bicycles for hire. Holiday Cottage. Op
ið 5.6 – 15
Herbergi með sjónvarpi.
meetings. Hestaleiga í nágrenni. Farfuglaheimili. .9
Rooms with television. Horse rental near-by. Youth Hostel.
Zimmer
Warm mit Fernseher.
meals/ Pferdeverleih in der Nähe. Jugendherberge.
Refreshments. Boats for hire. Youth Hostel.
H
Fundaaðstaða. Hjólaleiga. Hótel.
Facilities for meetings. Bicycles for hire. Hotel.
Breakfast.
Konferenzraum/Konferenzräume.
hire. H
Snowmobiles for Fahrradverleih.Hotel. Campsite.
Hotel.
Swimming pool/
Distance km.
Heitar máltíðir/Veitingar. Bátaleiga. Gistiheimili/Einkaheimili.
Warm facilities.
Cooking meals/Refreshments. Boating trips. G
Boats for hire. Guest house/ G Guest house/Private home.Hot tub.
Cold water.
Warme Mahlzeiten/Erfrischungen. Bootsverleih. Private home. Gasthaus/Privatunterkunft.
Morgunverður.
Off-licence.
Breakfast.
Frühstück.
Hiking paths.
A
Vélsleðaleiga.
Snowmobiles forApartments.
hire.
Motorschlittenverleih.
S
Skóli.
Hot water.
School.
Schule.
Indoor swimming
pool.
NoEldunaraðstaða.
Smoking.
Cooking facilities.
Bird watching.
S
Bátsferðir.
Boating trips.
School.
C
Electricity for
Félagsheimili.
campers.
Community centre.
Waterslide.
Kochmöglichkeit. Bootsfahrten. Gemeindezentrum.

Access for the
Vínveitingar.
disabled.
Off-licence.
Jepp Tours.
C
Gönguleiðir.
Hiking paths.
Community centre.
Waste
disposal.
SAF - Samtök ferðaþjónustunnar.
The Icelandic Travel Industry
Steambath.
Ausschank. Helicopter Tours. Wanderwege.

The Icelandic Travel Association.
Playground. Gym.
Industry
Smáhús. Bensín. Association. Reykingar bannaðar.
Camping Huts. Petrol/Gasoline. Outdoor
No Smoking.
Interesting sites. barbeque.
Chalet/Ferienhaus. Tankstelle. Kein Rauchen.
6
12 AROUND ICELAND
NO NEED
TO GO HUNGRY
Hornbjarg
Bolungarvík
Suðureyri Dranga- Siglufjörður
Ísafjörður jökull
Flateyri
Súða-
vík 61
Þingeyri 60
Húnaflói Hofsós D
76
Bíldudalur Gláma Skagaströnd
F66 74 Trölla
Tálknafjörður
63 608 Blöndu- Sauðár-
Patreksfjörður 60 Hólmavík krókur
61 ós
605
Látrabjarg 62
690
Hvamms-
tangi
Flatey 72 1
68
Breiðafjörður
Stykkis- Blöndulón
hólmur Búðar-
Grundar- dalur
Ólafsvík fjörður 35
Hellissandur F578
SNÆFELLSNES 60 1
Þjóðgarður - National Park 56 55
Snæfells-
jökull 54 Arnarvatns-
heiði
Hveravellir Hof
jöku
54
r
Lang-
lu
Þ
ö
Kj
Borgar-
50 jökull
nes F550
Faxaflói 52
35
F338
47 52
á
rs
ÞINGVELLIR
Þjóðgarður - National Park
jó
Þ
Þór
Reykjavík 36
37
30
Garður
1 32
Sandgerði Keflavík Hvera- 35 Hekla
41 gerði F225
42 26
43 Landmanna- F20
Selfoss laugar
F210 Fjalla
Hella bak
Grindavík Þorlákshöfn
25 Hvols- F210
völlur
1 Þórsmörk
Mýrdals-
jökull
Vestmanna-
eyjar 1
Vík
14
Grímsey
Raufarhöfn
Melrakka-
slétta
Þistilfjörður
Kópasker
Öxarfjörður Þórshöfn
Skjálfandi
867 Bakkaflói
Ólafsfjörður 85 Öxarfjarðar-
F839 heiði
Húsavík
F899
Dalvík JÖKULSÁRGLJÚFUR
82
835
Vopnafjörður
askagi 87 Krafla
Héraðsflói
85
Akureyri
848 1
94
Seyðisfjörður
F88 Egilsstaðir 93
F821
F26 Neskaupstaður
F910 92
Herðubreið
F752 Ódáða-
hraun Hallorms- Eskifjörður
Askja staður Reyðarfjörður
F910
F909 Fáskrúðsfjörður
Hvannalindir Stöðvarfjörður
fs- F902 Snæfell
ull Nýidalur Eyjabakkar
Breiðdalsvík
Kverkfjöll
Þjórsárver Djúpivogur
ur
nd
F26
isa
ng
Lónsöræfi
re
Sp
Vatnajökull 1
risvatn SKAFTAFELL
F229 Höfn
Lakagígar
08
1
a- F206
k Skeiðarársandur
Kirkjubæjarklaustur
• Rest Area with WC

• Rest Area with facilities
• Small Rest Area
15
reykjavík.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Embassies • Japan, Laugavegur 182. Tel.: 510-8600.
• Norway, Fjólugata 17. Tel.: 520-0700.
• Canada, Túngata 14. Tel.: 575-6500.
• The Russian Federation, Garðastræti 33. Tel.: 551-5156.
• China, Bríetartún 1. Tel.: 552-6751.
• Sweden, Lágmúli 7. Tel.: 520-1230.
• Denmark, Hverfisgata 29. Tel.: 575-0300.
• United Kingdom, Laufásvegur 31. Tel.: 550-5100.
• Finland, Túngata 30. Tel.: 510-0100.
• United States of America, Laufásvegur 21. Tel.: 595-2200.
• France, Túngata 22. Tel.: 575-9600.
• Germany, Laufásvegur 31. Tel.: 530-1100. For further information contact the Ministry for Foreign Affairs,
• India, Túngata 7. Tel.: 534-9955. Rauðarárstígur 25 - 105 Reykjavik. Tel.: 545-9900.
16
Business contacts
• Promote Iceland, Sundagarðar 2, tel.: 511-4000.
• Ministry for Business Affairs, Sölvhólsgata 7, Reykjavík,
tel.: 545-8500,.
• Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Rauðarárstígur 25, Reykjavík,
tel.: 545-9900.
• Federation of Icelandic Trade, Kringlan 7, 103 Reykjavik,
tel.: 588 8910.
Icelandic currency
The Icelandic monetary unit is the Króna (ISK). The coins in use are 1,
5, 10, 50 and 100 krónur. The notes are 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 and
10000 krónur. Foreign exchange is available at all bank branches
around the country. Exchange outside regular banking hours is open
24 hours at Landsbankinn at Keflavík Airport.
Emergencies / lost or stolen cards

• Master Card, tel. 550-1500.
• VISA, tel. 525-2000.
Credit cards/debit cards

Akureyri. All major debit- and credit card brands are commonly accepted in
Iceland. This includes American Express, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus,
Visa, Visa Electron, Union Pay, JCB and Diners/Discovery cards.
Cash is generally available to all these brands in ATMs and some

banks and savings banks offer cash-advance services for most of
these brands as well.
Electricity
The voltage is 220, 50 Hz AC. Please note that prongs on equipment
you bring with you from home may be different from Icelandic stan-
dards. Adaptors are available in all major hotels and guesthouses and
electronic stores.
International calls
When calling outside Iceland, dial without interruption the internation-
al code (00), then the country code, the area code, and finally the
number. If you need help to reach the number, you can call 118 for
assistance. If you need help in finding a phone number abroad, you
can call 1818 and 1819 for information.
Domestic calls
Phone numbers in Iceland are seven-digit numbers. No area codes are
necessary, you dial the number directly. The Icelandic phone book, lists
names alphabetically by Christian names, not family names.
Emergencies - 112
In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire department, ambulance
or any other distress situation.
Police
Headquarters are at Hverfisgata 113 - 101 Reykjavík.
Tel.: 444-1000.
18
.is n
w io ll
yo o
w t a
.io ns
w e op udy
t
th S
Scheduled Buses
& Bus Passports
SUMMER 2016
Grímsey
Raufarhöfn
Kópasker
Ferry
Dranga- Þórshöfn
Ísafjörður jökull Siglufjörður
Húsavík
Airport
Ásbyrgi
Ólafsfjörður 641 641a
Hljóðaklettar
Skagaströnd
(Vesturdalur)
Drangsnes
Dettifoss
650 650a
661 661a
Patreksfjörður Hólmavík Krafla
Brjánslækur
Akureyri
Látrabjarg
SBA
Varmahlíð Goða- Reykjahlíð
Reykhólar Svartá
Airport
foss
Mývatn Borgarfjörður eystri
Dimútu
Sk
Seyðisfjörður
m tað
ub ir
Aldeyjarfoss
s
Airport
or
Ferry
Egilsstaðir
gir
Ferry
Króksfjarðarnes
Neskaupstaður
Búðardalur
Staðarskáli Reyðarfjörður
Stykkishólmur
Ólafsvík 610 610a 17 17a
62 62a
Snæfellsjökull Hveravellir
Hofsjökull
Nýidalur
Borgarnes Langjökull
Kerlingarfjöll
Hvítárnes
crossroads
6 6a
Gullfoss Vatnajökull
Geysir
14 14a
Þingvellir Airport
Höfn
Laugarvatn
Reykjavík BSÍ
Flúðir Laki
Skaftafell Jökulsárlón
Landmannalaugar
16
Airport Hveragerði 11 11a
Blue Lagoon
Eldgjá 15
Keflavík
Selfoss 10 10a 19
18 Hvanngil
Hella Emstrur
Route map
Kirkjubæjar-
Hvolsvöllur 9 9a klaustur
Markarfljót Þórsmörk Mýrdals- 20 20a
jökull
2016
Seljalandsfoss
Skógar
Vestmannaeyjar Ferry Vík
21 21a
Surtsey
Free WiFi on board Reykjavik Excursions coaches.
GOLD-CLASS CERTIFIED
ENVIRONMENTAL TRAVEL SERVICE
UMHVERFISFLOKKUN VIÐURKENND
FERÐAÞJÓNUSTA O
R
BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík • 580 5400 • main@re.is • www.re.is • www.ioyo.is
ÞÓRSMÖRK &
LANDMANNALAUGAR ER / Emergency ward and doctors on duty
Landsspítali-University Hospital, & 543-2000, open every day around
WITH THE HIGHLAND BUS the clock. MIT DER HOCHLAND BUS
DAILY DEPARTURES FROM Medical help
TÄGLICHE ABFAHRTEN VON
JUNE 15TH TO SEPTEMBER 15TH 15. JUNI BIS 15. SEPTEMBER
Weekdays 08.00-17 .00, tel. 1770, Læknavaktin sf, Smáratorg 1,
Kópavogur is open weekdays 17.00-08.00 and around the clock on
weekends and public holidays, tel. 1770. Reception open 17.00-
23.00.
Dental help
Information on dentists on duty tel.: 575-0505.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are located around the country. See the list below for de-
tails.
If your are looking for travel Lyfja:

• Reykjavík, Lágmúli 7, tel. 533-2300.
experiences in Iceland TREX has • Blönduós, Flúðabakki 2, tel. 452-4385.
the bus for you! We have 70 • Ísafjörður, Pollgata 4, tel. 456-3009.
modern vehicles with 14 - 70 • Egilsstaðir, Kaupvangur 6, tel. 471-1273.
• Selfoss, Austurvegur 44, tel. 482-3000.
seats, equipped with your
comfort in mind. Lyf og heilsa:
• Reykjavík, Kringlan Mall, tel. 568-9970.
• Akureyri, Hrísalundur 5, tel. 462-2444.
In • Selfoss, Austurvegur 3-5, tel. 482-1177.
boo fo &
k • Vestmannaeyjar, Vesturvegur 5, tel. 482-1177.
trex ings:
.is Apótekarinn:
• Reykjavík, Mjódd, Álfabakki 14, tel. 517-2520.
Lyfjaver:
Tel: +354-587 6000 - info@trex.is
• Reykjavík, Suðurlandsbraut 22, tel. 533-6100.
20
Slow Down, Enjoy!
HI Hostels offer quality
accommodation
The 35 HI Hostels around the country offer a cosy

international atmosphere where people meet and
enjoy each other’s company. Enjoy being close to
nature, as well as varied cultural experiences and
activities while travelling in Iceland.
HI ICELAND ❚ info@hostel.is ❚ www.hostel.is

Country and People
The Land km2 Largest Lakes km2 Weights and Measures
Iceland 103,000 Þórisvatn 83-88 1 inch (UK and US) = 2.54 cm
Greater Reykjavík area 1,000 Þingvallavatn 82 1 foot (UK and US) = 12 inches = 30.48 cm
Cultivated 23,805 Lögurinn 53 1 acre (UK and US) = 4,047 m2
Lakes 2,757 Mývatn 37 YourYour first
first destination
destination and should
1 mile (UKshould always
US) = 1,609 always
km.
Glaciers 11,922 Hvítárvatn 30 be be www.safetravel.is
www.safetravel.is1 knot (International) = 1,852 m
somuch
o much
Wasteland 64,538
Coastline 4,970 km
Longest Rivers In Iceland
km thethe
 In Iceland
1 pint (UK) = 0.473 cm3
weather
weather
1 pint (US) can can cmchange
change
= 0.568 3 fast.fast.
ant you
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Highest Mountains m
Þjórsá 230
Jökulsá á Fjöllum
CheckCheck
thethe
206
weather
weather at =
at (Ice.)
1 pound http://en.vedur.is
http://en.vedur.is
0.500 kg
1 pound (lb UK and US) = 0.45359237 kg
website.
website.
Hvannadalshnjúkur 2,110
Bárðarbunga 2,000
 Always
Ölfusá/Hvítá  Always
someone
someone
Skjálfandafljót 178
leave
leave
185
who
1your
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react
andplan
UKplan with
US) = with
if needed
if needed
28.35 g
or or
Kverkfjöll 1,920 at www.safetravel.is/en/Bl/TravelPlan.
Jökulsá á Dal at www.safetravel.is/en/Bl/TravelPlan.
150
Snæfell 1,833
Highest Waterfalls m Total population 1. Jan. 2016: 329.100
Hofsjökull 1,765  Gather
 Gather information
information aboutabout thethe areaareayouyou
avel.is
vel.is
Herðubreið 1,682
Glymur 190
Háifoss 122
areare travelling
travelling
Greater Reykjavík......... 207.174
to. to.
Suðurnes ..................... 21.917
Eiríksjökull 1,675
Hengifoss 110  Remember
 Remember toWest
to bring
Iceland
bringthethe
................ 15.566
right right equipment
equipment
Eyjafjallajökull 1,666
Tungnafellsjökull 1,540 We care
Seljalandsfoss 65
Skógafoss 62
Western
travel Fjords
for the kind of travel you are are
for the kind of you ............ 6.970
Northwest Iceland......... 7.137
planning.
planning. Your
be w
Kerling 1,538
Þorvaldsfell in Askja 1,510 about you so much
Dettifoss
Gullfoss
44
32
Northeast Iceland......... 29.260
East Iceland ................. 12.496  In Ic
Hekla 1,491
Largest Glaciers km2

that we want you
Goðafoss 12
South Iceland .............. 24.366 Che
Vatnajökull 8,300 to visit our website.  Alw

som
Langjökull 953 at w
Hofsjökull 925
WeWe want
want youyou
outout of here
of here – alive!
– alive!
Mýrdalsjökull 596  Gath
Drangajökull 160 www.safetravel.is are
 Rem
for
Sunrise and sunset in the year 2016

Reykjavík Sunrise Sunset Day length AKUREYRI Sunrise Sunset Day length
1 January 11:20 15:43 04:22 1 January 11:34 14:58 03:24
1 February 10:10 17:14 07:03 1 February 10:08 16:45 06:38
1 March 08:34 18:47 10:13 1 March 08:23 18:28 10:05
1 April 06:44 20:20 13:36 1 April 06:26 20:09 13:43
We want you
1 May 04:59 21:53 16:54 1 May 04:31 21:51 17:20
1 June 03:22 23:32 20:10 1 June 02:32 23:52 21:19
21 June 02:56 00:04 21:08 21 June 01:29 00:59 23:32
1 July 03:07 23:55 20:49 1 July 02:00 00:33 22:32
1 August 04:36 22:30 17:54 1 August 04:03 22:31 18:28
1 September 06:11 20:41 14:31 1 September 05:50 20:32 14:42
1 October 07:38 18:55 11:17 1 October 07:24 18:38 11:14
1 November 09:12 17:09 07:57 1 November 09:07 16:44 07:39
1 December 10:47 15:46 04:59 1 December 10:55 15:08 04:12
21 December 11:23 15:30 04:08 21 December 11:38 14:42 03:03
22
ADVENTURE ICELAND
For those looking to explore Iceland’s diverse natural world, the outdoor possibilities are endless. Despite the
hoards of youngsters who venture to Iceland on a weekend stopover to explore the pubs and cafés of Reykjavík,
the number one reason why tourists visit Iceland is its nature. Sure enough, backpackers arrive in Reykjavík by
the plane full, eager to get away from the capital and pitch their tents someplace in Iceland’s vast wilderness.
While you don’t have to be Joe Camper to enjoy Iceland’s rugged terrains, it helps to have an adventurous spirit.
From Whales to Snowmobiles Imagine yourself flying across a glacier home to Iceland’s largest puffin population. If you dare, shimmy up the
with nothing in front of you but white tundra and vistas of rugged jagged cliffs of Ystiklettur, and net some puffins with the locals.
mountains. Perhaps the most popular glacier to cross by snowmobile
is Snæfellsnesjökull glacier on Snæfellsnes, the westernmost peninsu- Whale Watching Definitely the most popular adventure activity in Ice-
la of Iceland. Written about in Jules Verne’s adventure novel Journey land is whale watching. Regardless of where in Iceland you are at this
to the Centre of the Earth, the glacier and its surrounding area have very moment, there’s sure to be a boat waiting to take you within an
long had a special hold on both locals and visitors. On top of the gla- arm’s reach of a breaching humpback or a minke whale. Of course,
cier - weather permitting - you will sit on your snowmobile and marvel Europe’s capital of whale watching is Húsavík, north Iceland. After a
at the view of the North Atlantic Ocean, which appears, from this trip with “Gentle Giants” or North Sailing, that owns a.o. an old-fash-
perch, to be lapping up against the mountain. If the rush of a snowmo- ioned schooner, you and your friends, giddy from having just seen a
bile ride is not your style, venture out to Látrabjarg (West Fjords) and humpback say hello with its fin, should stop off at the Húsavík Whale
dangle over the largest bird cliff in the world. Perched upon this prec- Centre to enjoy its interesting exhibition.
ipice are a variety of cliff-nesting species, including the largest razor- Wild Salmon Anglers from all across the world travel to Iceland for
bill colony in the world. Whether you’re a bird lover, or just an interest- what is some of the best salmon fishing you can find. North Atlantic
ed bystander, spotting the peculiar-looking Icelandic puffin is sure to salmon carve their way through wild rivers flowing past volcanic
please. There is no better place for this than the Westman Islands, mountains, deep valleys and open farmland. Other than the massive
24
Voted most popular
company in Iceland 2016*
*Chosen by the Icelandic Buisness Magazine
LrOiW
ce
p
32 stores around Iceland

Reykjavík Mosfellsbær Akureyri
Kópavogur Akranes Egilsstaðir
Garðabær Borgarnes Selfoss
Hafnarfjörður Stykkishólmur Hveragerði
Reykjanesbær Ísafjörður Vestmannaeyjar
Monday-Thursday 11:00 - 18:30

OPENING
HOURS
Friday 10:00 - 19:30

Saturday 10:00 - 18:00
Sunday 12:00 - 18:00
salmon that you can almost scoop out of the glacial rivers with your Accessible to even those of moderate athleticism, the peak of Esja
hand just like a grizzly bear, the best thing about fishing in Iceland is offers incredible views of southwest Iceland. There’s nothing like as-
that you’ll be able to enjoy a long stretch of river all to yourself, or cending the mountain during the summer, as the sun dangles over the
along with your fishing friends. While the salmon season runs from horizon throughout the light night. Another must-see area accessible
around June 20 to mid-September, the trout season varies from river to hikers is Lake Mývatn, located in north Iceland. Touring the Mývatn
to river, although the official season is from April/May to September/ area is as close as you’ll get to the sensation of travelling through
October. For those with thick blood, or a fluffy down jacket, ice fishing outer space. This volcanic landscape, scarred by many eruptions, is
is very popular here in Iceland. Anglers hungry to land bigger fish will where the Mars Association trains. Bird lovers will also be happy to
not have a difficult time finding companies to take them to deeper know that Mývatn has more species of breeding ducks than any other
waters. Sea fishing normally begins in late May and lasts until the end spot in Europe.
of August. Several tournaments are located in different parts of the
country. Midnight Golf As strange as it may seem, Iceland is full of golf cours-
es. This harsh climate is a Mecca for golf during the summer, when
Blazing a Trail Iceland is considered a hiker’s paradise. With lunar golfers can hit the links from morning through the night. Come the
landscapes scarred by mass lava flows, glaciers, black sand and deep middle of June, what was once said to be the world’s northernmost
lakes, there is much to witness on foot. One hike certainly not to be 18-hole golf course, Akureyri, hosts the Arctic Open, a popular tourna-
missed is a climb up Mt. Esja, Reykjavík’s most enduring landmark. ment that tees off at midnight. For more information on golf, contact
the local tourist office. And be prepared to hit the ball low. It’s windy
out there.
P O L I C E Swimming is by far the most popular outdoor activity in Iceland.

F I R E Strange, considering this place is called Iceland. However, the pools
M E D I C A L are geothermally heated, so even on a very cold winter’s day, a trip to
the pool is a must. The swimming pools are where you can take the
D O C T O R S
ONE ONE TWO pulse of the nation, as the hot pots are where Icelanders trade stories,
R E S C U E S Q U A D
make deals and arrange that late-night pub rendezvous. During the
summer months, you’ll see Icelanders soaking up every last minute of
26
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Tank up at N1 on your
way around Iceland
Your convenient one-stop on your journey
HOT DOG
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Classic Icelandic meal
At selected N1 service stations
COFFEE &
Croissant
Complimentary Complimentary
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at selected N1
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at selected N1
service stations service stations
Stop for fuel, grab a quick and With 95 locations around Iceland,
delicious bite, a tasty cup of N1 is always nearby. Find your
coffee, travel supplies, books and nearest location and plan your
magazines or anything else you trip at www.n1.is/en.
need before hitting the road again.
Keep moving
Glacial tours
The Icelandic glaciers are among the greatest nat-
ural wonders of the world. As global warming is
having an effect, causing the glaciers to retreat
more and more every year, no visitor should let a
glacier experience slip through their hands when
travelling to Iceland. The Icelandic glaciers are
unique because of their easy accessibility. Howev-
er, visitors should be warned NOT to enter a gla-
cier without having an experienced mountain
guide leading the way with the proper equipment.
One of the best ways to experience the wonders of

the glaciers is by going on a guided glacier walk.
The glacier walks are a safe but fun activity that is
offered in various lengths all year long from Sól-
heimajökull glacier and Skaftafell in Vatnajökull
National Park. With the variety of glacier walks, it is
safe to say that they are accessible for everyone,
the whole family, individuals and groups. For this
simple reason glacier walks have become one of
the most popular tourism activities in Iceland.
sunshine at one of the public swimming pools, laid out like many seals springs at the bottom of the 70 meter deep ocean have created a 55
on a warm, sandy beach. If the pool’s not your thing, but you’d still like meter high chimney that is dived from a boat.
to take the plunge, head on down to Nauthólsvík, the thermal beach
River rafting is an exciting and fun activity, giving participants unique
located in a secluded cove in Reykjavík. If you want more nature for
insight into the tremendous power found in Iceland’s natural land-
your soak, go to one of Iceland’s many geothermal hot springs, or head
scapes. Several locations throughout Iceland offer tourists the oppor-
to Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon.
tunity to raft along raging glacial rivers in solid rubber rafts, through
Diving and snorkeling might not be the first thing that comes to mind rushing rapids and deep gullies, accompanied of course by experi-
when thinking of Iceland. However, Iceland has some of the worlds enced guides who ensure that all safety measures are adhered to.
most unique dive sites. First of all there is Silfra in lake Thingvellir, Varying levels of difficulty are possible, anything from easy trips for
located in the National Park Thingvellir which is a Unesco World Her- families (restricted to 12 years of age and older) to tours aimed at
itage site. The Silfra ravine is a fissure created by the continental major thrill seekers.
drift of the Eurasian and American tectonical plates. So, you are lit- While some might consider river rafting to be dangerous, the security
erally diving or snorkeling between two continents. The ravine is fed of participants is ensured through strict safety measures and the high-
with glacial water through underground wells, that has been travel- est quality equipment. Special wet suits, safety vests, helmets and wet
ling through lava fields for decades and is therefore as clear as wa- shoes are provided. Prior to heading out, guides carefully go over all
ter can be. The water in this fantastic underwater landscape made of safety aspects and instruct participants in how to use their oars. Par-
steep rock walls is most likely the clearest you will ever dive in. The ticipants are requested to bring a towel and an extra set of underwear.
visibility is over 100 meters.
River rafting with highly experienced guides is offered on the rivers
But Silfra is not the only unique dive site in Iceland. The ocean up here Hvítá in South Iceland, and in West and East Jökulsá, in Skagafjördur,
is full of life. Strýtan the geothermal chimney in the fjord Eyjafjörður is among others. The Jökulsá rivers are rated most difficult and are
another example for great diving. During the last 12.000 years hot therefore popular among thrill-seekers.
Iceland - It’s all here for you.

From aerial tours and scuba diving to jeep safaris, rafting and kayaking. Iceland offers the outdoor enthusiast
unlimited adventures. When it comes to this magical country, the only limit to your adventure is your imagination.
28
Scheduled buses, ferries and flights - Summer 2016
Hornstrandir Area
Bolungarvík Grímsey
641 Kópasker Raufarhöfn
Hnífsdalur
Ísafjörður Dranga- 78 Flatey 650
Vigur jökull Siglufjörður
Suðureyri Súðavík Drangey Hrísey 79
Ólafsfjörður
Flateyri Skagaströnd Reykir Ásbyrgi
Hofsós 85 Dalvík Húsavík Þórshöfn
Þingeyri Gjögur 84 79
Reykjanes Hólar
Árskógssandur Aðaldalsvegur Hljóðaklettar 79
Bíldudalur Crossroads Sauðárkrókur Crossroads
Tálknafjörður
Skriðuland 650 641
Patreksfjörður Fnjóskár- Dettifoss
59 Hólmavík Blönduós 84 Akureyri brú 661 Vopnafjörður
Örlygs- Brjánslækur
höfn Víðigerði Norðausturvegur Krafla 70
Látrabjarg Hvammstangi Goðafoss/Fosshóll 661
Svartá Varmahlíð 57 60 56 79 5
Króks- 83 Laugar Jökulsá
fjarðarnes Hvammstangi 62 641 Mývatn
Vopnafjörður Borgarfjörður eystri
Flatey Crossroads á Fjöllum
Crossroads
70
Skriðuland 610 62 Skjöldólfs-
staðir
Akureyri Skútu- Dettifoss Grímsstaðir Fella- Seyðis-
Staðarskáli Airport staðir bær fjörður
ur Búðardalur 650 56 Crossroads
ur j örð Aldeyjarfoss 661 62
nd ík arf Stykkishólmur 57 60 Hveravellir Jökulsá á Brú 3 Norðfjörður
sa 14 17
llis fsv und
82 58 59 1
He Rif Óla Gr 70 70 62 56 1
Bifröst Kerlingar- ASK 1 Eskifjörður
Vatnaleið fjöll Hofsjökull Egilsstaðir
Snæfells- Baula Langjökull
Herðubreiðarlindir
and Hirtshals in Denmark
jökull Hvítárnes Reyðarfjörður

Arnar- Vegamót Reykholt Crossroads 2
stapi Nýidalur Askja Fáskrúðsfjörður
SMYRIL LINE to the Faroe Islands
82 58 81 Kleppjárnsreykir 6 Gullfoss 14
Borgarnes Hvanneyri Þingvellir Laugarvatn Geysir 17 Stöðvarfjörður
57 6 78 2
Melahverfi 610 73 Breiðdalsvík
Akranes Reykholt 76 Árnes
(Call 893 4426)
Þórodds- Flúðir
li staðir Hrauneyjar Berunes
ká 610 Laugarás Skeiða- og
jus Þjórsárdalsvegur
57 Es Hv 9 11 Borg 78 Djúpivogur
60 T11 12
era
17 18 76
ge Þrastaskógur 17 62
Viðey T21 13
rði
20 21 14
Garður Brautarholt Höfn
Reykjavík 13 4 Papey
Landmanna-
89 Reykjanes- 72 73
51 T21 11 laugar
bær 55 Selfoss Laki
Sand- Skaftafell Jökulsárlón
gerði 52 74 75 Rjúpnavellir 10 12
16
R4 Leirubakki Landmannahellir 19
Hafnir Eldgjá
BL Sandvík Álftavatn
10 15 Freys- 15 51
55 Blue Lagoon 18 nes
Tjarnarbyggð Emstrur Hvanngil
Keflavík 16 19
International
88 Þorlákshöfn Eyrarbakki Kirkjubæjar-
Airport klaustur 20
Grindavík Hella T11 9 14
74 75 75
Mýrdalsjökull
Stokkseyri Hvolsvöllur Þórsmörk
If L
an Airports with scheduled flights
de Seljalandsfoss
yja Scheduled Passenger Ferries
hö
LEIÐALYKILL® fn
Ha
©® Copyright and Cartography: rb
or 12 20 51 Scheduled Car Ferry Connections
Hugarflug ehf. / Ingi Gunnar Jóhannsson is 52
Layout: Prentun.is All rights reserved
clo
se 21 Reynis- Vík For dashed route lines of STRÆTÓ,
d Landeyjahöfn fjara
Skógar passengers must call tel. 540 2700
Public Transport 2016 is at least 2-4 hrs. before departure.
published by Hjólafærni á Íslandi
www.hjolafaerni.is Vestmannaeyjar
www.publictransport.is
The Line Map shows various travel possibilities with scheduled buses in Iceland, as well as ferry and flight connections. The colours
and numbers of the lines show the different bus systems and local connections in the country. Guided tours are not presented.
Scheduled Buses Scheduled Ferries

The STRÆTÓ System Reykjavík - Viðey Island
This is the main official bus system. Tel. 519 5000 & 533 5055 - www.elding.is
Tel. 540 2700 - www.bus.is
Vestmannaeyjar from Landeyjahöfn
ICELAND ON YOUR OWN Tel. 481 2800 - www.herjolfur.is
A system operated by REYKJAVIK EXCURSIONS and SBA-Norðurleið.
Reykjavik Office: Tel. 580 5400 - www.ioyo.is
Akureyri Office: Tel. 550 0700 - www.ioyo.is
Stykkishólmur - Flatey - Brjánslækur
The car ferry across Breiðafjörður Bay
Tel. 433 2254 - www.seatours.is
The STERNA System
A system operated by Sterna Travel.
Tel. 551 1166 - www.sternatravel.com Reykir - Drangey with Drangey Tours
Tel. 821 0090 & 821 0091 - www.drangey.net
TREX Tel. 587 6000 - www.trex.is
Schedules to Þórsmörk (Básar and Langidalur)
and Landmannalaugar. Summer schedule 15 June - 15 Sept. 2016
Árskógssandur - Hrísey
Tel. 695 5544 - www.hrisey.net
Main lines in the Westfjords
Ísafjörður – Hólmavík: Tel. 893 1058, 847 0285 & 540 2700 Dalvík-Grímsey & Dalvík-Hrísey
Brjánslækur – Ísafjörður: Tel. 456 5006 - www.wa.is Tel. 458 8970 - www.saefari.is
Brjánslækur – Patreksfjörður – Látrabjarg: Tel. 456 5006 - www.wa.is
Ísafjörður – Suðureyri – Flateyri – Þingeyri: Tel. 893 6356 - www.isafjordur.is
Akureyri - Grímsey Arctic Circle Express
Local Bus Lines in the Westfjords Tel. 462 6800 - www.ambassador.is
Patreksfjörður - Bíldudalur: Tel. 456 2636 & 893 2636
Ísafjörður – Bolungarvík: Tel. 892 1417 & 456 7195
Ísafjörður – Súðavík: Only to be pre-ordered. Tel. 540 2700 Húsavík-Flatey & Húsavík-Grímsey
Gentle Giants - Tel. 464 1500 - www.gentlegiants.is
Westfjords Tourist Information: Tel. 450 8060 - www.westfjords.is
SVAUST Bus System of the Eastfjords To Hornstrandir Area & Vigur

Tourist Info in Egilsstaðir: Tel. 471 2320 - www.svaust.is BOREA: Tel. 456 3322 - www.borea.is
VESTURFERÐIR (also to Vigur): Tel. 456 5111 - www.vesturferdir.is
Askja & Herðubreiðarlindir

FJALLASÝN: Tel. 464 3941 & 464 3940 - www.fjallasyn.is Djúpivogur - Papey with Papey Tours
MÝVATN TOURS: Tel. 464 1920 - www.myvatntours.is Tel. 478 8119 & 862 4399 - papey@djupivogur.is
Domestic Flights Ísafjörður

Grímsey
Húsavík
Bíldudalur Gjögur Þórshöfn
AIR ICELAND destinations:
Reykjavík, Ísafjörður, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir,
Vopnafjörður
Grímsey, Þórshöfn, Vopnafjörður. Akureyri Egilsstaðir
Tel. 570 3030 - www.airiceland.is
Höfn
EAGLE AIR destinations: Reykjavík
Reykjavík, Vestmannaeyjar, Höfn, Húsavík,
Bíldudalur, Gjögur.
Tel. 562 4200 & 562 2640 - www.eagleair.is Vestmannaeyjar
BLUE LAGOON TRANSFERS KEFLAVIK AIRPORT TRANSFERS
www.airportexpress.is
Tel. 580 5400 - www.re.is Tel. 580 5400 - www.flybus.is Tel. 586 1310 - www.keflanding.com
Experience Iceland
Between shore and mountain
6
5
3
4 8
2 1
4
9
7 9
Diving & Snorkeling Tours 5
Riding Tour
Grýtubakki II, 601 Akureyri
( 463 3179, 893 1879
Daily Dive and Snorkel tours to
Silfra in Þingvellir. We offer short and long riding tours in North Iceland.
1 Tel: 578 6200 I dive@dive.is I www.dive.is polarhestar@polarhestar.is I www.polarhestar.is
2 Day Tours, Super Jeep Gentle Giants Whale Watching

Tours, Snowmobile Tours,
Adventure Tours. Daily
Jeep Tours from Reykjavík
Visit the Giants of Húsavík
and Snowmobile Tours on Húsavík - Iceland
Langjökul Glacier all year Tel.: (+354) 464 1500
round. Mobile: (+354) 894 1501
www.gentlegiants.is
Sími 580 9900 - www.mountaineers.is - ice@mountaineers.is
www.fjallamennislands.is - info@fjallamennislands.is info@gentlegiants.is 6
2 7
Snowmobile – ATV – Glacier walk

Deep-sea angling and nature watching tours Unique glacier tours on Mýrdals-jökull glacier in South Iceland
Sea adventure tours in the Faxaflóa Bay, daily departures from Ytri-Sólheimar 1, 871 Vík I Booking and info: +354 487-1500
Reykjavik’s Old Harbour. info@arcanum.is I www.arcanum.is
Tel: 519 5000 I elding@elding.is I www.elding.is GPS: N63 29.700 W19 19.638
3 Whale Mjóeyri Travel 8

watching Strandgata 120 I 735 Eskifjörður
Torfunefsbryggja
(center of town Akureyri) Boat rental, reindeer guiding, hiking, hunting
Tel +354 462 6800 tours,
info@ambassador.is shark and dry fish, ski and winter tours, mystery
www.ambassador.is tours. Special tours to suit your needs.
WHALE WATCHING6
& RESTAURANTS
WHALE WATCHING
& RESTAURANTS
TLF. 464 3999
TLF. 464 3999
4
Icelandic Mountain Guides 9
Glacier tours to the World´s largest ice tunnel on Daily Glacier Walks from
Skaftafell in Vatnajökull
Iceland´s second largest glacier. National Park and on
Monster Truck & Snowmobile Tours from Húsafell Sólheimajökull glacier.
and Klaki base camp.
Tel. 587 9999
www.intotheglacier.is
www.mountainguides.is
(+354) 578 2550 I info@intotheglacier.is
info@mountainguides
The blue lagoon.
C Landmælingar Íslands, leyfi nr. L05010008
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
numbers refer to facility lists:
34
The southwest
Southwest Iceland extends south from Herdísarvík, across the whole Reykjanes peninsula and ends at the Botnsá
River in Hvalfjörður. The largest concentration of the population lives in this area of Iceland.
The southern coast of the Reykjanes peninsula has few natural harbors, an extensive lowland area with soft, smooth, low hills, while to the north
however there are impressive cliffs where birds make their nests in the Kjós is surrounded by steep, rugged mountains scattered with grassy,
crags. Eldey, a small volcanic island, is eight nautical miles southwest of fertile farmland. The Kjalarnes community has grown in recent years and
Reykjanes and is home to the third largest gannet colony in the world. is now one of the municipalities of the Greater Reykjavík area. The main
Rosmhvalanes, often called Miðnes, is the peninsula that extends north- coastal islands are Akurey, Engey, Viðey and Þerney.
ward on the western coast of Stakksfjörður fjord, with Garðskagi at its The Kjós district has several volcanoes, the oldest of which was active in
northern most point. The Faxaflói Bay beach is low-lying land, but there the Kjalarnes area around 2.5 million years ago. The southern district is
are several places where soaring cliffs rise up from the sea, such as at characterized by volcanic tuff rock formations, or palagonite, while Mt.
Vogastapi. The Reykjanes mountain range runs the full length of the Esja and the surrounding mountains are formed from basalt and rhyolite.
peninsula and is characterized by volcanic tuff rock formations, or Grey basalt rock can be found in areas surrounding Reykjavík and on
palagonite, and gray basalt can be found at Miðnes and Vogastapa. The Mosfellsheiði heath. Geothermal heat is extensive in this area, with the
land cannot retain surface rivers or streams; as soon as the rainwater greatest concentration being at Reykir in Mosfellsbær and certain areas
falls it trickles down into the lava, which allows for little vegetation or in Reykjavík. This area has harnessed thermal water to heat greenhous-
land for cultivation. Kleifarvatn is the only major lake on the peninsula es for many years.
and it has no visible surface drainage. The Reykjanes peninsula has
The rivers are relatively few in number and small, the main ones being
numerous volcanoes and a great deal of geothermal heat. There are
the Elliðaár and Laxá rivers in the Kjós district. Salmon swim in these
three high-temperature areas in the region -- Reykjanes, Eldvörp and
rivers, as well as the Úlfarsá, Leirvogsá, Bugðu, Brynjudalsá and Botnsá
Svartsengi - which are unique because subterranean seawater is heated
Rivers.
when it makes contact with cooling magma. The heated seawater is
used to heat cold water for the Suðurnes Geothermal Power Plant, which For the inhabitants of the southwest peninsula, fisheries and fish-related
provides heated water to all residential areas in Suðurnes. The hot water industries have been their mainstay since ancient times, while agricul-
in the Blue Lagoon, one of the most popular tourist spots in Iceland, also ture was the primary industry in Mosfellssveit, Kjalarnes and Kjós. With
originates here. the increase in urban living, numerous new industries have flourished
and the capital area functions as the center for trade, services and di-
The landscape changes once you leave the Southern Peninsula; the verse industries. On the southwest peninsula, Reykjanesbær is the main
vegetation is more visible, becoming especially abundant as you travel municipality, with of course Reykjavík being the largest on its northern
north toward the Kjalarnes and Kjós area. The low-lying, indented coast- side. The youngest community is Mosfellsbær, which has grown from a
line around Faxaflói Bay is characterized by natural harbors. The resi- village into a town in the last three decades, with a population in excess
dential promontories of Álftanes, Seltjarnarnes and Kjalarnes stretch out of 8,000. The home of the author Halldór Laxness (1902 – 1998), the
into the ocean, and between them are natural bays and inlets. Haf- only Icelander to receive a Nobel Prize, is in the Mosfells valley at Gljú-
narfjörður, Skerjafjörður, Kollafjörður and Hvalfjörður are the main fiords frasteinn. The town of Álftanes is home to Bessastaðir, an ancient manor
along this coast, with Hvalfjörður (whale fiord) measuring the deepest house and church site owned by Snorri Sturluson (1178 – 1241), ac-
and longest at 30 km. This area is widely characterized by lowland, ex- cording to ancient sources. It is now the residence of the President of
cept for Hvalfjörður. South of Mt. Esja, Reykjavík’s signature mountain, is Iceland.
35
KEFLAVÍK AIRPORT G alex guesthouse
The Keflavík airport is most travelers’ gateway into Iceland. The airport Aðalgata 60 - 230 Keflavík Int. Airport
has won multiple awards for excellent and efficient service and places  421 2800 - Fax 421 4285 - alex@alex.is - www.alex.is
a great deal of emphasis on continually improving services for travel-
ers. A good selection of restaurants, award-winning duty-free shops,
and stylish specialty boutiques with a wide selection of Icelandic de-
sign and souvenirs are offered within the terminal. All of the stores are
VAT-exempt, which means that brands such as 66° North, Blue La-
goon, and more are around 20% less expensive at the airport.
Unlimited free wi-fi is available throughout the entire airport.
Flight Information: tel. 425-0777/505-0500, www.kefairport.is.
REFRESHMENTS
Check-in Area: Joe and the Juice, tel. 431-3849.
Arrival Hall: 10-11, tel.: 431-1110.
Departure Hall:
140 58
• Joe and the Juice, tel. 431-1015.
• Mathús, tel. 421-5800.
• Segafredo, tel. 421-5800. 2
• Nord, tel. 421-5800.

• Loksins Bar, tel. 421-5800.
South building, upstairs: Nord Café Europe, tel. 421-5800. Car Rentals:
South building, downstairs: Nord Café International, tel. 421-5800. • Avis car rental, tel. 591-4000.
• Europcar / National, car rental, tel. 425-0300.
RETAIL • Hertz Car Rental, tel. 522-4400.
• Duty Free, dutyfree@dutyfree.is • Bílaleiga Akureyrar, tel. 425-0300.
Main Office, tel. 425-0410 Taxi:
Departures Hall Retail, North Building: • A-stöðin, taxi, tel. 420-1212.
• Cosmetics, skin care and sweets department, tel. 425-0403 • BSR, tel. 561-0000.
• Pharmacy and alcohol department, tel. 425-0404. • City Taxi, tel. 422-2222.
• Hreyfill Bæjarleiðir, tel. 421-4141/588-5522.
Departures Hall Retail, South Building:
• Borgarbílastöðin, tel. 552-2440.
• Iceland Duty Free, tel. 425-0430.
• Taxi Service, tel. 588-5500.
• Non-Schengen retail, tel. 425-0424
• Arrival Hall Retail, tel. 425-0401. Parking Facilities:
• Gourmet products, tel. 788-3344. • Kef parking, long- and short-term parking, tel. 425-6400.
• Elko, electronics and entertainment, tel. 425-0720.
• Eymundsson, bookstore, tel. 540-2310.
• Optical Studio, tel. 425-0500.
• Bláa Lónið, specialty cosmetics, skin care, and products from the REYKJANESBÆR
Blue Lagoon, tel. 420-8859.
• 66° Norður, 66° North, Icelandic outdoor apparel, tel. 535-6651. Reykjanesbær is a municipality on the outer Reykjanes peninsula and
• Rammagerðin, gift items and souvenirs, tel. 535-6651. it is the fifth-most populated municipality in Iceland. It was formed
• Airport Fashion, tel. 511-0101 from a merger between the towns of Keflavík, Njarðvík, and Hafnir in
BANKING SERVICES: 1994. The town has thrived since then and now includes a fourth
• Service in the arrival hall, tel. 410-4144. district, Ásbrú, which was incorporated with the former American mil-
• ATMs throughout the airport. itary base following the departure of American defense forces in 2001.
• Currency exchange and services in the departure hall, tel. On January 1, 2016, the population of Reykjanesbær was 14,821.
410-9026.
Reykjanes. The Hafnaberg Cliffs, at the westernmost point of south-
• Tax Refund in the departure hall, tel. 410-9041.
west Iceland, is one of the best bird-watching sites in the region. This
TRANSPORTATION: is the margin where the continental plates of America and Eurasia are
Scheduled trips between Reykjavík and the Keflavík Airport, slowly spreading apart, producing strong volcanic features and in-
coordinated with all scheduled flights: tense geothermal activity. Valahnúkar was the site of the first light-
• Iceland Excursions, Airport Express, tel. 540-1313. house built in Iceland, in 1878, and it was replaced in 1907 by the
• Reykjavik Excursions, Flybus, tel. 580-5400/420-6000. present lighthouse at Bæjarfell. The Reykjavegur trail, an old pathway
• The Blue line, in summer scheduled coach services between
leading to Þingvellir, starts at the new lighthouse.
Keflavik Airport, Reykjanesbær and the Blue Lagoon, tel.
580-5400. Just offshore stands Karl (the Old Man), a 51 m tall volcanic rock pillar
36
G Guesthouse keflavík H hótel keflavík
Vatnsnesvegi 9 - 230 Keflavík -  +(354) 420 7000 Vatnsnesvegur 12-14 - 230 Keflavík -  354 420-7000
Fax +(354) 420 7002 - stay@kef.is - www.kef.is/guesthouse Fax 354 420-7002 - stay@kef.is - www.kef.is
14 1 130 70 70 70
4 1 7
H HÓTEL KEILIR H Diamond Suites

Hafnargata 37 - 230 Keflavík -  420 9800 Vatnsnesvegur 12-14, 4th floor - 230 Keflavík -  354 420-7000
Fax 422 7941 - info@hotelkeilir.is - www.airporthotel.is 5 Fax 354 420-7002 - diamond@kef.is - www.kef.is
FIVE
STAR
LUXuRY
90 10 40 40 40 10 5 5 5
1 7
where whales are often seen swimming. Eldey (Fire Island) lies about 8 ments to the harbor. In addition, Keflavík airport plays an important
nautical miles offshore. The island is 77 m high and is home to the role in the community. The town boasts a regional folk museum, as
third-largest gannet colony in the world. First climbed in 1894, the is- well as the Duus Art and Cultural Center, and many enjoyable walking
land was visited by bird-catchers and egg-gatherers until it became routes in the surrounding area, such as the Hólmsberg cliffs, where
protected in 1940. All access is now forbidden. A submarine volcano there is an excellent view over the Faxaflói Bay.
created the island, and at least ten others like it have been recorded.
One of which, in 1783, gave birth to a new island that rose out of the
sea, but disappeared shortly afterwards. NJARÐVÍK
The community of Njarðvík is divided into Innri-Njarðvík and Ytri-
Njarðvík, but the latter has practically merged with Keflavík. From
KEFLAVÍK early on, fisheries have been Njarðvík’s main economic activity, but in
Keflavík is the largest community in the municipality, situated around a recent times industry and services for Keflavík Airport have grown in
cove of the same name. It was first mentioned in 13th century histori- importance. Stekkjarkot, an old fishing workers’ lodge that has been
cal records. The town became an important fishing center, especially in renovated, is located at Fitjar, between Innri- and Ytri-Njarðvík. It pro-
the 19th century, and the community flourished following improve- vides a good insight into the living conditions of working people in the
37
first half of the 19th century. The Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll, • Airport Hotel Smári, Keflavíkurflugvelli, tel. 595-1900,
which features exhibitions and artefacts connected to the history of airport@hotelsmari.is.
Icelandic rock ‘n’ roll, can also be found in Njarðvík • Raven’s B&B, Sjávargata 28, tel. 777-4478,
ravensbnb@ravensbnb.is.
The Viking ship Íslendingur is located in the Víkingaheimar (Viking • START Hostel, Lindarbraut 637, tel. 420-6050, start@starthostel.is.
World) museum, along with an exhibition about the life and travels of • Home Guesthouse, Þórsvellir 2, tel. 897-1827.
the Vikings between the 9th – 11th centuries. Íslendingur is a replica • Litli Hvíti Kastalinn, Aðalgata 17, tel. 861-6811,
of the famous ship from Gauksstaðir, discovered during an archeolog- rent@littlewhitecastle.com.
ical excavation in Sandefjord, Norway in 1882. Íslendingur was built • Hótel Grásteinn, Bolafótur 11, tel. 421-5200,
from 1994 – 1996 and sailed to New York in the summer of 2000, hotelgrasteinn@simnet.is.
with stopovers in Greenland and Newfoundland. The voyage took • A Bernhard Bed & Breakfast, Vallargata 6, tel. 421-2399.
about three months. Restaurants/Snack Bars:
• Vocal Restaurant, Hafnargata 57, tel. 421-5222.
HAFNIR • Ráin, Hafnargata 19a, tel. 421-4601.
• Langbest, Keilisbraut 771, tel. 421-4777.
Hafnir, situated on the western part of the Reykjanes peninsula, south
• Panda, Hafnargata 30, tel. 421-8060.
of Miðnes, is the smallest community in the municipality. In former
• Olsen-Olsen og ég, Hafnargata 62, tel. 421-4457.
times it was a populous and flourishing fishing center, with recent ar-
• Subway, Hafnargata 32 and at Fitjar, tel. 517-7747/421-7756.
cheological research suggesting it was inhabited in the settlement
• Bitinn, Iðavellir 14b, tel. 421-4000.
period. On January 1, 2016, the population was 101. • Ungó, Hafnargata 6, tel. 421-1544.
• Thai Keflavík, Hafnargata 39, tel. 421-8666.
ÁSBRÚ • Dominos Pizza, Hafnargata 86, tel. 581-2345.
• Kef restaurant, Vatnsnesvegur 12, tel. 420-7011.
The community of Ásbrú is the newest addition to the Reykjanesbær
• Pulsuvagninn, Tjarnargata 9, tel. 421-1680.
municipality. Once part of the American military base, it was handed
• Duus-kaffi, Duusgata 10, tel. 421-7080.
over to local residents at the time of the American military’s departure. • Kaffitár, Stapabraut 7, tel. 420-2700.
Ásbrú now boasts a robust community and has undergone a great • Biðskýlið Njarðvík, Hólagata 20, tel. 421-2563.
deal of development. The Heklan business incubator is located there, • Rétturinn, Hafnargata 51, tel. 421-8100.
as is the Keilir educational institution. By and large, the former military • Bakaríð Kornið, Fitjar 3, tel. 564-1846.
facilities have found new purposes, such as one of the largest movie • Fernandoz Pizza, Hafnargata 36, tel. 557-1007.
studios in the country and the Andrews theater, which has been a • KFC, Krossmóa 2, tel. 423-7200.
great addition to the Reykjanesbær music scene. • Ship-O-Hoj, Hólagata 15, tel. 421-6070.
• Tjarnagrill, Tjarnabraut 24, tel. 421-7676.
• Soul Food, Hafnargata 28, tel. 557-1313.
FACILITIES IN REYKJANESBÆR
• Ráðhúskaffi, Tjarnargata 21, tel. 774 3007.
Police: Hringbraut 130, tel. 112/444-2200. • Cafe Petit, Framnesvegur 23, tel. 583-5889.
Tourist Information: Reykjanes Tourist Information, Duus Museum, • Malai-Thai, Krossmóa, tel. 421-4450.
Duusgata 2-8, tel. 420-3246/860-7881 Bakeries:
info@visitreykjanes.is, www.visitreykjanes.is. • Sigurjónsbakarí, Hólmgarður 2, tel. 421-5255.
Accommodation • Valgeirsbakarí, Hólagata 17, tel. 421-2630.
• Icelandair Park Inn Hotel, Hafnargata 57, tel. 421-5222 • Bakaríð Kornið, Fitjar 3, tel. 564-1846.
• Hótel Keflavík, Vatnsnesvegur 12, tel. 420-7000, stay@kef.is. Leisure and Sport:
• Diamond Suites, Vatnsnesvegi 12, s. 420-7000/421-5222, • Water World, Sunnubraut, tel. 421-1500.
stay@kef.is • Swimming pool, Norðurstígur 2, tel. 421-2744.
• Hótel Keilir, Hafnargata 37, tel. 420-9800, • Golf, Hólmsvöllur in Leira, 18 holes, tel. 421-4103.
info@hotelkeilir.is, www.hotelkeilir.is. • Hospital/Health Center: Skólavegur 8, tel. 422-0500.
• Gh. Keflavík, Vatnsnesvegur 9, tel. 420-7000, www.kef.is.
Pharmacy:
• Gh. B & B, Hringbraut 92, tel. 421-8989/867-4434,
• Lyf og heilsa, Suðurgata 2, tel. 421-3200.
bbguesthouse@simnet.is.
• Lyfja, Krossmói 4, tel. 421-6565.
• Alex Guesthouse, Aðalgata 60, tel. 421-2800, info@alex.is.
• Apótek Suðurnesja, Hringbraut 99, tel. 577-1150.
• Youth Hostel Fit, Fitjabraut 6b, tel. 421-8889, fithostel@fithostel.is.
• Bed and Breakfast, Valhallarbraut 761, tel. 426-5000, booking@ For Motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repair.
bbkefairport.is. Taxi Service:
• Gh. GG Guesthouse, Sólvallargata 11, tel. 568-1813, • Aðalbílar, tel. 421-1515.
gguest@gguest.is. • Hreyfill Bæjarleiðir, tel. 421-4141.
• Svítan, apartments, Túngata 10, tel. 663-1269. • A-stöðin, tel. 420-1212.
• Hótel Berg, Bakkavegur 17, tel. 422-7922, berg@hotelberg.is.
• Guesthouse 1x6, Vesturbraut 3, tel. 777-6166/421-2282, Car and Camper Van Rentals:
booking@1x6.is. • SS Car Rental, Iðjustígur 1a, tel. 421-2220.
• Gistiheimili A10, Aðalgata 10, tel. 568-0210, info@a10deluxe.com. • Geysir Car Rental, Holtsgata 56, tel. 893-4455.
• Heilsuhótel Íslands (The Icelandic Health Hotel), • 11.is, car rental, Kirkjuvegur 37, tel. 777-6611.
Lindarbraut 634, tel. 512-8040, heilsa@heilsuhotel.is. • Bílar og Hjól, Njarðarbraut 11d, tel. 421-1118.
38
• Blue Car Rental, Hafnargata 24, tel. 773-7070. Museums/Exhibitions:
• Camper Iceland, Grófin 14c, tel. 480-0040. • Iceland Rock Museum, Hljómahöll, Hjallavegur 2, open daily 11
• JS Camper Rentals, Klettatröð 6, tel. 849-2220. – 18, tel. 420-1030.
• Adventure Car Rental, Njarðarbraut 11a, tel. 786-0900. • Duushús, Reykjanesbær Culture and Art Center, Duusgata 2-8,
• SADcars, Borgartröð 2, tel. 577-6300. open every day 12–17, tel. 420-3245, duushus@reykjanesbaer.is.
• Ellefu, Kirkjuvegur 37, tel. 777-6611. • Grímur Karlsson’s Maritime Museum and Reykjanesbær Art
• Alt Car rental, Iðavöllum 8, tel. 421-6277/895-6423. Museum, Duushús, Duusgata 2-8, open daily 12 – 17,
• Euro-car Bílaleiga, Básvegur 8, tel. 546-1020. tel. 420-3245, www.reykjanesbaer.is/listasafn.
• Road Travel, Stapabraut 21, tel. 778-2100. • Reykjanesbær Folk Museum, tel. 420-3240,
• SBK Bílaleiga, Grófin 2-4, tel. 420-6000. www.reykjanesbaer.is/byggdasafn, byggdasafn@reykjanesbaer.is.
• Keflandig.com, bus rental, Klettatröð 2314, tel. 586-1310. • Reykjanes Geopark Visitor Center, www.visitreykjanes.is
• Stekkjarkot, turf house folk museum at Fitjar, tel. 421-6700.
Banks: • Innri-Njarðvík, old chieftain’s residence, open in the summer,
• Íslandsbanki, Hafnargata 91, tel. 440-3100, ATM. Njarðvíkurbraut 42.
• Landsbankinn, Krossmóa 4a, tel. 410-4000, ATM. • Njarðvík Church, open in the summer, tel. 897-8391.
Post Office: Hafnargata 89, tel. 421-5000. • Völlurinn (The Airport), Aviation and War Relics Museum, Duusgata
Alcohol Store: Krossmói 4, tel. 421-5699. 2-8, open daily 12 – 17.
• The Ogre in the Mountain lives in Svarta hellir (Black Cave) near
Local Handicrafts: the marina in Grófin, Keflavík. Open daily 10 – 17, tel. 420-3245,
• Svarta Pakkhúsið, Hafnargata 2,paintings, glass art, ceramics and www.skessan.is.
more, tel. 616-6670. • Settlement Zoo at Víkingaheimar, domestic animals,
• Fjóla, handmade jewelry, Hafnargata 21, tel. 421-1011. open 10 – 17 in the summer.
• Gallery hans og Grétu, Vesturbraut 8, tel. 849-9610/894-3833. • Víkingaheimar, Icelandic Viking Ship, Víkingabraut 1,
• Íslenskt handverk, Guðný, Iðavellir 11b, tel. 897-1827. open daily 12 – 17, tel. 422-2000.
• Raven design, HH handverk, Fjósið í Koti, tel. 661-6999/661-7999. • Rúnar Júl’s World of Rock, Skólavegur 12, tel. 861-2062
• Hjördís Hafnfjörð, glass work, Freyjuvellir 5, tel. 421-2405/861-2405. • Orkuverið Jörð, at the Reykjanes Power Plant,
• Gallerí átta, Hafnargata 26, tel. 892-2686/868-9863/868-8826. tel. 436-1000/864-3006.
• Vatnsnes Art Workshop & Gallery, Vatnsnesvegur 8, Sea Excursions:
• Ólafía Ólafsdóttir, tel. 898 8242 and Reynir Katrínarson, • Airport whale watching, tel. 421-7777, info@dolphin.is.
tel. 861 2004. • Elding whale watching Reykjavík, tel. 519-5000.
• Reykjanes-Lava, Vatnsnesvegi 8, tel. 898-7356. • Special Tours Reykjavík, tel. 560-8800.
• Harpa yachts, Snekkjan ehf, Hraunsvegur 2, tel. 779-7779,
info@harpayachts.is.
The Icelandic Museum of

Rock ‘n’ Roll is a brand new
museum about the history of
Icelandic rock and pop music
Guests can dive deeper into the history of
each artist and listen to their music with the
help of the Rock ‘n’ Roll app. The museum
has a nice café, a cinema, a soundlab where
guests can try out electric guitar and bass,
drums etc. It also features a karaoke vocal
booth where guests can sing their hearts out!
Located only five minutes away from Keflavik
international airport.
Hjallavegur 2 • 260 Reykjanesbær

www.rokksafn.is • rokksafn@hljomaholl.is
Tel. 420 1030 • Open: 11-18 every day
39
From sandgerði.
Places of Interest/Sightseeing:
• The 100 Crater Park in Reykjanes.
SANDGERÐI
• The Bridge Between the Two Continents, located at Sandgerði is a fishing village located on the western coast of the
• Stóra Sandvík on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Rosmhvalanes peninsula. The coastline is generally low, sandy and
• Hólmsberg: Bird watching, short hiking trails. craggy and experiences significant erosion. In recent years, major im-
• Hafnarberg: Bird watching, 40 min. hike both ways.
provements have been made to the harbor. Sandgerði is home to the
• Fitjar: Bird watching, by the main road, parking.
Suðurnes Science and Learning Center, which focuses on natural
• Skessan: A cave near the marina in Gróf.
history research and cooperates with various industries in southwest-
• A coastal walking path along the shores of Reykjanesbær.
• Gunnuhver: hot spring in Reykjanes. ern Iceland. The Southwest Iceland Nature Research Institute and the
• Archaeological Research - Landnámsskálinn in Hafnir. University of Iceland’s Research Center in Suðurnes are also part of
• Reykjanes Lighthouse: on Mt. Bæjarfell, interesting habitat for birds. the center. The Learning Center has two exhibitions that are open to
• Valahnúkur Cliff: site of the first lighthouse in Iceland. the public. Recently, a new road was opened between Sandgerði and
Hafnir, providing a scenic, circular road around the westernmost tip of
Local Guides: Leiðsögumenn Reykjaness, tel. 897-9260,
the Reykjanes peninsula. On January 1, 2016, the population was
www.reykjanesguide.is, info@reykjanesguide.is.
1,539. Sandgerði is part of the Reykjanes Geopark.
Transportation:
• Keflanding Hópferðir, daily schedule and tours to the Blue Lagoon Accommodation: 28. Þóroddsstaðir, tel. 423-7748/893-7523,
from Reykjanes, tel. 586-1310. www.farmholidays.is, putti@simnet.is.
• SBK, scheduled bus services between Reykjanesbær and
Reykjavík, tel. 420-6000. Camping Site: On Byggðavegur, with electricity, water, shower facili-
• Hópferðir Sævars, coach hire, Reykjanesvegur 14, ties, etc., tel. 854-8424, www.istay.is, istay@istay.is.
tel. 840-1540, info@bus4u.is. Restaurants:
Events: • Vitinn, Vitatorgi 7, tel. 423-7755, www.vitinn.is.
• July 1 – 3: Music festival, ATP Iceland, Hljómahöll, Ásbrú • Mamma Mía, Tjarnargata 6, tel. 423-7377.
www.atpiceland.is. • Orkan, Strandgata 11, tel. 423-7560.
• First weekend in Sept.: Ljósanótt (Night of the Lights), a family Leisure and Sport:
festival, www.ljosanott.is. • Sandgerði Sports Center, Swimming pool, stream room, hot tubs,
• Sept.: NASKEF Reunion, reunification of the military base in water slide and exercise room, tel. 420-7570.
Keflavík, www.keflanding.com. • Golf, Kirkjubólsvöllur, 18 holes, tel. 423-7802.
40
Sudurnes Science
and Learning Center
Live sea creatures, stuffed animals, the life and death of Jean-Baptiste
Charcot, hidden seaweed fairies and an exciting treasure hunt.
A true adventure for children and adults.
Þekkingarsetur Suðurnesja • Sudurnes Science and Learning Center
Garðvegur 1 • 245 Sandgerði • Tel. +354 423-7555, +354 423-7551
thekkingarsetur@thekkingarsetur.is • www.thekkingarsetur.is
SANDGERÐISBÆR
A living seaside village - Birdwatching
Only 5 minutes from the Keflavík Airport
SPORTS CENTER CAMPING

Gym - Swimming Pool Wahing Machine - Dryer
Hot pots - Sauna Waste Disposal
Tel. +354 420 7570 Tel. +354 854 8424
Gallery - Artwork
www.listatorg.is
Open daily from 1 pm. to 5 pm.
For Motorists:
G Guesthouse Garður
• Orkan, Skeljungur, Strandgata 15, tel. 423-7560.
• N1, garage, Vitatorg 5, tel. 421-2005.
Skagabraut 46 and 62a - 250 Garður -  660-7894
Bank: Landsbankinn, Suðurgata 2-4, tel. 423-8190. Fax 426-7632 - guesthousegardur@simnet.is
Post office: Suðurgata 2-4, tel. 423-7800. www.guesthousegardur.is
Local Handicrafts: Listatorg, art and culture house of Sandgerði,
Vitatorg, gallery and shop are open every day 13 – 17, tel. 423-7960,
www.listatorg.is.
Museum/Exhibition: Þekkingarsetur Suðurnes, Garðvegi 1, The Na-
ture Center has 2 exhibitions: a natural history exhibition; and ”The
Attraction of the Poles,” about the life and achievements of the French
polar explorer Jean-Baptiste Charcot. From May – Sept. open week-
days 10 – 16, and weekends 13 – 17, from Oct. – April open week-
days 10 – 14. Groups by arrangement. tel. 423-7550/423-7551,
thekkingarsetur@thekkingarsetur.is, www.thekkingarsetur.is.
www.reykjanes.is, www.visitreykjanes.is, info@visitreykjanes.is.
Excursions: AT- Skoðunarfeðir, mountain tours, etc., tel. 899-6312,
info@daytrips.is, www.daytrips.is. 2
Transportation:
• Strætó, tel. 540-2700, www.straeto.is.
Leisure and Sport:
• SBK, tel. 420-6000 and Hópferðir Sævars, tel. 840-1540,
• Swimming pool, Sport Hall, Gym, Solarium, Garðbraut 94,
scheduled services between Reykjanesbær, Garður, Sandgerði and
tel. 422-7300.
Reykjavík.
• Golf, Hólmsvöllur in Leira, 18 holes, tel. 421-4100.
Events:
For Motorists: Garage and tire repair workshop,
• Courses offered by The Suðurnes Learning Center, thekkingarsetur.
Garðabraut 35, tel. 422-7272
is/events/category/vidburdir/.
• Aug. 24 – 28, 2016: Sandgerðisdagar, Sandgerði Festival, Artist´s Workshop/Local Handicrafts: Gallery Ársól,
https://www.facebook.com/sandgerdisdagar, Kothúsavegur 12, tel. 896-7935.
www.sandgerdi.is. Museum/Exhibition: Folk Museum, by Garðskagi lighthouse with
excellent sea views, open daily from April – Oct. 13 – 17. In the winter
by arrangement. tel. 422-7220/894-2135, gardskagi@simnet.is.
GARÐUR Places of Interest/Hiking:

• Bird watching by Garðskagi lighthouse.
• A coastal walking path from Garðskagi to Gerðabryggja Pier.
Garður is a community situated on the northernmost tip of the Reykja-
nes peninsula. At one time it was an important fisheries center, due to Local Guides: Leiðsögumenn Reykjaness, tel. 897-9260,
its proximity to rich fishing grounds, and it served as a temporary www.reykjanesguide.is, www.leidsogumenn.is, info@reykjanesguide.is.
home to migrant fishermen. The local maritime museum displays Transportation: A bus travels daily between Reykjanesbær, Garður,
equipment used for fishing and Garðskagaflös lighthouse has a map Sandgerði, and Reykjavík.
showing vessels that have been stranded at Flös. Events: June 24 – 25: Sólseturshátíð, Sunset Festival at Garðskagi, a
Garður, which means embankment, draws its name from an ancient variety of entertainment and shows.
protective bank that farmers are believed to have constructed to pro-
tect their fields from grazing sheep; corn cultivation was common on
the Reykjanes peninsula during the Age of Settlement. The embank-
ment was later used to guide travellers on the route between Garður
VOGAR
and Sandgerði. Part of the bank is still discernible opposite Útskála- Vogar is situated at Vogavík, on the westernmost tip of Vatnsleysus-
kirkja church. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,425. trönd. A 450 kg memorial boulder, dedicated to Jón Daníelsson the
Strong (1771 – 1855), is located at Stóra-Vogaskóli school. Jón, who
Accommodation: had enormous power, was said to have carried the boulder to its pres-
• Guesthouse Garður, Skagabraut 62, tel. 660-7890/660-7891. ent site. Kálfa-tjarnarkirkja church, built in 1893, is one of the largest
• Guesthouse Seaside, Rafnkelsstaðavegur 11, 250 Garður. rural churches in Iceland and is located on Vatnsleysuströnd. On Jan-
Camping Site: Garðskagi, tel. 422-7220. uary 1, 2016, the population was 1,035.
Restaurant/Snack Bar: Keilir is a 379 m tuff mountain and landmark found on the Reykjanes
• Röstin, Folk Museum by Garðskagi lighthouse, tel. 422-7214.
peninsula. It is a relatively easy hike with a wonderful view in all direc-
• N1 Station, tel. 422-7265.
tions from the top; The Suðurnes tourist association has placed an ob-
servation platform at the top. Keilir is only a 15-minute drive from Vogar.
42
H G Heimagisting borg
Borg Guesthouse
Víkurbraut 58 - 240 Grindavík Borgarhraun 2 - 240 Grindavík -  895-8686
 421-4000 - booking@geohotel.is - www.geohotel.is ghborg@simnet.is - www.guesthouseborg.com
75 36 0,2 5,8 16 0,5
Tourist Information: Community Offices, Iðndal 2, tel. 440-6200,

fax 440-6201, skrifstofa@vogar.is, www.vogar.is.
Accommodation:
Guesthouse Fiskanes
• Mótel Best, Stapavegur 7, tel. 866-4664, fax 424-6888. STUDIO APARTMENTS
• 108. Minna-Knarrarnes Travel Service, tel. 898-6760.
Camping Site: Free camping at the Swimming Pool, tel. 440-6200. Hafnargata 17 - 19
Restaurant/Snack Bar: 240 Grindavík
• Jón Sterki, take away, Hafnargata 17a, tel. 771-7900. Tel. 695-8103
• Gamla pósthúsið, restaurant, Tjarnargata 26, tel. 424-6800. runasz@hotmail.com
Leisure and Sport:
• Swimming pool, Hafnargata, tel. 440-6220.
• Golf, Kálfatjörnsvöllur, 9 holes, tel. 424-6529.
For Motorists: N1 filling station, Iðndalur 2, tel. 424-6529. 4x4 ADVENTURES ICELAND
Bank/Post:
• Landsbankinn, tel. 410-4000,
BY THE BLUE LAGOON
• ATM and post office in N1-station, Iðndalur 2, tel. 424-6631.
www.reykjanesguide.is, www.leidsogumenn.is, info@reykjanesguide.is.
Places of Interest:
• Mt. Keilir, viewing dial.
• Kálfatjarnarkirkja Church, Vogastapi, Staðarborg.
Transportation: SBK, tel. 420-6000, scheduled services
between Reykjanesbær, Vogar and Reykjavík.
Events:
• Aug. 12 – 14: Fjölskyldudagar - Family Days in Vogar FUN ADVENTURE
• For other planned activities, see information: www.vogar.is.
ALL YEAR AROUND!
4x4adventuresiceland.is // +354-857-3001 // atv4x4@atv4x4.is
GRINDAVÍK
Grindavík is the largest community on the south Reykjanes peninsula. towns, with well-established fish production companies. A memorial by
During the Middle Ages, German and English merchants sailed to Grin- sculptor Ragnar Kjartansson is dedicated to seamen from Grindavík who
davík. In 1627 Turkish pirates raided the community and took many of have drowned and stands just north of the Vör restaurant. Tourism has
the locals into captivity. Fishing has always been the foundation of its grown steadily in recent years and the town is popular with visitors, as
economy and Grindavík has become one of Iceland’s most active fishing the Blue Lagoon is on its doorstep. Grindavík offers numerous restau-
43
grindavík camping Grindavík swimming pool
Austurvegur 1 - 240 Grindavík -  660 7323 Austurvegur 1 - 240 Grindavík
tjaldsvaedi@grindavik.is - www.visitgrindavik.is  426-8244
Open 15.5.-30.9.
OPEN
Mon. - Thur.
06:00 - 21:00
Fri. Sat. - Sun.
06:00 - 20:00 10:00 - 17:00
rants and accommodations. It also provides visitors with diverse recre- Leisure/Sport:
ational options. On February 1, 2016, the population was 3.122. • ATV/Quad bike adventures, tel. 857-3001, info@atv4x4.is, www.
lavatours.is.
Police: Víkurbraut 25, tel. 112/ 444 2200. • Swimming Pool, on Austurvegur, tel. 426-7555.
• Golf, Húsatóftavöllur, 18 holes, tel. 426-8720.
Local Tourist Information:
• Arctic Horses, Hestabrekka 2, horse rental, tel. 848-0143.
• Community Offices, Víkurbraut 62, tel. 420-1100, fax 420-1111,
• Blue Lagoon, tel. 420-8800, fax 426-8801,
grindavik@grindavik.is, www.visitgrindavik.is, www.grindavik.is.
bluelagoon@bluelagoon.is, www.bluelagoon.is.
• The Icelandic Saltfish Museum, Hafnargata12a,
• Stakkavík, Bakkalág 5, take a trip into the fascinating world of fish,
tel. 420-1190, kvikan@grindavik.is.
fish-processing exhibition, tel. 420-8000,
Accommodation: stakkavik@stakkavik.is, www.stakkavik.is.
• Geo Hotel, s. 421 4000, Víkurbraut 58
Health Care Center: Víkurbraut 62, tel. 422-0750.
booking@geohotel.is, www.geohotel.is
• Northern Light Inn, Grindavíkurvegur 1, tel. 426-8650, Pharmacy: Lyfja, Víkurbraut 62, tel. 426-8770.
nli@nli.is, www.nli.is. For Motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repairs.
• Guesthouse Borg, Borgarhraun 2, tel. 896-8686, bjorksv@hive.is. Bank: Landsbanki, Víkurbraut 56, tel. 410-4143, ATM.
• Guesthouse Þorbjörn/Fiskanes, Hafnargata 15, tel. 695-8103, Post Office: Víkurbraut 56, tel. 410-4143.
runasz@hotmail.com. Alcohol Store: Víkurbraut 62, tel. 426-8787.
• Gistihúsið Steinar, tel. 421 2900/852 7522,
Local Handicrafts:
steinarguesthouse@simnet.is.
• Helga Kristjánsdóttir Art Gallery, Vörðusund 1, tel. 694-8245.
• Arctic B&B, Sjónarhóll, tel. 691-1919.
• Anna Sigga Art Gallery, fiórkötlustaðir vestur, tel. 866-4567.
Camping Site: On Austurvegur, tel. 660-7323, www.visitgrindavik.is.
Museum/Exhibitions: Magma Resources and Culture House, Haf-
Restaurants/Snack Bars: nargata 12. Two exhibitions: The Icelandic Saltfish Museum and Earth
• Café Bryggjan, by the harbor, open daily 07:00 - 23:30, Power, and Þorbjörn’s relics and art exhibition. tel. 420-1190/420-
tel. 426-7100/892-4587, kaffibryggjan@simnet.is. 4400, www.grindavik.is/kvikan.
• Salthúsið, Stamphólsvegur 2, specialty saltfish dishes,
Sightseeing/Fishing:
tel. 462-9700/699-2665, salthusid@salthusid.is.
• ATV Adventures, Tangarsund 1, quad bike tours, mountain bike
• Sjómannastofan Vör, Hafnargata 9, tel. 426-8570.
rental, cave exploration, tel. 857-3001,
• Papa’s Pizza, Hafnargata 7a, tel. 426-9955, thormaro@gmail.com.
info@4x4.is, www.lavatours.is.
• Aðal-Braut, Víkurbraut 31, tel. 426-7222.
• Volcano tours/Eldfjallferðir, Víkurbraut 2,
• Kanturinn, Hafnargata 6, tel. 426-9999/824-9080.
tel. 426-8822/894-0938, Erling Einarsson,
• Northern Light Inn, at the Blue Lagoon, tel. 426-8650.
• Hjá Höllu, Víkurbraut 62, tel. 896-5316, www.hjahollu.is, Transportation: Strætó, tel. 540-2700, daily scheduled services be-
halla@hjahollu.is. tween Grindavík, Keflavík, and Reykjavík, www.bus.is.
• Lava Restaurant, við Bláa Lónið, s. 420 8800 Events:
www.bluelagoon.com, bluelagoon@bluelagoon.com • March 12 – 20: Grindavík Cultural Week.
• Veitingahúsið Brúin, Hafnargötu 26, s. 426 7080 • March 28: The Blue Lagoon Walk.
Bakery: Hérastubbur, Gerðavellir 17, tel. 426-8111, • June 3 — 5: The Merry Sailor.
herastubbur@simnet.is. • June 25: Midsummer Walk.
44
Nauthólsvík in Reykjavík.
THE CAPITAL AREA

Reykjavík and the six surrounding municipalities form what is often called Greater Reykjavík. Greater Reykjavík
is home to more than half of the nation. Of Iceland’s total population of 332,529 some 209,500 live in Greater
Reykjavík. With the increasing population and relocation to the southwestern region towards the end of the 20th
century, the inhabited areas spread beyond Reykjavík and Hafnarfjörður.
Kópavogur and Seltjarnarnes expanded rapidly. The Garðahreppur

Tourist Information district spread out in record time and became the town of Garðabær.
in the Capital Area The youngest municipality in Greater Reykjavík is Mosfellsbær, which
grew out of the small community of Mosfellssveit.
Reykjavík Tourist Information Centre,
Aðalstræti 2, t. 590-1550 Industry and commerce is extremely diverse in Greater Reykjavík.
Reykjavík City Hall, Tjarnargata 11, t. 563-2005 Fishing and fish processing industries still operate, in addition to a
Camping Site in Laugardalur, t. 568-6944
wide variety of industry, trade, business and services that have taken
Hafnarfjörður,
Service Centre Strandgata 6, t. 585-5500 more prominence in the economy. In recent times there has been sig-
Mosfellsbær, nificant growth in the local software, high-tech and science enterpris-
Mosfellsbær Library Þverholt 2, t. 566-6822 es.
45
H hótel borg reykjavík downtown hostel
Pósthússtræti 11 - 101 Reykjavík -  551-1440 Vesturgata 17 - 101 Reykjavík -  553-8120
hotelborg@hotelborg.is - www.hotelborg.is reykjavikdowntown@hostel.is - www.hostel.is
68 14
106 56 56
REYKJAVÍK nation and the country. Anything that is of any importance to modern
day Iceland begins and ends in Reykjavík.
The world’s smallest capital
Greater Reykjavík, or the capital area, is comprised of Reykjavík and Slowly but surely, urban density around Greater Reykjavík is increasing
the municipalities surrounding the city: Hafnarfjörður, Bessastaðahrep- and although Reykjavík may only be part of this area, it is nevertheless
pur, Garðabær, Kópavogur, Seltjarnarnes and Mosfellsbær. The bound- home to 208,752 of the country’s 325,671 residents. Around 65% of
aries of the capital area stretch from Kapelluhraun in the south to the the country’s residents live in a comparatively small area, though at 104
Kjarlarnes district in the north. thousand square kilometers, there’s still plenty of space for everyone.
Icelanders sometimes say the Reykjavík is the world’s smallest capital. Reykjavík was long viewed as a lackluster country village, and for as
This might be true in a literal sense, but then again, if something’s long as Iceland was a rural community entirely dependent on agricul-
small, exactly how small it is doesn’t really matter. Little is little. ture and fishing, it’s true that there wasn’t much going on in the city. It
wasn’t until Skúli Magnússon, a government official who established
The world is full of lesser-known cities that are actually bigger than the first industry of any kind in the country, chose to locate his opera-
Reykjavík, which just goes to show that when everything’s said and tions in Reykjavík in the middle of the 18th century, that urbanization
done, size doesn’t matter much. began in earnest.
Reykjavík is Iceland capital and, just as all capitals do, reflects a broad Administrative power had begun to concentrate around Tjörnin, the
spectrum of human existence. It is the heart of government, the heart pond in downtown Reykjavík, but when mechanized fishing boats be-
of artistic and cultural life, and, in a historical sense, the heart of the came the norm at the end of the 19th century and Icelanders estab-
www.hostel.is
35 HI Hostels
around Iceland
welcome you
46
loft hostel
Bankastræti 7 - 101 Reykjavík
REYKJAVÍK
 553-8140 - loft@hostel.is - www.hostel.is
CITY CARD
92 19
24
lished a genuine fishing industry with trawler operations, a rapid mi- 48

gration of workers from the countryside to the city began, a migration
which is still underway today. Subsequently, the city took a great leap
forward during the Second World War, which arrived in Iceland with
modernity in tow. Of this time, it’s sometimes said that Icelanders in- 72
stantaneously jumped from being a medieval society to a modern one,
unsaddling their horses and leaping into automobiles, and exchanging
vellum manuscripts for the telephone in the blink of an eye.
Today, Reykjavík shows many signs of being a rapidly developing ur-

ban society. The ever-increasing streams of tourists coming to the
country has lead to a substantial increase of restaurants and hotels, as
well as a greater diversity of entertainment than many older Reykjavík
residents grew up with. Reykjavík becomes more colorful and enjoy-
able with each passing season, and a more interesting travel destina- Offers unlimited access to:
tion to boot.
• All Reykjavík Art & City Museums
Thirty years ago, beer was illegal in Iceland, all bars were closed on • The National Museum and the National
Wednesdays, city residents were not allowed to own dogs, and the
country’s only TV station didn’t broadcast on Thursdays or for the en-
Gallery of Iceland
tire month of July. • The Culture House
Today, Reykjavík is home to crowded music festivals, as well as a vi-
• Strætó, Reykjavík City’s transportation,
brant and diverse blend of human life that is characterized by toler- Zone 1
ance and freedom. Reykjavík is one of those cities that never sleeps. • All Reykjavík thermal pools
Many visitors come to take part in its electrifying nightlife, which, when • The ferry to Viðey Island
the streets fill with joyful people dancing under the midnight sun, calls
to mind ancient fertility festivals.
• The Family Park and Animal Zoo
• Discounts at a number of local restaurants,
Even in its smallness, Reykjavík is big enough to allow all kinds of life
to thrive. Some of this is overt and impossible to miss, and some is a
stores and activity
bit more hidden, requiring more attention on the part of the traveler. • Discount for children between 6-18
Have a good time, strike up conversations with the locals, and let your-
self go with the flow for awhile. Maybe you’ll meet Björk or Sigur Rós www.citycard.is
at the next coffee house and have a close encounter with the thriving
creative spirit that shapes life in today’s Reykjavík more than anything
else. Góða skemmtun — Have fun! #reykjavikloves
47
G Brattagata guesthouse H reykjavík lights
Suðurlandsbraut 12 - 108 Reykjavík -
Brattagata 3b - 101 Reykjavík -  612-9800
ingunn.gisladottir@gmail.com - www.brattagata.com  513-9000 - Fax 513-9020 - reykjaviklights@reykjaviklights.is
www.keahotels.is
14
208 105 105 0,5
H Skuggi Hotel
Hverfisgata 103 - 101 Reykjavík
H Apotek hotel
Austurstræti 16 - 101 Reykjavík
 590-7000 - skuggi@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is  512-9000 - apotek@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is
100 100 100 100 0,5 45 45 45 0,5 6

rooms
G FACILITIES – REYKJAVIK CITY

Hotels
• Hótel Reykjavík Natura, Icelandair Hotels,
Suðurhlíð 35d - 105 Reykjavík -  588 2100 Nauthólsvegur 52, tel. 444-4500.
Fax 588 2102 - info@capitalinn.is - www.capitalinn.is • Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, Icelandair Hotels,
Suðurlandsbraut 2, tel. 444-5000.
• Hotel Reykjavik Marina, Icelandair Hotels,
84 Mýrargata 2, tel. 560-8000.
• Radisson BLU, Hótel Saga, Hagatorg, tel. 525-9900.
40 • Grand Hótel Reykjavík, Reykjavík Hotels, Sigtún 38,
tel. 514-8000.
• Centerhotel Skjaldbreið, Laugavegur 16, tel. 595-8510.
• Centerhotel Þingholt, Þingholtsstræti 5, tel. 595-8530.
• Hótel Borg, Kea Hotels, Pósthússtræti 11, tel. 551-1440.
• Hótel Óðinsvé, Óðinstorg, tel. 511- 6200.
• Radison BLU 1919, Pósthússtræti 2, tel. 599-1000.
• Park Inn Island, Ármúli 9, tel. 595-7000.
48
H Storm Hotel H STAY Apartments grettisgata
Þórunnartún 4 - 105 Reykjavík -  518-3000 Grettisgata 43 - 101 Reykjavík -  517-4050
storm@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is Fax 872-4050 - grettisgata@stay.is - www.stay.is
186 93
93 93
1,9
0,3
G stay Apartments Bolholt G borgartún guesthouse

Bolholt 6 - 105 Reykjavík -  517-4051 Borgartún 34 - 105 Reykjavík -  511-1515 / 511-1500
stay@stay.is - www.stay.is Fax 511-1511 - gjtravel@gjtravel.is - www.gjtravel.is
0,6 44 20 20
WWW.HANDKNIT.IS
49
Reykjavík city hostel G Stay Apartments laugavegur
Sundlaugavegur 34 - 105 Reykjavík -  553-8110 Laugavegur 139 - 105 Reykjavík -  517-4051
reykjavikcity@hostel.is - www.hostel.is stay@stay.is - www.stay.is
174 28 0,75
0,1
H Arctic Comfort Hotel G stay Apartments einholt

Síðumúli 19 - 108 Reykjavík -  588-5588 - Fax 588-5582 Einholt 2 - 105 Reykjavík -  517-4051
lobby@arcticcomforthotel.is - www.arcticcomforthotel.is stay@stay.is - www.stay.is
8 Studio-
Apartments
115 56 0,6
H centerhotel klöpp
Klapparstígur 26 - 101 Reykjavík - www.centerhotels.com
• Centerhotel Klöpp, Klapparstígur 26, tel. 595-8520.
• Hótel Frón, Klapparstígur 35a, tel. 511-4666.
 595-8520 - Fax 595-8521 - klopp@centerhotel.com • Hótel Reykjavík, Reykjavík Hotels, Rauðarárstígur 37,
tel. 514-7000.
• Fosshótel Barón, Barónsstígur 2-4, tel. 562-3204.
84 • Fosshótel Lind, Rauðarárstígur 18, tel. 562-3350.
• Hótel Björk, Kea Hotels, Brautarholt 22, tel. 511-3777.
46 46
• Metropolitan Hotel, Ránagata 4 a, tel. 511-1155.
• Arctic Comfort Hotel, Síðumúli 19, tel. 588-5588.
• Reykjavik Hostel Village, Flókagata 1, tel. 552-1155.
• Gh. Baldursbrá, Laufásvegur 41, tel. 552-6646.
• Gh. Snorra, Snorrabraut 61, tel. 552-0598.
5 • 101 Hótel, Hverfisgata 10, tel. 580-0101.
• Hótel Holt, Bergstaðastræti 37, tel. 552-5700.
0,5 • 4th Floor Hotel, Laugavegur 101, tel. 511-3030.
• Centerhotel Arnarhvoll, Ingólfsstræti 1, tel. 595-8540.
• Centerhotel Plaza, Aðalstræti 4, tel. 595-8550.
• City Center Hotel, Austurstræti 6, tel. 571-1400.
50
G Stay Apartments njálsgata H centerhotel skjaldbreið
Laugavegur 16 - 101 Reykjavík- www.centerhotels.com
Njálsgata 94 - 101 Reykjavík -  517-4051
stay@stay.is - www.stay.is  595-8510 - Fax 595-8511 - skjaldbreid@centerhotel.com
62
33 33
0,5 5
0,6
G STAY Apartments grettisgata H centerhotel miðgarður

Grettisgata 43 - 101 Reykjavík -  517-4051 Laugavegur 120 - 101 Reykjavík -  595-8560 - Fax 595-8511
stay@stay.is - www.stay.is midgardur@centerhotels.com - www.centerhotels.com
86 43 43 43
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51
• Grand Hotel Reykjavik, Sigtún 38, tel. 514-8000.
H centerhotel arnarhvoll
Ingólfsstræti 1 - 101 Reykjavík - www.centerhotels.com
• Hótel Cabin, Borgartún 32, tel. 511-6030.
• Hótel Klettur, Mjölnisholt 1-14, tel. 440-1600.
• Hótel Leifur Eiríksson, Skólavörðustígur 45, tel. 562-0800.
 595-8540 - Fax 595-8541 - arnarhvoll@centerhotels.com
• Best Western Hótel Reykjavik, Rauðarárstígur 37, tel. 514-7000.
• Hótel Reykjavik Centrum, Aðalstræti 16, tel. 514-6000.
• Airport Hótel Smári, Hlíðarsmári 13, Kópavogur, tel. 595-1900.
• Kex Hostel, Skúlagata 28, tel. 5616060.
• Kvosin Downtown Hotel, Kirkjutorg 4, tel. 571-4460.
• Hótel Örkin, Brautarholti 29, tel. 568-0777.
• Hótel Hilda, Bárugata 11, tel. 552-3020.
• Reykjavík Lights, Suðurlandsbraut 12, tel. 513-9000.
• Skugga hótel Kea, Hverfisgata 103, tel. 460-2050.
• Apótek Hótel Kea, Austurstræti 16, tel. 512-9000.
• Guesthouses and Youth Hostels:
• Árni’s Place, Bergstaðastræti 14, tel. 661-7015.
• Apartmenthouse Forsæla, Grettisgata 33b-35b, tel. 551-6046.
• Bolholt Apartments, Bolholt 6, tel. 517-4050.
202 104 104 • Butterfly Guesthouse, Ránargata 8a, tel. 894-1864.
• Gh. 101, Laugavegur 101, tel. 562-6101.
SPA • Gh. Alba, Eskihlíð 3, tel. 552-9800.
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• Gh. Anna, Smáragata 16, tel. 562-1618.
• Gh. Aurora, Freyjugata 24, tel. 552-5515.
H centerhotel þingholt • Gh. Borgartún, Borgartún 34, tel. 511-1515.
• Gh. Capital Inn, Suðurhlíð 35d, tel. 588-2100.
Þingholtsstræti 3-5 - 101 Reykjavík - www.centerhotels.com
• Gh. Eiríkur rauði, Eiríksgata 6, tel. 552-1940.
 595-8530 - Fax 595-8531 - thingholt@centerhotel.com
• Gh. Galtafell, Laufásvegur 46, tel. 551-4344.
• Gh. Hjálpræðisherinn, Kirkjustræti 2, tel. 561-3203.
• Gh. Loki, Lókastígur 24a, tel. 553-9344.
• Gh. Óðinn, Óðinsgata 9, tel. 861-3400.
• Reykjavík Backpackers, Laugavegur 28, tel. 578-3700.
• Youth Hostel, Sundlaugavegur 34, tel. 553-8110.
• Youth Hostel, Vesturgata 17, tel. 553-8120.
• Fitjar, 116 Reykjavík, tel. 565-6474.
• Our House, Kárastígur 12, tel. 897-2000.
• Reykjavik Residence Hotel, Hverfisgata 45, tel. 561-1200.
• Sjómannaheimilið Örkin, Brautarholt 29, tel. 568-0777.
• Town House, Laugateigur 26, tel. 618-3618.
• Dalfoss gistiheimili, Sóleyjargata 31, tel. 561-3553.
• Gh. Gunnarshólmi, Suðurlandsvegur, tel. 867-2100.
104 52 52 • Loft Hostel, Bankastræti 7, tel. 553 8140.
SPA • Stay Apartments Laugavegur, Laugavegi 139, tel. 517-4050.
0,5 5 • Stay Apartments Bolholt, Boltholti 6, tel. 517-4050.
• Stay Apartments Grettisgata, Grettisgötu 43, tel. 517-4050.
• Stay Apartments Einholt, Einholti 2, tel. 517-4050.
H centerhotel plaza • Stay Brilliant Apartments, Brautarholti 2, tel. 517-4050.
Aðalstræti 4 - 101 Reykjavík - www.centerhotels.com Sleeping-Bag Accommodation:
 595-8550 - Fax 595-8551 - plaza@centerhotels.com • Gh. Capital Inn, Suðurhlíð 35d, tel. 588-2100.
• Hjálpræðisherinn, Kirkjustræti 2, tel. 561-3203.
• Youth Hostel, Sundlaugavegur 34, tel. 553-8110.
390 200
Camping in Reykjavík:
200 200 • Laugardalur, Reykjavík, tel. 568-6944.
City Festivals:
• February: Winter Lights Festival
• April: Children’s Culture Festival
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• May: Reykjavík Arts Festival
• August: Reykjavík Culture Night
52
Bessastaðir.
KÓPAVOGUR
In recent years Kópavogur was the second-largest town in Iceland,
and now it as become part of Reykjavik. There was no settlement in
the area until 1936, when the authorities began allocating new build-
ing land on the peninsula between Kópavogur and Fossvogur. Initially,
the residents of Reykjavík used the land to build summer cottages, but
gradually they became year-round residences. During the war years
and around the middle of the 20th century, a large number of people
settled in Kópavogur, many of them from rural areas of Iceland. This
was when city planning began and new residential areas were de-
signed. In 1950 the town counted 1,650 inhabitants, and only fifteen
years later the number had risen to 9,000. The number of residents
has increased dramatically in recent years. Commerce and services
are the main industries. On January 1, 2016, the population was Enjoy life
34,122. in the swimming pools of Kópavogur
Accommodations: Open: Swimming is a wonderful

• Hótel Heiðmörk, Ögurhvarf 4, tel. 564-6600 working days: 06.30–22.00 exercise, whether you’re after
on weekends: 08.00–20.00 a workout, relaxation in a
• Gunnarshólmi Guesthouse, Gunnarshólmi, tel. 567-6886 comfortable environment or
only looking to splash around
• Kríunes Guesthouse, Kríunes Vatnsendi, tel. 567-2245 Kópavogur’s swimming pool
Borgarholtsbraut 17–19 and enjoy yourself!
• Hótel Smári, Hlíðarsmári 13, tel. 588-1900 Tel. (+354) 570 0470 Kópavogur’s swimming pool
and the Versalir swimming
Sport and leisure: Sundlaugin Versölum pool both offer great facilities,
Versalir 3 water slides and hot tubs.
• Kópavogur Swimming Pool, Borgarholtsbraut 17, tel. 570-0470 Tel. (+354) 570 0480 Come swimming!
• Versalir Swimming Pool, Versalir 3, tel. 570-0480
• Smáratívolí, arcade and family amusement park, Hagasmári 1,
534-1900 kopavogur.is
53
Museums:
G Lava hostel • Listasafn Kópavogs, Kópavogur Art Museum - Gerðarsafn,
Hamraborg 4, tel. 441-7600
Hjallabraut 51 - 220 Hafnarfjörður -  +354 565-0900 • Náttúrufræðistofa Kópavogs, Kópavogur Natural History Museum,
 895-0906 - info@lavahostel.is - www.lavahostel.is Hamraborg 6a, tel. 441-7200
Shopping and services:
• Smáralind, shopping mall, Hagasmári 1, tel. 528-8000
• Smáratorg, shopping center, Smáratorg 1 - 5, a wide variety of
0,3
shops and service providers.
• Mjódd, shopping mall, Þönglabakki 1 - 16, a wide variety of shops
and service providers.
0,3 3,5
• Vínbúðin Smáralind, Hagasmára 1, s. 544-2112
• Vínbúðin Dalvegi, alcohol store. Dalvegur 2, tel. 564-5070
• Lyfja, pharmacy. Smáratorg 1, tel. 564-5600
Great for • Apótekarinn, pharmacy. Hamraborg 8, tel. 554-0102
groups! • Lyf og Heilsa, pharmacy. Auðbrekka 3-5, tel. 544-2323
HAFNARFJÖRÐUR
hafnarfjörður camping Hafnarfjördur is one of the oldest towns in Iceland and thrived because
of its excellent natural harbor. Merchants from Germany and England
Hjallabraut 51 - 220 Hafnarfjörður -  +354 565-0900 / began commercial activities there in the 15th century, but the settle-
895-0906 - info@lavahostel.is - www.lavahostel.is
ment did not grow until the fishing industry expanded in the 19th
Great for century. Fishing, industry, commerce and services have been the
groups! town’s main activities, but in recent decades an artistic culture has
emerged and there are many interesting art and history museums in
Hafnarfjördur. One of the oldest buildings in town, Vesturgata 6, was
the home of Bjarni Sivertsen (1763 – 1833), one of the first pioneers
to settle there. On January 1, 2016, the population was 28,184.
Hotels:
• Hótel Hafnarfjörður, Reykjavíkurvegur 72, tel. 540-9700.
• Hótel Viking Village, Strandgata 55, Hafnarfjörður, tel. 565-1213.
Opið/Open/Geöffnet 15.5.-15.9.
• Gh. Arahús, Strandgata 21, tel. 555-1770.
• Gh. Lækjarkinn 2, Hafnarfjörður, tel. 565-5132.
• Helguhús, Lækjarkinn 8, Hafnarfjörður, tel. 555-2842.
• Hafnarfjörður Guesthouse, Hjallabraut 51, tel. 565-0900.
• Lava hostel, Hjallabraut 51, Hafnarfjörður, s. 565-0900
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Two Icelandic themed villages
H LIÐ I
ÁLF TA NE S
Restaurant &
Lodging
The Viking Village is a unique place and it is the The Fisherman´s village, our newest accommo-
only Viking theme Hotel and restaurant in Iceland. dation is Hlið in Álftanes only few minutes drive
We have step by step been developing our facilities from the Viking Village. Like a country home by
over the last 24 years and will hopefully continue to the seaside. Such an idyllic place to visit. The
do so in the future. We offer Hotel accommodation restaurant is open for groups in the evenings.
and Viking houses. Good for families and groups. Close to the president´s residence.
Viking feasts - Souvenirs - Live entertainment most nights

15 t
to
m e
in ci
h
ut ty
es ce
d nt
Booking: www.vikingvillage.is | +354 565 1213

ri re
ve
54
HAFNARFJÖRÐUR
The town in the lava NEXT
STOP!
ONLY 15 MIN.
FROM REYKJAVIK
CITY CENTER
Beautiful and Charming Town for the Whole Family

· See the stunning natural colors of the Krísuvík geothermal area
· Enjoy a picnic and games in Hellisgerði
· Take an educational trip to the Hafnarfjörður Museum
· Enjoy art by leading artists in Hafnarborg
· Read and play at Hafnarfjörður Library
· Have fun and relax in Hafnarfjörður’s swimming pools
· We have great restaurants and a good selection of accommodation
· Icelandic handcraft and design
· Vibrant downtown and charming harbor
· Quiet camping in the best part of the town
WELCOME to Hafnarfjörður!
HAFNARFJORDUR.IS
TOURIST INFO CENTER · STRANDGATA 6 · TEL. (+354) 585 5500
Sleeping-Bag Accommodation: see over the capital and the islands in the channel. Landmarks and local
Hafnarfjörður Guesthouse, Hjallabraut 51, tel. 565-0900. names are available on a viewing station at the peak. Some of the sites
Camping: Víðistaðatún, Hjallabraut 51, Hafnarfjörður, tel. 565-0900. include Snæfells glacier, which is visible across the Faxaflói Bay, and Mt.
Esja, which can be seen on the north side of Kollafjörður fjord. There is
Events:
an informational sign in the churchyard of Lagafells church.
• Feb. 15 - 21: Bío- og bókahátíð, or Children’s Literature and Film
festival, which emphasizes books, movies, and creative and fun Álafosskvos - Stekkjarflöt. Hús skáldsins - hús tímans (the house of
projects connected with both in Hafnarfjörður. the poet - the house of time), the wonderful sculpture by Magnús
• April 20: Heima, or Home, is a music festival held in private homes Tómasson, stands at Stekkjarflöt, on the west side of the Álafosskvos
in central Hafnarfjörður. Guests walk from house to house, enjoying River. It inspired the town’s symbol and makes references to the works
the creative output of the town’s cultural and artistic associations.
of Halldór Laxness, Iceland’s only Nobel Laureate. A large-scale wool
• April 20-24: Bjartir dagar, of Bright Days, a cultural festival with a
industry was built up around the Álafoss waterfalls on the Varmá River
diverse calendar of events that aims to encourage the active
between 1919 and 1955, and workers lived in the nearby neighbor-
participation of the whole community.
• April 21: The first day of summer. Parade and entertainment all hood. Today, the old factory buildings have a new role: artists have
around the village. converted them into residences, workshops and galleries. The Álafoss
• June 5: Seaman’s Day. Festival program at the harbor, with factory outlet has items from the old factories, as well as photographs
concerts and plenty of fun for attendees. that depict the history of wool production in Mosfellsbær.
• June 16 - 19: Viking Festival. Yearly festival held at Fjörukráin
Halldór Laxness from Mosfellsbær. Nobel Prize winner Halldór Laxness
(Hótel Viking), in which Viking warriors, archers, wrestlers, wood
would have been 100 years old on April 23, 2002. He received the Nobel
carvers, sorceresses, and others gather for demonstrations and
events. Prize for Literature in 1955 for reviving the art of Icelandic storytelling.
• June 17: Icelandic National Day. Celebrations in downtown He was an incredibly prolific writer: he wrote 62 books over a 68-year
Hafnarfjörður and various locations around the village. Festivities period. Over 500 editions of his works have been published, and they
include a parade, music, playground fun for kids, street art, and have been translated into 43 languages. Halldór’s books are an import-
more. ant part of Iceland’s culture and most Icelanders have read some of his
• July 3: Half Olympic Triathlon, athletic competition. Events include works. Mosfellskirkja, a historical church, is located in the Mosfellsdalur
Half Ironman, Olympic trial, sprinting trial, and team events. valley, where Halldór grew up on the farm Laxnes. There is a cluster of
• Oct. 27-31: Hafnarfjörður Ghost Town: Diverse ghost festival, with greenhouses on the valley’s south side. Later, Halldór built a house for
storytelling, music, movies, and crafts. himself and his family at Köldukvísl and named it Gljúfrasteinn. That
• Every weekend during Advent: Christmas village. house has been turned into a museum. In his later years, Halldór wrote
the book Í túninu heima (Home in the Hayfield), in which he described his
childhood experiences at his home in the Mosfellsdalur valley.
MOSFELLSBÆR Police: Local station, Krókháls 5b, Reykjavík, tel. 444-1180.

Tourist Information: Municipal Library, Þverholt 2, Kjarni, 1st fl.,
Mosfellsbær is a growing municipality in the Greater Reykjavík Area.
tel. 525-6700/566-6822.
The population is 9,131. The residential area extends from Leiruvogur
into the nearby valleys, and skirts around the mountains. Mosfellsbær Accommodation:
offers a diverse community and cultural life, with numerous possibili- • Hótel Laxnes, Háholt 7, tel. 566-8822.
ties for outdoor activities and a family-friendly environment, while only • Álaborg, apartments, Álafossvegur 27, tel. 861-3320.
• Gh. Minna-Mosfell, Minna-Mosfell, tel. 669-0366,
being a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík. The town’s water-
• Jónstótt, Jónstóttarvegur, Mosfellsdal, info@jonstott.is.
front is the inlet of Leiruvogur, where three rivers run to the sea: Leir-
vogsá, Kaldakvísl and Varmá. Camping site:
• Information in the sports center at Varmá, tel. 566-6754.
Increased interest in all types of sports and outdoor activities has re- • Mosskógar camp site, tel. 566-8121.
sulted in the development of outdoor recreation areas for the benefit
Restaurants/Snack Bars:
of town residents, visitors and tourists. The area next to the sports • Hvíti riddarinn (The White Knight), Háholti 13, s. 566-6222
complex at Varmá has one of the best outdoor playing fields in Iceland, • Áslákur, Country inn, Háholt 7, Ási, tel. 566-6657/866-6684.
as well as a swimming pool and opportunities for sporting activities for • Dominos pizza, Háholt 14, tel. 581-2345.
both adults and children. • Mosfellsbakarí, Háholt 13-15, tel. 566-6145.
• Kentucky Fried Chicken, Háholt 9, tel. 586-8222.
Discovery Trail. Walking, for health and recreation, is possible through-
• Subway Restaurant, Háholt 11, tel. 586-8077.
out Mosfellsbær. The town has a number of footpaths, as well as des-
• Snæland video, Háholt 14, tel. 566-8043.
ignated “information paths,” where signs provide interesting informa- • Veislugarður, conference and catering service, Háholt 2,
tion about the surroundings. tel. 566-6195/892-9411.
• Vínbúðin (State-run alcohol sales), Þverholti 2, s. 586-8150
An enjoyable walking/cycling path runs from the Reykjavík-Mosfells-
• YAM restaurant, Þverholti 2, s. 552-6666
bær border, along the coastline, to the sports complex at Varmá. There
is also a beautiful walking route along the information path that runs Leisure and Sport:
from the Álafosskvos River to Reykir. • Varmárlaug, swimming pool, by the sports field, tel. 566-6754.
• Lágafell Sports Center, swimming pool, Lækjahlíð 1a,
There is a panoramic view from Mt. Lágafells, and on a clear day you can tel. 517-6080.
56
• Golf: Hlíðavöllur, 9 holes, tel. 566-7415.
• Bakkakotsvöllur, Mosfellsdalur, 9 holes, tel. 566-8480.
G fitjar
Horse Rental: Fitjar - 116 Reykjavík -  565-6474 / 691-5005
• Horse rental BB, Þúfa, tel. 566-7745. fitjar@internet.is - www.fitjarguesthouse.com
• Horse rental at Laxnes, Mosfellsdalur, tel. 566-6179.
• Íslenskir ferðahestar, Helgadal, horse rental, learning trail, an
excellent walking, jogging and bicycling path, runs from the
boundary of Reykjavík up to the Mosfells Valley.
tel. 894-7200/566-7600.
Health Center: Þverholt 2, tel. 510-0700, in emergencies
tel. 510-0722.
Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Þverholt 2, Kjarni, tel. 566-7123.
For Motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repair.
Banks:
• Arion Bank, Þverholt 1, tel. 444-7000, ATM.
• Íslandsbanki, Þverholt 2, tel. 440-4000, ATM.
Post Office: Háholt 14, tel. 580-1200. 6
Alcohol Store: Þverholt 2, tel. 586-8150.

3 3
Local Handicrafts:
• Páll Kristjánsson, Álafosskvos, knife maker, tel. 899-6903.
• Ásgarður handverkstæði, Álafossvegur 22, sheltered workshop, Places of Interest:
tel. 567-1734. • Stekkjarflöt, outdoor sculpture, The House of Time - the House of
• Ístex, Völuteig 6, s. 566-6300 the Poet by Magnús Tómasson.
Museum/Exhibitions: • Learning trail runs from the boundary of Reykjavík and
• Mosfellsbær Library and Art Gallery, Kjarni, Þverholt 2, 1st fl., open Mosfellsbær at Úlfarsá River, along the shoreline and up to
weekdays, 12-16, Sat. 12-15 from Sept. 1 - June 1, • Álafosskvos River and Reykjahverfi, or up to Mosfells Valley.
tel. 566-6822. • Information signs with historical and ecological information
• Gljúfrasteinn - Laxness Museum, open daily in summer 9-17, in are posted along the trail.
Winter open 10-16. Closed during weekends from November until • Lágafellsklif at Lágafellskirkja church provides a beautiful view!
the end of February, tel. 586-8066, • Lágafell Church, Mosfell Church, tel. 566-6165/566-6113.
gljufrasteinn@gljufrasteinn.is, www.gljufrasteinn.is. • Helgufoss falls at Köldukvísl. Tröllafoss falls at Leirvogsá.
www.facebook.com/gljufrasteinn Transport:
www.facebook.com/laxness.museum • Strætó bs. bus service tel. 540-2700. Route 15 from Reykjavik
twitter: https://twitter.com/Gljufrasteinn West to Mosfellsbær. Information: www.bus.is,
• Old Alafoss Factory Building, Álafossvegur 23, open weekdays straeto@straeto.is, www.straeto.is.
9-18, Sat. 9-16,tel. 566-6303. • Hópferðabílar Jónatans Þórissonar, Flugumýri 22, tel. 566-7420,
• Exhibition of old wool-processing equipment, jonatan@islandia.is, www.rutur.is.
history of wool industry in Mosfellsbær.
• Art andwoollen goods on sale. alafoss@islandia.is, Events:
www.alafoss.is. • Feb.: Kærleiksvika, Caring and Wellness Week.
• Hulduhólar Gallery, Hulduhólar, Open by arrangement, • August: Mousey-Mos Festival, Seven Peaks Run and Women’s
tel. 566-6194. Charity Run.
• August 26 - 28: Home in the Hayfield, Family festival.
Gljúfrasteinn is the former home

of writer Halldór Laxness – Nobel Prize
for Literature 1955
- Audio guide in English, German, Swedish,
Danish, Icelandic and a folder in French
- Multimedia presentation ”Whoever doesn´t live in poetry
- Souvenir Shop cannot survive here on earth.”
- Walking paths in the vicinity - Under the Glacier, 1968
20 min from Reykjavík city centre

On the way to Thingvellir National Park
P.O. Box 250 | 270 Mosfellsbær | Tel. + 354 586 8066 | gljufrasteinn@gljufrasteinn.is | www.gljufrasteinn.is
www.facebook.com/gljufrasteinn.is www.instagram.com/gljufrasteinn/ www.twitter.com/Gljufrasteinn
57
58
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
THE WEST
Vesturland, or West Iceland, stretches from the Botnsá River in Hvalfjörður to Gilsfjörður fjord. On the inland side
watersheds, Þórisjökull glacier and Langjökull glacier border it. The region is varied in both population and land-
scape; it is densely populated in some areas and sparsely populated in others, and the landscape ranges from veg-
etation to lava fields to glacier views. Vesturland contains many historical locations. The southern part of Vesturland
is low-lying, but as far north as the Snæfellsnes Peninsula the border between mountain and shore becomes very
narrow.
Vesturland can be divided into three main regions: Borgarfjörður, Snæfell- The region of Snæfellsnes and Hnappadalur covers the area of the
snes and Hnappadalur, and Dalir. The Borgarfjörður region boasts the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, bordered by the Hítará and Gljúfurá rivers on the
second lowest altitude area in the country. While there are tall peaks such east, and reaches to Skarðsströnd shore in the north. A jagged ridge of
as Mt. Akrafjall and Mt. Skarðsheiði, the shore is low-lying and contains mountains runs the length of the peninsula and is capped by Snæfellsjökull
many skerries and shallows, in particular, those near Mýrar, the lowland glacier, a 1446 m majestic and shapely volcano, at the western end. Fur-
area north of Borgarfjörður. Marshes cover a large part of the area and ther inland, Hnappadalur valley all but divides the mountain ridge in two.
grassy valleys extend from the lowlands to the expansive heaths above: Faxaflói bay is low-lying and the shoreline is slightly jagged, which, com-
Holtavörðuheiði, Tvídægra and Arnarvatnsheiði. The largest valleys are bined with low tides, has resulted in the formation of lagoons. Lava fields
Skorradalur, Lundarreykjadalur, Reykholtsdalur and Norðurárdalur. The dominate the western lowlands of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The area
area contains several low-growing forests. The best-known forests in the around the glacier used to be an important fishing center, as evidenced by
area are Vatnaskógur in Svínadalur and Húsafellsskógur in Hálsasveit. the fishing culture relics in Dritvík, Djúpalónssandur and Gufuskálar, as
Reykholtsdalur valley has the most geothermal activity in the district and in well as the museums on Snæfellsnes. Arnarstapi and other places on
1908 Sturlureykir farm in Borgarfjörður became the first geothermally Snæfellsnes are teeming with birdlife. Snæfellsnes has a jagged shoreline,
heated residence in Iceland. Deildartunguhver in Reykholtsdalur is the particularly in Breiðafjörður bay. The fjords and bays are low-lying, espe-
most powerful hot spring in the country, if not the world, and it provides cially Grundarfjörður and Kolgrafafjörður.
central heating for the towns of Akranes and Borgarnes. A very rare and
preserved species of fern, called Skollakambur, grows in the area around
Deildartunguhver. Snorri Sturluson, one of Icelands best known historians
and writers, lived in Reykholt in the early 13th century.
Tourist Information
in West Iceland
The region has several rivers. The largest rivers include Hvítá, an ancient
means of transport, as well as Norðlingafljót, Þverá, Grímsá and Norðurá. Tourist Information Centre West Iceland
Glymur, Iceland’s tallest waterfall, Glymur, is along the Botnsá River. The Hyrnutorg, Borgarnes t. 437-2214
region also boasts of several lakes: Skorradalsvatn and Hreðavatn are lo- Akranes - Suðurgata 57 t. 433 -1065
cated close to populated areas, and Langavatn and Hítarvatn are situated Snorrastofa - Reykholti t. 433-8000
in the highlands above Mýrar. Arnarvatnsheiði heath is strewn with lakes, Ólafsvík - Kirkjutún 2 t. 433-6929
Grundarfjörður - Grundargata 35 t. 438-1881
the largest of which is Arnarvatn stóra (Greater-Arnarvatn). Hallmund- Stykkishólmur - travelininfo@stykkisholmur.is
arhraun lava field is home to Surtshellir and Víðgelmir, two of the best Búðardalur - Leifsbúð t. 434-1441
known lava caves in the country.
59
are offered for families in Kjós, including excellent facilities for horseback
riding and a pet cementary at Hurðarbak. The Félagsgarður Community
Center is situated at Hvalfjarðarvegur road, by the Laxá River, and has good
P O L I C E facilities for family gatherings and private parties. Vindáshlíð, a Christian
F I R E summer camp for girls, is also in the area. On January 1, 2016, the pop-
ulation was 217.
M E D I C A L
Notable attractions in Kjós include: Hvalfjarðareyri spit in Hvalfjörður fjord,
D O C T O R S which teems with bird life; Maríuhöfn harbor in Laxvogur, believed to be
ONE ONE TWO one of the oldest harbors in the country; Laxfoss and Þórufoss waterfalls
R E S C U E S Q U A D on the Laxá River; Steðji nature preserve in Hvalfjörður; and Iceland’s tall-
est waterfall, Glymur, along the Botnsá River. You’ll find plenty of walking
paths in the area, including the church path from Reynivellir to the Fossá
River, over Svínaskarð gorge and along Mt. Meðalfell. There is an informa-
Snæfellsnes boasts five blossoming municipalities: Eyja and Miklaholt-
tion and service center at Kaffi Kjós.
shreppur, Snæfellsbær, Grundafjarðarbær, Helgafellssveit and Styk-
kishólmsbær. The municipalities cover an area just less than 1,500 km2 Maríuhöfn in Laxárvogur was one of the major trading posts in Iceland
and the total population is approximately 4,000. In addition to fishing and until the 15th century. The ships of the Skálholt bishopric sailed there, as
farming, the economy on Snæfellsnes relies on various production and the harbor was favorably situated for connections to Þingvellir and the
services, as well as the growing tourism industry. The municipalities of upper Árnessýsla district. This is where the Black Death pandemic first
Snæfellsnes were the first in Europe, and the fourth worldwide, to receive came to Iceland in 1402 and about a third of Iceland’s population is be-
an environmental certification from EarthCheck. lieved to have perished as a result.
Snæfellsjökull National Park, founded on June 28, 2001, is the youngest Tourist Information Center: Kaffi Kjós, service center by Meðalfells-
national park in Iceland and the only one adjacent to the sea. It is around vatn Lake, tel. 566-8099/897-2219, restaurant/shop,
170 km2 and is bordered by Háahraun on the southern side and Gu- kaffikjos@kaffikjos.is, www.kaffikjos.is.
fuskálar on the northern side. Snæfellsjökull glacier is situated within the
borders of the national park. The shore between Arnarstapi, Hellnar and Accommodation:
Búðir falls outside of the borders of the national park. However, those areas • 101. Kiðafell, tel. 566-6096.
are protected and serviced by a park ranger, as is Bárðalaug. • Eyrarkot, tel. 5667051/6923025.
• 103. Hjalli Guesthouse, tel. 566-7019, hjalli@kaffikjos.is,
Breiðafjörður bay is home to countless islands of all sizes and shapes. www.kaffikjos.is.
Brokey is the largest island and Flatey is the most recognized. The rivers
Camping Sites: Hjalli, tel. 566-7019, kaffikjos@kaffikjos.is.
are short and the lakes are small, and the lowlands are typically lush with
vegetation, with the exception of the lava fields. Restaurants/Convenience stores:
• Kaffi Kjós, service center by Meðalfellsvatn Lake,
Dalasýsla covers the area between the Breiðafjörður valleys and the pen- tel. 566-8099/897-2219, kaffikjos@kaffikjos.is, www.kaffikjos.is.
insula between Hvammsfjörður and Gilsfjörður fjords (from the bottom of • Farm Food Direct Matarbúrið, Háls, tel. 897-7017, hals@hals.is.
Álftafjörður fjord to the bottom of Gilsfjörður fjord). It is a small and sparse-
Leisure/Sport: Kiðafell, horse rental, tel. 566-6096.
ly populated area, rich in history. It provided the setting for Laxdæla Saga
and was the home of the Sturlungar family. Dalir has rich vegetation, low- Events:
lands, heaths and low mountains. The ruins of Eiríksstaðir are located in • July 17: Fun in Kjós - Market day and festivities in Kjós.
Haukadalur and were home to Eiríkur rauði (Eric the Red), who discovered • Christmas market in December. For more information, please visit
Greenland. He was father of Leif the lucky, who discovered America in the www.kjos.is.
year 1,000.
HVALFJARÐARSVEIT
Basalt is the main rock type, but dolerite, palagonite and rhyolite are also
found. The strata are up to 8 million years old. Lignite, which testifies to
ancient forests, is found on Skarðsströnd and was even mined there for a
period. There is interesting shell strata at various sites, which is evidence Hvalfjarðarsveit is a thriving county bordered by Hvalfjörður fjord in the
of how the land has risen from the sea, and Ice Age plant fossils have also east, Skorradalur valley in the north, the Borgarfjarðarbrú bridge in the
been recorded. west, and the town of Akranes in the south. Its landscape is diverse, with
a fair amount of lowland, steep mountain and shores cut with bays that are
teeming with life. There is a great deal of natural beauty, as well as innu-
KJÓS merable opportunities for outdoors activities near the capital. History dat-
ing back to the settlement may be found at every turn in Hvalfjarðarsveit
County, as is a fascinating geological history going back to the end of the
Kjós is a thriving farming county south of Hvalfjörður fjord, stretching from
Ice Age. On January 1, 2016, the population was 635.
Mt. Esja in the south to the innermost part of the fjord in the north. The
word Kjós means valley. Laxá í Kjós, one of Iceland’s best salmon fishing Glymur, Iceland’s tallest waterfall, is located in Botnsdalur valley. There is a
rivers, flows from Stíflisdalsvatn Lake at Laxárdalur to the sea in Hvalfjörður fabulous hiking path leading up to it that should only be attempted by ex-
fjord. Meðalfell, an ancient manor farm, is located in the middle of the perienced hikers and those without a fear of heights. Glymur is in the
county and the Bugða River flows through it before joining with the Laxá Botnsá River that runs out of Hvalvatn, which is a lake closed by molten
River. Travel services are available at several farms in Kjós. The Fishing lava some 160 m deep. At the bottom of Hvalfjörður fjord are Hvalfell, a
Card provides access to Meðalfellsvatn Lake. A variety of leisure activities towering table mountain (852 m), and Botnssúlur (1095 m). Bláskeggsár-
60
brú, the oldest stone bridge in Iceland, is located in the Litlasandsdalur Camping Sites:
valley in Hvalfjörður and is more than 100 years old, although it was reno- • 302. Bjarteyjarsandur, tel. 433-8851/891-6626.
vated in 2009. It can be accessed via a pleasant hiking and riding path. • 303. Hlaðir Community Center, tel. 433-8877.
Hvalfjörður fjord was the site of much activity by the British and US militar- • 310. Þórisstaðir, tel. 691-2272, snilldarferdir@gmail.com,
ies during World War II. www.snilldarferdir.is.
• Við Kalmansvík, tel. 894-2500.
Leggjabrjótur is an ancient route that leads from Botnsdalur valley over a
long and rocky mount called Leggjabrjótur (467 m), to Þingvellir. The route Restaurant/Café:
across Leggjabrjótur is a very popular hiking and riding trail and is marked • Bjarteyjarsandur, tel. 433-8831/891-6626.
by piles of cairns along the way. After crossing the mount, and upon reach- • Ferstikla Restaurant, tel. 433-8940/869-4164.
ing Öxarárdalur valley, the route goes past Svartagil ravine and down to • The Occupation Center, Hlaðir, café, tel. 433-8877.
Almannagjá at Þingvellir. This hike takes 5-7 hours. • Hótel Glymur, tel. 430-3100.
• Þórisstaðir, tel.6912272.
• Laxárbakki, tel. 551-2783/894-3153.
Information: www.hvalfjardarsveit.is.
• Hótel Hafnarfjall, Hafnarskógur, tel. 437-2345/895-4366.
• Vesturlandsstofa, information center, Borgarnes, tel. 437-2214,
• Skessubrunnur, tel. 863-1750. (Open for groups, but only by prior
www.west.is.
arrangement.)
Accommodation:
Leisure/Sport:
• 302. Bjarteyjarsandur, tel. 433-8831/862-1751,
• Þórisstaðir, Svínadalur, 9-hole footgolf (football-golf) course,
kolbrun@bjartey.is, www.bjarteyjarsandur.is.
fishing, tel. 691-2272.
• 304. Hótel Glymur, tel. 430-3100, info@hotelglymur.is,
• Snilldarferðir, Þórisstaðir, Svínadalur, daily ATV tours year-round,
www.hotelglymur.is.
tel. 691-2272.
• 305. Kalastaðir, tel. 433-8970/840-1225.
• Ferstikla, tel. 433-8940/869-4164, www.ferstikla.is.
• 306. Eystra-Miðfell, tel. 433-8952.
• Námshestar, Kúludalsá, riding tours, riding lessons, information
• 306. Hlíð, tel. 892-4010.
about the Icelandic horse, tel. 897-9070.
• 307. Námshestar, Kúludalsá, tel. 897-9070.
• 308. Laxárbakki, tel. 551-2783, www.laxarbakki.is. Local handicrafts:
• 308. Beitistaðir, tel. 897-6273. • Álfhóll gallery, Bjarteyjarsandur, tel. 891-6626/433-8831.
• 313. Hótel Hafnarfjall, Hafnarskógur, tel. 437-2345/895-4366, • Laxárbakki, tel. 551-2783.
info@hotelhafnarfjall.is. Places of Interest:
• Móar guesthouse, tel. 431-1389/897-5142. • Hallgrímskirkja church, Saurbær, open all year. Near the church are
Have fun in Akranes this summer!

Lots of things to do!
Irish days
Garðalundur
Matar- og antík- Leisure activities
Barbecue, Glæsilegt tjaldsvæði
markaður á Cozy Coffehouses
frisbee golf and a og öll þjónusta
laugardögum
playground í göngufæri!
í sumar! ÍRSKIR DAGAR
Spend a day by Akranes lighthouse

the sea Open all summer,
Sea angeling Langisandur concerts and Horse rental
natural beach exhibitions
A–akllrkinadsnes
Folk museum One of Iceland‘s
Blacksmithing, best golf courses
exhibitions and Come golfing!
time travelling of fun
Dinner with the locals

www.visitakranes.is / www.akranes.is
You find us in Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
61
a number of marked locations that have a connection with Rev.
Hallgrímur Pétursson.
• Leirárkirkja church, Innri Hólmskirkja.
• The Occupation Center, Hlaðir, open daily May 15 – Sept. 15,
11-17, and by appointment, tel. 433-8877,
hladir@hernamssetrid.is, www.hernamssetrid.is.
• Litla Hvalasafnið, Ferstikla, tel. 433-8940/869-4164,
www.ferstikla.is.
Sightseeing trips:
• Bjarteyjarsandur, tel. 433-8831/891-6626,
arnheidur@bjarteyjarsandur.is, www.bjarteyjarsandur.is.
• Christmas market in December, for more information please visit
www.bjarteyjarsandur.is.
• Hótel Glymur, tel. 430-3100.
Events:
THE FOLK MUSEUM • June 10 - 12: Norðurálsmót, youth soccer tournament
Garðar • June 17: National Day.
300 Akranes AT GARÐAR,IN AKRANES • Aug. 27-38: Fun in Hvalfjörður, Market day and festivities in Kjós
TEL: and Hvalfjörður.
431 1255 GPS: 64°19,186N 22°02,654W
& 431 5566
Email: Interesting exhibitions related to
AKRANES
museum@museum.is the history of local settlements,
www.museum.is industry, and daily life, with a focus
SUMMER HOURS: on the fishing industry.
Open daily 10-17
Smithy Akranes is the light and joy at the end of the tunnel—not least because
WINTER HOURS:
Iceland’s Sports Museum Akratorg town square won the Icelandic lighting award and looks its best,
see www.museum.is
from a lighting point-of-view, in the wintertime. Meanwhile, in the summer
ADDMISSION: Café and Museum shop
it takes on an al fresco atmosphere that is enhanced by the square’s water
see www.museum.is Various temporary exhibitions
fountains. There is also a seamen’s memorial in Akratorg, which is in the
heart of the old town center.
62
G KIRKJUHVOLL - AKRANES akranes Hostel
Merkigerði 7, 300 Akranes Suðurgata 32 - 300 Akranes
 868-3332 - akranes@hostel.is - www.hostel.is  868-3332 - akranes@hostel.is - www.hostel.is
21 4
The town’s lighthouses have become popular art venues and a stunning Akranes is a growing town and the biggest settlement in West Iceland. As
place to enjoy the views and local history. They are also the perfect back- of January 1, 2016, the population was 6,966.
drop for the northern lights, when weather conditions allow in the winter.
Akranes is a venerable old fishing village in West Iceland. The Irish came Police: Þjóðbraut 13, tel. 444-0300.
ashore at Akranes and the locals cherish their Celtic heritage, including
Tourist information center: Akranes information center, Suðurgata
with the annual Irish Days festival at the beginning of July.
57, open June 1 – Aug. 31, tel. 433-1065, www.visitakranes.is,
The fishing industry began early in Akranes, with the beginnings of a fish- www.akranes.is.
ing village appearing on the peninsula in the 17th Century, and that con- Accommodation:
nection to the sea has held strong ever since. • B & B, Háholt 11, tel. 431-1408/861-1598.
• Teigur B&B, Háteigur 1, tel. 431-2900/861-9901.
The old town center is also home to the church, built in 1896. On the
• Youth Hostel, Suðurgata 32, tel. 868-3332,
southern shore are buildings that were part of the cement works, which
akranes@hostel.is, www.hostel.is.
operated for around 50 years. The Garður Peninsula Historical Museum is • Móar Guesthouse, tel. 431-1389/897-5142, sollajoh@simnet.is.
very interesting, housing history from the sea to the farm and beyond. The • Akra Guesthouse, Skagabraut 4, tel. 587-3901/692-4624.
site also boasts a boat museum, a geological museum, and the national • Kirkjuhvoll Guesthouse, Merkigerði 7, tel. 431-4580.
sports museum. You will also find a museum dedicated to the Hvalfjörður
tunnel, which shortened the route from Akranes to Reykjavík from 109 km Camping Site: At Kalmansvík, tel. 894-2500.
to 49 km. Restaurants:
• Galito Restaurant, Stillholt 16-18, tel. 430-6767.
Langisandur beach is a popular recreation spot, as it is a Blue Flag award-
• Garðakaffi, Safnaskálinn Görðum, tel. 431-5566.
ed bathing beach of golden shell sand. Ocean swimming takes place
• N1, Þjóðbraut 9, tel. 431-2061.
there, and on sunny days the beach is usually crowded with people. There
• Subway, Dalbraut 1, tel. 431-5577.
are other recreation options in Akranes, such as the local pool, which is fed
• Gamla Kaupfélagið, Kirkjubraut 11, tel. 431-4343.
by water from Deildatunguhver hot spring; Garðalundur, where you can • Kaffi Ást, Kirkjubraut 8, tel. 571-2230/844-9400.
barbecue, play beach volleyball, Frisbee-golf, football, and more. Next to • Olís, Esjubraut 45, tel. 431-1650.
Garðalundur you will find Garðavöllur, a fantastic 18-hole golf course with • Domino’s pizza, Smiðjuvellir 32, tel. 581-2345.
a great practice area. • Skeljungur, Skagabraut 43, tel. 431-1856.
It’s hard to forget Akrafjall mountain, which is a popular hiking area. The • Vitakaffi, Stillholt 16-18, tel. 431-1401.
town itself, as well as the surrounding countryside, is quite flat and • Skökkin Café, Kirkjubraut 2, tel. 431-5100.
works well for long and short hikes, as well as enjoying the varied Bakeries: Brauða og kökugerðin, Suðurgata 50a, tel. 431-1644.
birdlife. Akranes has excellent sports facilities and the town has been
Leisure/Sport:
known for its top-level sports for decades. The local team, ÍA, has a
• Jaðarsbakkar Sports Center, swimming pool, sports grounds,
strong tradition and has been football league champions on numerous tel. 433-1100.
occassions. There is good shopping in Akranes and excellent restaurants • Bjarnalaug, Laugarbraut 6, indoor swimming pool, tel. 433-1130.
and cafés. The town also boasts a culture house, a cinema and a vibrant • Garðavöllur golf course, 18 holes, covered practice area,
live music scene. tel. 431-2711.
The buzz of market day takes over Akranes every Saturday from June 20 • Keilufélag Akraness, Vesturgata 130, bowling, tel. 431-4748.
– Aug. 15, offering food and antiques, as well as a new theme each week. • Wild West Tours, Reynigrund 2, tel. 848-9047/865-8733.
63
• Akranes Adventure Tours, deep-sea fishing tours, Suðurgata 32, Banks:
tel. 860-6133. • Landsbankinn, Þjóðbraut 1, 57, tel. 410-4000.
• Shooting range by Garðasel. Race course at Æðaroddi. • Íslandsbanki, Dalbraut 1, tel. 440-4000, ATM.
• Skagaverk ehf. (Bus tours), Smiðjuvellir 22, tel. 431-2345. Post office: Smiðjuvellir 30, tel. 580-1200.
• Thor Photography Tours, tel. 823-2331.
• Akranesviti, Breiðin, tel. 894-3010. Alcohol store: Þjóðbraut 13, tel. 431-2933.
Hospital: Merkigerði 9, tel. 432-1000. 112 after hours. Local Handicrafts:

• Safnaskálinn, tel. 431-5566.
Pharmacy: Apótek Vesturlands, Smiðjuvellir 32, tel. 431-5090. • Dýrfinna Torfadóttir, Stillholti 14, goldsmith, tel. 464-3460.
For motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repair. • Bjarni Þór, Skólabraut 22, paintings and sculptures, tel. 431-1964.
Car Rental/Garage: Brautin, Dalbraut 16, tel. 431-2157. • Arts and Crafts Shop, Philippe Ricart, Háholt 11, tel. 431-1887.
• Rammar og myndir, Skólabraut 27, tel. 431-1313.
Taxi:
• Gallerí Urmull, Kirkubraut 54, tel. 859-9590.
• Bifreiðastöð Þórðar Þ. Þórðarsonar ehf. Smiðjuvellir 15, Akranes,
• KSK Keramik, Kirkjubraut 48, tel. 862-1197.
tel. 431-1500.
• Leigubíll Akranesi-Óli Jó, tel. 897-2769/786-1234 Museums/Exhibitions:
• Taxi Svanur Jóns, tel. 772-2999. • The Museums at Garðar, open daily June 1 – Aug. 31, 10 – 17,
and Sept. 1 – May 31, 13 – 17, at other times for groups by
arrangement. tel. 431-5566.
• The Museums at Garðar: Steinaríki Íslands (The Kingdom of
Stones), Sports Museum, Akranes Folk Museum,
Tel. 431-5566/431-1255, www.museum.is, museum@museum.
is. Open every day, 10-17 in the summer; in the winter, see hours
on the website.
• Akranes Library, Dalbraut 1, internet access, open Mon – Fri,
10 – 18, (year-round) and Sat. 11 – 1 (Oct. – Apr.).
• Akranes Archives/Akranes Photographic Museum, Dalbraut 1,
open Mon – Thu, 10 – 15, tel. 433-1203.
Places of Interest:
• Akratorg, town square in downtown Akranes.
• Akranes church, open Mon – Fri, 10 – 16, except during services,
tel. 433-1500.
• The harbor area and shoreline, Langisandur beach, and Krossvík.
• Garðalundur (close to the museums at Garðar) barbeque facilities
and children’s playground.
• Hikes to the old lighthouse or to Mt. Akrafjall.
• Bird watching at Elínarhöfða.
• Lighthouses, Breiðin Akranesi, tel. 894-3010.
• 17 playground locations around Akranes.
Transportation:
• Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled bus service to and from
Reykjavík.
• Hópferðabifreiðar Reynis Jóhannssonar, Jörundarholt 39,
tel. 433-8800, coach service.
• Skagaverk ehf., Smiðjuvöllum 22, tel. 431-2345, coach service.
• Free local bus in Akranes.
Events:
• June 5: Sjómannadagurinn (Sailors’ Day) in Akranes.
• June 10 - 12: Norðurálsmót, youth football tournament.
• June 17: National Day.
• June: Icelandic Blacksmith Festival, eldsmidir.net.
• June 30 – July 3: Irish days in Akranes.
• Oct. 27 – Nov. 6: Vökudagar, cultural festival.
• November 28: Advent festival.
More info at www.irskirdagar.is.
• A smorgasbord of events in the museum center at Garðar.
More info at www.visitakranes.is and www.museum.is.
• Akranes lighthouse, open all summer, for more info please see
event calendar, tel. 894-3010.
• Akratorg: a variety of events, visit www.akranes.is.
64
BJARG H hótel borgarnes
Borgarnes - 310 Borgarnes Egilsgata 12-16 - 310 Borgarnes -  437-1119
 437-1925 / 864-1325 - bjarg@simnet.is A info@hotelborgarnes.is - www.hotelborgarnes.is
G
18 2 140 75 75 75
3 7 0,3 6
Egils apartments
BORGARNES Egilsgötu 6-8 - 310 Borgarnes -  860-6655 / 659-1918
/ 862-3121 - info@egilsguesthouse.is
www.egilsguesthouse.is
According to Egil’s Saga, Borgarnes was named Digranes in ancient times 29
and belonged to the farmstead of Borg á Mýrum. The main characters in

the Saga were often associated with places in the town. Skrúðgarður Park 5
is in Skallagrímsdalur, and it is said that Skalla-Grímur was buried there

with his horse, weapons and blacksmith’s tools. There is also a statue 5 4
which shows Egill carrying home Böðvar, his drowned son. Brákarey Is-
land, now connected by a bridge, is named after a bondwoman, Þorgerður 0,4
brák, whom Skalla-Grímur stoned to death while she swam between the
island and shore. There is a museum in Borgarnes that houses various
exhibits and archives, as well as a new museum of natural history. The
town also has good athletic and swimming facilities. On January 1, 2016,
the population was 1,877.
Police: Bjarnarbraut 2, tel. 444-0300.

Tourist Information Center: Vesturlandsstofa, Borgarnes Informa-
tion center, Hyrnutorg, Borgarbraut 58-60, tel. 4372214,
info@westiceland.is, www.west.is.
Accommodation:
Borgarnes swimming pool
• Hótel Borgarnes, Egilsgata 16, tel. 4371119, info@hotelborgarnes.is. Íþróttamiðstöðin - Þorsteinsgata 1 - 310 Borgarnes
• Icelandair Hótel Hamar, tel. 433-6600, hamar@icehotels.is.  433-7100 - www.borgarbyggd.is
• 313. Hótel Hafnarfjall, Hafnarskógi, tel. 437-2345/895-4366. Borgarnes
• Bjarg, tel. 437-1925/864-1325, bjarg@simnet.is. Sport Centrum
• Borgarnes B&B, Skúlagata 21, tel. 434-1566/842-5866, Mon.-Fri.:
info@borgarnesbb.is. 06:00 - 22:00
• Englendingavík, Skúlagata 17, tel. 840-0314. Sat.-Sun.:
• Borgarnes Hostel, Borgarbraut 11-13, tel. 437-1126, 09:00 - 18:00
borgarnes@hostel.is. Borgarnes
• Egils Guesthouse, Egilsgata 6-8 and Brákarbraut 11, welcomes you!
tel. 860-6655/6591918/6907425
• Kría Guesthouse, Kveldúlfsgata 27, tel. 845-4126.
• Lækjarkot, tel. 551-9590.
• Blómasetrið B&B, Skúlagata 13, tel. 437-1878. info@
borgarnesbb.is
• Room with a view, Fjólukletti 18, tel. 437-1560.
65
350 ensku húsin 315 Lækjarkot
Við Langá - 311 Borgarnes -  437-1826 - 865-3899 Lækjarkot - 311 Borgarnes -  516-3007, 551-9590
enskuhusin@enskuhusin.is - www.enskuhusin.is G laekjarkot@laekjarkot.is - www.laekjarkot.is
C N64° 35.637´ W21° 51.018´- Elevation: 20 m
42 14 44 11 6
Closed
20.12.-2.1.
GUESTHOUSE
GISTIHEIMILI
10
Camping Site: By Route 1, Granastaðir, tel. 775-1012. Alcohol Store: Hyrnutorg, shopping center, tel. 431-3858.
Restaurants: Flower store: Blómasetrið, Skúlagata 13, tel. 437-1878.
• Hótel Borgarnes, Egilsgata 16, tel. 437-1119. Local Handicrafts:
• 313. Hótel Hafnarfjall, Hafnarskógar, tel. 437-2345/895-4366. • Kristý, Hyrnutorg, gifts and jewelry, tel. 437-2001.
• Matstofan, Brákarbraut 3, Philippine restaurant, tel. 437-2017. • The Settlement Center of Iceland, Brákarbraut 13-15,
• Grillhúsið, Brúartorg, tel. 437-1282. tel. 437-1600.
• Olís, Brúartorg, tel. 437-1259. • Gallerí Brák, Brákarbraut 18, glass art and other crafts,
• N1, Brúartorg, tel. 440-1333. tel. 860-2032.
• Icelandair Hotel Hamar, tel. 433-6600. • Ljómalind farmer’s market, Brúartorg 4, handicrafts, food, knitted
• The Settlement Center of Iceland, Brákarbraut 13-15, restaurant goods, herbal salves, jams, flowers, vegetables and more,
and coffee shop, tel. 437-1600. tel. 437-1400.
• Geirabakarí, Digranesgata 6, bakery, restaurant and coffee shop,
tel. 437-2020. Museums/Exhibitions:
• Englendingavík, Skúlagata 17, restaurant and coffee shop, • Safnahús Borgarfjarðar, Bjarnarbraut 4-6, library, folk museum,
tel. 840-0314. archives, natural history and art gallery. Library and exhibition open
• Blómasetrið - Kaffi Kyrrð, Skúlagata 13, Internet café, Mon. – Fri. 13 – 18. tel. 430-7200.
tel. 437-1878. Exhibition: Children for 100 Years and Adventures of Birds, open
every day from 13 - 17, May – Aug., open weekdays from 13 - 16
Leisure/Sport: (or by arrangement for groups), Sept. - April (entrance through the
• Sport Center and swimming pool, Þorsteinsgata 1, tel. 433-7140. library).
• Hamarsvöllur, just outside town, tel. 437-1663/ 437-2000, • The Settlement Center of Iceland, Brákarbraut 13 – 15, restaurant
18-hole golf course. and settlement and Egil’s Saga exhibitions, open daily 10 – 21 and
Health Care Center: Borgarbraut 65, tel. 432-1430, 112 after hours. by arrangement, tel. 437-1600,
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Hyrnutorg, tel. 437-1168. landnam@landnam.is, www.landnamssetur.is.
• Samgöngusafnið, transportation museum, Brákarey, June 1 – Aug.
For Motorists: 31, open daily 13 – 17, Sept. 1 – May 31, open Thursday evenings
• N1, Brúartorg, tel. 440-1333. from 19:30-22:00 and Sat. 13 – 17, tel. 862-6223.
• Orkan, Brúartorg, tel. 437-1282.
• Olís, Brúartorg, tel. 437-1259. Places of Interest:
• Bílabær bifreiðaverkstæði, Brákarbraut 5, garage, • Skallagrímsgarður, park by Borgarbraut.
tel. 473-1300/692-5525. • Bjössaróló, playground by Skúlagata.
• Bifreiðaþjónusta Harðar, Borgarbraut 55, garage, tel. 437-1192. • Einkunnir, outdoor area by Borgarnes.
• Bifreiðaverkstæðið Hvannes, Sólbakka 3, tel. 437-1000. • The Settlement Center of Iceland, orientation games, guided tour
• Brákarsund ehf, Sólbakki 28, garage, tel. 445-5400/896-6339. to the historical sites of Egil’s Saga, tel. 437-1600.
• Hvítá Travel, daily trips around Borgarfjörður, tel. 661-7173.
Car rental:
• Bílatorg ehf, Brákarbraut 5, tel. 437-1300/692-5525. Transportation:
• Bílaleiga Akureyrar/Europcar, Svöluklettur 3, tel. 660-3437. • Sterna, tel. 551-1166, scheduled coach service to and from North
Iceland, www.sterna.is.
Banks: Arion banki, Digranesgata 2, tel. 444-7000, ATM. • Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled bus service to and from
Post office: Brúartorg 4, tel. 580-1200. Reykjavík. For more information, please visit, www.straeto.is.
66
A RARE, ONCE-IN-
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Around, on and deep within the
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various tours to the World's largest
ice tunnel. The ice tunnel and caves are located high on
Iceland’s second largest glacier, Langjökull.
Daily departures from Reykjavík, Húsafell

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You can choose from various

tours and book online at
www.intotheglacier.is
Tel: +354 578-2550
RESORT
ACTIVITIES - NATURE - ART - HISTORY
Hotel, bistro, caves, swimmingpool, camping and
golf
AGRICULTURAL
MUSEUM HVANNEYRI +354 435 1551 · booking@hotelhusafell.is · www.h
usafell.is
Where old and new meet in the countryside.
tel. 844 7740 | www landbunadarsafn.is
BORGARNES MUSEUM
Children throughout 100 years and
NES, REYKHOLTSDALUR Adventure birds. The exhibitions are open every
Nine hole golf course, restaurants, accom- day in May, June, July and August, 13-17, and
modation and hot tubs. weekdays in winter 13-16, and other times by
arrangement. Directions.
On route 518 | www.nesreykholt.is
tel. 435 1472 | 893 3889 Bjarnarbraut 4-6 Borgarnesi | tel. 433 7200
info@nesreykholt.is safnahus@safnahus.is | www.safnahus.is
Borgarfjör‹ur
NATURE - CULTURE - ACTIVITIES - SERVICES
THE SETTLEMENT
REYKHOLT CENTRE
Reykholtskirkja and Two exhibitions - fun for kids
Snorrastofa and adults:
Information centre for visitors The Settlement of
and tourists. Exhibitions, lectures Iceland and Egil's Saga.
and concerts. Shop with Icelandic Audio guide in 15 languages.
handicrafts, artwork, books
Restaurant and store.
and CDs.Research center and intro-
duction to medieval studies, library, Open daily 10-21.
guest apartment for researchers,
and facilities for meetings, confer- Brákarbraut 13-15, 310 Borgarnes.
ences and gatherings. tel. 437 1600 | landnam@landnam.is
Opening hours: www.landnamssetur.is
May 1 - September 30, 10-18 every day.
October 1 - April 30, 10-17 on week days, and by appointment.
tel. 433 8000 | gestastofa@snorrastofa.is
www.reykholt.is | www.snorrastofa.is
340 varmaland swimming pool 326 kleppjárnsreykir swimmingpool
Varmaland - 311 Borgarnes Kleppjárnsreykir - 320 Reykholt
 437 1401  435-1140
Open 6.6.-17.8.
327 STEINDÓRSSTAÐIR GUESTHOUSE field. Just upstream is the beautiful Barnafoss (Children’s Waterfall).
Hraunfossar and the surrounding area were declared a nature preserve in
311 Borgarnes -  435-1227 / 867-1988
1987. It is situated 5 km from Húsafell.
steinda@vesturland.is - www.steindorsstadir.is
Húsafell is the innermost farmstead in Hálsasveit County and a former
benefice and parsonage. It still houses a chapel to this day. Reverend
Snorri Björnsson (1710 – 1803), who was the reverend of the benefice for
some time, is featured in many folktales. He was revered for his physical
strength and is said to have lifted the stone called Kvíahella (180 kg),
which can still be found at Húsafell. Artist Páll Gudmundsson (a descen-
dant of Reverend Snorri) has made sculptures from local rocks, which are
on display outdoors and can be reached via a short path from Páll’s work-
shop. He has also created a Ghost Memorial in memory of Reverend Snor-
ri, who was known for his skill at putting ghosts to rest. The surrounding
woods were declared a nature preserve in 1974. This is an active geother-
mal area and is a popular tourist resort during the summer.
11 11 5 Hallmundarhraun is a large lava field formed by a lava flow from the north-
western rim of Langjökull glacier, which then entered the Hvítá River. Some
of the largest lava caves in Iceland were discovered in this area: Surtshellir,
Stefánshellir and Víðgelmir, as well as some smaller caves. Víðgelmir cave,
2 km from Fljótstunga at Hvítársíða, is one of the largest caves in the world,
• Sæmundur Sigmundsson, tel. 437-1333/862-1373, coach service. by volume.
• Sigurður Þorsteinsson, tel. 899-6186, coach service.
Arnarvatnsheiði is an extensive heath (400-600 m) north and west of the
Events:
Eiríksjökull and Langjökull glaciers. Drumlins have created rolling hills
• June 17: National Day
• June 25: Brákarhátíð festival. where there are alternating marshes and gravel ridges. The area is strewn
• October 1: Sauðamessa, Annual Sheep Fair. with numerous lakes of all sizes, most of which have fish in them. Also
renowned for its birdlife, it was formerly used as a source for eiderdown
and eggs. This was the territory of outlaws in days of old, as mentioned in
the Saga of Grettir the Strong.
BORGARFJÖRÐUR Grábrókarhraun is a rugged lava field in Norðurárdalur valley, covered with

moss, heather and shrubs. The lava flowed from the distinctive
DISTRICT Grábrókargígar scoria cones on the north side of the main road, and is
thought to be 2,000-3,000 years old. Grábrókargígar have been declared
a nature preserve by the Environment Agency of Iceland. Mt. Grábrók can
Deildartunguhver is located in Deildartunga, a large farm in Reykholtsdalur. be climbed by a marked trail.
It yields 180 liters/sec. of 97°C hot water and is the most productive spring
in Iceland. The area around the spring is the only place in Iceland where Hreðavatn is the name of both a lake and a town in the southern part of
Skollakambur grows, a rare and protected fern. Most of the water used for Norðurárdalur. The lake is teeming with trout and the scenery is magnifi-
central heating in Akranes and Borgarnes comes from Deildartunguhver. cent with many interesting sites, including Laxfoss and Glanni falls in the
Norðurá River. Fossils have been found at Hreðavatn Lake.
Hraunfossar are a series of waterfalls that pour over the side of the Hvítá
River canyon along a 1 km stretch, from beneath Hallmundarhraun lava The Bifröst University Village is a village of 500 – 600 people connected to
70
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the Bifröst University. It has a café, shop, and restaurant, and the surround- Camping Sites:
ing area has summerhouses and hiking trails. • 314. Selskógur, tel. 898-4907.
• 319. Fossatún, tel. 433-5800/893-9733.
Borg is currently a benefice and parsonage situated in Borgarvogur, on the • Brautartunga, tel. 848 1426.
west side of Borgarnes. Originally it was the home of Skalla-Grímur, the • 326. Hverinn, Kleppjárnsreykir, tel. 571-4433/863-0090.
first inhabitant of Borgarfjörður and father of Egill, the hero of Egil’s Saga. • 329. Húsafell, tel. 435-1556.
A sculpture at Borg by Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893 – 1982) commemo- • 340. Varmaland, Stafholtstungur, tel. 775-1012.
rates Egil’s poem, Loss of his Sons, and was erected in 1985. • 329. Húsafell, tel. 435-1550.
Húsafell offers numerous places to walk, one of which is west of the cha- Restaurants:
lets to Oddar and has diverse bird ife, birch woods on islets and hot • Tíminn og vatnið veitingahús, Fossatún, tel. 433-5800/893-9733.
springs. Nearby is the confluence of the rivers Norðlingafljót and Hvítá, just • Krauma Náttúrulaugar við Deildartunguhver natural bath and
above Hundavaðsfoss waterfall. This route takes around an hour and a half thermal spring, tel. 894-4066.
to walk. Other places to visit near the farmhouse include Draugaréttur, • Hótel Húsafell, tel. 435-1551.
where the Reverend Snorri Björnsson (1710 – 1803) is said to have put 81
• Húsafell Bistró, tel. 435-1550.
• Baulan, Stafholtstungur, tel. 435-1440.
ghosts to rest, and the stone he is said to have lifted, called Kvíahella (180
• Kaffi Bifröst, tel. 433-3050.
kg). Artist Páll Gudmundsson has made sculptures of bizarre beings from
• Hraunsnef, Norðurárdalur, tel. 435-0111.
local rock, which are on display outdoors nearby, at Bæjargil.
• Hverinn, Kleppjárnsreykir, tel. 571-4433/863-0090.
Hvanneyri is part of the Settlement of Skalla-Grímur Kveldúlfsson. Hvan- • Fosshótel Reykholt, tel. 4351260, reykholt@fosshotel.is.
neyri has been a church center for centuries and a small community has • Grábrók -- Hreðavatnskáli, Norðurárdalur, tel. 421-1939.
formed around local agricultural organizations. The main ones are the info@grabrok.is, www.grabrok.is
Agricultural University, which traces its roots back to 1889, a museum of • Nes Byrgishóll Restaurant, Nes, Reykholtsdalur, tel. 435-1472,
agricultural equipment, a woolen and handicrafts workshop, and the info@nesreykholt.is.
Skemman coffee shop, which is located in the village’s oldest building. On • Munaðarnes Restaurant, tel. 898-1779.
January 1, 2016, the population was 268. • Skemman coffee shop, Hvanneyri, tel. 868-8626/869-0232.
Swimming Pools:
Tourist information: • 316. Hreppslaug, tel. 437-0027.
• Vesturlandsstofa, information center, Borgarnes, tel. 437-2214, • 326. Kleppjárnsreykir, hot tubs, sauna, tel. 435-1140.
info@westiceland.is, www.borgarfjordur.is, www.west.is. • Krauma Náttúrulaugar við Deildartunguhver natural bath and
• Information centers in Snorrastofa in Reykholt, tel. 433-8000, thermal spring, tel. 894-4066
gestastofa@snorrastofa.is. • 329. Húsafell, tel. 435-1552.
Accommodation: • 340. Varmaland, tel. 437-1401.
• Hotel Sól, Hvanneyri, tel. 431-1414. Leisure/Sport:
• 318. Milli Vina Guesthouse, Hvítárbakki, tel. 785-1082. • Brugghús Steðja Microbrewery, Steðji, tel. 896-5001.
• Iceland Guesthouse Hvítá, Hvítárbakki 7, tel. 588-9122. • Nes, Reykholtsdalsvöllur, Golf Course, 9 holes, tel. 435-472,
• 319. Fossatún, tel. 433-5800/893-9733. info@nesreykholt.is.
• 323. Jaðar, Bæjarsveit, tel. 898-9254. • Húsafell, 9-hole golf course, tel. 435-1552.
• 325. Brennistaðir, Flókadalur, tel. 435-1565/661-1700, • Glanni, Norðurárdalur, golf course, tel. 571-5414.
brennistadir@emax.is. • Mountaineers of Iceland, jeep tours, snowmobiling on Langjökull
• 325. Ferðaþjónusta Geirshlíð, travel service, Flókadal, glacier, with daily tours from Reykjavík
tel. 435-1461/692-1461. tel. 580-9900, www.mountaineers.is.
• Hverinn - Sælureitur í sveitinni, Kleppjárnsreykjum, • Into the Glacier, organized trips to the ice tunnel in Langjökull,
tel. 571-4433/863-0090. tel. 578-2550.
• Kópareykir Sumarhús, Kópareykir 1, cottage, • Dogsledding, dogsledding on Langjökull, tel. 863-6733.
tel. 435-1137/893-6538. • Tröllagarðurinn, Fossatún, hiking path, games, tel. 433-5800.
• 327. Nes, Reykholtsdalur, tel. 435-1472.
Horse Rentals:
• Fosshótel Reykholti, s. 4351260, reykholt@fosshotel.is
• Guðrúnar Fjeldsted, Ölvaldsstöðum, tel. 893-3886.
• 327. Steindórsstaðir, Reykholtsdalur tel. 4351227,
• Óla Flosa, Breiðabólsstað, tel. 897-9323.
• 328. Signýjarstaðir, Hálsasveit, tel. 435-1218.
• Giljar, s. 6918711
• 329. Gamli Bær, Húsafell, tel. 895-1342.
• Oddsstaðir, tel. 868-4361/435-1413.
• Hótel Húsafell, tel. 435-1551, hotel@husafell.is.
• Staðarhús, tel. 865-7578.
• 331. Hótel Á, Kirkjuból II, Hvítársíða, tel. 435-1430/691-5120.
• 342. Hótel Bifröst, Norðurárdalur, tel. 433-3030. Local Handicrafts:
• 343. Hraunsnef, Norðurárdalur, country hotel, tel. 435-0111. • Ullarselið, Hvanneyri, tel. 437-0077.
• Hotel Grábrók, Norðurárdalur, tel. 421-1939. • Hespuhúsið, at Árnesi hydroelectric power station, tel. 865-2910.
• Staðarhús Countryside Guesthouse, Staðarhúsum,tel. 865-7578. • Hverinn, Kleppsjárnreykir, tel. 571-4433.
• 315. Lækjarkot, summerhouse, tel. 551-9590, • Rita og Páll, Grenigerði, tel. 849-4836.
laekjarkot@laekjarkot.is, www.laekjarkot.is. • Hálsakot, Hraunfossar, tel. 435-1155/892-5052.
• 350. The Old English Lodge by the Langá River, • Ása Ólafsdóttir, Lækjarkot, workshop/studio, tel. 699-0531.
tel. 437-1826/865-3899, enskuhusin@simnet.is, Museums/churches/exhibitions:
www.enskuhusin.is. • Agricultural Museum at Hvanneyri, tel. 844-7740,
72
Summer opening hours: Daily, 12 – 17.
Winter opening hours: Thur. – Sat. 13 – 17, and by arrangement.
• Acoustic Iceland, A program combining Icelandic music at Tíminn
369 Kast guesthouse
og vatnið restaurant in Fossatún, tel. 433-5800, Icelandic music Lýsudalur - 356 Snæfellsbær -  693-4739 / 421-5252
and scenes from nature. G kast@kastguesthouse.is - www.kastguesthouse.is
• Snorrastofa Cultural and Research Center in Reykholt,
tel. 433-8000, open daily May 1 - Sept. 30, and weekdays from
Oct. 10 - April 30
• Borg Church near Borgarnes, Open all year, tel. 437-1353.
• Ferjukot, fishing-museum, by Hvítá bridge, open by arrangement,
tel. 616-6095.
• The Goat Center, Háafell, open daily June 1 – Aug. 31, 13 – 18,
and by arrangement, tel. 845-2331.
Sightseeing/Cave Exploration:
• Guided tours around Hvanneyri, tel. 433-5000.
• Cave exploration, details for Surtshellir and Stefánshellir at
Húsafell, tel. 435-1550/435-1551.
• Hiking tours near Húsafell, tel. 435-1550/435-1551.
• The Cave: guided tours through Viðgelmir cave, tel. 783-3600,
info@thecave.is, www.thecave.is.
• Fishing: Arnarvatnsheiði, tel. 892-5052.
Events:
• June 17: National Day celebrated at Reykholt Church and in
Logaland, Reykholtsdalur.
• July 22 - 24: Reykholtshátíð, Reykholt Festival, www.snorrastofa.
is, www.reykholtshatid.is. 10
REYKHOLT 369 Lýsuhóll swimming pool

Reykholt is one of Iceland’s most notable historical sites; it is a cultural 356 Snæfellsbær -  433-9917
center, benefice and parsonage. The area is most famous for being the www.snb.is - lýsuhólslaug/facebook.com
home of Snorri Sturluson (1179 – 1241), Iceland’s best-known author,
poet and scholar, during the years 1206 – 1241. There is considerable
geothermal water in Reykholt, and the ancient thermal pool Snorralaug is
named after Snorri. A tunnel runs between the pool and the remains of his
farm, both of which can be visited today. It is believed that Snorri is buried
in the local churchyard, in an area called Sturlungareitur. Snorrastofa is a
research institute whose goal is to advance research and promote interest
in medieval studies, as well as the history of Reykholt and Borgarfjörður,
through exhibitions and lectures. To this end, the institute hosts exhibitions
and lectures, as well as concerts in Reykholt Church. It also provides tour-
ist services, such as guided tours of the area.
Local Information: Snorrastofa Visitor Center, tel. 433-8000,

gestastofa@snorrastofa.is, www.reykholt.is, www.snorrastofa.is.
Accommodation/Restaurants:
• Fosshótel Reykholt, culturally themed hotel, open year round,
tel. 435-1260, reykholt@fosshotel.is,
www.fosshotel.is, www.reykholt.is.
• Nes, Reykholtsdalur, tel. 435-1472, info@nesreykholt.is.
• Nes Byrgishóll Café, Nes, Reykholtsdalur, tel. 435-1472.
• N1 Reykholt, tel. 435-0050.
• Steindórsstaðir, Reykholtsdal, tel. 435-1227.
Leisure/Sport:
• Kleppjárnsreykir, swimming pool, tel. 435-1140.
• Nes, Reykholtsdalur, 9-hole golf course, tel. 893-3889/435-1472.
• Óli Flosa, Horse Rental, Breiðabólsstaður, tel. 897-9323. 35 HI Hostels around Iceland
Local Handicrafts: Snorrastofa Visitor Center, Reykholt, welcome you - www.hostel.is
tel. 433-8000, Icelandic art and handicraft.
73
Tourist Information:
• Brochures available at the Rjúkandi restaurant and café Vegamót,
Service Center, tel. 788-9100.
Snæfellsjökull National Park • Vesturlandsstofa, information center, Borgarnes,
www.snaefellsjokull.is tel. 437-2214, info@westiceland.is.
Accommodation:
• 360. Snorrastaðir, tel. 435-6628/863-6628.
• 363. Hótel Eldborg, tel. 435-6602.
• 363. Ferðafljónustan Fjaran, summer houses, tel. 895-0798.
• Hömluholt, tel. 894-0648.
• Hótel Rjúkandi at Vegamót, tel. 788-9100.
Camping Site:
• 360. Snorrastaðir, tel. 435-6628/863-6628.
• 362. Hallkelsstaðahlíð, tel. 435-6697.
• 363. Laugagerðisskóli/Hotel Eldborg, tel. 435-6602.
Restaurants:
• Hótel Eldborg, tel. 435-6602/897-1089.
• Rjúkandi restaurant and café at Vegamót, tel. 788-9100.
Swimming Pool: 363. Laugagerðisskóli/Hotel Eldborg, tel. 435-6602.
Leisure/Sport: Hiking on and by Eldborg.
Horse Rentals:
• Snorrastaðir, tel. 435-6628/863-6628.
• Hallkelsstaðahlíð, tel. 435-6697.
• Hömluholt, tel. 894-0648.
VISITOR CENTRE IN MALARRIF
Tel. 591 2000 & 436 6888
SNÆFELLSBÆR
Snæfellsbær is situated on the outer Snæfellsnes peninsula. The boundar-
Museum/Exhibition: Snorrastofa, Reykholt, exhibition about
ies of the municipality are Staðarsveit in the southeast and Búlandshöfði in
historian and scholar Snorri Sturluson, archaeological research in
the northeast. The majority of residents live in the towns of Ólafsvík, Rif and
Reykholt, Shop offering Icelandic art and handicrafts, books about
Hellissandur, while the remaining residents are divided among the rural
Icelandic history and culture, and Icelandic CDs. Open daily May 1
areas and the smaller residential areas of Hellnar and Arnarstapi. The mu-
– Sep. 30, 10 – 18, and Oct.1 – April 30, Mon – Fri 10 – 17, or by
nicipality contains expansive, undeveloped regions that provide easy ac-
arrangement, tel. 433-8000,
cess to unspoiled nature.
gestastofa@snorrastofa.is, www.snorrastofa.is.
Transportation: Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700. For more information, Those driving from Reykjavík along route 54 can choose to drive due north
please visit www.straeto.is. over the heath, and from there circle around the glacier. Alternatively, they
can drive along Útnesvegur, route 574, in a circle to the north. The
Events:
Snæfellsjökull glacier forms a sort of center to the municipality, which can
• Concerts in Reykholt Church year-round.
be seen from afar. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,679.
• July 22 – 24: Classical music in a historical setting. High mass
and concert in honor of the 20th anniversary of Reykholt Church. Búðahraun is a lava field on the south shore of Snæfellsnes peninsula,
Reykholt Festival and lecture at Snorrastofa. Visit www. originating from the Búðaklettur crater (88 m) at its center. The lava is
reykholtshatid.is and www.snorrastofa.is. rough with tiny fissures, and 11 of the 16 types of fern known in Iceland
have been found here. A total of 130 plant species have been discovered
in the Búðahraun area. Since olden times the field has been a main travel
SNÆFELLSNES, route in the area, as shown by its many named tracks, such as Klettsgata,
Jaðargata and Sjávargata. An old timber church is in the lava field at Búðir,
SOUTH SIDE along with an old trading post that previously housed a hotel. This
140-year-old hotel burned down in February 2001. A new hotel has been
built in its place. Búðahraun is a benefice and former place of commerce
Eldborg is a beautifully formed crater in Kolbeinsstaðahreppur, rising 60 m and anchorage. The sand is yellow, which is rare in Iceland.
above the surrounding lava. It is the largest crater along a short volcanic
rift at 200 m in diameter and 50 m deep, and was created between 5,000 Snæfellsjökull, on the far side of Snæfellsnes, is one of the best-known
– 8,000 years ago. The area has been a nature preserve since 1974. It is sites of West Iceland. The glacier has a dormant volcanic cone with three
easiest to approach Eldborg from Snorrastadir on its southern side, walk- pronged covers (1446 m) and a 200 m crater. Three eruptions have taken
ing through the shrub-covered lava field (2.5 km). It is possible to walk place under the glacier in the past 10,000 years, the last around 300 AD.
right around the crater of the cone. The inside of the crater wall is steep, Snæfellsjökull was first climbed in 1754, by Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni
and in places it is sheer, for example on the northern side. Pálsson. The majesty and power of Snæfellsjökull have provided inspira-
74
tion for authors such as Jules Verne and Halldór Laxness. A road up to the Some feel the energy emanating from the glacier, which is believed to be
Snæfellsjökull glacier, just south of Gufuskáli, runs along Móðulækur and one of the seven most powerful volcanic centers in the world.
through Eysteinsdalur, to the foot of the glacier. It is easily passable for all There are no campsites located in the park itself, but there are some just
vehicles. outside to the south and north. A variety of accommodation is available in
Þúfubjarg and Lóndrangar. Þúfubjarg is a large cliff of stratified palagonite the vicinity. Information about walking trails is included in the park’s bro-
on the Snæfellsnes coast and is a relic of a submarine eruption like the one chure, available from the park ranger, and guided tours are offered. Maps
that produced Surtsey Island. Lóndrangar is the name of two rock stacks of the walking paths around the area are available for purchase in three
(75 m and 61 m) to its west, which are probably volcanic plugs from the languages.
same eruption. They were first scaled in 1753. Lóndrangar was an old Dritvík is located about 1 km west of Djúpalónssandur, accessible by walk-
fishing center and the remnants of camps can still be seen there. The lava ing along the cliff edge and the grassy headland of Barðinn. It is a bay
area above was used to dry fish. enclosed by two cliff faces that jut out into the sea, forming a natural
landing place for boats in between. At one time Dritvík was one of the
Djúpalónssandur and Dritvík. Djúpalónssandur, on the southern shore of largest fishing centers in Iceland, with up to 600 seasonal workers living
Snæfellsnes, is home to some peculiar rock formations, along with four there. A path winds due north from Dritvík, out through the lava field, and
rocks that were used for tests of strength in the days of the fishing station: reaches the road east of Hólahólar.
Fullsterkur (Strong, 154 kg), Hálfsterkur (Half-strong, 100 kg), Hálfdrættin-
gur (Half-as-good, 54 kg) and Amlóði (Lightweight, 23 kg). For centuries, Vatnsborg - Neshólar. On the road to Öndverðarnes, just west of Skarðsvík,
one of the largest seasonal fishing stations in Iceland was near Dritvík, with is a parking area with a signpost marked Vatnsborg, Neshólar and
boats setting off to sea for two months per year. All that now remains now Grashólahellir. A marked path leads to Vatnsborg, a deep volcanic crater
are some ruins at the foot of the cliff. that is impossible to climb in late summer because the bottom of it be-
comes covered in ferns. A number of interesting walks can be made from
Vatnshellir is a cave located in Purkhólahraun lava field, known for its nu- Vatnsborg. One is to proceed to the Neshólar hills to visit Grashólahellir, a
merous cave formations. The lava field is around 5,000-8,000 years old. cave in Grashóll, the westernmost hill. Beautiful lava paths lead from there
Vatnshellir consists of four connected caves, the topmost of which is called toward Öldungahóll hill, which will take you to Saxhólsbjarg cliff and the
Vatnshellir and is open to the public. The three caves below are known as lighthouse at Skálasnagi. The cliffs abound with bird life during the sum-
Undirheimar (Underworld). The lower part of Vatnshellir is around 200 m mer. There are numerous other walking trails with unique natural phenom-
long and the cave is around 10 m high. The deepest part of the cave, Iður, ena in the area.
is located more than 30 m below surface. The cave boasts beautiful rock
and lava formations, most notably the stalactites. Hraunfoss waterfall used
SNÆFELLSBÆR - FACILITIES IN THE VICINITY
to reach all the way down and left some beautiful marks on the walls. The
cave was once a source of water for the cows at Malarrif farmstead and its Accommodation:
name is derived from that practice. Guided tours are available all year- • Traðir Guesthouse, Staðarsveit, tel. 431-5353.
round. For more information please visit www.vatnshellir.is. • 367. Hof Guesthouse, tel. 846-3897, gistihof@gistihof.is,
www.gistihof.is.
Gufuskálar is yet another abandoned fishing site, where ruins and boat • 368. Langaholt Guesthouse, Garðar, tel. 435-6789.
tracks can still be seen on the shore. Nearby ruins known as “the Irish • 369. Lýsuhóll Travel Service, tel. 435-6716/895-6716.
camps” are thought to date from the Age of Settlement (9th – 10th centu- • 371. Böðvarsholt Country Hostel, sleeping bag accommodation,
ries). Fishermen’s lodgings are designated antiquities, believed to be 500- tel. 453-6699.
700 years old, making them among the oldest fisheries relics in Scandina- • 372. Hótel Búðir, Búðir, tel. 435-6700.
via. • Stóri Kambur, Stóri Kambur, studio apartment, tel. 852-7028.
Öndverðarnes is the westernmost point of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It Camping Site: 368. Langaholt Guesthouse, Garðar, tel. 435-6789.
used to be a fishing center and was used to dry fish. It is also home to a Restaurants:
symmetrical well known as Fálki, with 17 stone steps leading down to it. • Hótel Búðir, Búðir, tel. 435-6700.
To the south are the large black cliffs of Svörtuloft, a magnificent place for • Langaholt Guesthouse, Garðar, tel. 435-6789.
watching the waves crash. There are lighthouses at both sites. Neshraun, • Ferðaþjónustan Lýsuhól, tel. 435-6716/895-6716.
the area above Öndverðarnes, is a huge lava field easily accessed by nu- • Traðir Guesthouse, Staðarsveit, tel. 431-5353.
merous walking paths.
Skarðsvík is a white sand inlet surrounded by cliffs. A paved road leads to

the inlet and it is a very popular spot.
Snæfellsjökull Glacier National Park was established on June 28, 2001

and is approximately 167 km2 in area. The Park covers the westernmost
part of Snæfellsnes, from the eastern fringe of Háahraun in the south to the
easternmost boundary of Gufuskálaland in the north. The glacier is within
the boundaries of the Park. The Visitor’s Center for the nation park is locat-
ed at Hellnar and houses a lively and educational exhibition for all age
groups.
There are exceptionally beautiful lava formations in the park, along with
magnificent coastline and notable historical sites from fishing days long
gone. Towering above all this is the king of Icelandic mountains, Snæfells-
jökull; an active volcano that has developed from numerous eruptions.
75
Restaurants:
ólafsvík swimming p00l • Snjófell, tel. 435-6783.
• Samkomuhúsið, tel. 435-6611/615-1962.
Ennisbraut 11 - 355 Ólafsvík -  433-9910
www.snb.is - íþróttahús og sundlaug Snæfellsbæjar Leisure/Sport:
• Snæfellsjökull Glacier Tours, snowmobiling and snowcat tours on
Snæfellsjökull glacier, tel. 663-3371/783-2820.
• Go West, Biking, hiking, and boat tours around the Snæfellsjökull
national park and surroundings. Glacier tours up Snæfellsjökull
glacier with full safety rig, tel. 695-9995/694-9513.
• Hiking paths between Arnarstapi and Hellnar.
For Motorists: Filling station.
Museums/exhibitions/handicraft: Samkomuhúsið, Arnarstapi, in-
formation center, museums and exhibitions, refreshments, handicrafts
and tourist shop, tel. 435-6611/615-1962.
FACILITIES AT HELLNAR
Accommodation:
• 374. Hótel Hellnar, tel. 435-6820.
• 374. Gíslabær, tel. 435-6886/867-7903, gislabaer@simnet.is.
Restaurants:
Leisure/Sport:
• Hótel Hellnar, tel. 435-6820.
• Hestaleigan Fengur, Traðir, horse rental, Staðarsveit, tel. 431-5353.
• Fjöruhúsið, tel. 435-6844, fjoruhusid@isl.is.
• 369. Swimming pool, Lýsuhóll, tel. 433-9917.
• Prímus Kaffi, tel. 865-6740/773-4641.
• Hestaleiga Kast Gistihús, Lýsuldal, horse rental, tel. 421-5252.
• 9-hole golf course, Langaholt, Garðar, tel. 435-6789. Sightseeing: Hiking paths in Snæfellsjökull National Park.
• Hiking tours, Búðahraun,
Horse Rentals:
• Lýsuhóll Horse Rental, tel. 435-6716. HELLISSANDUR AND RIF
• Stóri Kambur Horse Rental, Stóri Kambur, tel. 852-7028. Hellissandur was arguably one of the first settlements in Iceland to achieve
the status of a fishing village, due to its close proximity to the fishing
Local Handicrafts: Krambúðin, shop, tel. 690-0646.
grounds. The maritime museum at Hellissandur collects items and tells the
National Park: story of the former rowboat fishing enterprise, since the area surrounding
• Snæfellsjökull National Park: Office, Klettsbúð 7, Hellissandur. Hellissandur contains a lot of fishing and settlement relics. The maritime
• Visitor Center at Malarrif, a diverse program during the summer, museum is the ideal stop for information and a guided tour before explor-
open daily May 20 – Sept. 30, 10 – 17, and in winter during ing the historical sites in the vicinity. The area surrounding the museum
weekdays 11 – 16, tel. 436-6888, snaefellsjokull@ust.is, has been renovated and now contains a replica of a former seasonal fish-
www.snaefellsjokull.is. ing lodge used by migrant fishermen called Þurrabúð. It contains a sculp-
• Vatnshellir, Trips to Vatnshelli from May 1 – Sept. 30, daily from 10 ture by Ragnar Kjartansson, Jöklarar, which is dedicated to fishermen.
– 18, and Oct. 1 – April 30, daily at. 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, tel. Hellissandur is home to two more sculptures: Beðið í von by Grímur Marinó
665-2818, vatnshellir@vatnshellir.is, www.vatnshellir.is. Steindórsson, located at Brekknavör, a former anchorage for Hellissandur;
• Summit Adventure Guides, Gufuskálar, tel. 787-0001, hiking and and the sculpture Sigling by Jón Gunnar Árnason, which is located outside
skiing tours on Snæfellsjökull glacier. the municipal offices of Snæfellsbær. It is the predecessor of the Sun Voy-
ager, located on Sæbraut in Reykjavík. Hellissandur also has a beautiful
and peaceful forest area, as well as a newly erected and fully equipped
ARNARSTAPI AND HELLNAR camping site sheltered by the Sandahraun lava field. Hellissandur has a
population of about 380 people and houses the municipal offices for
Arnarstapi is a small fishing community with a growing colony of summer
Snæfellsbær, offices of the national park, the park ranger residence and
cottages. The shore is both beautiful and striking. There are 3 different
Röst community center. Additionally, it also houses a playschool and the
places along the shore where the ocean has corroded the cliffs and creat-
lower grades of Snæfellsbær elementary school. Hellissandur offers a
ed large holes that spray water high into the air during high tide. Gatklettur,
clothing store and gift shop, hair salon, convenience store, café, restau-
an extremely unusual rock formation, is located on the west side of the
rants and accommodation.
shore. Hellnar is about 3 km west of Arnarstapi and was once one of the
main fishing centers on the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Uniquely beautiful rock Ingjaldshólskirkja is a church located a short distance from Hellissandur
formations are found along the shoreline. Baðstofa, a large cave in Va- and is believed to have been a winter residence of Christopher Columbus
lasnös cliff, is renowned for its unique light and colors. The shores along on his voyage across the world. It is also said that this is where he learned
Arnarstapi and Hellnar are protected. about discoveries of land further west, which ultimately led him on his
voyage to the “New World.” Ingjaldshólskirkja was built in 1903 and be-
FACILITIES AT ARNARSTAPI lieved to be the oldest concrete house of worship in the world. The monu-
ments of Eggert Ólafsson and his wife, Ingibjörg, are located here, and
Accommodation: 373. Snjófell, tel. 435-6783. there is a wonderful view of the glacier. Hellissandur and Rif are connected
Camping Site: Snjófell, tel. 435-6783. by a beautiful, paved walkway, which takes visitors past mossy vegetation
76
Stykkishólmur.
and along the seaside. It is an easy walk, accessible to most and teeming Restaurants:
with birds and many things to discover. • Welcome Hotel Hellissandur, tel. 487-1212.
• N1, Sandahraun, tel. 436-6611.
Rif is an active fishing center where a blossoming fish processing business • Kaffi Sif, Klettsbúð 9, tel. 577-3430/820-3430.
is run from the large harbor. It houses other services as well, including • Kaffihús Gamla Rif, Háarif 3, tel. 436-1001.
shops, garages, a workshop and other businesses. Rif is teeming with
birdlife and Rifsós has excellent facilities for bird watching. One of Ice- For Motorists:
land’s largest breeding colonies of arctic terns is in the village. It used to • Filling stations, garage, tire repair.
be the largest breeding colony in Europe, but activity has decreased in • Ægis Garage, tel. 436-6677.
recent years due to lack of food. Rif is a young settlement of about 163 Museums/Exhibitions:
people and most of the houses were built in the late 20th century. Howev- • Sjómannagarðurinn/Maritime Museum in Sandahraun,
er, the village contains some historical relics: the execution site of Björns- open June 1 – Sept. 15, Tuesday - Friday, 10-17, Saturday and
steinn, Björn the rich, governor and close confidant of the king of Denmark, Sunday from 11-16. Closed Mondays. Tel. 844-5969.
who was killed by British merchants in 1467. The event is said to have • Hvítahúsið in Krossavík, exhibitions, tel. 845-1780.
started a war between England and Denmark that lasted for five years. Rif • Frystiklefinn Theater, Hafnargata 16, Rifi, tel. 865-9432.
has an excellent café, convenience store and guesthouse. Places of Interest/Excursions:
• Sæmundur Kristjánsson, historic guided tours,
FACILITIES IN HELLISSANDUR AND RIF tel. 436-6767/893-9797.
• Park Tröð: Barbeque facilities, tables.
Snæfellsjökull National Park: Office, Klettsbúð 7,
• Walking path to Keflavíkurbjarg.
tel. 436-6860/436-6888, visitor center að Malarrif.
• Gunna’s hikes and guiding, guided tours around Snæfellsnes,
snaefellsjokull@ust.is, www.snaefellsjokull.is.
tel. 862-6362.
Accommodation:
Transportation: Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service
• Welcome Hótel Hellissandur, Klettsbúð 9, tel. 487-1212,
to and from Reykjavík. For more information please visit www.straeto.is.
• Frystiklefinn Hostel, Hafnargata 16, Rif, tel. 865-9432.
• Hruni, cottages, tel. 436-6644/896-3644. Events:
• Mávur, cottages, tel. 845-1780. • June 5: Sailor’s Day in Hellissandi.
• July 8-10 Sandarágleðin, Hellisandur Festival.
Camping Site: At Sandahraun, tel. 433-6929.
77
Alcohol Store: Ólafsbraut 55, tel. 436-1226.
ÓLAFSVÍK Museums/Exhibitions:
• Pakkhúsið, open daily in summer 12 – 17, and by arrangement,
Ólafsvík is the second largest urban area in Snæfellsnes, with a population tel. 433-6929.
of about 981 residents. Ólafsvík is sheltered by Mt. Ólafsvíkurenni, a large • Átthagastofa Snæfellsbæjar, Snæfellsbær Community Center,
mountain that draws its name from the settler Ólafur belgur, whose settle- tel. 433-6929, May 15 - Sept. 15, open weekdays 9-17 and
ment stretched between the mountain and the Fróðá River. Ólafsvík has weekends from 10-17; open weekdays from 9-16 during the rest
good harbor facilities and rich offshore fishing grounds, which supports a of the year.
healthy fish processing industry. Some consider Ólafsvík one of the most
Places of Interest:
beautiful settlements in the world. On January 1, 2016, the population was
• Hiking in the vicinity of Ólafsvík, Sæmundur Kristjánsson,
959.
tel. 436-6767/893-9797.
Among the more interesting attractions in Ólafsvík are the Bæjarfoss wa- • Regular guided hiking tours of the National Park.
terfall, which is lit up in winter, and the beautiful and unique church. Hákon Transportation: Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service to
Hertevik was the architect of the church and the windows are the work of and from Reykjavík. For more information please visit www.straeto.is.
Gerður Helgadóttir. The town also boasts a maritime garden, which is the
first of its kind in Iceland, designed to commemorate those who have died Events: June 5: Sjómannadagurinn (Sailor’s Day) in Ólafsvík.
at sea.
Ólafsvík and its surrounding areas have many beautiful hiking options.
Popular hiking paths include one that travels alongside Gilið and Mt.
Ólafsvíkurenni, to a panoramic viewpoint known as “Bekkurinn.” Another
popular hiking path, Mattíasargata, leads along the Arnarverpi cliff, with an
GRUNDARFJARÐARBÆR
excellent view of the village and Breiðafjörður. Kirkjufell, the town mountain of Grundarfjörður, is among Iceland’s best-
known mountains. It is not uncommon for foreign photographers to visit
A protected warehouse from 1844 serves as a museum with exhibits dis-
Iceland with the sole purpose of photographing this unique mountain.
playing working methods from olden days. It also houses a local handicraft
Kirkjufell has even been featured in Hollywood movies: most recently The
shop and the Tourist Information center is located behind the warehouse.
Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Once tourists have enjoying Mt. Kirkjufell, they
Ólafsvík camping site is on the eastern side of the village.
realize that Grundarfjörður has more to offer than an amazingly beautiful
mountain. Surrounded by magnificent countryside and with the country’s
Police: Bankastræti 1a, tel. 444-0300.
most beautiful waterfalls and spectacular wildlife, the town is nestled at
Local Tourist Information: Kirkjutún 2, open May 5 - September 15, the base of the mountains, with Mt. Helgrindur towering above it. It is also
weekdays from 9-17 and on weekends from 10-17; open weekdays not uncommon to see interesting sealife, most notably seals and killer
9-16 during the rest of the year, tel. 433-6929, whales. On beautiful summer days guests can go sailing, enjoy the scen-
www.west.is, www.snb.is info@snb.is. ery, go fishing, or admire the puffins and other seabirds. And if the sea
Accommodation: conditions are not ideal, there are guided tours of Snæfellsnes peninsula
• Hótel Ólafsvík, Ólafsbraut 20, tel. 436-1650. by coach available.
• Brimilsvellir, by Ólafsvík, tel. 436-1533.
Grundarfjörður could be called the center of Snæfellsnes, as it lies between
• Gistiheimili Ragnheiðar Víglunds, Skálholt 6, guesthouse, tel.
Stykkishólmur and Ólafsvík on the peninsula’s northern shore. The town
867-9407.
offers a good selection of guesthouses, a lovely hotel, two hostels, B&Bs,
• Gistiheimili Náttskjól, Brautarholt 2, s. 8678807.
summerhouses and, of course, a campsite and swimming pool. The swim-
• Gistiheimilið Við Hafið, Ólafsbraut 55, s. 4361166.
ming pool is just one of the interesting recreational facilities the town has
Camping Site: By Dalbraut just outside village, tel. 433-6929. to offer. The golf course, horse riding, cafés and restaurants are also worth
Restaurants: mentioning and the tourist information center at the town’s heritage center.
• Fiskur & Steik, Ólafsbraut 20, tel. 436-1650. Grundarfjörður has a good supermarket, as well as an alcohol store, a
• Hobbitinn, Ólafsbraut 19, tel. 436-1362. pharmacy, and a shop selling handicrafts. Although most tourists arrive
• Olís station ÓK, Ólafsbraut 27, tel. 436-1012. overland, thousands also arrive every year on the many cruise ships that
• Veitingahúsið Hraun, Grundarbraut 2, tel. 431-1030. visit town. Grundarfjörður Harbor prides itself on welcoming cruise ships
and making the stay memorable for their passengers. The number of vis-
Bakery: Brauðgerð Ólafsvíkur, Ólafsbraut 19, tel. 436-1119.
iting ships has increased rapidly in recent years, from two ships in 2001 to
Leisure/Sport: 30 as of summer 2015.
• Swimming Pool, Ennisbraut 9, tel. 433-9910.
• Fróðárvöllur, 9-hole golf course, tel. 840-3747. The town is full of life in the summertime. The Glæsir Viking Association
• Brimilsvellir, horse rental, tel. 436-1533. has built entertainment facilities in the town center and the Vikings’ antics
• Sólarsport fitness, tel. 436-1020. are often the high point of the day, according to cruise passengers. The
• Láki Tours, Kirkjutún 2, whale watching tours, tel. 546-6808. town festival, Á Góðri Stund, held on the last weekend of July each year,
Health Care Center: Engihlíð 28, tel. 432-1360. 112 after hours. sees the town decorated with red, blue, yellow and green. Guests of all
ages will enjoy themselves at this family festival. Grundarfjörður looks for-
Pharmacy: Ólafsbraut 24, tel. 436-1261.
ward to welcoming you this summer!
For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, tire repair.
Banks: Landsbankinn, Ólafsbraut 21, tel. 410-1000. Kirkjufell mountain, the most iconic feature of the Grundarfjörður land-
Post office: Bæjartún 5, tel. 580-1200. scape, is 463 meters tall and widely considered one of the most beautiful
78
mountains in the country. The mountain can be hiked, but it’s recommend-
ed that you find an experienced guide to accompany you. It’s also possible Grundarfjörður swimming pool
to walk around the base, taking a path up to magnificent views and birdlife
Borgarbraut 19 - 350 Grundarfjörður
in the summertime. This walk is suitable for families and often takes
 430-8564 - steini@gfb.is
around three hours, although it is possible to do it in less time.
Klakkur. Located to the east of the fjord, Klakkur is a 380 meter tall moun-
tain. There is a glen with a pond on its western side. Legend has it that the
river feeding Klakkur Pond washes up wishing stones on the evening of
Jónsmessa, or midsummer, which is celebrated in Iceland on June 24. It’s
enjoyable to walk out onto Klakkshausinn at the westernmost point in
Grundarfjörður, and look out over Breiðafjörður Bay. The hike up Klakkur is
of average difficulty and will take three hours at most, even counting a nice
long stop at the top.
Eyjarfjall mountain. Located in the Framsveit area, Eyjarfjall can be found Open
20.5.-21.8.
just beyond the local golf course. The walk up a set of maintained stairs to 9
its 352 meter summit is quite easy for most hikers and provides fantastic
views. On a good day, you’ll be able to see Snæfellsjökull from the peak.
Grundarfjörður camping
Police: Hrannarstígur 2, tel. 444-0300. Borgarbraut 19 - 350 Grundarfjörður
 430-8564 - steini@gfb.is
Local Information:
• The Saga Center, Grundargata 35, internet access,
tel. 438-1881, touristinfo@grundarfjordur.is,
www.grundarfjordur.is, www.west.is.
• Vesturlandsstofa, information center, Borgarnes,
tel. 437-2214, info@westiceland.is.
Accommodation:
• Hótel Framnes, Nesvegur 6, tel. 438-6893.
• Youth hostel Grundarfjörður, Hlíðarvegur 15, tel. 562-6533.
• Gamla Pósthúsið, Grundargata 50, tel. 430-8043.
Open
• Hálsaból, Hlíðarvegur 15, summer house, tel. 864-0366.
1.6.-31.8.
• 375. Setberg, tel. 438-6817. 9
• 377. Suður-Bár, tel. 438-6815.
• Snoppa Apartments, Grundargata 18, tel. 868-5167.
• Grund Guesthouse, Grund, tel. 840-6100/438-1400.
• Bjarg Apartments, Grundartanga 8, t. 438-1700. Pharmacy: Lyfja, Grundargata 38, tel. 438-6745.
Camping Site: For Motorists:
• By the swimming pool, tel. 430-8564. • Filling stations, garage, tire repair.
• 375. Setberg, tel. 438-6817. • N1, Grundargata 38, tel. 438-6700.
• Orkan, Suðurgarður 1, tel. 578-8800.
Restaurants: • K.B. garage, Sólvellir 5, tel. 438-6933/897-9301/896-9308.
• Bjargarsteinn, Sólvellir 15, tel. 438-6770.
• Hótel Framnes, Nesvegur 6-8, tel. 438-6893. Banks:
• Samkaup, Grundargata 38, tel. 438-6700. • Arion Bank, Grundargata 30, tel. 444-7000, ATM.
• RúBen, Grundargata 59, tel. 438-6446. • Landsbankinn, Grundargata 38, ATM.
• Meistarinn, hot-dog stand, by Grundargata. Post office: Grundargata 38, tel. 580-1200.
• Kaffi Emil, at the Information Center, Grundargata 35, Alcohol Store: Grundargata 38, tel. 438-1220.
tel. 438-1881.
• Láki Hafnarkaffi, café, Nesvegur 5, tel. 546-6808. Local Handicrafts:
• Krums, Eyrarvegur 20, tel. 842-1307
Convenience store: • Láki Hafnarkaffi, Nesvegur 5, tel. 546-6808.
• Samkaup, Grundargata 38, tel. 438-6700. • Snæþvottur, Grundargata 61, tel. 438-6500.
• Blossi, Grundargata 61, tel. 438-6500.
Museums/Exhibitions:
Leisure/Sport: • Saga Center, Grundargata, 35, internet access, open daily May 15
• Swimming pool with hot tubs, Borgarbraut, tel. 430-8564. – Sept. 15, 9 – 18, tel. 438-1881.
• 9-hole golf course, Bárarvöllur, tel. 438-6815. • Sögustofan, Sæból 13, s. 438-1700, ingihans@ildi.is,
• Vikings at the viking center. www.storytelling.is. Storytime for the whole family. See the daily
Horse Rentals: schedule at www.storytelling.is. Arrangements for groups should
• Kverná, tel. 898-9359. be made in advance.
• Berg, tel. 438-6875/ 891-6875. Laundromat: Snæþvottur, laundry, 24-hour laundry, self service
Health Care Center:Hrannarstígur 7, tel. 432-1350. 112 after hours. available all day, Grundargata 61, tel. 438-6500.
79
Places of Interest: mountain was named by Þórólfur Mostrarskegg, who settled this district.
• Setbergskirkja, tel. 438-6821. The 13th century Book of Settlements says that he “believed so strongly in
• Klakkur, Eyrarfjall, Mt. Kirkjufell. the mountain on the headland, which he called Helgafell, that no one was
Excursions: allowed to look at it without washing first, and it was so sacrosanct that
• Láki Tours, Nesvegur 6, bird watching tours, whale watching tours, nothing was to be killed on it, neither cattle nor men.” Folklore advises
sea fishing, night sailing, tel. 546-6808. anyone climbing the mountain for the first time to start at the grave of
• Þemaferðir Tours, tel. 438-1375/864-2419. Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir (heroine of Saga), and neither look back nor speak.
• Snæfellsnes Excursions, Ölkelduvegur 5, tel. 616-9090, www.sfn.is. People who do so will have three wishes granted, provided they are of
• Ferðafélag Snæfellsness, www.ffsn.is. good intent, and the wisher tells no one and faces east when making them.
• Many beautiful trails in Grundarfjörður. A breathtaking view across Breiðafjörður Bay is visible from the mountain’s
peak. Nearby residents request that guests visit during the day, 9 – 18.
Transportation: Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service to
and from Reykjavík. For more information, please visit www.straeto.is. Álftafjörður and Skógarströnd. Álftafjörður is the easternmost fjord on the
Events: northern coast of Snæfellsnes, with the Mt. Úlfarsfell to the west and Mt.
• June 5: Sjómannadagur (Sailor’s Day) in Grundarfjörður. Eyrarfjall to the east. Further east is Skógarsveit, a beautiful and fertile
• July 29 – 31: On a good day in Grundarfjörður, family festival with county. Álftafjörður is the setting of Eyrbyggja Saga, which is primarily set
various festivities. in Snæfellsnes.
• Aug. 13: Jökulmílan cycling competition
• Oct.13 – 19: Rökkurdagar, Dark days, culture festival. Police: Borgarbraut 2, tel. 444-0300.
• Oct. 21 - 23: Northern Wave, international short film festival. Information: travelinfo@stykkisholmur.is, www.stykkisholmur.is
www.westiceland.is. www.visitstykkisholmur.is
• Vesturlandsstofa, information center, Borgarnes, tel. 437-2214,
info@westiceland.is.
Accommodation:
STYKKISHÓLMUR • Hótel Stykkishólmur, Borgarbraut 8, tel. 430-2100.
• Hótel Breiðafjörður, Aðalgata 8, tel. 433-2200.
Stykkishólmur, sometimes called “the town of a thousand islands,” is situ- • Hótel Egilsen, Aðalgata 2, tel. 554-7700.
ated on Þórnes headland looking out over the prodigious scattering of is- • Hótel Fransiskus, Austurgötu 7, s. 4221101.
lands in the Breiðafjörður Bay. The village has a history of trading that
• Sjónarhóll Guesthouse, Höfðagata 1, tel. 438-1417.
• Höfðagata Gisting, Höfðagata 11, tel. 694-6569.
dates back over 400 years. It has an excellent natural harbor, sheltered by
• Alma B&B, Sundabakki 12, tel. 438-1435.
Súgandiseyja Island, which is now connected to the mainland. The oldest
• Sundabakki B&B, Sundabakki 14, tel. 438-1435.
meteorological station in Iceland – and some say the world - is in Styk-
• Hólmur-Inn B&B, Skúlagata 4, tel. 8999144.
kishólmur and was first manned by Árni Thorlacius in 1845. In 1828 Árni
• Bænir og Brauð Guesthouse, Laufásvegur 1, tel. 820-5408.
built the timber Norwegian House, which has been renovated and now
• Langey B&B., Víkurgata 5, tel. 898-1457.
serves as the local folk museum. Many of the old houses in town have
• Orlofsíbúðir (Our Home Apartments), Laufásvegur 21-31, tel.
been repaired and give it a feeling of distinction. Stykkishólmskirkja church
899-1797.
is considered a fine concert hall and hosts regular concerts during the
• Harbour Hostel, Hafnargata 4, tel. 517-5353.
summer. There is a swimming pool whose water is certified as particularly
• Friðarstaðir Cottage, Birkilundur 44, tel. 845-5309.
healthy, and you can also find art galleries and restaurants in Styk-
• Hamar Guesthouse, Þvervegur 12, tel. 552-2423.
kishólmur. Birdlife is varied in and around the town and in recent years
tourism and commerce have blossomed. The inhabitants of Flateyri Island Camping Site: By the golf course, tel. 438-1075.
get their supplies here. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,109. Restaurants:
• Hótel Stykkishólmur, Borgarbraut 8, tel. 430-2100.
Eider down can be collected in great quantities on the islands in
• Plássið, Frúarstígur 1, tel. 436-1600.
Breiðafjörður Bay, giving rise to a new and productive local industry. Sailing
• Narfeyrarstofa, Aðalgata 3, tel. 438-1119, info@narfeyrarstofa.is,
to these islands is popular as well, and birdwatching tours are among the
www.narfeyrarstofa.is.
most popular activities in the area.
• Skúrinn, Þvervegur 2, tel. 544-4004
The Sisters of St. Francis, nuns that arrived in the village in 1935, did much • Sjávarpakkhúsið, Hafnargata 2, tel. 438-1800.
to shape the face of the village with the construction of a Catholic cloister • Stykkið Pizza, Borgarbraut 1, tel. 438-1717.
as well as a hospital, which still bears the name of the order. • Nesbrauð, bakery, tel. 438-1830.
• Hafnarkaffi Sæferða, Smiðjustígur 3, refreshments, tel. 433-2254.
Helgafell, Holy Mountain (73 m), is a low basalt mountain on Þórsnes, just • Grill 66, Olís, Aðalgata 25, tel. 438-1254.
outside Stykkishólmur, with a gentle western slope but sheer on its north- • Meistarinn, hot-dog stand on Aðalgata.
ern and eastern sides. It appears repeatedly in Icelandic history as well as • Sælkerahúsið, Aðalgata 24a, tel. 847-0170.
folklore. Many famous Icelanders have lived here, such as Snorri goði and • Finsen Fish & Chips, food truck at the harbor.
Laxdæla Saga heroine Guðrun Ósvífursdóttir. You can visit her grave, found • Ís Kofinn, Ice Cream, waffles, and coffee at the harbor.
north of the church. Ari fróði (1067 – 1148) lived there until he was seven • Convenience stores/Service:
years old. An Augustine monastery was moved there from the island of • Bókaverslun Breiðafjarðar, bookstore, Hafnargata 1, tel. 438-1121.
Flatey in 1184, and remnants of a wall on the hill are said to be from its • Heimahornið, Borgarbraut 1, tel. 438-1110.
chapel. The manuscripts from the monastery are housed at Árnasetur in • Skipavík, Nesvegur 20, tel. 430-1400.
Reykjavík. Helgafell farmstead is situated at the base of the mountain. The • Sæferðir, Smiðjustígur 3, tel. 433-2254.
80
Stykkishólmur
the town amongst islets
and skerries
www.stykkisholmur.is
stykkisholmur@stykkisholmur.is
Stykkishólmur pool Norwegian house

The water in Stykkishólmur´s swimming The Norwegian House is the Snæfellsnes and
pool is considered to be especially good for Hnappdæla region´s local museum and the
people suffering from joint and muscle pain. first residential house in Iceland to be built on
In addition to receiving certification from two storeys. The ground floor houses changing
Institut Freservius, the pool boasts a water displays and a museum shop and on the second
slide, indoor and children´s pool. floor a permanent exhibition of the home of the
original builder, Árni Thorlacius, can be found.
Library of Water Volcano Museum

This multi-layered artwork, Vatnasafn, An international collection of art, objects,
creates a special space, offering different antiques and relics from the travels of
experiences in the context of Iceland´s Professor Haraldur Sigurdsson, who for over
relationship with its water and weather. forty years has carried out research on
volcanoes around the world.
Viking Sushi Ferry Baldur Flatey Island
Adventure The bridge to Visit this charming
Nature, birds & an the West fjords island where time
experience you will stands still
never forget
www.seatours.is
Smiðjustígur 3 - 340 Stykkishólmur - Sími/Tel. 433 2254
Leisure and Sport: in the Norwegian house. tel. 433-8114/865-4516,

• Sports Center by Borgarbraut, swimming pools, hot tubs, water info@norskahusid.is, www.norskahusid.is.
slide, sports field and gym, tel. 433-8150. • Amtbókasafnið, District library, Hafnargata 7, Internet access, open
• Víkurvöllur, 9-hole golf course, tel. 438-1075. weekdays year-round 14 – 18, tel. 433-8160.
• Sæferðir, Smiðjustígur 3, tel. 4332254, adventure tours, gourmet • Vatnasafnið/Library of Water, Bókhlöðustígur 17, tel. 433-8154,
tours and daily tours to Flatey. permanent installation by the artist Roni Horn, open daily May 1
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Aðalgata 24, tel. 438-1141. – Sept. 30, daily 11 – 17. (Note: key must be picked up at the
Volcano Museum.)
Health Care Center: Heilbrigðisstofnun Vesturlands, Austurgata 7, • Snowmobile museum, Reitarvegi 10, open by arrangement,
tel. 432-1200. 112 after hours. tel. 893-9969.
For Motorists: • Stykkishólmur church, open daily in summer 10 – 17 or by
• Filling Stations: Olís, Orkan on Atlantsolía, self-service. arrangement, tel. 433-8160.
• Dekk og smur, garage and tire repair, Nesvegur 5, • Stykkishólmur church, the old church by Aðalgata (Norska Húsið),
tel. 438-1385/895-2324 (emergency only). open by arrangement, pick up key at Norska húsið, tel. 433-8114.
• Alveg réttir ehf., Reitarvegur 13, tel. 438-1586/690-2074. • The Catholic Church of Iceland, Austurgata 7, open daily by
• H. Tholl, service garage, Nesvegur 13, tel. 855-1711. arrangement, tel. 438-1127.
• Volcano Museum, Aðalgata 8, multi-media exhibition, art gallery
Bank: Arion Bank, Aðalgata 10, tel. 444-7000, ATM.
and more, open daily May 1 – Sept. 31, 11 – 17, and by
Post office: Aðalgata 31, tel. 580-1200. arrangement, tel. 433-8154.
Alcohol Store: Aðalgata 24, tel. 430-1414. Places of Interest and Hiking:
Local Handicrafts: • Reforestation area Grensás, barbeque area, tables and benches.
• Gallery Lundi, Aðalgata, tel. 893-5588/866-0228. • Súgandisey, (near the harbor) with a view over Stykkishólmur, old
• Smávinir, Lára Gunnarsdóttir’s workshop, Aðalgata 20 (in the same lighthouse and love-nest.
space as Leir 7), tel. 438-1617/896-1909. • Viewing dial at Hótel Stykkishólmur, Vatnasafnið/Library of Water
• Leir 7, Aðalgata 20, tel. 894-0425, gallery, ceramics, summer and Mt. Helgafell.
exhibitions. Bird and nature watching:
• Gallerí Stykki, Ægisgata 11, tel. 896-4489. • Sæferðir, adventure tours from Stykkishólmur, Viking sushi tours,
Museums/Exhibitions/Churches: gourmet tours, tel. 433-2254, seatours@seatours.is,
• Norska húsið, Hafnargata 5, Summer hours: daily 12 – 18, Winter www.seatours.is, saeferdir@saeferdir.is.
hours: Tuesday - Thursday, 14-17. Art exhibitions, summer • Go West, ecofriendly outdoor experiences and travel opportunities
exhibitions and shop. An exhibition of the home of Árni Thorlacius in the area of Breiðafjörður, hiking, bicycle, and kayak tours,
tel. 695-9995/694-9513.
82
Excursions/Transportation:
• Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service to and from
Reykjavík. For more information, please visit www.streato.is. 399 þurranes - travel service
• Gunnar Hinriksson, coach service, Víkurflöt 4, Þurranes - 371 Dalabyggð -  434-1556 / 847-8660
tel. 438-1591/892-1091. G Fax 434-1535 - thurranes@centrum.is - http://thurranes.is/
• Car and Passenger Ferry Baldur, tel. 433-2254, scheduled trips,
twice daily from Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur on Barðaströnd,
stopping at Flatey island. Once daily in winter.
• Car rental, car wash, and automotive locksmith, Alveg réttir ehf.,
Reitarvegur 3, tel. 438-1586/690-2074.
Events:
• June 5: Sjómannadagurinn (Sailor’s Day).
• July 2: Skotthúfan (The Tasseled Cap), National Costume Festival
• August 19 – 21: Danish Days, www.stykkisholmur.is.
FACILITIES IN THE VICINITY

Accommodation:
• 380. Skjöldur, community center, Helgafellssveit, kitchenette,
camping, tel. 868-8567. 16 16
• Bassi, travel service, Helgafellssveit, tel. 565-1984.

Camping:
• 380. Skjöldur, community center, Helgafellssveit, tel. 868-8567. Hótel Flatey
• Places of Interest:
• Mt. Helgafell, historical area, grave of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir,
make-a-wish, viewfinder.
• Bjarnarhöfn, shark museum, shark curing, old farm church,
tel. 438-1581.
• Sauraskógur woods, Berserkjahraun Lava, Berserkjagata
(Berserks´Trail).
Peace · Timelessness · Rest

DALIR ( 555 7788
info@hotelflatey.is • www.hotelflatey.is
Dalir municipality has a rich history and was a major setting for the sagas.
It offers beautiful scenery for hiking and walking, along both the shore and
FACILITIES IN BÚÐARDALUR
inland, and has good rivers for fishing and diverse birdlife. Campsites and
other accommodation and travel services make Dalir an ideal destination Police: Miðbraut 11, tel. 444-0300.
for families and those interested in Iceland’s culture, history and heritage. Local Information:
• Leifsbúð, Búðarbraut 1, open daily May 1 – Sept. 30, 10 – 18,
Búðardalur is the main administrative and service center in Dalabyggð.
tel. 434-1441/869-6463, info@dalir.is, www.west.is, www.dalir.is.
There are statues commemorating two major local cultural figures: 20th
• Vesturlandsstofa, information center, Borgarnes,
century poet Jóhannes from Kötlum and 13th century lawspeaker and
tel. 437-2214, info@westiceland.is.
historian Sturla Þórðarson. The small marina in Búðardalur is where you
will find Leifsbúð, an information and cultural center housing an exhibition Accommodation:
dedicated to Leif the Lucky and Eric the Red and their discovery of Vine- • Dalakot, guesthouse and restaurant, Dalbraut 2, tel. 434-1644.
land and other lands. On January 1, 2016, the population was 262. • Camping Site on Vesturbraut, tel. 434-1644.
Restaurants/Convenience stores:
Eiríksstaðir is the birthplace of Leifur Eiríksson, or Leif the Lucky. Leif the
• Samkaup Strax, Vesturbraut 10, tel. 434-1180.
Lucky - the first European to set foot in America -- was born at Eiríksstadir
• Dalakot, guesthouse and restaurant, tel. 434-1644.
in Haukadalur. His parents, Eiríkur Rauði (Eirik the Red) and Þjóðhildur, built
• Café in Leifsbúð, Búðarbraut 1, tel. 434-1441.
a farm at Eiríksstaðir before leaving to found the first Viking settlement in
• Blómalindin Kaffihornið, Vesturbraut 6, tel. 434-1606.
Greenland. A replica of their longhouse was built and it was based on
nearby ruins of a 10th century farmhouse, which was excavated by ar- Health Care Center: Gunnarsbraut 2, tel. 432-1450.
chaeologists. During the summer “real” Vikings welcome visitors to the Pharmacy: Lyfja, Gunnarsbraut 2, tel. 434-1158.
site, tell stories and demonstrate ancient handicrafts.
For Motorists:
Sauðafell is the name of a mountain and nearby farm in Miðdalir that was • N1, Vesturbraut 10, tel. 434-1436.
the home of Sturla Sighvatsson (1198 – 1238). This was also the place • KM Þjónustan, service garage, Vesturbraut 20, tel. 434-1611.
where Jón Arason (1484 – 1550), Iceland’s last Catholic bishop, was cap- • B.A. Einarsson, service garage, Vesturbraut 8,
tured with his three sons during the Reformation; they were taken to Skál- tel. 434-1132/852-1332.
holt and beheaded on November 7, 1550. Bank: Arion Bank, Miðbraut 15, tel. 444-7000.
83
Post Office: Miðbraut 13, tel. 580-1200. Camping Sites:
Alcohol Store: Vesturbraut 15, tel. 434-1303. • 395. Laugar, Sælingsdalur, tel. 444-4930.
• 396. Á, Skarðsströnd, tel. 434-1420/663-1420.
Local handicrafts: • 398. Tjarnarlundur, Saurbær, tel. 430-4700/897-0269.
• Handverkshópurinn Bolli, Vesturbraut 12, tel. 434-1410.
• Blómalindin Kaffihornið, Vesturbraut 6, tel. 434-1606. Restaurants:
• Hótel EddaPlus, Laugar, tel. 444-4930.
Museums/Exhibitions: • Hótel Ljósaland, Skriðulandi, tel. 776-4103/564-4844.
• Leifsbúð, Búðarbraut 11, cultural museum by the harbor.
Vínlands og landafundasýning, exhibition about Leifur Eiríkson, Swimming Pools: 395. Sælingsdalslaug, tel. 434-1465.
open daily May 1 – Sept. 30, 10 – 18, tel. 434-1441/845-2477, Museums/Exhibitions/Churches:
leifsbud@dalir.is. • Dalamanna Folk Museum, Laugar, Dalasýsla, open daily June 1
• Héraðsbókasafn Dalabyggðar, Miðbraut 11, tel. 434-1189. – Aug. 31, 10 – 16 and by arrangement,
Transportation: Strætó bs, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service to tel. 434-1328/430-4700, safnamal@dalir.is.
and from Reykjavík. For more information, please visit www.straeto.is. • Eiríksstaðir in Haukadalur, birthplace of Leif the Lucky,
open daily June 1 – Sept. 1, 10 – 18 or by appointment,
tel. 434-1118/661-0434, siggijok@simnet.Is, www.eiriksstadir.is.
FACILITIES IN DALIR • Ólafsdalur in Gilsfirði
• Röðull, Skarðsströnd
Accommodation:
• Narfeyrarkirkja, Skógarströnd.
• 385. Travel Service Svarfhóll, Miðdalir, tel. 825-6369.
• Breiðabólsstaðarkirkja ,Skógarströnd.
• 386 .Travel Service Erpsstaðir, tel. 434-1357.
• Snókdalskirkja, Miðdölum.
• 388. Árblik Community Center, tel. 434-1366.
• Kvennabrekkukirkja, Miðdölum.
• 391. Stóra-Vatnshorn, tel. 434-1342.
• Hjarðarholtskirkja, Laxárdal.
• 395. Hótel Edda Plus, Laugar, tel. 444-4930.
• Hvammskirkja, Hvammssveit.
• 395. Laugar Guesthouse, winter, tel. 861-2660.
• Staðarfellskirkja, Klofningi.
• 398. Tjarnarlundur Community Center, tel. 430-4700, dalir@dalir.is.
• Dagverðarneskirkja, Klofningi.
• 399. Þurranes Travel Service, tel. 434-1556, thurranes@centrum.is.
• Stóra-Vatnshornskirkja, Haukadal.
• 392. Vogur Country Lodge, Fellströnd, tel. 435-0002.
• Skarðskirkja,Skarðsströnd.
• 393. Seljaland Ferðafljónusta, Hörðudalur, tel. 434-1116.
• Staðarhólskirkja, Saurbæ.
• Nýp, Skarðsströnd, tel. 896-1930.
• Staðarfell Community Center, tel 430-4700, dalir@dalir.is. Places of Interest:
• Hótel Ljósaland, Skriðulandi, tel. 776-4103/564-4844. • The historical locations of Laxdæla: History signs are located at
Krosshólaborg, Leifsbúð, Laugar, in Svínadalur.
• Viewing Dial at Klofningur.
• A memorial to the three poets, Stefan frá Hvítadal, Steinn
• Steinarr and Sturla Þórðarson near Tjarnarlundur in Saurbær.
• The place of prayer of settler Auður Djúpúðga at Krosshólaborg.
• A memorial to Snorri Sturluson at Hvammur.
• A memorial to Bjarna frá Vogi at Vogi á Fellsströnd.
P O L I C E • A memorial to Jón frá Ljárskógum at Ljárskógum í Laxárdal.
F I R E • A memorial to Jóhannes of Kötlum in Búðardal
• Skarðstöð, tel. 434-1494, a natural harbor used for many
M E D I C A L centuries. Public restrooms.
D O C T O R S • Hvítidalur Hestaferðir, Hvítidalur, tel. 849-2725.
ONE ONE TWO • Rjómabúið Erpsstöðum, tel. 434-1357.
R E S C U E S Q U A D • Guðrúnarlaug, pool, Sælingsdalur, historic site,
• Tungustapi.
• Hnúksnes.
• Ytri-Fagridalur.
Sightseeing Tours:
• Guided tours, Dalir and Reykhóladistrict, Information center,
tel. 434-1441, info@dalir.is.
• Dalaferðir, guided tours around Dalir, tel. 869-1402,
dalatravel@dalatravel.is
• Go West, ecofriendly outdoor experiences and travel opportunities
in the area of Breiðafjörður with hiking, bicycle, and kayak tours,
tel. 695-9995/694-9513.
Events: www.dalir.is
• July 8-10: Búðardal Village Festival
• Aug.: Ólafsdalshátíð, a family festival in Ólafsdalur.
• October 21 – 22: Sheep farmers’ autumn celebration
84
Klofningur
Panoramic view over Breiðafjörður Bay,
Barðaströnd coastline
and Snæfellsnes peninsula.
Krosshólaborg
The prayer spot of Auður the
Deep-minded, one of the first
devouted Christians in Iceland.
The Dalir region is a family-friendly destination, home to histor-

ical settings for Sagas such as Laxdæla, Erik the Red and Sturl-
unga. Visits to farms, trout fishing in lakes, wonderful hiking trails,
Ólafsdalur
bird-watching, museums and exhibitions, and much more. In 1880 the first agricultural school in
Iceland was established in this valley.
Step back into the Viking Era. On display are the ruins of a 10th century The Búðardalur camping site is located within a sheltered woodland grove.
farmhouse and a replica of a Settlement Age farmstead has been recon- A new service house offers washing facilities with hot and cold running
structed nearby. The reconstruction was built using models of Settlement water, access to electricity and waste disposal site for chemical toilets.
Age tools and is based on other archaeological finds in Iceland and neigh- A convenience store, bank, restaurant, café, sports field, football area and
bouring countries. playground can be found nearby.
Campsite open: 15.5.-15.9.
9-18 daily from 1.6.-31.8. Tel.: 661 0434
Tel. 434 1644 - www.VisitDalir.is
1.9.-31.5. by arrangement E-mail: siggijok@simnet.is
E-mail: dalakot@dalakot.is
65°3,516Ń 21°32,310´W www.eiriksstadir.is
65°6,466Ń 21°45,924´W
The school at Laugar becomes a hotel

during the summer, campsite, swimming In an old renovated merchant’s house at the harbour in Búðardalur
pool and houses the Dalir Heritage you can find an exhibition on Viking settlements in the west,
Museum. a tourist information center and a cosy café.
www.eddahotel.is Búðarbraut 1, 370 Búðardalur 1.5 - 30.9. open daily 10-18

www.VisitDalir.is Tel. 434 1441 & 845 2477 1.10. - 30.4. open by arrangement
65°14,757Ń 21°48,150´W www.VisitDalir.is 65°6,637Ń 21°46,295´W
86
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
The west fjords
The distinctive arm of the Westfjords is the largest peninsula in Iceland and it stretches to the northwest, between
the Breiðafjörður and Húnaflóa Bays. The coastline is serrated with many fjords and there is little coastal lowland,
except in the bays at the top of the fjords where grassy dells can be found. The Westfjord highlands are inland, where
it is rocky with sparse vegetation and the Drangajökull glacier towers above. Basalt is the main type of rock, gener-
ally stratified with lava stacks, and in many places plant fossils have been found between the layers of lava.
The Barðaströnd district extends from the head of Gilsfjörður fjord to strandir Cliffs can be found between the Hornbjarg Cliffs and
Arnarfjörður fjord. Many short fjords that reach into Breiðafjörður fjord Geirólfsnúpur Headland.
characterize the district’s southern coast, and on its western end is
Rauðarsandur (the Red Sands). The sheer-sided Látrabjarg cliffs rise The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. In earlier times, Hornstrandir was
440 m out of the sea and end at Bjargatangur, the westernmost point well populated and the inhabitants based their livelihood on the sea
of Iceland and Europe. North of Blakknes point, the “real” Westfjords and bird cliffs, but those villages have been abandoned. There was a
take over, of which Arnarfjörður and Ísafjarðardjúp are the largest settlement at Hesteyri in Hesteyrafjörður until the latter part of the
fjords. Many islands in the Breiðafjörður Bay belong to the Barðaströnd 19th century, where the inhabitants worked at a whaling station and
district. The largest of these is Flatey Island, which had a flourishing herring factory. Hornstrandir is a protected area and boasts a wealth
community up until the mid-20th century. of popular hiking trails. The Nature Reserve covers the entire Horn-
strandir district and includes the Fljótvík and Aðalvík bays, along with
The Ísafjörður district coastline is longer than any other district in the the Jökulfjörður fjords.
country, because nowhere else is the land so indented. Throughout the
area there is very little lowland. The fjords are separated by high A trip to Hornstrandir needs to be well planned and the visitation code
mountains, which have impeded transport between neighboring dis- applying to this protected area should be respected. It must be kept in
tricts since ancient times. Many areas are threatened by the danger of mind that the weather conditions in this area can be very hostile, trav-
avalanches. The fjords are long and deep and most are scattered with elers cannot depend on mobile phone connections and it is vital to
sandy spits of land and good harbor conditions abound. There are few travel with all the food you might need as well as a good map. Further
lakes in the area and the rivers are short. information can be obtained from The Environment Agency, The West-
The Ísafjörðurdjúp fjord system has the largest cluster of fjords in the
country. The Æðey and Vigur islands are well known for eider down
farming, however, the largest production can be found at Mýrum and Tourist Information
Lækur in Dýrafjörður. There are seven fjords of varying sizes on the in the West Fjords
southern side of Ísafjörðurdjúp fjord, and the Jökulfjörður fjord extends Reykhólar - Maríutröð t. 434-7830
up from the north. The surrounding area has a tremendous landscape Hnjótur - Örlygshöfn t. 456-1511
and is sparsely vegetated, except in the hollows at the top of the fjords. Tálknafjörður t. 456-2639
The Rytur Headland guards the entrance to Ísafjörðurdjúp to the north, Ísafjörður - Aðalstræti 7 t. 450-8060
the Vík area is to the east, towards the Horn Headland, and the Horn- Bolungarvík t. 450-7010 in summer
87
fjords Natural History Institute and The Tourist Information Centers in Reykhólar, which is a walk around Einireykjastígur. It begins at the
Ísafjörður and Hólmavík. swimming pool and goes to Einireykjahver (hot springs), where there is
a gravel trail with bridges over marshy areas thriving with bird life.
The Strandir district is on the western shore of Húnaflói bay. Bays and Start by walking along the trench, and then follow the stream to Jóns-
fjords abound along the shoreline, with sheer mountains and bluffs búð. There is also a walking trail at Mávavatn.
separating the fjords, and relatively little lowland. The fjords are most-
ly short, with the longest being Steingrímsfjörður and Reykjarfjörður Tourist information: tel. 434-7830, info@reykholar.is.
fjords. Many islands and skerries can be found along the coast, Grím- Accommodation:
sey Island being the largest. The northern coast no longer has any in- • Álftaland, Reykhólar
habitants, due to the harsh climate and barren land. Shark fishing was • Hótel Bjarkalundur, tel. 434-7762/434-7863/695-2091,
practiced at Gjögur, which was once a well-known fishing station. The • bjarkalundur@bjarkalundur.is, www.bjarkalundur.is.
vegetation is fertile in the inland lowlands. • 406. Miðjanes Guesthouse, tel. 434-7787.
• 408. Djúpidalur, tel. 434-7853.
Basalt is the primary rock type in the Westfjords, but rhyolite is also
found, between Arnarfjörður and Dýrafjörður being one location. Lig- Camping Sites:
nite can be found extensively in the Westfjords, on Mt. Stálfjall and • 402. Hótel Bjarkalundur, tel. 434-7762, fax 434-7863.
around the Brjánslækur area, for instance. • 405. By the swimming pool at Reykhólar, tel. 434-7738.
• Miðjanes, tel. 434-7787.
• Sjávarsmiðjan, new camping area, tel. 577-4800.
REYKHÓLASVEIT Restaurant/Snack Bar:

• Hótel Bjarkalundur, tel. 434-7762, fax 434-7863.
• Sjávarsmiðjan, café, Reykhólar, tel. 577-4800.
The Reykhólasveit District is renowned for its natural beauty and • Bátakaffi, café and exhibition: Boatbuilding and the lifestyle of past
birdlife. Reykhólar is a historic site, once considered among the best times, tel. 434-7830.
farmlands in Iceland, and wheat was grown in the area during ancient
times. About 300 offshore islands belong to the district. Reykhólar is Swimming Pools:
• 405. Grettislaug, swimming pool at Reykhólar, tel. 434-7738.
frequently mentioned in the Sagas. Today, the local economy is based
• 408. Djúpidalur, pool, tel. 434-7853.
mainly on harvesting and processing kelp. When driving to Reykhólar,
the road passes Barmahlíð, about which the poet Jón Thoroddsen Leisure/Sport:
(1818 – 1868) wrote My beautiful hillside.... On January 1, 2016, the • Bird watching house at Reykhólar.
population was 135. • Hiking maps available at Hólakaup, Hótel Bjarkalundur and at the
tourist information center at Reykhólar.
Borgarland has unusual rock formations called volcanic dykes, and • Fishing in Gufudalur, tel. 568-6050.
lies between the small fjords of Króksfjörður and Berufjörður. Bjart- • Fishing in Berufjarðarvatn at Hótel Bjarkarlundur, tel. 434-7762.
marssteinn, a volcanic plug 55 m high and 100 m across, is said to be • Sjávarsmiðjan, seaweed bath and café, Reykhólar, tel. 577-4800,
the capital of the elves of Breiðafjörður. This rock can be reached from • sjavarsmidjan@sjavarsmidjan.is, www.sjavarsmidjan.is.
the village of Borg by driving down a track to the shore, then walking Health Care Center/Pharmacy: Hellisbraut, tel. 432-1460.
along the beach to Bjartmarssteini.
For Motorists: Filling stations at Hólabúð in Reykhólar and Hótel
Reykhólar District. The hiking map of the countryside around Reykhólar Bjarkalundur.
identifies nine main hiking routes, plus several shorter ones. Two of Local Handicrafts:
them are be described here. The first is Vaðalfjöll, which starts as a • Market at Bjarkalundur, tel. 434-7762.
walk along the roadside trail, just east of Bjarkalundur, and leads to • Handverksfélagið Assa, handicrafts, books and “garage sale”
two beautifully formed rock pillars, for which the trek is named, that at Króksfjarðarnes in summer, Fri. – Sun.
are best approached from the west. You can return the same way, or • tel. 893-6396/892-7897.
walk west to the old highway and follow the road towards Kinnarstaðir, • Bátakaffi, café and exhibition: Boatbuilding and the lifestyle of past
and from there back to Bjarkalundur. The second hiking trail is times, tel. 434-7830.
Exhibitions/Museums:
• Exhibition on Boatbuilding and the lifestyle of past times at the
Tourist Information Center, tel. 434-7830, info@reykholar.is.
• Seljanes, Classic Cars Exhibition – test driving, tel. 434-7720.
• Grund, old tractors on display, tel. 434-7922.
• Arnarsetur Íslands, The White-Tailed Eagle Center, Króksfjarðarnes
tel. 894-1011
Transportation:
• Strætó bs, tel. 540 2700, scheduled tours to and from Reykjavík,
• Reykjavík – Króksfjarðarnes – Hólmavík, www.straeto.is.
Events:
35 HI Hostels around Iceland • April 21: Barmahlíðardagurinn, Cultural Festival for the Reykhólar
District, www.reykholar.is.
welcome you - www.hostel.is • July 1 – 3: Boatbuilding Days, www.batasmidi.is.
• July 21 – 24: Reykhóladagar, www.reykholar.is.
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REYKHÓLAHREPPUR
Reykhólahreppur covers all of Austur-Barðastrandarsýsla, which is more than 1000 km2. This district is only
200 km from Reykjavik with paved roads all the way. It is well worth making the journey and enjoying the unique
nature that this vast municipality has to offer.
Reykhólahreppur is particularly suited for birdwatching. There is a great variety of birds, in keeping with
its varied nature, and nowhere in the country has a greater tide range. There is a birdwatching hide at
Langavatn just below the Reykhólaþorp village.
The friendly village at Reykhólar is 15 km from the summer hotel at Bjarkalundur, which most people are
familiar with. There is an excellent 25 m outdoor swimming pool at Reykhólar which is named after Grettir
the Strong. The boat and natural resources exhibition at Reykhólar give you the opportunity to acquaint
yourself, in an interesting manner, with both the eider duck and the special type of rowing boats from
Breiðarfjörður. In the same building there is an information centre that provides all kinds of information
for tourists. The seaweed factory at Reykholar, which has been called the most environmentally friendly
industry in the world, harvests rockweed and kelp from Breiðafjörður to manufacture meal for export. Its
energy source is geothermal power. At Reykhólar they also manufacture health supplement pills from the
milled seaweed. Health is a priority. Norður Salt produces natural salt flakes by extracting salt from the
Breiðafjordur Bay and using geothermal exhaust water from a neighbouring seaweed plant in an environ-
mentally-friendly production process.
There will be lots of events in the region in the summer of 2016 and everyone should find something to
their liking. Among other things there is an outdoor pursuit weekend, boating days, Reykhólar days and lots
more.
Look forward to seeing you!
reykholar.is
HOtel Bjarkalundur- oldest summerhotel in Iceland

the hotel and cottages are located in wonderfully scenic surroundings of mountains and sea. Hiking
paths for all – hiking maps available at the hotel. tel. 434 7762 / 434 7863, gsm 695 2091 / 896 6849
bjarkalundur@bjarkalundur.is
WC WC www.bjarkalundur.is
in his book Svartfugl (Guillemot). Further along the headland is Skor,
FLATEY which was the final destination of the explorer Eggert Ólafsson, who
drowned near this point in 1768.
Flatey is the largest of the “Western Isles” in Breiðafjörður Bay, which
has around 40 islands. Trading has been recorded on Flatey since the Látrabjarg is a 14 km-long precipitous bird cliff between Keflavík and
Middle Ages, but the island didn’t become a recognized trading post Bjargtangar, and it is the westernmost point of Iceland. The cliffs can
until 1777. A monastery was built there in 1172 and Flatey became be divided into four distinct sections: furthest to the west is the main
one of Iceland’s leading cultural centers in the mid 19th century. The Látrabjarg cliff; followed by Bæjarbjarg, where the cliffs reach their
church is served from Reykhólar and was built in 1926. Paintings by highest point of 444 m; then the Breiðavíkur cliffs; and furthest to the
Baltasar decorate the interior of the church. A portion of the island has east are the Keflavík cliffs. It is possible to drive out to the Bjargartan-
been a protected natural site since 1975. The Baldur ferry service gar lighthouse, built in 1913. The waters of Látraröst are offshore from
from Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur stops at Flatey. the cliffs and notorious through the centuries for shipwrecks.
Accommodation: Hnjótur is a folk museum in Örlygshöfn, curated by Barðastrand dis-

• 409. Hótel Flatey, tel. 555-7788, trict and founded by Egill Ólafsson, with a fine collection of local arti-
info@hotelflatey.is, www.hotelflatey.is. facts and aviation memorabilia.
• 409. Grænigarður & Krákuvör, Travel Service, tel. 438-1451.
Selárdalur is the outermost of the Ketildalir valleys, on the west side of
• 409. Læknishús/Línukot, Ólína J. Jónsdóttir, tel. 438-1476.
Arnarfjörður fjord. There are recently renovated outdoor works of art
Camping Site: 409. Grænigarður & Krákuvör, Travel Service, and buildings at Brautarholt, created by Samúel Jónsson (1884 –
tel. 438-1451. 1969), who farmed there. Fossils have been found on Mt. Þórish-
Restaurant/Snack Bar: 409. Hótel Flatey, Samkomuhúsið, líðarfjall, above the valley, including pre-Ice Age vegetation such as
tel. 422-7610. beech and vines.
Sightseeing and Hiking: Bird watching and guided walk around this Several enjoyable walking trails have been marked in Vesturbyggð: 1)
historic, island; boating, tel. 422-7610. Selárdalsheiði heath. Walk from Sellátrar to Krossadalur, over
Transportation: Ferry Baldur, car and passenger, tel. 438-1450, Selárdalsheiði heath, and down Selárdalur valley to Brautarholt, where
scheduled trips, twice daily in the summer, once a day in winter, from a church is located as well as artwork Samúel Jónsson (20 km). 2)
Stykkishólmur to Brjánslækur on Barðaströnd, calling at Flatey island, Walk from Tálknafjörður over Tunguheiði heath, down to Bíldudalur (10
saeferdir@saeferdir.is, www. saeferdir.is. km). 3) Lambeyrarháls. Walk from Patreksfjörður over Lambeyrarháls,
down into Tálknafjörður (7 km). 4) Walking trail from Sauðlauksdalur
over Mt. Vatnsdalsfjall to Keflavík (13 km). 5) From Hnjótur over Hnjóts-
VESTURBYGGÐ heiði heath to Keflavík (11 km). 6) From Lambavatn Lake along Sands-
fjöll to Keflavík (8 km). 7) Walking trail from Breiðavík to Keflavík (10
km).
Vesturbyggð is a municipality in the southwestern part of the West-
fjords. It incorporates the residential towns of Patreksfjörður and
Bíldudalur. Between them is Tálknafjörður, which is an independent FACILITIES OUTSIDE URBAN AREAS
municipality. Látrabjarg, one of the most spectacular bird cliffs in the IN VESTURBYGGÐ
country, is located here and is a popular destination for tourists. Bjarg- Local Tourist Information: Egill Ólafsson Folk Museum at Hnjótur,
tangar, the westernmost point in Europe, is to the west of the Látrab- café, Örlygshöfn, tel. 456-1511, museum@hnjotur.is, www.hnjotur.is.
jarg cliffs. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1003.
Accommodation:
Vatnsdalur is a valley leading in from Vatnsfjörður on Barðaströnd. The • 415. Hótel Flókalundur, tel. 456-2011.
Vatnsdalsá River runs in and out of a lake here. Raven-Flóki spent a • 417. Gh. Rauðsdalur, tel. 456-2041/694-5099/694-8561.
winter in this valley around 865 and gave the country the name Ice- • 418. Gh. Bjarkarholt, Stóra Krossholt, tel. 456-2025.
land. This is a picturesque area with diverse birdlife, fertile vegetation Holiday flats:
and rowan trees growing among dwarf birch shrubs. Vatnsfjörður has • 421. Breiðavík, tel. 456-1575/867-1575.
been a protected area since 1975. Brjánslækur, near the mouth of • 422. Hænuvík, 4 chalets, tel. 456-1574/698-7810.
Vatnsfjörður, is an old church site and now the point of call for the • 423. Hótel Látrabjarg, Örlygshöfn, tel. 456-1500.
ferry from Stykkishólmur across Breiðafjörður Bay. Just above the • 423. Hnjótur Travel Service, Örlygshöfn,
hamlet is Surtarbrandsgil (Lignite Gully), a protected natural site where tel. 456-1596/456-1591/893-8024,
there are fossilized plant remains from warm Ice Age interglacial peri- www.hnjoturtravel.is, info@hnjoturtravel.is.
ods. Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson first discovered and described Camping Sites:
the location of the fossils in the 18th century. • 415. Flókalundur, tel. 456-2011.
• 420. Brunnar, close to Látrabjarg.
Rauðasandur is the inhabited area between the Látrabjarg Cliffs and • 421. Breiðavík, tel. 456-1575.
Mt. Stálfjall, named after the distinctive red/orange sand on the beach. • 423. Hnjótur Travel Service, Örlygshöfn,
A path leads from Rauðasandur to Iceland’s westernmost cliff, Látrab- tel. 693-6478/456-1596/456-1591/893-8024.
jarg. Tucked away in the corner of the Rauðasandur area is the Sjöund • Rauðasandur, Melanes, tel. 845-2633
River. A notorious murder took place at this site in the beginning of the
Restaurant/Café:
18th century, about which Gunnar Gunnarsson (1889 – 1975) wrote • Hótel Flókalundur, tel. 456-2011.
90
Lot s of fun on Ra uða san du r bea ch!
rict
Gree ting s from the Ves turb ygg ð Dist
• Egill Ólafsson Folk Museum at Hnjótur, café, Örlygshöfn, Transportation:

tel. 456-1511. • Sæferðir Baldur, car and passenger ferry,
• Breiðavík, tel. 456-1575. tel. 433-2254/438-1450/456-2020,
• Kirkjuhvammur, coffee house, Rauðasandi. tel. 866-8129. scheduled service, twice daily, across Breiðafjörður from
Brjánslækur to Stykkishólmur, stopping at Flatey island,
Swimming Pools:
www.saeferdir.is, saeferdir@saeferdir.is, www.wa.is,
• 415. Flókalaug, Vatnsfjörður, tel. 456-2044.
• Westfjord Adventures, tours between Brjánslækur and
• 418. Laugarnes Pool, Krossholt, tel. 456-2039.
Patreksfjarðar, and Brjánslækur and Isafjordur. Take the ferry
Leisure/Sport: Baldur. Also tours to Látrabjarg and beyond.
• Hótel Flókalundur, tel. 456-2011, trout fishing. tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is.
• Fishing in Sauðlauksdalsvatn, fishing licenses sold in • Flugfélagið Ernir, tel. 562-4200, scheduled flights between
Patreksfjörður. Reykjavik and Bíldudalur and scheduled flight bus between
• Fishing in Vaðli and the Breiðavík lakes, tel. 456-1575. Bíldudalur, Tálknafjörður and Patreksfjörður.
• Go Wild, ATV-Quad tours, Breiðavík, tel. 694-9614/820-1487,
Events: June 17 – 20: Gönguvika/hiking week: Exploring the cliffs
GoWild.is.
and golden sands, tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is
Local Handicrafts:
• Breiðavík, tel. 456-1575.
PATREKSFJÖRÐUR
• Hænuvík, tel. 456-1574/698-7810.
• Hótel Flókalundur, tel. 456-2011.
• Egill Ólafsson Folk Museum at Hnjótur, Örlygshöfn, open daily Patreksfjörður is a town on the north shore of Patreksfjörður fjord,
May 21 – Sept. 11, 10 – 18, and by arrangement, which was a trading post in ancient times. The community became a
tel. 456-1511/896-5868, museum@hnjotur.is, www.hnjotur.is. village late in the 19th century when it developed fish drying. Similar
to other communities in the region, Patreksfjörður’s economy is based
Sightseeing and Hikes:
on fisheries. On January 1, 2016, the population was 683.
• Westfjords Adventures, hiking trails, bike tours, ATV- quad tours,
jeep tours, sailing and deep-sea fishing,
tel. 693-6478/456-5006, www.wa.is. Police: Aðalstræti 92, tel. 444-0400. Emergency 112.
• Fun hiking trails: Rauðasandur, Keflavík, Látrabjarg, Hænuvík, Tourist Information: Westfjords Adventures, Aðalstræti 62,
Kollsvík, Vatnsfjörður and partially marked trails. tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is.
• Hiking maps available in Tourist Information Centers.
91
Pat reks fjör ður swi mm ing poo l Summ er:
Mon. - Fri. 08-21:30
Sat. - Sun. 10-18
Accommodation: Sightseeing/Excursions: Ferðaþjónusta Vestfjarða, hiking tours,

• Foss Hotel Westfjords, Aðalstræti 100, tel. 456-2004. bike tours, ATV-Quad tours, jeep excursions, boat tours, fishing,
• Stekkaból Guesthouse, Stekkar 19 and 21, tel. 864-9675. tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is.
• Hótel Ráðagerði, Aðalstræti 31, tel. 868-4658. Transportation:
• Hótel WEST, Aðalstræti 62, tel. 456-5020/892-3414. • Flybus, tel. 893- 2636, Patreksfjörður, Tálknafjörður, Bíldudalur,
Camping Site: Camping site at community center, tel. 450-2360. airport.
Restaurants: • Westfjord Adventures, tours between Brjánslækur and
• Foss Hotel Westfjords, Aðalstræti 100, tel. 456-2004. Patreksfjarðar, and Brjánslækur and Isafjordur. Take the ferry
• Stukkuhúsið, Aðalstræti 50, tel. 456-1404. Baldur. Also tours to Látrabjarg and beyond.
• Albína, Aðalstræti 89, tel. 456-1667. tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is.
• Fjölval, Þórsgata 10, tel. 456-1545 Events:
• Grillskálinn, Aðalstræti 110, tel. 456-1599. • May 22 – 25: Skjaldborg Film festival, Icelandic documentaries.
• Heimsendi, Eyrargata, tel. 892-5561/865-6290. • June 2 – 4: Seaman’s weekend in Patreksfjörður.
Leisure/Sport: • June 17 – 20: Hiking Week: Exploring the cliffs and golden sands,
• Sport Center Brattahlíð, Aðalstræti 55, tel. 456-1301, tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is.
swimming pool. • Skjaldborg Filmfest, Icelandic documentary film festival www.
• Golf, Vesturbotn, 9 holes, tel. 456-1183/846-1362. skjaldborg.com.
• Frönsku fiskimennirnir og gamli tíminn, historical exhibition about • Gufupunk, Steampunk festival in Vesturbyggð.
French fisherman in Patreksfjörður Mýri 8 s. 456-1140/892-5059 • www.vesturbyggd.is.
Health Center: Stekkar 1, tel. 450-2000.
TÁLKNAFJÖRÐUR
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Aðalstræti 6, tel. 456-1222.
For Motorists:
• Filling station, garage, tire repair, tel. 456-1144.
• Stormur Garage, tel. 456-1124. Tálknafjörður is located on a fjord of the same name. It was formerly
named Sveinseyri and Tunguþorp. A greatly improved harbor has
Bank: Landsbankinn, Bjarkargata 1, tel. 410-4153, ATM.
played a major role in the village’s growth over the past 50 years. On
Post Office: Bjarkargata 4, tel. 456-1100. January 1, 2016, the population was 251.
Alcohol Store: Þórsgata 10, tel. 456-1177.
Local Handicrafts:Gallery Ísafold, Urðargata 7, tel. 895-7175. Tourist information: By the swimming pool, tel. 456-2639.
92
Accommodation:
• Gh.Bjarmaland, tel. 891-8038,
bjarmaland06@simnet.is, www.bjarmaland.bloggar.is. H guesthouse Bjarmaland
• Sumarbyggð ehf., chalets, tel. 861-4986. Bjarmaland - 460 Tálknafjörður
 891-8038 - Fax 456-2753 - bjarmaland06@simnet.is
Camping Site: By the swimming pool, facilities for caravans, www.guesthousebjarmaland.is
tel. 456-2639.
GPS: WP_20150828_12_41_18
• Hópið, restaurant, tel. 456-2777/899-6626/861-5107.
• Dunhagi, Sveinseyri, tel. 662-0463.
• Tígull, Strandgata 32, tel. 456-2662.
• Tálknakjör-N1, store, Strandgata 36, tel. 456-2614.
Leisure and Sport:
• Swimming pool, tel. 456-2639.
• Volleyball court, football/soccer field and playground by the pool.
• Varied hiking trails in and around Tálknafjörður, tel. 456-5006.
www.westfjordsadventures.com.
Health Care Center: Strandgata 38, tel. 450-2000/456-2621.
21 21 1 16
For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tire repair,
tel. 456-2633/861-2633.
1
Bank/Post Office: Landsbankinn, Strandgata 38, tel. 410-4155.
Sightseeing/Hikes: Ferðaþjónusta Vestfjarða, hiking tours, bike
tours, ATV-Quad tours, jeep excursions, boat tours, fishing, Restaurant/Snack Bar:
tel. 456-5006, www.wa.com. • Restaurant Vegamót, Tjarnarbraut 2, tel. 456-2232.
• The Monster Center, Strandgata 7, tel. 456-6666, www.skrimsli.is.
Transportation: Flybus, tel. 893-2636, Patreksfjörður, Tálknafjörður,
Bíldudalur, airport. Leisure/Sport: Golf, Litlueyrarvöllur, 9 holes, tel. 456-2162.
For Motorists: Filling station.
Events: Fun in Tálknafjörður, town festival.
Bank: ATM in the Byltu sports center.
Post Office: Langahlíð 1, tel. 456-2100.
BÍLDUDALUR Local Handicrafts: The Monster Center, Strandgötu 7,

tel. 456-6666, www.skrimsli.is.
Bíldudalur is a community on the outer edge of Bíldudals-vogur cove, Museums/Exhibitions:
along the western side of Arnarfjörður fjord. It is an old trading post • Memories of Melodies, Icelandic Music Museum,
that was greatly influenced by several entrepreneurs, such as Ólafur Tjarnarbraut 5, open weekdays 14 – 18, Tel. 456-2186/847-2542.
Thorlacius (1761 – 1815) and Pétur J. Thorsteinsson (1854 – 1929). • The Monster Center, Strandgata 7, tel. 456-6666, www.skrimsli.is.
Many houses from Pétur’s time still exist. On January 1, 2016, the Sightseeing/Excursions: Ferðaþjónusta Vestfjarða, hiking tours,
population was 207. bike tours, ATV-Quad tours, jeep excursions, boat tours, fishing,
tel. 456-5006, www.wa.com.
Accommodation: Places of Interest:
• Bíldudalur Hostel, Hafnarbraut 2, tel. 456-2100/860-2100, • Selárdalur, works of art by Samúel Jónsson. Hringsdalur,
bíldudalurhostel@hotmail.com, www.hostel.is. • Hvestusandar, Dynjandi waterfall, Ketildalir, Geirþjófsfjörður.
• Stiklur, Dalbraut 1, tel. 456-5005/662-8446. • 424. Reykjafjarðarlaug (thermal pool) in Arnarfjörður,
Camping Site: By the Byltu sports center, tel. 450-2354. www.watertrail.is.
Jón Sigurðsson Open 11 – 18 daily from

June 1 - Sept. 8 or by arrangement.
Coffee served in the turfhouse.
Memorial Museum Hrafnseyri
Life in the interest
of the nation
A new interesant exhibition
about the life and work of Jon
Sigurdsson was opened on his 200
www.hrafnseyri.is years birthday, June 17th, 2011.
93
Transportation: tion. The garden is an example of successful horticulture in a northern
• Flugfélagið Ernir, tel. 562-4200, www.ernir.is, climate, and is therefore a notable part of the country’s horticultural histo-
• scheduled flights between Bíldudalur-Reykjavík. ry. In 2013 Skrúður was awarded the International Carlo Scarpa Prize for
• Flybus, tel. 893-2636. Patreksfjörður, Tálknafjörður, Gardens, named after the architect Carlo Scarpa, by the Benetton Re-
• Bíldudalur, airport. search Institute in Italy.
Events:
• June 4 – 6: Sjómannadagurinn, Seamen’s Festival. Numerous walking paths are in the Ísafjörður area and route maps are
• Baunagrasið, family music festival. available at the Tourist Information Center in Ísafjörður.
Hiking routes have been marked on the peninsula between Önundarfjörður

and Dýrafjörður: 1) From the old road towards the top of Gerðhamradalur,
ÍSAFJARÐARBÆR up to Núpsdalsskarð pass, down into the west side of Núpsdalur valley and
on to Alviðrusel. 2) Westward from Sandsheiði heath to Óþoli, then along
Ísafjarðarbær is a municipality in the Westfjords that incorporates four res- the edge of Mt. Skagafjall to Sandskörð, where the path links up to the
idential areas in the western part of the region: Ísafjörður, on Skutulsfjörður Sandskarðadalur route. 3) From Nesdalsskarð up the mountain to Hraun-
fjord; Suðureyri, on Súgandafjörður fjord; Flateyri, on Önundarfjörður fjord; shorn, then along the edge to Búdarhorn, northward to the land survey
and Þingeyri, on Dýrafjörður fjord. Tall mountains separate these residential cairn on the farthest edge of Barði, which olverlooks Leikvöllur, between
areas and a tunnel has been built through Breiðadalsheiði and Botnsheiði Purka and Geldingaskál. From the cairn, the trail goes on to Ingjaldshaugur
heaths to connect the areas. The region is characterized by majestic and then Kriki in Skáladalur.
mountain ranges, which many call the “Alps of the Westfjords.” This is
Hnífsdalsheiði moor and Heiðarskarð pass. This trail joins Syðridalur in
where Kaldbakur (998 m) is located, the tallest mountain in the Westfjords.
Bolungarvík with Hnífsdalur Valley, and was referred to as Óshlíð (where
On January 1, 2016, the population was 3,014.
the road now lies) in olden times, especially when used for horse and
cattle. The walk starts at the electricity plant in Syðridalur (built in 1953)
FACILITIES IN ARNARFJÖRÐUR and heads up the heather-covered slope along the track to the reservoir at
Camping Sites: 430. Dynjandi, Arnarfjörður. Reiðhjalli. It continues along Heiðarskarð (500 m), which offers an out-
standing panoramic view, and then down a grassy slope into Hnífsdalur,
Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hrafnseyri, Arnarfjörður, tel. 456-8260.
following an old, hardly visible track. The track reaches the deserted farm-
Museums/Exhibitions: The Jón Sigurðsson memorial museum, house at Neðri-Hnífsdalur on the other side of the Hnífsdalsá River.
Hrafnseyri, Arnarfjörður, honoring the memory of the independence
movement leader. Open June 1 – Sept. 8, 11 – 18 and by arrange-
ment, tel. 456-8260/845-5518, www.hrafnseyri.is.
Places of Interest:
• Dynjandi waterfall, a walking trail follows the river Dynjandís to the
ÞINGEYRI
falls. Þingeyri, situated on the southern part of Dýrafjörður fjord, is one of the
• Svalvogar, a magnificent route accessible by jeep during summer.
oldest trading posts in the West Fjords. The community has a good har-
• Many enjoyable cycle paths and trails. Ask for information
bor and the settlement grew in the latter part of the 19th century. Þing-
regarding the conditions of the paths.
eyrarkirkja church was designed by Rögnvaldur Ólafsson (1874 – 1917)
Events: and consecrated in 1911. The altarpiece is by the painter Þórarinn B.
• June 17: The National Day celebrated at Hrafnseyri, the birthplace Þorláksson (1867 – 1924). Þingeyri was once the site of an 18th centu-
of Jón Sigurðsson. ry storehouse or warehouse, dating back to 1734, which is now being
• June: Midsummer Night´s Happenings, Hrafnseyri.
reconstructed. It is considered one of the oldest buildings in Iceland. On
January 1, 2016, the population was 237.
Þingeyri served as a base for halibut fishermen from the USA in the late
IN THE VICINITY OF ÍSAFJÖRÐUR 19th century. French seamen were also frequent guests there. The fish-
Dynjandi, a waterfall on Dynjandisá River, is the most impressive waterfall ing industry accounts for most of the employment in Þingeyri, although
in the West Fjords. It plunges over a 100 m cliff top, cascading over many other industries also offer work, including a growing tourism industry.
thresholds on the way down, spreading from 30 m wide at the top to 60 The oldest working machine shop in Iceland, named Guðmundur J. Sig-
m at the bottom. Smaller falls can be found further down the river. Dynjan- urðsson, is in Þingeyri. It began operations in 1913 and has been kept in
di is a protected site. virtually its original state since that time. It serviced domestic and foreign
Hrafnseyri is a church and farm in Arnarfjörður. The farm was named after ships and was renowned both within Iceland and abroad. The shop is
Hrafn Sveinbjarnarson, a 12th – 13th century physician and chieftain who open to visitors.
lived there. Hrafnseyri is the birthplace of independence movement leader
Jón Sigurðsson and there is a chapel and memorial museum to commem- FACILITIES IN ÞINGEYRI
orate him open during the summer.
Local Tourist information: Vallargata 1,
Skrúður garden was founded by Reverend Sigtryggur Guðlaugsson, the tel. 456-8304, umthingeyri@snerpa.is.
dean at Núpur. The garden was officially opened on August 7, 1909. The Accommodation:
purpose of the garden is to memorialize itself and to encourage public • Guesthouse Við Fjörðinn, tel. 456-8172/898-8258.
schools to preserve nature’s bounty and continue environmental educa- • Guesthouse Vera, tel. 891-6832, fax 456-8232.
94
433 núpur guesthouse 439 kirkjuból in bjarnardalur
Núpur 2 - Dýrafjörður - 471 Þingeyri Önundarfjörður - 425 Flateyri
 456-8235 - info@nupur.is - www.nupur.is  456-7679 - info@kirkjubol.is - www.kirkjubol.is
90 8 1
10 3
• Hotel Sandafell, tel. 456-1600, gisting@hotelsandafell.com, Ísafjörður, www.isafjordur.is/thjonusta/straetisvagnar.

www.hotelsandafell.com. • F & S Bus Service, tel. 893-1058, Friðfinnur.
• Guesthouse Fjarðargata 10, tel. 864-5050 Events:
Camping Site: By the swimming pool, facilities for caravans, • July 1-3: Dýrafjörður Days, family festival with a Viking touch,
tel. 450-8470. tel. 861-3267.
Restaurants: • July 15 – 16: Storm Horse Show at Sandar, tel. 896-8245.
• N1 Kiosk, tel. 456-8380/456-8246. • July 16: Running Festival: Fun Run, Family Cycling and Svalvoga
• Simba-höllin, café, tel. 899-6659/869-5654. Cycling Race.
• Sandafell, tel. 456-1600, gisting@hotelsandafell.com. • July 17: Vesturgatan, a wilderness running festival past Svalvogar,
between Arnarfjörður and Dýrafjörður, tel. 862 3291,
Leisure/Sport: www.hlaupahatid.is.
• Swimming pool with hot tubs, steam room and solarium, • July 15 – 17: Part of the Running Festival in the Westfjords.
tel. 450-8470.
• Sports center, tel. 450-8470, with fitness equipment, etc.
• Golf in Meðaldalur, 9 holes, tel. 896-2879. FACILITIES IN DÝRAFJÖRÐUR
• West Horses, horse rental, Sandar, tel. 899-6659/869-5654.
• Simba-höllin, bicycle rental, tel. 899-6659/869-5654. Accommodation:
• Guided walking tours in the vicinity of Saga character • 433. Hótel Núpur, Dýrafjörður, tel. 456-8235,
• Gísli Súrsson´s home in Haukadalur, tel. 863-2412/894-1684. info@hotelnupur.is, www.hotelnupur.is.
• Interesting hiking paths in the vicinity, maps available at • 434. Höfði gistihús, tel. 456-3042, hofdi@snerpa.is.
• Information Center and many other places. • Alviðra vacation house, Dýrafirði tel. 895-0080/895-7179
Health Care Center/Pharmacy: Aðalstræti 26, tel. 456-8122. Camping Sites: 434. Hotel Núpur, Dýrafjörður,
tel. 456-8235/864-9737.
For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tire repair.
Restaurants/Snack Bars: Hótel Núpur, Dýrafjörður, tel. 456-8235.
Local handicrafts: Gallery Koltra, Vallargata 1, tel. 456-8304,
umthingeyri@snerpa.is. Places of Interest:
• Skrúður, nature park at Núpur in Dýrafjörður.
Museum:
• Ingjaldssandur (midnight sun).
• Gamla smiðjan, workshop of Guðmundur J. Sigurðsson,
• Haukadalur in Dýrafjörður, the scene of the Saga of Gísli Súrsson.
• Hafnarstræti, the oldest operating machinery shop in Iceland,
• The Westfjordur Alps. Hiking trail maps available of the peninsula
with all original machinery on-site, tel. 456-8331/8253/894-
between Dýrafjörður and Arnarfjörður with routes up to the top of
6424, open weekdays 9 – 18 and by arrangement.
Kaldbak, the highest mountain in the Westfjords, and other
• Vikings of the West Fjords, Viking circle, long-fire, performances,
interesting trails.
dancing, facilities for over 400 persons, grill parties, children’s play
• The top of the Dýrafjörður fjord, forested hiking trails with good
area.
pathways.
Places of interest: Mt. Sandafell above the village; a road leads up • The Salvogar ringroad, a magnificent road with excellent view,
the mountain to a viewing dial with an excellent view. passable
Transportation: • in summer for 4WD jeeps. Also suitable for hiking and biking.
• Vestfirskar ævintýraferðir, scheduled coach service to Flateyri and Check on road conditions.
95
FLATEYRI • Gamla bókabúðin, Hafnarstræti 35, an exhibition dedicated to the
history of Flateyri.
Flateyri is on Önundarfjörður fjord and has been a trading post for over • International Doll Museum, Hafnarstræti 11,
two centuries. Hans Ellefsen operated a whaling station there for 12 tel. 456-7676/894-8836.
years, until it burned down in 1901. After this occurred, he gave gov- • The Nonsense Museum, a collection of curious things, Hafnarstræti
ernment minister Hannes Hafstein (1861 – 1922) his stately house at 11, tel. 894-8836
• Exhibition dedicated to dried fish and hard fish production in the
Sólbakki, which Hannes then had moved to Reykjavík. Today it is situ-
black house on Hafnarstræti.
ated on Tjarnargata, by Tjörnin pond, and is used for government
meetings. An avalanche tragically fell on the town in late 1995. Defen- Transportation:
sive walls were then constructed, which tower over the town. On Jan- Vestfirskar ævintýraferðir, scheduled coach service
uary 1, 2016, the population was187. to Þingeyri and Ísafjörður, www.isafjordur.is/straetisvagnar.
FACILITIES IN FLATEYRI FACILITIES IN ÖNUNDARFJÖRÐUR

Accommodation: Accommodation:
• Grænhöfði, tel. 456-7762/ 863-7662. • 439. Kirkjuból in Bjarnardalur, Önundarfjörður, tel. 456-7679.
• Brynjukot, tel. 456-7762/861-8976. • 440. Youth Hostel in Korpudalur, tel. 456-7808.
• Iceland Pro-fishing, tel. 456-6667, www.icelandprofishing.com, • 441. Guesthouse/Friðarsetrið Holt, Önundarfjörður,
info@icelandprofishing.com. • tel. 456-7611.
• Sölvahús, tel. 860-6062.
Leisure and Sport:
• Litlabýli Guesthouse, Ránargata 2, 425 Flateyri, tel. 848-0920
• Veiði í Hestá
• Síma Hostel, Ránargata 1, tel. 897-8700,
• BS Tours, Sightseeing tours for 4-17 people. Bird watching,
www.icelandwestfjords.com, s.svavarsson@gmail.com.
northern lights tours, etc. Car rental. tel. 770-5080, www.bstours.is.
Camping site: On the outskirts of town, tel. 450-8460.
Camping Sites:
Restaurants/Snack Bars: • 440. Korpudalur, tel. 456-7808.
• Vagninn, Hafnarstræti 19, tel. 456-7751. • 441. Holt in Önundarfjörður, tel. 456-7611.
• N1 Kiosk, grill, tel. 456-7878.
For Motorists: Garage and tire repair.
• Félagsbær, Hafnarstræti 11, café, tel. 456-7676/456-7710.
Local Handicrafts: Sæból II at Ingjaldssandur, tel. 456-7782.
Leisure and Sport:
Events: Aug. 6: Sandcastle contest at Holt, Önundarfjörður.
• Swimming pool, Tjarnargata, tel. 450-8460.
• Guided hikes, tel. 456-7621.
• Kayak rental, Grænhöfði, tel. 456-7762/863-7662.
• Iceland Pro-fishing, sea fishing, tel. 455-6667,
www.icelandprofishing.com, info@icelandprofishing.com. SUÐUREYRI
• Scenic boating trips and deep sea fishing, Síma hostel,
tel. 897-8700. Suðureyri is a village beneath Mt. Spillir on Súgandafjörður fjord. A
• E-guide to the village, device available from the filling station. memorial has been erected to poet Magnús Hj. Magnússon (1873 –
1916). He is the inspiration for Ólafur Ljósvíking in the novel Heimsljós,
Health Care Center: Hrannargata 2, tel. 456-7638.
by Nobel Laureate Halldór Laxness. On January 1, 2016, the popula-
For Motorists: Filling station. tion was 268.
Local Handicrafts/Community Center:
• Multicultural Center, Hafnarstræti 4, tel. 456-7710. Accommodation:
• Workshop Purka, Hafnarstræti 11, tel. 456-7676. • Fisherman Hotel, Aðalgata 14-16, tel. 450-9000,
• Vagnin, Hafnarstræti 10, tel. 456-7751. • fisherman@fisherman, is www.fisherman.is.
• Comfy Guesthouse, Túngötu 2, tel. 456-4600, www.comfy.is,
booking@comfy.is.
• Iceland Pro-fishing, tel. 455-6667, www.icelandprofishing.com,
info@icelandprofishing.com.
Camping Sites:
• Next to the Bakkabúð snack bar.
Snack Bars:
• Bakkabúðin, Rómarstígur 10, tel. 868-3509.
• Restaurant Talisman, tel. 450-9005.
• Kaupfélag Súgfirðinga, Aðalgata, café, tel. 450-9000.
Leisure/Sport:
• Swimming pool, Túngata 8, tel. 450-8490.
• Fisherman, deep-sea fishing, tel. 450-9000.
• 66 Guesthouse, electric bike rental, tel. 770-0434.
• Fisherman Hotel, bike rental, tel. 450-9000.
96
DÝRAFJÖRÐUR.
• Iceland Pro-fishing, sea fishing, tel. 455-6667, key trading port in the West Fjords when the Danish trade monopoly
www.icelandprofishing.com, info@icelandprofishing.com. was at its peak. One of the oldest clusters of houses in Iceland stands
• Many interesting hiking trails. at Neðstikaupstaður, near the harbor. Most of the houses are protected
Health Care Center: Túngata 2, tel. 456-6144. and were built between 1757 – 1784, with the oldest one, Krambúðin,
For Motorists: Filling station. from 1757. There is a folk and maritime museum located in town. On
January 1, 2016, the population of Ísafjörður and Hnífsdalur was
Local Handicrafts: Handverkshús, Aðalgata 15, tel. 456-6163.
2,559.
Sightseeing and Hiking:
• Deep-sea fishing. Police: Hafnarstræti 1, tel. 444-0400, 112 for emergencies.
• Hiking map for the area available.
Tourist Information Center: Aðalstræti 7, tel. 450-8060, open in
• Guided history tour around the seaside village and seafood tasting,
summer Mon. – Fri. 8 – 18, Sat. 8 - 15, and Sun. 10 – 15; during the
visit a baiting shed, the pier, freezing plant and go fishing, tel.
rest of the year Mon. – Fri. 8 – 16. info@vestfirdir.is, www.westfjords.is.
450-9000.
Accommodation:
Transportation: Vestfirskar ævintýraferðir, scheduled coach service
• Hótel Ísafjörður, Silfurtorg 2, tel. 456-4111, info@hotelisafjordur.is.
to Ísafjörður, www.isafjordur.is/thjonusta/straetisvagnar.
• Hotel Edda, Torfnes, tel. 444-4960, edda@hoteledda.is.
Events: • Gamla Gistihúsið, Mánagata 1 and 5, tel. 456-4146/897-4146,
• July 7-10: 25th annual Happiness Weekend in Suðureyri, tel. gistihus@gistihus.is.
861-7061, www.sudureyri.is. • Litla gistihúsið, Sundstræti 43, tel. 474-1455/893-6993.
• Aug. 10 – 13: Act Alone, Suðureyri. Solo Performance festival at • Gh. Áslaug – Faktorshouse at Austurvöllur, Hæstikaupstaður, tel.
Suðureyri on Súgandafjörður. 899-0742, gistias@snerpa.is.
• All events free of charge. • Austurvöll, tel. 899-0742, gistias@snerpa.is 
• Apartment Accommodation, Austurvegur 12, 400 Ísafjörður,
tel. 892-1623.
ÍSAFJÖRÐUR • Gistihúsið Silfurgata, tel. 863-5669/862-5669.

• RH-Apartments, Túngata 5, tel. 892-2118.
• Gentle Space Guest Apartments,
Nestled in Skutulsfjörður fjord, Ísafjörður is the largest town in the tel. 892-9282/867-6657, www.gentlespace.is.
Ísafjarðarbær district. In ancient times the community was named Ey- • Ski Lodge, Tungudalur, Kvennabrekka, tel. 860-5560.
rarhreppur. Merchants first settled there in 1569, and it became the • Hótel Horn, Austurvegur 2, tel. 456-4111.
97
• Húsið/Koddinn, Hrannargata 2, tel. 456-5555. Taxi:
• Massi, accommodation in home, tel. 862-5669/863-5669, • Taxi Station, tel. 456-3518.
www.massi.is. • Rúnar Þór Brynjólfsson, tel. 895-3595.
• Miðtún, farmhouse, Miðtúni 16, tel. 456-3139/892-3139. • Ólafur Halldórsson, tel. 865-3709.
• Fitjateigur, accommodation in home, Fitjateig 3, Hnífsdal, Car Rental:
tel. 863-1080/863-7039. • Bílaleiga Akureyrar-Europcar Iceland, tel. 840-6074.
• Grundargata 2, apartment, tel. 690-2241 • Hertz, tel. 522-4490.
• Sólheimar Studio Apartments, Engjavegur 9, tel. 891-7731 • Avis, tel. 660-0617.
• Gisting Sigríðar, apartment accommodation, Hlíðarvegur 35,
tel. 779-0215 Banks:
• Richtershús, house, Tangagata 6, tel. 840-4009 • Landsbankinn, Pólgata 1, tel. 410-4156,
• ATM in Hafnarstræti 9-11 in the Neisti shopping center.
Camping Sites: • Íslandsbanki, Hafnarstræti 1, tel. 440-4000, ATM.
• Hótel Edda at Menntaskólinn (the high school), tel. 444-4960.
• By the golf course in Tungudalur, tel. 864-8592. Post Office:
• Kagrafell, Neisti shopping center, opposite the Maritime Hafnarstræti 9-11, in the Neisti shopping center, tel. 456-5000.
Museum, tel. 862-8623. Alcohol Store: Aðalstræti 20, tel. 456-3455.
• Heimabær, Arnardalur, tel. 860-6062.
Local Handicrafts:
Restaurants/Snack Bars: • Karitas, Aðalstræti 20, tel. 897-3834.
• Við Pollinn, Hótel Ísafjörður, tel. 456-3360. • Hvesta, Aðalstræti 18, tel. 456-3290.
• Tjöruhúsið, Neisti shopping center, tel. 456-4419 (summer). • Rammagerð Ísafjarðar, Aðalstræti 16, tel. 456-3041.
• Thai Koon, Neisti shopping center Hafnarstræti 9-11,
tel. 456-0123.
• Byggðasafn Vestfjarða, Folk Museum, Neisti shopping center,
• Hamraborg, snack bar, Hafnarstæti 7, tel. 456-3166.
open May 15 – September 15, 9 – 18, and by arrangement at
• Krílið, drive-through, Sindragata 6, tel. 456-3556.
other times, tel. 456-3297/456-3299.
• Edinborg, bistro, café, bar, tel. 456-8335.
• Safnahúsið at Eyrartún, (the old hospital). Public Library, Art
• Kaffi Ísól, Austurvegur 1, tel. 456-6670.
Museum, and more, tel. 456-8220/895-7138.
• Húsið, Café, Hrannargata 2, tel. 456-5555.
• Edinborgarhúsið, Aðalstræti 7, tel. 456-5444.
• Bræðraborg Café, Aðalstræti 22b, tel. 456-3322.
• Gamla bakaríið, bakery, Aðalstræti 24, tel. 456-3226. Sightseeing and Hiking:
• Bakarinn Café, Hafnarstræti 14, tel. 456-4771. • Helga Hausner, tour guide, tel. 845-0845, hausner@simnet.is.
• West Tours, Aðalstræti 7, tour operator and travel agency, day tours
Community Centers:
and longer tours throughout the entire Westfjords peninsula.
• Heimabær, Arnardal, family reunions, parties and functions,
• Hiking and trekking, kayaking, boat tours, sea fishing, bike rental,
tel. 860-6062.
visit Vigur, Hesteyri, Hornstrandir Nature Reserve,
• Edinborg, cultural center, tel. 456-5444.
info@vesturferdir.is, www.vesturferdir.is, tel. 456-5111.
Leisure and Sport: • Sjóferðir, boat tours to Hornstrandir, Jökulfirðir and Vigur,
• Swimming pool, Austurvegur 9, tel. 450-8480. tel. 456-3879.
• Golf, Tungudalsvöllur, 9-hole and 6-hole training course, • BS Tours, guided sightseeing tours in vehicles for 4-17 people,
tel. 456-5081. tel. 778-5080.
• Putting green at Hlíf in Ísafjörður. • Wild Westfjords, Jeep and Group Tours throughout the Westfjords,
• Ski resort in Seljalandsdalur and Tungudalur, tel. 456-3793/3125. tel. 456-3300.
• Fishing in Pollurinn, free of charge. • Iceland Back Country Travel, jeep tours of the Westfjords,
• Vesturferðir, bicycle rental, Hornstrandir expeditions, tel.861-4694, www.ibctravel.is.
hiking tours, kayaking and sailing, tel. 456-5111. • Borea Adventures, kayaking tours, guided hikes, yachting, day trips
• Kagrafell, bicycle rental, hiking tours around the Westfjords, and longer trips, skiing trips, outdoors trips and adventure tours,
• Hornstrandir expeditions, Ísafjörður skiing trips, conference sea fishing, tel. 456-3322, www.borea.is.
organizing, etc. tel. 862-8623. • The Icelandic Sports Center, kayaking tours, yachting and
• Borea Adventures, kayaking, hiking trips, Hornstrandir expeditions, sailboats, tel. 895-5518, info@kayakcentre.is.
etc. tel. 456-3322. • Kagrafell ehf, various hiking tours in the Westfjords, Hornstrandir
• Sjósportmiðstöð Íslands, The Icelandic Sea Sport Center, kayaks, expeditions, Skiing in Ísafjörður, cross-country skiing trips,
sailboats, small vessels, tel. 895-5518, info@kayakcenter.is. conference organizing, etc. tel. 862-8623, kagrafell@hesteyri.is.
• Horse Rental, tel. 863-5669/862-5669. • Whale watching and nature tours on RIB boats, tel. 660-0617.
• BS Tours, Sightseeing tours for 4-17 people. Bird watching, • Viewing dial at Arnarnes lighthouse at the eastern shore of
northern lights tours, etc. Car rental. BS Tours tel. 770-5080, Skutulsfjörður.
www.bstours.is. • Hiking maps available at Tourist Information Center.
• Whale watching and nature tours on RIB boats, tel. 660-0617.
Transportation:
• Many interesting walks, hiking maps available at Tourist
• Air Iceland, scheduled flights to Reykjavík from Ísafjörður Airport,
Information Center.
tel. 456-3000/456-5340.
Hospital/Health Center: tel. 450-4500. • Valdimar L. Gíslason, scheduled bus services between Ísafjörður
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Pollgata 4, tel. 456-3009. Airport – Ísafjörður – Bolungarvík, tel. 456-7195/852-1417.
• Sophus, scheduled coach service to Suðureyri,
For Motorists: Filling stations, N1, OB, Orkan, garage and tire repair.
tel. 853-8355/893-8355.
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• Vestfirskar ævintýraferðir, scheduled coach service within the
Ísafjörður district, services from Ísafjörður to Suðureyri, Þingeyri to
Flateyri, tel. 893-6356, www.isafjordur.is/thjonusta/straetisvagnar.
• Vesturferdir Travel Agency. Organize and book coaches and short VIGUR - ÍSAFJARÐARDJÚP
trips for individuals and groups, tel. 456-5111, www.vesturferdis.is. Daily guided excursions with refreshments.
• Hópferðamiðstöð, scheduled bus trip between Ísafjörður and View colorful birdlife and stunning nature.
Hólmavíkur, tel. 893-1058.
• Westfjord Adventures, tours between Brjánslækur and
Patreksfjarðar, and Brjánslækur and Isafjordur. Take the ferry
Baldur. Also tours to Látrabjarg and beyond.
tel. 456-5006, www.wa.is.
Events:
• March 23 – 28: Ski Week.
• March 25 – 26: Aldrei fór ég suður, The Folk Rock Festival.
• April 27 – 30: Fossavatnsganga, Lake Fossavatn cross-country Inquire about trips
ski tournament for the general public: compete in 5, 10, at 456 5111 and vesturferdir@vesturferdir.is
25 and 50 km race, www.fossavatn.com.
• June 24 - 26: The Big Devil Tournament. Football/soccer
tournament for mature footballers, www.pukamot.is.
• Salt Fish Feast, Byggðarsafn Vestfjörður, www.nedsti.is. 448 Reykjanes in ísafjarðardjúp
• July 15 – 17: Running Festival in Ísafjarðarbær. Reykjanes - 401 Ísafjörður -  456-4844
• July 15: Ocean Swim, Suðurtangi, 500 m and 1500 m,
• Óshlíð run, Ísafjörður – Bolungarvík, half marathon, 10 km,
H r nes@r nes.is - www.r nes.is
www.hlaupahatid.is.
• July 29 – 31: European Championships in swamp soccer,
www.myrarbolti.com.
• Aug. 10 - 13: Act Alone, Suðureyri, Solo Performances festival
at Suðureyri við Súgandafjörð, komedia@komedia.is,
www.actalone.net.
• Sept. 3: Triathlon, organized by CraftSport.
• A triathlon made up of a 700 m swim, 17 km cycle and 7 km run.
Swim in Bolungarvík, cycle to Ísafjörður, and run once there, tel.
862-3291.
• Oct. 20 - 23: Winter Nights, art and cultural festival.
ÍSAFJARÐARDJÚP
80 32
Vigur and Ædey are the two largest islands in Ísafjarðardjúp, as well as
the only ones with inhabitants. They are renowned for their rich bird • 450. Dalbær, Snæfjallaströnd, tel. 868-1964.
life and history. There are regular sailing trips between Ísafjörður and
Vigur during the summer. Accommodation in Jökulfirðir:
• 455. Grunnavík Travel Service, tel. 456-4664/866-5491,
Reykjanes is a small peninsula between Ísafjörður and Reykjafjörður sigurross@snerpa.is.
fjords, in Ísafjarðardjúp. There is widespread geothermal activity in the • 456. The Doctor’s House, Hesteyri, tel. 456-7183/853-5034.
area. Salt was processed here in the past, but only for several years. Camping Sites in Djúp:
Production was resumed in Reykjanes in 2011 when the company • 446. Heydalur, Mjóifjörður, tel. 456-4824/892-0809.
Saltverk was established. • 448. Reykjanes Travel Service, tel. 456-4844/854-0747.
• 450. Dalbær, tel. 868-1964.
Kaldalón is a receding valley glacier at the head of a small tributary
fjord in Ísafjarðardjúp. Through it flows Mórilla, a river whose source is Camping Sites in Jökulfirðir:
at Drangajökull glacier. This is an area of raw nature and intense con- • 455. Grunnavík Travel Service, tel. 456-4664/866-5491,
sigurross@snerpa.is.
trasts. The composer Sigvaldi Kaldalóns (1881 – 1946) practiced as a
district physician in Nauteyrar and lived in Ármúli, south of Kaldalón, Restaurants/Snack Bars:
which is where he derived his adopted surname. • Vigur Isafjarðardjúp, tel. 456-5111.
• Ögur, tel. 857-1840, ogur@ogurtravel.is.
Accommodation in Djúp: • Heydalur, Mjóifjörður, tel. 456-4824/892-0809.
• 446. Heydalur, Mjóifjörður, tel. 456-4824/892-0809, • Reykjanes, restaurant, tel. 456-4844.
heydalur@heydalur.is, www.heydalur.is. • Dalbær, Snæfjallaströnd, café serving lunch and dinner (by prior
• 448. Reykjanes Travel Service, tel. 456-4844/854-0747, arrangement), tel. 868-1964.
r nes@rnes.is, www.r nes.is. • The Doctor’s House, Hesteyri, Jökulfirðir, tel. 456-7183/853-5034.
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place from Folafótur and there are indications that a small fishing
446 Ævintýradalurinn settlement formed here. (18 km, about 6 hours.)
Heydalur - Mjóifjörður - 401 Ísafjörður Events:

H  456-4824 - heydalur@heydalur.is - www.heydalur.is • Spring festival at Heydalur in Ísafjarðardjúp.
• Inndjúp Day – medieval festival in Vatnsfjörður and Heydalur in
Ísafjarðardjúp.
BOLUNGARVÍK
Bolungarvík is the northernmost town in the West Fjords, standing
near the outer edge of Ísafjarðardjúp. Fishing has been practiced here
since settlement times, and for centuries Bolungarvík was one of Ice-
land’s largest fishing stations. Trading, along with a permanent settle-
ment, began in 1890. The community was made accessible by land in
1950, when the road over Óshlíð was opened. Nowadays there is a
19 9 9
tunnel between Hnífsdalur and Bolungarvík, as the Óshlíð Road was
considered dangerous due to the risk of rockslides. The Ósvör Mari-
time Museum in Bolungarvík is in a restored fishing hut, which is rem-
iniscent of the old days of rowboat fishing. Exhibits at the West Fjords
Natural History Museum include a polar bear. On January 1, 2016, the
population was 882.
Leisure and Sport:
• Ögur Travel, enjoy the experience and relax, kajaking, hiking tours, Local Tourist Information: Vitastígur 1, tel. 450-7010,
catering, tel. 857-1840, ogur@travel.com, www.ogurtravel.com. open in summer, touristinfo@bolungarvik.is.
• Daily excursions with a guide and refreshments. Police: Aðalstræti 12, tel. 444-0400; 112 for emergencies.
• View colorful birdlife and beautiful nature, tel. 456-5111,
vesturferdir@vesturferdir.is. Accommodation:
• Heydalur, Mjóifjörður, horse rental, snowmobiling, kayaking, fishing, • Mánafell, apartments, tel. 863-3879, arndis@vetfirdir.is,
beautiful hiking and riding trails, swimming pool and natural hot www.orkudisa.is.
springs, bird watching, tel. 456-4824/892-0809, • Gistihúsið Gil, tel. 893-6860, gil@gil.is.
heydalur@heydalur.is, www.heydalur.is. • Hotel Vaxon, tel. 862-2221, haukur@vaxon.is, www.vaxon.is.
• 448. Swimming pool in Reykjanes, tel. 456-4844. • Einarshúsið, Hafnargata 41, tel. 456-7901/864-7901,
• Svaðilfari, horse rental, tel. 456-4858/869-4859. ragna@einarshusid.is.
• Fishing in Laugardalsá River, tel. 456-4811. Camping Site: By the swimming pool, tel. 456-7381.
• Vigur, Ísafjarðardjúp, guided hiking tours, tel. 456-5111,
Restaurants:
salvarb@simnet.is.
• Shell-Kiosk, Þuríðarbraut 13, tel. 456-7554.
For Motorists: Filling station at Reykjanes. • Einarshúsið, Hafnargata 41, tel. 456-7901/864-7901,
Museums and Exhibitions: ragna@einarshusid.is.
• SaltVerk, tours through artisanal sea salt production facility in Health Center: Höfðastígur 15, tel. 456-7287.
Reykjanes. Pharmacy: Lyfja, Höfðastígur 15, tel. 456-7314.
• Dalbær, Snæfjallaströnd, Deserted farms and fairy wights in the old
For Motorists: Orkan and OB gas stations, garage and tire repair.
Snjæfjallahreppur and Grunnvíkurhreppur parishes, exhibition on
composer and doctor Sigvaldi Kaldalóns, Bank/Post: Íslandspóstur/Landsbankinn, Aðalstræti 14,
snjafjallasetur@snjafjallasetur.is, www.snjafjallasetur.is. tel. 580-1200, ATM.
• Litlibær, Skötufjörður, a farmstead renovated and restored for the Local Handicrafts:
National Museum of Iceland’s Building Collection. • Drymla, Vitastíg 1, tel. 862-4375.
• Vatnsfjörður, church, watchtower, walking paths, archaeological • Listasmiðja Bolungarvíkur, Hafnargata, tel. 895-7403.
excavation, search for a settlement farm.
Guided tour around the site, tel. 456-4832. Museum/Exhibition:
• Steinshús, Home of poet Steinn Steinarr, Nauteyri, tel. 822-1508. • Náttúrugripasafnið/Museum of Natural History,
• Vitastígur 3, tel. 456-7507/456-7005, www.nabo.is,
Places of Interest: Vigur, Folafótur, Hvítanes and Drangajökull Glacier. nabo@nabo.is.
Hiking Trails: • Ósvör, fishing hut, tel. 456-7005/892-5744, osvor@osvor.is,
• Valagil – Enjoyable walk around Seljandsdal at the top of www.osvor.is.
Álftafjörður. Passing through the beautiful spot of Valagil. Leisure and Sport:
• Hestur – A circular walk around this majestic and craggy • Swimming pool, Höfðastígur 1, tel. 456-7381.
mountain. This pathway leads to the end of the ness called • Golf, 18 holes. Minigolf and playground, opposite the Music
Folafótur (foal’s hoof). The route is comfortable with no steep School.
gradients. In previous centuries a great deal of fishing activity took • Trout and salmon fishing in Ósá River and Lake Miðdalsvatn,
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OsvOr.is NABO.is
Ósvör Maritime Museum Natural History Museum of Bolungarvík
Walk through this reconstruction of a 19th century fishing Polar bear, hooded seal, mammals, birds, mineral collection and
station, guided by our curator dressed in traditional museum store. Summer opening hours: weekdays
fisherman´s clothes. Summer opening hours: weekdays 09:00-17:00, weekends 10:00-17:00
09:00-17:00, weekends 10:00-17:00 Winter: weekdays 09:00-16:00 and by appointment at weekends
Winter: by appointment only - Osvor.is
BOLUNGArviK.is BOLUNGArviK.is
Swimming Pool and Sports Center Bolungarvík Harbour
Indoor pool, hot tubs and waterslide, gym and steam bath Visit the heart of town, harbour life is full of activity
with relaxation area. Summer opening hours: Last year the harbour handled 3,700 landings with a total fishing
weekdays 06:15-21:00, weekends 10:00-18:00. catch of 15,000 tons. Open every day, all year round, visitors
Winter: weekdays 06:15-09:00, weekends 16:00-21:00 welcome, harborside paths.
fishing permits from the Shell station, Þuríðarbraut, • Mid-Sept: Sheep Roundup in Bolungarvík. Everyone welcome to
tel. 456-7554/456-7284. experience this farming tradition.
• Fishing from the pier, safety vests available at Hafnarvogin. • For more information visit www.bolungarvik.is.
• Víkurbátar, sea fishing, boat rental, guided tours,
tel. 456-7999/862-2221.
Places of Interest and Hikes:
• Ósvör, outside the village, a complete reconstruction of old landing
SÚÐAVÍK
facilities and fishermen’s huts. Open daily in summer, and by
appointment in winter. The village of Súðavík is located on the banks of Álftafjördur fjord in the
• Mt. Bolafjall, panoramic views, approachable by road in July – Aug. Súðavíkurhreppur district. Súðavík was first named a village in the
• West Fjords Botanical Gardens, at the Community Hall. population count of 1880, but settlement didn’t start until the mid 19th
• Collection of plants from the West Fjords. Open all year. Free entry. century. Súðavíkurhreppur district begins at the deepest point of
• Beautiful walking paths. Ísafjörður fjord in the south and extends to the rock called Brúðar-
• Skálavík, unique natural beauty, diverse hiking paths. hamar in the north, just outside the entrance to Álftafjörður fjord. The
• Surtarbrandsnáma (lignite mine) in Syðridalur, marked footpaths, village of Súðavík is divided into two parts: inner and outer habitation.
historical remains. The dwellings in the outer habitation are only inhabited in the summer
Transportation: months, while the inner habitation is a new development that was built
• Valdimar L. Gíslason, scheduled coach service between further into the fjord after an avalanche destroyed the old village on
• Ísafjörður and Bolungarvík, tel. 456-7195/892-1417. January 16, 1995. Súðavík has a range of industries; production of pet
• Fly-Bus: Scheduled service to and from the airport through Ísafjörður. food and bag bait for line fishing vessels, canning of cod liver, dried
fish production, fish farming, a fish processing plant, agriculture and
Events:
• June 2 – 4: Seamen’s Festival on National Seamen’s tourism. On January 1, 2016, the population was 251.
• Day and the music festival Þorskurinn (The Cod).
• July 1 – 3: Market Day Weekend. Accommodation:
• Sept. 3: Triathlon organized by CraftSport. A triathlon made up of a • Blómsturvellir, tel. 846-8573.
700 m swim, 17 km cycle and 7 km run. Swim in Bolungarvík, • Swanfjord guesthouse, Langeyri, tel. 865-8865,
cycle to Ísafjörður, and run there, tel. 456-3110. swanfjord@simnet.is.
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G Finna Hótel G steinhúsið hólmavík
Borgarbraut 4 - 510 Hólmavík Höfðagötu 1 - 510 Hólmavík
 451-3136 - finnahotel@simnet.is - www.finnahot.is  856-1911 - steinhusid@simnet.is - www.steinhusid.is
28 2 2 1 14 2 1 3
480 kirkjuból travel service H Malarhorn

Kirkjuból - 510 Hólmavík -  451-3474 - Grundargata 17 - 520 Drangsnes -  853-6520
G kirkjubol@strandir.is - www.strandir.is/kirkjubol G Fax 451 3268 - malarhorn@malarhorn.is - www.malarhorn.is
Puffin excursion
in Grímsey
at Steingrímsfjörðu
r
15 15 12 10 8 10
10
Camping Site: at the end of Túngata with facilities Grundarstræti 3, tel. 580-1200.
for campers and trailers, tel. 450-5900. • Kaupfélagið, shop and coffee house: Grundastræti 3.
Restaurants/Snack Bars: tel: 893-0472
• Rebbakaffi, Arctic Fox Center, Eyrardal, tel. 456-4922. Places of Interest/Hikes:
• Amma Habbý, tel. 456-5060. • A variety of hiking routes, e.g. in Valagil.
Leisure and Sport: Iceland Tour Guy, hiking tours, birdwatching, • Raggagarður, family park with grill area and playground for
tel. 868-0566, www.icelandtourguy.com, eggert@icelandtourguy.com. children, www.raggagardur.is.
Health Care Centre: Service Center Álftaver, Grundarstræti 3, Transport: Hópfeðamiðstöð, scheduled service between Isafjördur
tel. 456-4966. and Hólmavíkur with a stop in Súðavík. Make connections to
Reykjavík and Akureyri, tel. 893-1058.
For Motorists:
• Orkan filling station. Events:
• Helgi Bjarni Auto Repairs, tel. 456-4977/893-8857. • July 15: Arnarneshlaup. Run from Súðavík to Ísafjörður. Half
marathon and 10 km. Part of the West Fjords Running Festival,
Museum: The Arctic Fox Center, Eyrardalsbærinn, www.hlaupahatid.is
tel. 456-4922/862-8219, www.melrakki.is. • July 29 - Aug. 8: Gönguhátið, Hiking Festival
Bank/Post Office: • Sept. 2 – 4: Bláberjadagar, blueberry days.
• Landsbankinn og Íslandspóstur, in the Álftaver Service Center,
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HÓLMAVÍK DRANGSNES
Hólmavík stands on the southwestern side of Steingrímsfjörður fjord. Drangsnes, a fishing village on the Selströnd shore at the mouth of
Trade began in Hólmavík about 100 years ago. Today a government Steingrímsfjörður fjord, began developing in the 1920s. Drangsnes
administration office is located in the town. Memorials to poet Stefán gets its name from the tall rock pillar on the shore, named Kerling. It is
frá Hvítdal (1887 – 1933) and one-time Prime Minister Hermann said that Kerling is one of three troll women who tried unsuccessfully
Jónsson (1896 – 1976) can be found in Skeljavík, just south of the to dig a ditch to separate the West Fjords from the mainland. On Jan-
village. On January 1, 2016, the population was 341. uary 1, 2016, the population was 73.
Police: Skeiði 2, tel. 444-0400; 112 for emergencies. Accommodation:

Local Tourist Information: Höfðagata 8-10, (Galdrasafnið) in the • Guesthouse Sunnu, Holtagata 10, tel. 451-3230.
Magic and Witchcraft Museum, tel. 451-3111, info@holmavik.is, • Guesthouse Malarhorn, Grundargata 17,
www.holmavik.is/info. tel. 853-65207, malarhorn@malarhorn.is, www.malarhorn.is.
Accommodation: Camping Site:

• Finna Hótel, Borgabraut 4, tel. 451-3136, By the Baldur Community Center, tel. 451-3207/451-3277.
finnahotel@simnet.is, www.finnahotel.is. Restaurant/Snack Bar: Malarkaffi, Holtagata
• Steinhúsið, Höfðagata 1, tel. 856-1911, tel. 451-3238/896-0337, malarhorn@malarhorn.is.
steinhusid@simnet.is, www.steinhusid.is. Leisure and Sport:
• Iceland Visit Hostel, Hafnarbraut 25, tel. 860-6670 • Swimming pool by Grundargata, tel. 451-3201.
Camping Site: By the community center, tel. 451-3560. • Hot tubs on the shore by Aðalbraut.
Restaurants/Snack Bars: For Motorists: Pay-at-the-pump facilities by Co-op N1,
• Söluskáli Kaupfélagsins, tel. 455-3107. tel. 451-3225.
• Café Riis, Hafnarbraut 39, tel. 451-3567/897-9756, Post Office/Store:
caferiis@caferiis.is, www.caferiis.is. • Co-op Steingrímsfjörður, tel. 451-3225.
• Galdur Restaurant, Höfðagata 8-10, tel. 451-3525. • Post Office, tel. 451-3200.
Leisure and Sport: Excursions:
• Swimming pool by the camping site, tel. 451-3560. • Sundhani ST-3, tel. 451-3238/852-2538/899-4238, cruises to
• Golf at Skeljavík, 9 holes. Motocross track. Grímsey Island, Steingrímsfjörður, nature watching, sea-fishing in
• Marked hiking trails, maps available at the Tourist Info Center. Húnaflói bay, www.malarhorn.is.
• Birdwatching in Tungugrafarvogar, tel. 451-3111. • Events: June 11: Sumarmölin, Music Festival.
• Strandahestar, horseback riding and riding lessons,
tel. 451-3262/862-3263.
Groceries and alcohol:
• State Alcohol Store: Vínbúð, tel. 461-2114.
HORNSTRANDIR
• Kaupfélag Steingrímsfjarðar, tel. 455-3100.
Those hikers who want to see Iceland in its purest form should look
Health Care Center/Pharmacy: Borgabraut 8, north to Hornstrandir. Hornstrandir is a protected area on the most
tel. 455-5200/455-5208. recently-formed arm of the West Fjords, and an area which hasn’t
For Motorists: N1 and OB filling stations, Vignis garage and tire been inhabited by human beings for more than 60 years. Since then,
repair tel. 855-0031. nature alone has prevailed and so one might say that at Hornstrandir,
Banks: Sparisjóður, Hafnarbraut 19, tel. 455-5050. you can see Iceland as it was at the time of the settlement.
Post Office: Hafnarbraut 19, tel. 455-5050. For the most part, hikers who stay overnight in Hornstrandir will have
Local Handicrafts: Strandakúnst, Höfðagata 3. to camp in tents, although there are a few guest houses in the area,
Exhibition: the main ones being at Hesteyri, Hornbjargsviti, and Reykjarfjörður.
Magic and Witchcraft Museum, Hólmavík,
Hikers should come to this area well-prepared, as the conditions in
Höfðagata 8 – 10, tel. 451-3525, galdrasyning@holmavik.is,
this area are rather harsh and any kind of weather can be expected at
www.galdrasyning.is.
any time of year. Comparable ecosystems to the one at Hornstrandir
Transportation: are few and far between, and in Iceland, it’s hard to find such a large
• Strætó, scheduled coach service to and from Reykjavík and area that hasn’t been grazed by animals for such a sustained period of
Hólmavík, tel. 540-2700, www.straeto.is. time. As such, the vegetation and flora of the area is particularly
• Hópfeðamiðstöð, scheduled service between Isafjördur and unique. The arctic fox is a protected species within the reserve and so
Hólmavíkur with a stop in Súðavík. Make connections to Reykjavík
these creatures are less fearful of people here than they are in other
and Akureyri, tel. 893-1058.
parts of the country. Therefore, a visit to Hornstrandir also offers the
Events: rare opportunity of observing the arctic fox in its natural habitat.
June 24 – 26: Happy Days in Hólmavík, family festival.
www.hamingjudagar.is, hamingjudagar@hamingjudagar.is. It’s only possible to get to Hornstrandir by boat, with ferries traveling to
the area from Ísafjörður, Bolungarvík, and Norðurfjörður. Find more
information online, for instance at vestferdir.is.
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469 urðartindur 471 hótel djúpavík
Norðurfjörður 1 - 524 Árneshreppur -  843-8110 524 Árneshreppur
G urdartindur@urdartindur.is - www.urdartindur.is G  451-4037 - djupavik@snerpa.is - www.djupavik.is
32
16 40
36
Car repairs > Kayak rental

Guided tours
Djúpavík History Museum
470 finnbogastaðir - school

S
Trékyllisvík - 524 Árneshreppur -  451-4001
STRANDIR
Trékyllisvík is a northerly cove and setting for historical events on
Strandir, the harsh and exposed “backbone” of the West Fjords. The
Sturlunga Saga tells that this is where Þórður called together his sup-
porters to fight in the Flóa Battle. Once a major fishing center, which
attracted seasonal workers from far and wide, it is still the most flour-
ishing community in the area. Off the coast of Trékyllisvík is Árnesey
Island, formally known as Trékyllisey.
Djúpavík is a former fishing center on Reykjarfjörður. There were at-

tempts to start up herring salting in 1917, but they were unsuccessful
and the company went bankrupt. However, the town became import-
ant for herring processing from the 1930s on, until herring vanished
from the Húnaflóa Bay and operations were abandoned.
Gjögur is a legendary fishing center at the mouth of Reykjarfjörður,

once renowned for its heroic open-boat shark fishermen, but now it is
Accommodation:
almost abandoned. In its heyday, 15-18 boats at a time would brave
• 467. Norðurfjörður, tel. 451-4017/568-2533. fi@fi.is
the elements to catch shark for liver oil and meat, which was cured. A
• 458. Lighthouse Hornbjargsviti, Látravík in Hornstrandir,
lighthouse was built on Gjögurnes point in 1921 and geothermal
tel. 568-2533.
• 460. Bolungarvík in Strandir, tel. 893-6926/852-8267. springs can be found to the north.
• 461. Reykjarfjörður in Strandir, tel. 456-7215/896-1715.
• 465. Ófeigsfjörður, t. 852-2629/554-4341. Accommodation:
• 458. Hornbjargsviti, Látravík at Hornstrandir, Ferðafélag Íslands
Camping Sites: (Icelandic Touring Association) tel. 568-2533
• 467. Norðurfjörður, Tel. 568-2533/451-4017. fi@fi.is • 460. Bolungarvík, in Strandir, tel. 893-6926/852-8267.
• 458. Lighthouse Hornbjargsviti, Látravík in Hornstrandir, • 461. Reykjarfjörður nyrðri, in Strandir, tel. 456-7215/896-1715.
tel. 568-2533. • 467. Valgeirsstaðir in Norðurfjörður, FÍ walking hut,
Transportation: tel. 568-2533/451-4017.
• Vesturferðir, Aðalstræti 7, Ísafjörður. tel. 456-5111, • 469. Gh. Bergistangi, Norðurfjörður, tel. 451-4003.
info@vesturferdir.is www.vesturferdir.is • 469. Gistiheimili Norðurfjarðar, tel. 554-4089.
• Sjóferðir, t. 456-3879, Boat trips to Hornstrandir, • 469. Urðartindur, huts, chalets and motel in Norðurfjörður,
Jökulfirðir, Vigur tel. 451-4017/843-8110.
• Strandferðir, Norðurfjörður tel. 842-2586, Guided Tours, • 470. Finnbogastaðir school, tel. 451-4031.
Hornstrandir, www.strandferdir.is, strandferdir@gmail.is • 471. Hótel Djúpavík, tel. 451-4037/847-2819,
djupavik@snerpa.is, www.djupavik.com.
104
• 471. Summerhouse Álfasteinn, Djúpavík, tel. 451-4037.
• 473. Hótel Laugarhóll in Bjarnarfjörður, 504 travel service tangahus
tel. 451-3380/698-5133.
Borðeyri - 500 Staður -  849 9852, 849 7891
• 480. Kirkjuból, Travel Service in Steingrímsfjörður, tel. 451-3474,
kirkjubol@strandir.is, www.strandir.is/kirkjubol. G tangahus@simnet.is - www.tangahus.is
• 482. Broddanes, Travel Service, tel. 618-1830.
• 485. Snartartunga, tel. 451-3362. Birdwatching Tangahus
e
Camping Sites: Bicycle storag
• Hornbjargsviti, Látravík at Hornstrandir,
• Ferðafélag Íslands (Icelandic Touring Association) tel. 568-2533.
• 460. Bolungarvík, in Strandir, tel. 893-6926/852-8267.
• 461. Reykjafjörður, in Strandir, tel. 456-7215/896-1715.
• 465. Ófeigsfjörður, tel. 852-2629/554-4341.
• 467. Valgeirsstaðir, in Norðurfjörður, tel. 451-4017.
• 470. Finnbogastaðir school, tel. 451-4031.
• 473. Hotel Laugarhóll, Bjarnarfjörður, tel. 451-3380/698-5133.
Restaurants:
23
• Kaffi Kind, Icelandic Sheep Museum and Sævangur, café,
tel. 451-3321.
• Hótel Laugarhóll, in Bjarnarfjörður, tel. 451-3380/698-5133.
• Hótel Djúpavík, Árnes district, tel. 451-4037.
• Kaffi Norðurfjörður, tel. 696-1397.
Swimming Pools:
• 461. Reykjarfjörður nyrðri, tel. 456-7215/896-1715. P O L I C E
• 466. Krossnes, Árneshreppur, tel. 451-4048.
• 473. Guðmundur’s Pool, Hotel Laugarhóll, Bjarnarfjörður,
F I R E
tel. 451-3380/698-5133. M E D I C A L
Leisure and Sport: D O C T O R S
• Kayak rental, in Djúpavík, tel. 451-4037. ONE ONE TWO
• Birdwatching and eider duck nesting ground, Kirkjuból, R E S C U E S Q U A D
tel. 451-3474, www.strandir.is/kollan.
• Þemaferðir, consulting, tour planning, guiding, hiking tours, etc.,
tel. 451-3384, www.themaferdir.is.
• Fishing permits for Selá River in Steingrímsfjörður, tel. 893-0529.
• Fishing permits in Víðidalsá and Þverá rivers in Steingrímsfjörður,
Events:
tel. 451-3272.
• National Seamen’s Day, coffee at Sævangur, Sheep Farm Museum.
• Fishing permits in Bjarnarfjarðará River, tel. 451-3380.
• June 17: National Day coffee at Sævangur, Sheep Farm Museum.
• Strandferðir, Norðurfirði, scheduled coach service to
• Chess tournament, Djúpavík, tel. 451-4037.
• Hornstrandir, excursions, private tours, tel. 842-2586,
• Djúpavík Circle, Midsummer Midnight Hike.
www.strandferdir.is, strandferdir@gmail.com.
• Wonder Games at Sævangur, Sheep Farm Museum.
Food Store: Co-op Steingrímsfjörður, Norðurfjörður, tel. 451-4002. • The Icelandic Museum Day celebrated at Sævangur, Sheep Farm
For Motorists: Museum.
• Hótel Djúpavík, tel. 451-4037, tire repair. • Tractor Day at Sævangur, Sheep Farm Museum.
• Petrol station in Norðurfjörður, tel. 451-4002. • Djúpavík Days, Djúpavík.
• Rams Rating Championship at Sævangur, Sheep Farm Museum.
Local Handicrafts: Kört, handicrafts and souvenirs, in Trékyllisvík, See: www.strandir.is/saudfjarsetur, saudfjarsetur@strandir.is.
tel. 451-4025.
Museum:
BORÐEYRI
• Sheep exhibition in Sævangur Community Center, tel. 451-3324,
saudfjarsetur@strandir.is, www.strandir.is/saudfjarsetur.
• Iceland Sorcery and Witchcraft, The conjurer’s croft at Klúka in
Bjarnarfjöður, tel. 451-3524, Accommodation:
galdrasyning@holmavik.is, www.galdrasyning.is. • 504. Tangahúsið, travel service, Borðeyri,
• The Djupavik Historical Exhibition, guided tours in the old herring tel. 451-0011/849-9852/849-7891,
plant in Djúpavík, daily 10 – 14, tel. 451-4037, djupavik@snerpa.is. kollsa@simnet.is, www.tangahus.is.
• Kört, in Trékyllisvík, tel. 451-4025.
Camping Site: 504. Borðeyri, tel. 451-1131.
Transportation: Flugfélagið Ernir, tel. 562-4200,
scheduled flights between Reykjavik and Gjögur, tel. 451-4033. For Motorists: Garage, Borðeyri, tel. 451-1145.
105
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
106
THE NORthWEST
Northwest Iceland lies between the Westfjords is the west and Skagafjörður in the east, with its southern border
running through Hofsjökull glacier, Kjölur and the watershed on the heaths.
The district has two main regions: Eastern and Western Húnavatnssýsla which originate from underneath Hofsjökull glacier. The largest lakes
and Skagafjörður. The region of Eastern and Western Húnavatnssýsla in the district are Miklavatn in Borgarsveit, Höfðavatn on Höfðaströnd
is bordered by Húnaflói, the largest fjord in Northern Iceland, which shore and Miklavatn í Fljótum. The area is beautiful in the summer-
also separates Northern Iceland from the Westfjords. Three fjords lead time, but the winters are often harsh with heavy snowfall. In the spring,
inland from Húnaflói: Hrútafjörður, Miðfjörður and Húnafjörður. The the vegetation often emerges already green from underneath the
Heggstaðanes peninsula separates Hrútafjörður and Miðfjörður, and snow. The Héraðsvötn, Miklavatn and Áshildarholtsvatn lakes are
the Vatnsnes peninsula separates Miðfjöður and Húnafjörður. The teeming with birdlife. The variety of bird species rivals that of the Mý-
shoreline is mostly low-lying, with the exception of Vatnsnes. vatn area.
Þing and Vatnsdalur lead up from the shoreline of Húnafjörður bay. The main rock type in Northwest Iceland is basalt. The Húnaþing area
Vatnsdalur valley stretches 25 km inland and is lush and welcoming. has basalt that formed 6-8 million years ago, while the basalt found in
A large, peculiar cluster of hills stretches across the mouth of Vatns- Skagafjörður formed about 12 million years ago. Glaciers largely
dalur valley and is known as Vatnsdalshólar. The lowands give way to shaped the landscape during the last ice age. Younger rock types have
higher ground to the east and deep valleys cut into the landscape. The been discovered in several areas, and lava fields in Skagi consist of
area is also dotted with lakes, such Miðfjarðarvatn, Vesturhópsvatn dolerite. Ancient volcanoes, which contain rhyolite and metamorphic
and Hópið, Húnavatn and Svínavatn, which are all located close to rock formations, have been discovered in the area, such as Mt. Vatns-
populated areas. Some of the main rivers in the area are Hrútafjarðará, nesfjall, Mt. Víðidalsfjall and the Staðarfjöll mountains south of Tinda-
Miðfjarðará, Víðidalsá, Vatnsdalsá, Laxá á Ásum, Blanda, Svartá and stóll. The area has geothermal activity and the thermal water is used
Laxá in Refasveit. All of the rivers are excellent for salmon fishing. On for central heating.
the eastern side of Húnaflói lies Skagi, which separates the Húnaþing
and Skagafjörður districts. Vegetation in the area is thriving and consists mostly of grassland and
marshes. Skagafjörður also has sedge meadows. There are few areas
Skagafjörður district is a blossoming agricultural area. It is home to Dr-
angey and Málmey islands. Drangey is a sheer island of palagonite, fa-
mous for its birdlife and egg gathering. It was also the residence of
Grettir Ásmundarson in his exile. The shore of Skagafjörður is a vast Tourist Information
lowland area, split by Hegranes at the fjord’s southernmost point, and in Northwest Iceland
further inland the region separates into Austurdalur and Vesturdalur val-
Staðarskáli t. 440-1336
leys on the southern side and Norðurárdalur valley to the east. Route 1 Hvammstangi - The Icelandic Seal Center t. 451-2345
runs through the district over Öxnadalsheiði heath, towards Eyjafjörður. A-Hún. Klausturstofa by Þingeyrakirkja church
Varmahlíð t. 455-6161
The largest watershed in Skagafjörður is known as Héraðsvötn, which Sauðárkrókur, Aðalgata 20, t. 659-3313
is primarily fed by the Eastern and Western Jökulsá rivers, both of Hólar í Hjaltadal t. 455-6333
107
of shrubbery or woodland in the district. Northwest Iceland has been Róbert Jack, who was a reverend at Tjörn in Vatnsnes for more than
an agricultural area since ancient times. Siglufjörður has always been 30 years. The tower exhibit also contains photographs of local farms and
a fishing area, and its favorable natural harbor helped it become a the people of Vatnsnes from before 1955. Geitafell is also a sheep farm
center of commerce in the latter half of the 19th century. It grew con- where the lambs are weaned and sent to the highlands to graze. The
siderably in the first half of the 20th century due to an increase in ewes are then milked and the milk is used for human consumption.
herring fishing. Fishing increased greatly in other places after 1920,
Hvítserkur is a mass of igneous rock intruded into a fissure in older rock,
and together with fish processing, trade with nearby regions and
about 18 meters high, and situated on the seashore at the southwestern
growing industry, it resulted in the formation of several new townships.
part of Húnafjördur fjord. Kittiwakes and fulmars live on Hvítserkur. An
Sauðárkrókur, Hvammstangi, Skagaströnd and Blönduós are the most
old story claims that Hvítserkur is a petrified troll that intended to stone
populated towns and villages.
Þingeyrarklaustur cloister, but dawn arrived before he could succeed. At
Sigríðastaðaós, just south of Hvítserkur, there is a pleasant site for
WESTERN watching seals.

Borgarvirki butte rises 177 m from the ridges between Vesturhópur and
HÚNAVATNSSÝSLA Víðidalur. It is a short walk from route 717 up to Borgarvirki. Borgin is
columnar basalt about 10-15 meters high. The top is a circular depres-
Húnaþing vestra is 2,580 km2 in size. It is bordered by Holtavörðuheiði sion that opens to the east, where a stone wall has been constructed
heath in the west, Arnarvatn Lake in the south, Strandir on Stikuháls in with an entrance. There are ruins in the depression, but there is no indi-
the north, and the watershed on Arnarvatnsheiði heath in the south. cation as to the purpose of this structure. There is a viewing dial on site.
The Gljúfurá River creates a border with Austur-Húnavatnssýsla dis- Kolugljúfur is a gorge along the Víðidalsá River that leads into the south-
trict in the east. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1171. ern end of Víðidalur Valley. It is over one km2 long and about 40-60 m
The Local Museum for Húnavatn and Strönd is located at Reykjaskóli deep. The river drops into the gorge in two scenic waterfalls named
school in Hrútafjörður. School dormitories are used in winter, and in Kolufossar.
summer the school serves as a travel agency. The museum has vari- Vatnsnes peninsula has marked walking trails going west to east over
ous notable artifacts on display from the Strönd and Húnavatnssýsla Mt. Vatnsfjall, between Káraborg above Hvammstangi, where the view is
district. There is a special exhibit about shark fishing in Húnaflói Bay, excellent. There is a marked spot for seal watching at Svalbarði. The
an area of great productivity in the 19th and part of the 20th centuries. coastal landscapes are very diverse, and in clear weather the view to
A shark fishing vessel, Ófeigur from Ófeigsfjördur, is on display. Ófeig- Strendur is beautiful. There is a marked trail to Hvítserkur a short dis-
ur is a 10-oar vessel that was constructed solely from driftwood. An tance from Ósar, where the odds of seeing seals are very good. There is
old sitting room is also on display, along with many interesting artifacts diverse birdlife in the area.
related to farming life in the past.
Gauksmýri is a hotel and restaurant with horse rental, horse shows and
Reykjatangalaug is a geothermal heated pool on the shore below handicrafts. It is a short distance from a local pond teeming with birdlife,
Reykjaskóli. south of route 1. There is a specially designed path for people with
Selasetur Íslands, or the Icelandic Seal Center, is located on disabilities that leads to a nearby bird watching facility.
Hvammstangi. Its main purpose is to conduct research on seals
around Iceland and help promote tourism development in the region. Tourist information: www.visithunathing.is.
It also has an exhibit dedicated to information about seals, seal hunt- Accommodation:
ing in Iceland and utilization. The Seal Center also has an information • 502. Hotel Staðarflöt, tel. 451-1190.
center for tourists. • 503. Sæberg Youth Hostel, tel. 451-0015.
• 509. Brekkulækur Guesthouse, tel. 451-2938, brekka@nett.is,
Bjarg in Miðfjörður is located a short distance east of the Miðfjarðará www.abbi-island.is.
River, the place where Grettir Ásmundarson grew up. It is also home to • 513. Langafit, Laugarbakki, tel. 451-2987/892-8487.
a memorial to Grettir’s mother, Ásdís, which is decorated with relief • 514. Gauksmýri Lodge, tel. 451-2927/fax 451-3427,
pictures depicting events from the Saga of Grettir. gauksmyri@gauksmyri.is, www.gauksmyri.is.
• 525. Ósar Youth Hostel, summer only, tel. 862-2778.
Illugastaðir at Vatnsnes is an excellent location for spotting seals, and • 526. Hótel Borgarvirki, tel. 451-2290, hotelborgarvirki.is.
a lovely walking path leads from the parking lot down to the seashore. • 527. Neðra-Vatnshorn, tel. 451-2928.
However, please note that the path is closed from April 30 until June • 529. Dæli, tel. 451-2566, daeli@daeli.is, www.daeli.is.
26, during the eider-nesting season. A small country café and camp-
Camping Sites:
ground are open during the summer. Illugastaðir is known for being
• 503. Sæberg in Hrútafjörður, tel. 451-0015.
the home of homeopath Natan Ketilsson (1795-1828) and the site of
• 513. Laugarbakki, tel. 451-2987/892-8487.
the Illugastaðir murders that led to the last executions in Iceland in • 521. Illugastaðir in Vatnsnes, tel. 451-2664/894-0695.
1830, when Agnes Magnúsdóttir and Friðrik Sigurðsson were execut- • 529. Dæli in Víðidalur, tel. 451-2566.
ed for the murder of Natan and Pétur Jónsson. The site contains,
Restaurants:
among other things, the ruins of Natan’s workshop. The graves of
• Staðarskáli, tel. 440-1336.
Agnes and Friðrik are located in the cemetery at Tjörn at Vatnsnes.
• Folk Museum at Reykir, coffee, light refreshments, tel. 451-0040.
Geitafell is an Icelandic seafood restaurant open during the summer. • Hótel Edda, Laugarbakki, tel. 444-4920.
The tower exhibit contains many relics related to Scotland and Sr. • Gauksmýri Lodge, tel. 451-2927.
108
KÁLFSHAMARSVÍK.
• Café Sveitó, Dæli, tel. 451-2566. • Spes – Country Market, Grettisból, Laugarbakki, spes.
• Geitafell Seafood Restaurant, Vatnsnes, tel. 861-2503/893-3380, sveitamarkadur@gmail.com.
www.geitafell.is.
Museums: Folk Museum at Reykir, Hrútafjörður, tel. 451-0040,
Swimming Pools: byggdasafn@emax.is, www.simnet.is/reykirmuseum.
• 503. Hot tubs at Sæberg, Hrútafjörður, tel. 451-0015.
• Reykjartangalaug, geothermally heated pool on the shore below Events:
Reykjaskóli. • July: The Great Seal Count at Vatnsnes.
• 513. Hot tubs at Laugarbakki, tel. 451-2987. • July: Icelandic Museum Day celebrated at the Folk Museum at
• 529. Hot tub and sauna at Dæli, tel. 451-2566. Reykir.
• July: Grettir Festival at Laugabakki and Bjarg, Miðfjörður.
Leisure/Sport/Sightseeing tours: Strongman competition, history walk at Bjargi, etc.
• Gauksmýri Lodge, horse riding, horse show and horse tours, • July: Eldur í Húnaþing. Héraðshátíð with a variety of events.
tel. 451-2927, gauksmyri@gauksmyri.is, www.gauksmyri.is. • Sept. and Oct.: Sheep and horse round-up. Unique atmosphere
• Gauksmýri pond, diverse birdlife, 30-40 species. Specially when the sheep are brought home in neighborly celebration.
designed path for people with disabilities, bird watching facility. • Oct.: Gala celebration of meat at Vatnsness, Hamarsbúð.
Brekkulækur Travel Service, horse riding and hiking trips, tel. • For further information about the dates please contact Selasetur
451-2938, www.abbi-island.is. Íslands, tel. 451-2345, info@selasetur.is,
• Fishing in lakes at Arnarvatns and Tvídægra heaths, tel. 892-7576. • www.visithunathing.is, www.northwest.is, www.nordanatt.is.
• Illugastaðir, Vatnsnes, walking path to a location for seal watching,
diverse birdlife. Camping site and WC, tel. 451-2345.
• Horse and petting zoo at Stóru Ásgeirsá, Víðidal. tel. 855-4954,
storaasgeirsa@gmail.com. BORÐEYRI
For Motorists: Filling station, pay-at-the pump facility, Laugarbakki
and Víðigerði. Accommodation: 504. Tangahús Travel Service, Borðeyri,
Bank: ATM in Staðarskáli. tel. 849-9852/849-7891, kollsa@simnet.is, www.tangahus.is.
Handicrafts: Restaurants: Riishus, open in June – Aug. Refreshments,
• Folk Museum at Reykir School, handicrafts inspired by the second-hand market and handicrafts.
museum collection, tel. 451-0040. Camping Sites: 504. Borðeyri, tel. 451-1131.
• Leirhús Grétu, Litli-Ós, tel. 451-2482/897-2432.
• Handverkshúsið Langafit, Laugarbakki, tel. 451-2987/892-8487. For Motorists: Oil change and garage, Borðeyri, tel. 451-1145.
109
leirhús Grétu
WELCOME TO OUR
ceramic workshop
WOOL
FACTORY SHOP
Litli Ós, on the road to Hvammstangi
Tel. 451-2482 / 897-2432
Mon.-Fri.: 13 – 18 (15.6. – 20.8.)
Open by arrangement by winter.
Geitafell
Seafood Restaurant
Enjoy fresh Icelandic seafood in a Kaupfélag
pure Icelandic nature setting. Vestur-Húnvetninga
Open Daily from 11:00 to 22:00 Only 6 km from road 1.
15 of May throughout 15 september Supermarket,
Call us at Hardware store and liquor store.
Höfðabraut 34 530 Hvammstangi & +354 451 0060 kidka@simnet.is
+354 861 2503 / + 354 893 3380 Strandgata 1, 530 Hvammstangi
Open Monday-Friday from 8-18 and also on request www.geitafell.is Tel. 455-2300 - www.kvh.is
The Icelandic Seal Center Seal and nature Watching Illugastaðir
At the harbour, 530 Hvammstangi Every day from 15.5-30.9. Camping - Sealwatching - History.
May & Sept.: 9-16 daily. Midnight Sailing by appointment Tel. 451 2664 I 846 6160 I 869 8099
June, July, aug.: 9-19 daily. from 10 of July until 20 July, selir@simnet.is
Oct.-april: 10-15 Mon.-Fri. minimum 8 people per trip.
Tel. 897 9900 Sealwatching is not possible
Also by appointment. info@sealwatching.is from april 30th to june 20th
www.selasetur.is s. 45-12345
www.sealwatching.is due to eider nesting.
guesthouse
riding tours hiking tours
Hlaðan Langafit in Laugarbakki

Café and Restaurant Crafts workshop, café, guesthouse
By the harbour and camping, access to Jacuzzi.
Comfortable atmosphere. Brekkulækur I IS-531 Hvammstangi
Brekkugata 2, 530 Hvammstangi.
Welcome. Tel. +354-451 2938 I Fax +354-451 2998
Tel.: 451 1110/863 7339. Langafit, tel. 451 2987, 892 8487 E-mail: info@abbi-island.is
hladan@simnet.is olina@simnet.is www.abbi-island.is
gistihs@simnet.is
www.simnet.is/gistihs/
H Hótel Hvammstangi guesthouse G Hanna Sigga Guesthouse
Norðurbraut 1 - 530 Hvammstangi Garðavegur 26 - 530 Hvammstangi
 855-1303 - info@hotelhvammstangi.is  451-2407 / 861-2207 - gistihs@simnet.is
Garðavegur 26,
530 Hvammstan
Tel: 451-2407 gi
/ Mob: 861-220
gistihs@simnet 7
.is
www.simnet.is/
gistihs/
Sale of
handicrafts
12 0,3 Ból & biti
Ból & biti

Bed & breakfast Opið allt árið
Open all year
0,2
Bed & breakfast

HVAMMSTANGI Post Office: Lækjargata 2.
Alcohol Store: Kaupfélag Vestur-Húnvetninga, tel. 455-2300.
Hvammstangi, the largest town in Western Húnaþing, is situated on
the eastern shore of Miðfjörður fjord. The town’s primary economic Local Handicrafts:
activities are fisheries, services for the surrounding area, and tourism. • Verslunarminjasafnið Bardúsa, Brekkugata 4, tel. 451-2747.
There is a museum of trade in the town, as well as an exhibition and • Wool Factory Shop Kidka, Höfðabraut, tel. 451-0060,
kidka@simnet.is.
research department of the Icelandic Seal Center. The mountain above
• Eðalmálmsteypan, Eyrarlandi 1, goldsmith, tel. 451-2811.
Hvammstangi is home to Káraborg, a unique set of cliffs. On January
1, 2016, the population was 545. Exhibitions/Church:
• Kirkjuhvammskirkja church by the campsite.
Police: Höfðabraut 6, tel. emergency number 112. • Verslunarminjasafnið, Pakkhúsið, Brekkugata 4, tel. 451-2747.
• Selasetur Íslands, Strandgata 2, by the harbor, an exhibition
Tourist Information Center: Selasetur Íslands, information year dedicated to seals around the coast of Iceland, nature and culture
round, tel. 451-2345, info@selasetur.is, www.selasetur.is, on Vatnsnes, tel. 451-2345, info@selasetur.is, www.selasetur.is.
www.visithunathing.is, www.northwest.is.
Leisure/Sightseeing Tours: Selasigling ehf, seal watching,
Accommodation: tel. 897-9900, www.sealwatching.is.
• Hanna Sigga Guesthouse, Garðavegur 26, tel. 451-2407.
• Hotel Hvammstangi, Norðurbraut 1, www.booking.com. Events:
• 530. Smáhýsin, Kirkjuhvammur, tel. 855-1303, • June, July and Aug.: Second-hand market on Saturdays,
smahysi@gmail.com. 11 – 16.
• July: Mountain jogging, youth art festival Fire in Húnaþing.
Camping Sites: At Kirkjuhvammur, tel. 899-0008. • July: The Great Seal Count at Vatnsnes, www.selasetur.is,
Restaurants: www.visithunathing.is, www.nordanatt.is.
• Söluskálinn, Hvammstangabraut, tel. 451-2465. Information on exact dates: tel. 451-2345,
• Hlaðan, Brekkugata 2, tel. 451-1110/863-7339, selasetur@selasetur.is.
hladan@simnet.is.
• Selasetur Íslands, Strandgata 1, café and light refreshments,
tel. 451-2345, info@selasetur.is, www.selasetur.is.
• Sjávarborg, restaurant on the waterfront, tel. 869-7992. EASTERN
Swimming Pool:
• Swimming pool and Sports Center, Hlíðarvegur 6, tel. 451-2532. HÚNAVATNSSÝSLA
• Hanna Sigga Guesthouse, hot tub, tel. 451-2407.
Vatnsdalshólar is a large, peculiar cluster of hills stretching across the
Health Care Center: Nestún 1, tel. 451-2346.
mouth of Vatnsdalur Valley. Þrístapar, the three hills on the northern
Ambulance: tel. 432-1300 or 112.
side of the main road, is the site of Iceland’s last public execution,
Pharmacy: Health Care Center, Nestún 1, tel. 451-2346. when Friðrik Sigurðsson and Agnes Magnúsdóttir were executed on
For Motorists: Filling station, garage. January 12, 1830 for the murders of Natan Ketilsson and Pétur Jóns-
Bank: Landsbanki, Brekkugata, tel. 410-4159, ATM. son. The block and axe that were used are preserved at the National
112
Blönduós.
Museum in Reykjavík, and the spot is marked with a memorial. There Haraldur hárfagri in Hafursfjörður fjord, and gained the friendship of
are marked hiking trails in the area. the king. During a mid-winter blót festival, a seer made a prophecy to
Ingimundur that he would live in a land called Iceland, become a man
Þingeyrar is a benefice that has long been considered one of the finest of honor and have a great clan in that country. Ingimundur was a
estates in Iceland. The present church was built from 1864 – 1877 chieftain of the Vatnsdæla family while he lived. In the pasture outside
and is considered to be among the greatest houses of worship in the Hof is a small hill called Goðhóll, which is said to be where Ingimundur
country. It was made from stones that were transported during winter practiced pagan worship. A beautiful tree grove was planted in 1927,
from Nesbjörg, on the other side of Hóp lagoon. Oxen were used to including the Icelandic poplar tree.
drag the stone blocks across the ice. Iceland’s first monastery was
founded at Þingeyrar in the year 1133, and it remained a major cultur- Hveravellir is one of Iceland’s largest geothermal areas, with numer-
al and educational center until the Reformation in 1550. Many Sagas ous hot springs, and is located north of Kjalhraun. Hveravellir can be
are thought to have been written there. Facilities and exhibitions are in found in a hollow between the lava field, and Breiðamelur is at an alti-
the new service building near the church and there are guided tours of tude of 650 m. The hot spring Öskurhólshver is situated there and
Þingeyrarkirkja available. once made such a loud noise that it could be heard for over a quarter
of a mile, according to the travel log of Eggert and Bjarni. These
Stóra-Giljá is a farm on the bank of the river of the same name. It was
springs in this area behave in different ways: Öskurhólshver spouts
here that the first Christian missionary in Iceland grew up: Þorvaldur
steam; Bræðrahverir and Eyvindarhver spout little jets of water; and
víðförli. A rock called Gullsteinn (Gold-Stone) is located a short dis-
Bláhver and Grænihver are filled with still water. There are numerous
tance from route 1, on the northern side of Stóra-Giljá. Þorvaldur´s
deposits from the hot springs and water flows overflows from them.
father, Koðrán, refused to be baptized, not wanting to enrage a guard-
Eyvindarhver is named after the famous outlaw Fjalla-Eyvindur, who
ian spirit that he believed lived in Gullsteinn. Þorvaldur´s fellow mis-
lived in the area with his wife Halla. Tales tell of other outlaws seeking
sionary, Friðrekur, is said to have sung hymns until the rock shattered,
shelter there. A ruin known as Eyvindarkofi (Eyvindur’s hut) is in a lava
whereupon Þorvaldur’s father agreed to be baptized. A memorial was
crevasse near Eyvindarhver. Around 1 km south of nearby guesthous-
set up beside Gullsteinn in 1981 to commemorate the 1000 year an-
es are stacked rocks known as Eyvindarrétt.
niversary of the start of the Christian mission in Iceland.
Hof in Vatnsdalur is a town in the eastern part of Vatnsdalur Valley. Spákonufell, at 639 m high, it is one of the most noteworthy and mag-
Ingimundur gamli Þorsteinsson settled this land in the year 900, which nificent mountains in these parts. It is named after a fortuneteller
stretches from Helgavatn Lake to Urðarvatn Lake. Ingimundur joined called Þórdís who lived on a farm at the base of the mountain in the
113
10th century. She’s the first person to have lived in Skagaströnd. From Events: Sept.: Visitors are invited to participate in the sheep and
the top of the mountain you can see far in all directions. horse round-up in Húnavatnssýsla. For further information, please
visit www.northwest.is and www.nordurland.is.
Kálfshamarsvík is a small bay on the northwestern shore of Skaga-
fjörður, and there are beautiful columnar basalt formations nearby.
Kálfshamarsvík was a fishing center at the beginning of the 20th cen-
tury, but was hit by the great depression and abandoned by 1940. BLÖNDUÓS
Geitaskarð Langidalur Laxárdalur is an ancient trail that goes from
Blönduós is situated on both sides of the Blandá River. Its main eco-
Geitaskarð in Langidalur to Laxárdalur, which was also part of the
nomic activity consists of various services for the local area. Addition-
route to Skagafjörður, and takes about 3 hours. The trail has been
ally, light industry and services for travellers have increased in recent
marked properly and a horse track can still be seen clearly. The most
years. Upstream from the bridge is Hrútey Island, a park that was de-
difficult part is traversing the Skarðsbrekkur slopes, where the trail
clared a nature preserve in 1975. Traditional knit and wool products
starts. There is a watershed at the westernmost point of the pass, with
are displayed at The Handicraft Museum and a section is named after
two ponds and sizeable sedge marshes. East of these are the ruins of
Halldóra Bjarnadóttir (1873 – 1981), who at the time, was the oldest
an old sheepcote (Sel), where Brunnárdalur cirque opens to the south/
woman to have lived in Iceland. The museum displays a collection of
southeast. The terrain is rather difficult and should be avoided; in-
homemade woolens and textile objects, beautiful national costumes,
stead, the best route is to head east and follow the horse track to the
and the ancient instruments used to make them. The Textile Center is
Laxá River in Laxárdalur. The same route is taken on the way back,
located in the old Women’s school, where there is a tapestry depicting
although the hike can be extended by going south along the western
the Saga of Vatnsdœla. On January 1, 2016, the population was 796.
bank of the Laxá River to Strjúgsskarð pass, which was also once a
much-travelled place for crossing into Laxárdalur.
Police: Hnjúkabyggð 33, tel. 444-0700.
Local Tourist Information: Klausturstofa, Þingeyrarkirkja church, Tourist Information Center: By the camp site,
open June 1 – Aug. 31, 10 – 17. tel. 452-4520/820-1300,
gladheimar@simnet.is, www.northwest.is.
Accommodation:
• 536. Stóra-Giljá, tel. 452-4294. Accommodation:
• 539. Hof in Vatnsdalur, tel. 452-4077/844-8649, • Hótel Blönduós, Aðalgata 6, tel. 452-4205/898-1832.
hof@simnet.is, www.hof-is.com. • Guesthouse, Blöndubyggð 10, tel. 452-4205/898-1832.
• 545. Hótel Húni, tel. 456-4500/691-2207, info@hotelhuni.com, • Blönduból Guesthouse, Blöndubyggð 9, tel. 892-3455.
gyda@hotelhuni.com. • Glaðheimar, Brautarhvammur, summer houses,
• 550. Geitaskarð, tel. 452-4341. tel. 820-1300/690-3130, gladheimar@simnet.is.
• 552. Dalsmynni Community Center, tel. 452-7155. • Kiljan Guesthouse, Aðalgata 2, tel. 452-4500/697-6757.
• 553. Húnaver Community Center, Svartárdalur, bed and breakfast, • Gistiheimilið Tilraun, Aðalgata 10, tel. 583-5077/848-7218,
sleeping bag accommodation, and campsite, tilraun@talnet.is.
tel. 452-7110/693-4060/693-4061, hunaverbb@gmail.com. Camping Sites: By route 1, tel. 820-1300.
• 555. Áfangi by Kjalvegur, Allrahanda, tel. 540-1300,
Restaurants:
see chapter on the highlands.
• Hótel Blönduós, Aðalgata 6, tel. 452-4205/898-1832.
• 549. Hólahvarf, tel. 531-6100, www.lax-a.is.
• N1-Skálinn, Norðurlandsvegur 3, convenience store and
• GuesthouseSvínavatn, tel. 452-7123/860-3790,
refreshments, tel. 467-1010.
svinavatn@svinavat.com.
• Ömmukaffi, Húnabraut 2, tel. 8999811/8984090.
• Hafnir ferðaþjónusta, tel. 452-4163, hafnir@simnet.is,
• B og S Restaurant, tel. 453-5060, info@bogs.is, www.bogs.is.
www.hafnir.is.
• Ljón norðursins, Blöndubyggð 9, café, pub, tel. 892-3455.
• Skagabúð félagsheimili, tel. 861-8483/452-2746.
• Veitingahúsið Kiljan, Aðalgata 2, tel. 452-4500/852-3937.
• Guesthouse Svínavatn, tel. 452-7123, www.svinavatn.com,
svinavatn@svinavatn.is. Leisure/Sport:
• Grund í Svínadal, tel. 849-4299. • Blönduós Sport Center, Melabraut 2, swimming pool, gym and
• Stekkjardalur við Svínavatn, tel. 452-7171. sports hall, tel. 452-4178, www.blonduskoli.is/ib.
• Vatnahverfisvöllur, 9-hole golf course tel. 864-4846.
Camping Sites:
• Glaðheimar, goose and ptarmigan hunting, fishing, horse rental,
• 553. Húnaver, tel. 452-7110.
shooting range, tel. 820-1300.
• 545. Húnavellir, tel. 453-5600.
• Hestaleigan Galsi, horse rental, tel. 692-0118, galsi@galsi.is,
Restaurants: Hótel Húni, tel. 456-4500. www.galsi.is.
Swimming Pool: 545. Hotel Húni, tel. 456-4500. • Vötnin veiðiþjónusta, fishing services, tel. 862-0474,
anglingservice@gmail.com, anglingservice.com.
Leisure/Sport: There are numerous possibilities for horse riding and
trout and salmon fishing in the area. For information contact the Pharmacy: tel. 452-4385.
Tourist Information Center at Blönduós, tel. 452-4520. Health Care Center: Flúðabakki 2, tel. 455-4100.
Places of Interest: For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tire repair.
• Þingeyrakirkja, built in 1864-1877. Banks: Arion Banki, Húnabraut 5, tel. 444-7000, ATM.
• Blanda Power Plant, guided tours, tel. 455-6700. Post Office: Hnjúkabyggð 32, tel. 580-1200.
Alcohol Store: Húnabraut 5, tel. 452-4501.
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Blönduós
We
forwarlodok
see you!to
Textile Museum
TexTile MuseuM, Open from 1 June to 31 August daily from 10-17.
Info: Tel. 452 4067 - textile@textile.is - www.textile.is
HrúTey island, FisHing,
golF, riding Tours and
swiMMing pool.
Tourist Information Centre and Blönduós

Camp Site
First-class camp site. Tel. 820 1300.
infoblonduos@northwest.is | www.northwest.is
• Hrútey open forest, Vatnahverfi, Hnjúkar.
539 Hof í vatnsdal • For information on horse rentals, hiking paths and fishing permits,
please contact the tourist information center,
Hof, 541 Blönduós -  452 4077 / 844 8649 tel. 820-1300/452-4520.
hof@simnet.is - www.hof-is.com
Events:
• June 17: National Day in Blönduós. Celebrations.
• June 18 – 19: Small-town soccer tournament. Soccer tournament
with 600-800 children and teenagers.
• July 14 – 17: Húnavaka Festival, various celebrations for four days.
• September 10 – 11: Sheep round-up.
• September 17 – 18: Laxárdalsreið og Skrapatungustóðrétt, horse
round-up.
SKAGASTRÖND
Skagaströnd is an ancient trading port on the eastern coast of Húnaflói
4 4 18
bay. In the Middle Ages, English and German merchants traded at this
port, which was then called Höfði or Höfðakaupstaður. In 1602, Ska-
gaströnd became one of twenty authorized posts of the Danish-mo-
nopolized merchants. Danish traders named the place Skagestrand,
553 COMMUNITY CENTER húnaver adopting the name of the coastline itself.
Húnaver - 541 Blönduós, Svartárdalur
C  452-7110 - hunarver@visir.is
The settlement of Skagaströnd grew considerably in the beginning of
the 20th century, as it is conveniently located near rich fishing
grounds. Around 1945, a big rendering plant was built around the time
that large numbers of herring migrated to Húnaflói, but it never oper-
ated at full capacity, since the herring had largely disappeared by the
time it was finally completed. Skagaströnd owes its existence to fish-
eries and now it has diverse fisheries and a strong fish market.
Considerable changes have occurred in the economy and village life in

the past few years; there is, among other things, a new marine bio-
technology hotel and the Icelandic Directorate of Labor operates in the
village. Spákonuhof museum traces the story of the fortuneteller
60
Þórdís, and offers fortunetelling for its guests. More than one hundred
artists visit the Arts Center in Nes each year, staying for a month or
more at a time and working in a studio established in an old, revamped
fish factory. On January 1, 2016, the population was 481.
Police: Blönduós, tel. 444-0720/emergency 112.
• Heimilisiðnaðarsafnið, Árbraut 29, textile museum, open daily June
15 – Aug. 15, Mon. - Fri. 13 – 17, or by arrangement, tel. Accommodation:
452-4067, textile@textile.is, www.textile.is. • Fellsborg Community Center, group accommodation, sleeping bag
• Hillebrandt House, Blöndubyggð 2, the oldest wooden house in accommodation, tel. 452-2720/862-3876.
Iceland, tel. 455-4700. skagastrond@skagastrond.is.
• Eyvindarstofa at Potturinn og pannan restaurant, an exhibition • Skálinn near Mt. Spákonufell, tel. 895-3809/452-2809.
dedicated to Fjalla-Eyvindur (Eyvindur of the Mountains), the most jollicola@simnet.is.
famous Icelandic outlaw, tel. 459-5060. • Snorraberg, summer house, tel. 517-6200/892-5089.
• Icelandic Textile Center, Árbraut 31, open in the summer Wed. • Hafnir, summer house, tel. 452-4163.
– Sun., 13 – 17, tel. 452-4300/898-4290, • Sæluhúsin, summer houses, tel. 777-9848.
textilsetur@simnet.is, www.textilsetur.com. • Undir sólinni, homestay accommodation,
• Vatnsdæla á refli, about the Saga of Vatnsdœla, tel. 452-4300. tel. 861-4267/896-2703.
• Minjastofa í Kvennaskólanum, exhibition on women’s education, • Iðavellir guesthouse, tel. 896-6105.
open June 15 – Aug. 15, Mon. – Fri., 13 – 17, Camping Sites: By Hólabraut, tel. 455-2700/848-7706.
tel. 452-4310/893-4341, aingv@simnet.is,
• Héraðsbókasafn A-Hún, Hnjúkabyggð 30, 452-4415/452-4526. Restaurants:
• Kántrýbær, Hólanesvegur, tel. 452-2829.
Places of Interest: • Söluskáli Olís, Oddagata, tel. 452-2851.
• Birdwatcher house, Blanda Blönduósi, tel. 455-4700. • Borgin restaurant, open year-round, Hólanesvegur,
• Jonas Travel Group, Blöndubyggð 9, excursions, seal watching, tel. 553-5550/858-2460, toti@borginmin.com
hunting, tel. 892-3455, osinn@internet.is. facebook.com/borginrestaurant
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SKAGASTRÖND MUNICIPALITY
Welcome to Skagaströnd www.skagastrond.is
Skagaströnd a unique town with a thriving culture, but it still has the rhythm of a typical sea
village and the port is alive with activity, especially when the fishing boats return with their haul.
The Nes Artist Residency hosts many guest artists There is a wide selection of groceries is available at
who enrich life and culture. There is a marked hiking Samkaup.
path on Mt. Spákonufell (640 m), and Spákonu- Árnes is the town's oldest house and is a good
fellshöfði is also a popular recreational area. There example of the housing and way of life in the first half
are published descriptions of these paths. of the 20th century.
Háagerðisvöllur is a nine-hole golf course located Spákonuhof Hof has an entertaining exhibition
four km north of town. about the fortuneteller Þórdís, who lived in the
Coffeehouse Bjarmanes is a beautiful, old fashion- second half 10th century, with information about
ed house situated on the waterfront with a view the fortunetelling methods.
harbor. Olís skálinn offers services and nutrition for both
Accommodation is available in Snorraberg, a vehicles and people.
beautiful summerhouse; Sæluhúsin, under the cliffs Borgin restaurant is in a unique log house and
of Höfðinn; or Skíðaskálinn, at the base of Mt. serves refreshments of the highest quality. The spirit
The swimming pool is small and cozy.
Spákonufell. of the seaside village is apparent in the pictures on
Travelers can rest and relax after a day of
The campsite is very comfortable and there is plenty exploring. the wall and the atmosphere of the establishment.
of space for trailers, campers and caravans.
03/2015
nýprent
• Bjarmanes Café, open June 1 - Aug. 31, 13-22, Wed. - Sun. north of Sauðárkrókur, and by the eastern roots of Mt. Tindastóll. Cape
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Open at other times by Reykjadiskur protrudes from the farmland area. Grettir the Strong
arrangement. Tel. 553-5501/858-2461/696-1448, came ashore at this spot after swimming 4 miles from Drangey Island,
bjarmanes@outlook.com, facebook.com/Bjarmanes545. where he went to fetch fire. He is said to have warmed himself in
Leisure/Sport: Grettislaug, the thermal pool on the beach. The pool has recently been
• Swimming pool, Einbúastígur, tel. 452-2806/864-4908, renovated.
ithrottahus@skagastrond.is.
• Háagerðisvöllur, 9-hole golf course, tel. 892-5089/892-3080. Hegranesþing are ruins of a local assembly site, just off route 1 by
• Marked hiking trails to Spákonufellshöfði and Spákonufell, hiking Garður farm. They are featured in several Sagas, including Grettis
maps available in Icelandic, English and German. Saga, as the location where Grettir the strong is said to have wrestled.
Healthcare Center: Ægisgrund, tel. 455-4100. Drangey is a sheer island of palagonite, almost 200 m high and about
Pharmacy: at the Healthcare Center, tel. 452-2717. 20 hectares in area. Known for its diverse birdlife, Drangey used to be
a source of food for locals, who both caught birds and gathered eggs
For Motorists:
there. As a result, Drangey was called “the pantry of the people of
• Vélaverkstæði Skagastrandar ehf., filling station, tel. 452-2851.
Skagafjörður,” and as many as 200,000 birds were caught there one
• Garage and tire repair, tel. 452-2689.
spring. The island is famously described in Grettis Saga as the dwell-
Bank/Post Office: Landsbankinn, Höfði, tel. 410-4160. ing of Grettir the Strong and his brother Illugi during their three years
Museums/Exhibitions: of self-imposed exile. It is also where they died at the hands of their
• Spákonuhof, exhibition about Þórdís the seer, who was also the enemies. Visitors to the island can still make out the outline of their
first named inhabitant of Skagaströnd in the late 10th century. dwelling. The island can only be ascended from one spot: Uppgöngu-
Guests can have their fortunes told. Tel. 861-5089, vík Bay on the western side.
dagny@marska.is.
• Kántrýsetur, Kántrýbær, the story of the Cowboy of the North, Flugumýri is a farm and benefice in Blönduhlíð, at the foot of Mt.
tel. 452-2829, www.kantry.is. Glóðafeykir. It was the ancestral home of one of the main families in-
• Árnes, oldest house in town, a home from the first part of the 20th volved in the 13th century civil war, as well as the location of one of
century, tel. 861-5089, dagny@marska.is. the most horrendous acts of the war: 25 people were burned to death
Events: at the end of the wedding celebration of Hallur, son of Gissur Þorvalds-
• June: Sailor’s Day celebrations. son, and Ingibjörg, daughter of the historian Sturla Þórðarson, in an act
• August: Village festival. of vengeance.
• For further information, please visit www.skagastrond.is.
Örlygsstaðir is the site of ruins and a circular enclosure just above
route 1, across from Víðivellir in Blönduhlíð. It is doubtful that it was
ever a residence. It was the site of the largest battle in Icelandic histo-
SKAGAFJÖRÐUR ry, on August 21, 1238. Almost 3,000 people from three of the coun-
try’s most powerful clans fought there. The battle was waged between
Skagafjörður is one of the most historically famous districts in Iceland, the Sturlungar clan on one side and the Haukdælingar and Ásbirningar
mostly due to Sturlungaöldin (The Sturlung Era). clans on the other, with the latter being victorious. A total of 56 people
died that day, including district chieftain Sighvatur Sturluson and four
Arnarstapi is a hill beside route 1, on the edge of Vatnsskarð, and of- of his sons, from Grund in Eyjafjörður.
fers a good view over most of Skagafjörður. There is a memorial to
poet Stephan G. Stephansson (1853 – 1927), who was born at nearby Miklibær is a benefice and parsonage in Blönduhlíð. Among other
Kirkjuhóll, which is now deserted. The memorial, made of piled rock, things, it is known for the story of the disappearance of reverend Odd-
was designed by artist Ríkarður Jónsson (1888 – 1977) and is ur Gíslason, as told by Einar Benediktsson (1864 – 19410) in his
adorned with three relief works by him. poem The disappearance of reverend Oddur from Miklibær. The pres-
ent-day church is modern and was consecrated in 1973. Poet
Víðimýri is a benefice just east of Vatnsskarð, and was the home of one Bólu-Hjálmar (1796 – 1875) is buried in the cemetery with a standing
of the main families involved in the civil war of the 13th century. The stone in lieu of a headstone.
turf church dates from 1834 and has been extensively restored to its
original form. Dr. Kristján Eldjárn, the third president of Iceland, de- Bóla is a farm in Blönduhlíð, best known for its association with poet
scribed the building as “one of the purest and most beautiful examples Hjálmar Jónsson (1796 – 1875), also known as Bólu-Hjálmar, who
of traditional Icelandic architecture” (Hundrað ár í þjóðminjasafni). lived there from 1833 – 1843. A memorial to him was erected there
in 1955. Above the farm is Bólugil gully, which is featured in folk tales.
Glaumbær is a benefice and parsonage. Snorri Þorfinnsson, son of
Þorfinnur karlsefni and Guðríður Þorbjarnardóttir and who was born in Reykjafoss is a beautiful waterfall in the Svartá River and is best
North America, is said to have lived there in the 11th century. A turf viewed from the east side. The entrance is at Vindheimamela, and the
farm located on the site is part of the National Museum of Iceland’s path that passes Reykjafoss continues over a walking bridge to Foss-
building collection and houses the first-ever exhibition set up by the laug, a natural pool on the bank above the falls.
Skagafjörður Folk Museum. There are 13 farmhouses in total, dating
back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Tourist Information Center: Open daily June – Sept., 10 – 18, and
Oct. – May, 12 – 16, tel. 455-6161, upplysingar@skagafjordur.is.
Reykir on Reykjaströnd is farmland on the western shore of the fjord, For further info please visit www.visitskagafjordur.is.
118
+ 354 455 6161 info@visitskagafjordur.is
Accommodation: • Arctic rafting, tel. 562-7000, info@adventures.is,
• 558. Gil, tel. 453-6780. www.adventures.is.
• 558. Brennigerði, tel. 453-5521. • Bakkaflöt, tel. 453-8245, www.riverrafting.is,
• 559. StóraVatnsskarð, tel. 453-8152. bakkaflot@islandia.is.
• 560. Steinsstaðir Travel Service, tel. 453-8812/899-8762. • Paintball, tel. 849-0565.
• 561. Bakkaflöt, tel. 453-8245/899-8245. • Tindastóll, ski area, tel. 453-6664.
• 562. Lýtingsstaðir Cottages, s: 4538064/893 3817, • Lýtingsstaðir, route no. 752, horse rental, riding tours,
lythorse@simnet.is, www.lythorse.com. tel. 453-8064/893-3817, info@lythorse.com, www.lythorse.com.
• 563. Sölvanes, tel. 453-8068. • Flugumýri tel. horse shows, riding tours, tel. 453-8814/895-8814.
• 564. Himnasvalir, Egilsá, tel. 453-8219/770-8219/892-1852. • Varmilækur, Icelandic horse shows, tel. 898-7756/453-8021.
• 565. Syðsta Grund, Akrahreppur, tel. 453-8262. • Bakkaflöt, river rafting, tel. 453-8245/899-8245.
• 566. Flugumýri, tel. 453-8814/895-8814. • Marked hiking trails to Mælifellshnjúkur, Tindastóll, Molduxi, and
• 567. Keldudalur Guesthouse, tel. 453-6233/846-8185. Hólabyrða mountains and to Húnavatnssýsla.
• 567. Keldudalur, Leifshús, tel. 453-6533/893-6231. • The trail of the Sturlungs in Skagafjörður - guided walks and
• 568. Glæsibær Travel Service, tel. 453-5530/892-5530. information, www.sturlungaslod.is.
• 569. Hofsstaðir Lodge, tel. 453-7300. • For information on organized riding tours and horse rentals, please
• 569. Hofsstaðir, farm accommodation, tel. 453-6555. contact the Tourist Information Center at Varmahlíð, tel. 455-6161.
• 569. Hofsstaðasel, the old farm, tel. 896-9414. Museums/Churches:
• 574. Lónkot, tel. 453-7432, lonkot@lonkot.com, www.lonkot.com. • Lýtingsstaðir Torfhesthús (e/þ: The Old Stable), tel: 4538064/893
• 576. Akrar í Fljótum, tel. 467-1054/895-7135. 3817, lythorse@gmail.com. www.lythorse.com
• 576. Sólgarðaskóli í Fljótum, tel. 467-1040/467-1054. • Glaumbær, Regional Folk Museum, open daily June 1 – Sept. 10,
• 580. Bjarnargil Travel Service, tel. 467-1030/866-8788. 9 – 18, or by arrangement. Exhibitions also at Minjahúsið,
• Tröð, guesthouse, tel. 453-5225/861-9840, trod@fjolnet.is. • Sauðárkrókur, and The Icelandic Emigration Center at Hofsós.
• 576. Lambanes-Reykir, Fljótum, summerhouse, tel. 453-6173.
tel. 467-1020/895-5626, bruna@simnet.is. • Glaumbær church, further information on opening hours at
• 577. Brúnastaðir Fljótum, summerhouse, Glaumbær museum.
tel. 467-1020/869-1024, bruna@simnet.is. • Víðimýri church, one of Iceland’s oldest turf churches, open June 1
Camping Sites: – Aug. 31, 9 – 18, or by arrangement, tel. 453-5895,
• 560. Steinsstaðir Travel Service, tel. 453-8812. bsk@skagafjordur.is, www.glaumbaer.is.
• 561. Bakkaflöt, tel. 453-8245. • Gröf and Sjávarborg Churches.
• 574. Lónkot, tel. 453-7432. • Skagafjörður Museum of Transport, Stóragerði,
• Varmahlíð, tel. 899-3231. open daily June 17 – Sept. 1, 13 – 18, and by arrangement,
• 571. Lauftún by Varmahlíð, tel. 453-8133. tel. 845-7400/848-7817.
Restaurants: Events:
• Áskaffi at Glaumbær, tel. 453-8855. • Feb. 19 – 21: Winter in Skagafjörður.
• Lónkot Restaurant, tel. 453-7432, www.lonkot.com. • April 24 – May 1: Sæluvika, arts and culture in Skagafjörður.
• Bakkaflöt Restaurant, tel. 453-8245. • May 28: Skólaslit Fjölbrautaskóla of the northwest.
Swimming Pools: • June 4: Beer festival at the University.
• Suðárkróks, tel. 453-5226. • June 5: SjávarSæla, sea celebration in Sauðárkrókur.
• Hofsósi, tel. 455-6070. • June 10: University graduation.
• Varmahlíð, tel. 453-8824 • June 17 – 28: Midsummer Night’s Festival in Hofsós.
• 542. Sólgarðar, open during the summer, tel. 467-1033. • June 23 – 26: Lummudagar, Pancake Days in Skagafjörður.
• June 25 – 26: Landsbanki soccer tournament in Sauðárkrókur
Leisure/Sport: • June 27 - July 3: National Riding Competition at Hólar í Hjaltadal.
• Lónkot, golf, various summer events, art shows and country • Aug. 6 – 7: Króks soccer tournament in Sauðárkrókur.
market, tel. 453-7432. • Aug. 11 – 13: Gæran music festival.
• Hestasport, horse rental, tel. 453-8383, info@riding.is, • Aug. 12 - 14: Sögudagur, History Day, at Sturlungaslóð.
www.riding.is. • Sept. 24: Laufskálarétt, the famous land.
• River rafting on the Austari and Vestari Jökulsá rivers: • Nov. 28: Lighting the Christmas tree at Kirkjutorg, Sauðárkrókur.
Lýtingsstaðir
Riding & Cottages > Horses & Heritage events

Daily horseback riding tours and
accommodation all year around.
The Old Stable – Turf house exhibition.
All year around. Individuals and small groups.
560 Varmahlíð, rd. 752 > Tel: 453 8064, 893 3817 > www.lythorse.com > lythorse@gmail.com
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HÓLAR CAMPING VARMAHLÍÐ CAMPING
551 Sauðárkrókur -  899-3231 Reykjarhóll - 560 Varmahlíð -  899-3231
tjaldsvaedi@gmail.com - www.tjoldumiskagafirdi.is tjaldsvaedi@gmail.com - www.tjoldumiskagafirdi.is
0,9
3 0,5 0,5
1 1
HOFSÓS CAMPING SAUÐÁRKRÓKUR CAMPING

v/grunnskólann - 565 Hófsós -  899-3231 v/sundlaugina - 550 Sauðárkrókur -  899-3231
tjaldsvaedi@gmail.com - www.tjoldumiskagafirdi.is tjaldsvaedi@gmail.com - www.tjoldumiskagafirdi.is
0,5 0,5 2 3
VARMAHLÍÐ Accommodation:
• Hótel Varmahlíð, tel. 453-8170, fax 453-8870,
Varmahlíð is a village in Skagafjörður municipality, southeast of Reyk- info@hotelvarmahlid.is, www.hotelvarmahlid.is.
jarhóll. The population increased considerably in 1931 and commerce • Lauftún, tel. 453-8133.
• Lýtingsstaðir Cottages, s: 4538064/893 3817,
and local services have thrived there since. Services at Varmahlíð in-
lythorse@gmail.com. www.lythorse.com
clude a school, a convenience store, a hotel, summer houses and
• Hestasport, summer houses, tel. 453-8383, info@riding.is.
various services for tourists. A delightful outdoor recreation area can
• Himnasvalir. tel. 453-8219/892-1852.
be found in the Reykjarhlíð forest, above the town. The Varmahlíð area • Orlofshús, by Reykjarhóll, tel. 862-2129.
offers diverse leisure activities, such as river rafting, horse riding and
horse shows. Camping Sites:
• Varmahlíð, tel. 899-3231, www.tjoldumiskagafirdi.is.
Tourist Information Center: Tourist Information Center, open daily • Lauftún by Varmahlíð, tel. 453-8133.
May 1 – Sept. 30, 9 – 18, Oct. – May, 12 – 16, tel. 455-6161, Restaurants:
upplysingar@skagafjordur.is. For further information, please visit • Hótel Varmahlíð, tel. 453-8170.
www.visitskagafjordur.is. • KS, Varmahlíð, tel. 455-4680.
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H Hótel Tindastóll G mikligarður guesthouse
Lindargata 3 - 550 Sauðárkrókur -  453 5002 Kirkjutorg 3 - 550 Sauðárkrókur -  453 6880, 891 9147
info@arctichotels.is - www.arctichot.is info@arctichotels.is - www.arctichot.is
24 10 10 27 2 14
0,7 1 0,5 0,5
H hótel mikligarður
Skagfirðingabraut 24 við Sauðárhlíð - 550 Sauðárkrókur Leisure/Sport:
 453 6330, 891 9147 - info@arctichotels.is • Swimming pool, tel. 453-8824.
www.arctichotels.is • Hestasport, riding tours, tel. 453-8383, info@riding.is,
www.riding.is.
• Arctic rafting, river rafting in Eastern and Western Jökulsá rivers,
tel. 562-7000, info@adventures.is, www.adventures.is.
• JRJ Super Jeep Travel, tours across the Icelandic highlands,
tel. 453-8219/892-1852.
• Marked hiking path to Reykjarhóll hill.
• River rafting on the Austari and Vestari Jökulsá rivers:
• Arctic rafting, tel. 562-7000, info@adventures.is,
www.adventures.is.
• Bakkaflöt, tel. 453-8245, www.riverrafting.is,
bakkaflot@islandia.is.
• Paintball, tel. 849-0565/453-8383.
• Lýtingsstaðir, route no. 752, horse rental, riding tours,
tel. 453-8064/893-3817, info@lythorse.com,
www.lythorse.com.
• The trail of the Sturlungs in Skagafjörður - guided walks and
130 20 65 information, www.sturlungaslod.is.
For Motorists: Filling station and car wash.
0,5 1 Bank: Arion Banki, tel. 455-5334, ATM.
Local Handicrafts: Gallerí Alþýðulist, tel. 453-7000.
Transportation:
• Strætó bs. Scheduled service between Akureyri, and Reykjavík.
• Bílar og folk, tel. 551-1166, scheduled trips between Akureyri,
Reykjavík and Sauðárkrókur, www.sterna.is.
• Suðurleiðir, tel. 453-6806/892-4433, group coach trips to
anywhere in Iceland.
Events:
• June 23 – 26: Lummudagar, Pancake Days in Skagafjörður.
• April 24 – May 1: Sæludagar in Skagafjörður.
• Aug. 20: History Day on the trail of the Sturlungs.
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SAUÐÁRKRÓKUR
• Gamla pósthúsið, apartment accommodation, tel. 892-3375,
Sauðárkrókur is located on the southwest shore on the innermost part of vicki@ausis.is, www.ausis.is.
Skagafjörður fjord. Permanent settlement began in 1871. The town of- Camping Sites: By the swimming pool, tel. 899-3231.
fers diverse services and activities, including exhibitions, museums,
clubs, shops, restaurants, accommodation, a hospital, auto workshop, a Restaurants:
sports field, volleyball court, swimming pool and more. The shop Verslun • Kaffi Krókur, Aðalgata 16, tel. 453-6299.
• Ábær, Ártorg, tel. 455-7070.
Haraldar Júlíussonar, which has been in opertaion without interruption
• Ólafshús, Aðalgata 15, tel. 453-6454.
since 1919, is located on Aðalgata. Minjahúsið museum is also located
• Sauðárkróksbakarí, Aðalgata 5, tel. 455-5000.
on Aðalgata and its exhibits include four small workshops from the past.
• Bláfell, Skagfirðingabraut 49, tel. 453-6666.
The slopes above the town are called Nafir and have a series of ancient • Hard Wok Café, Aðalgata 8, tel. 453-5355.
beach ridges as well as a viewing dial, from which one can enjoy the
view over the fjord as well as a golf course. East of Sauðárkrókur there Leisure/Sport:
is a black sand beach that is approximately 4 km long, called Borgarsan-
• Hlíðarendavöllur, 9-hole golf course, tel. 453-5075.
dur. Slightly to the south, by Áshildarholtsvatn Lake, is an area with vi-
• Þreksport, fitness center, tel. 453-6363.
brant birdlife and informational signs. The estuaries of Héraðsvötn,
• Skotfélagið Ósmann, shooting range, tel. 845-9391.
Miklavatn and Áshildarholtsvatn, just south of Sauðárkrókur, also have • Tindastóll, ski lodge, tel. 453-6707.
diverse birdlife. The number of bird species rivals that of Lake Mývatn. • Topphestar, horse rental, tel. 866-3973/868-1776.
• Krókaleiðir, snowmobile rental, tel. 453-5065.
Police: Suðurgata 1, tel. 444-0700.
Hospital: Spítalastígur, tel. 455-4000.
Tourist Information Center: Minjahúsið, Aðalgata 16b, open in
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Hólavegur 16, tel. 453-5700.
summer 13 – 19, tel. 453-6870, minjahus@gmail.com.
Alcohol Store: Smáragrund 2, tel. 453-5990.
Accommodation:
For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tire repair.
• Hótel Tindastóll, Lindargata 3, tel. 453-5002,
info@arctichotels.is, www.hoteltindastoll.com. Banks:
• Hótel Mikligarður, Skagfirðingabraut 24, • Arion Banki, Faxatorg and in Skagfirðingabúð,
tel. 453-6330/891-9147, info@arctichotels.is, tel. 453-5300, ATMs.
www.mikligardur.is. • Landsbankinn, Suðurgata 1, tel. 410-4161, ATM.
• Mikligarður Guesthouse, Kirkjutorg 3, tel. 453-6880/891-9147, • Sparisjóður Skagafjarðar, Ártorg 1, tel. 455-5555.
info@arctichotels.is, www.arctichotels.is. Post Office: Ártorg, tel. 580-1200.
Passing Through Skagafjörður?
Exhibitions in Minjahúsið in Sauðárkrókur open Exhibitions in Glaumbær

daily June 1 - Aug. 31 at 12-19. open daily May 20 - Sept. 20 at 9-18.
Open by arrangement by winter. Open by arrangement by winter.
Tel. 453 6870 Tel. 453 6173 - Áskaffi, Tel. 453 8855
w w w. s k a g a f j o r d u r. i s / b y g g d a s a f n
123
Sailing in Skagafjörður HÓLAR IN HJALTADALUR
Bæjarklettar - Þórðarhöfði - Málmey
Hólar is one of Iceland’s best-known historical sites. It was the seat of
Daily trips from Hofsós
the Bishop from 1106 – 1801, as well as the capital of the north during
Book that period. The current cathedral at Hólar was consecrated in 1763. It
now! is made of red sandstone that was transported from Hólabyrði, above
the town. An agricultural school has been operated in Hólar since 1882
and its origins can be traced back to the beginning of the bishopric. The
Hólar University College specializes in tourism studies, horse breeding
and riding, as well as aquaculture and fish biology. Hólar is home to a turf
Bird watching farmhouse, Nýibær, dating back to 1854, and the beam and stonework
Sea Angling houses Auðunarstofa and Theodórsstofa. Archaeological excavation has
Special trips been underway at Hólar in recent years and over 40,000 objects have
been discovered. Some of them are exhibited in the old school building.
Suðurbraut 15 - 565 Hofsós - Tel. 861-9803 Visitors can take a ”walk through history” on a marked trail.
www.hafogland.is - hafogland@gmail.com
Hiking trails: A path marked with signposts has been set up at the an-
cient Episcopal see of Hólar in Hjaltadalur. Each of the 14 signposts is
drangey tours
numbered, referring to a descriptive text in the tour-booklet available to
visitors. This historical tour takes an hour, at an easy pace. The tour can
be extended to 2 – 3 hours by going halfway up the slopes of Mt. Hólab-
yrði from Prestssæti (the Priest’s seat, signpost no. 11), for a look at a
Boat tours natural bowl deposited by an avalanche from Hólabyrði. It is called Gven-
to Drangey darskál (Gvendur’s Bowl), and inside it stands a rock known as Gven-
island dur’s Altar, both of which are associated with 12th century Bishop Guð-
Puffin tours mundur Arason the Good. A path leading to the mine, where building
Fishing blocks of the cathedral originated, has also been marked with signposts.
The walk takes 1.5 – 2 hours. Maps of paths and hiking trails leading
from Hólar to nearby mountains, such as Þríhyrningar, Hólabyrði and
Reykir - 550 Skagafjörður Elliði, are available in Hólar. The town is also an ideal destination for
 821-0090 / 821-0091
travellers traversing the ancient trails on Tröllaskagi, many of which lead
drangey@fjolnet.is - www.drangey.net
facebook.com/drangey to Hólar.
Local Tourist Information: tel. 455-6333/849-6348,

Museums/Exhibitions: booking@holar.is, www.holar.is.
• Skagafjörður District Archives. Accommodation: 570. Hólar Travel Service, cottages, apartments,
• Skagafjörður District Art Museum, tel. 453-6640. rooms w/o bath, tel. 455-6333.
• Skagafjörður District Library, tel. 453-5424,
Camping Sites: 570. In Hólaskógur, tel. 899-3231.
• www.skagafjordur.is/skjalasafn,
• www.skagafjordur.is/bokasafn. Restaurant: Undir Byrðunni, tel. 455-6333.
• Minjahúsið, Aðalgata 16b, open June 10 – Aug. 31, 13 – 19, Leisure/Sport: Swimming pool, hot tub and sauna, fishing pond
tel. 453-6870. and horse rental. For further information please call tel. 455-6333.
• Eldsmiðja Ingimundar , Suðurgata 5, tel. 453-5020.
• The Tannery Visitor Center, Borgarmýri 5, tel. 512-8025, Local Handicrafts:
gestastofa@sutarinn.is, www.sutarinn.is. Souvenir shop in information center in summer.
Places of Interest/Hiking: Museums/Exhibitions:
• Cruises to Drangey rockstacks and Glerhallavík cove on a boat • The Iceland horse heritage museum, the museum is designed to
from Sauðárkrókur or Reykir, café and sea fishing, be an international center of knowledge and information about the
tel. 821-0090/821-0091, drangey@fjolnet.is, history of the Iceland horse,
www.drangeyjarferdir.is. tel. 455-6300/455-6345, www.sogusetur.is.
• Málmeyjarferðir, tel. 453-7380/892-2881. • Auðunarstofa, tel. 453-6300/455-6300, www.holar.is/.
• Marked hiking trails. Places of Interest/Hiking:
Transportation: • Hólar church, tel. 455-6333, kirkjan.is/holadomkirkja/.
• Bílar og fólk, tel. 551-1166, scheduled coach service, • History Walk, marked hiking trail.
www.sterna.is. • The Hólar Excavation, archaeological excavation at Hólar with great
• Strætó bs. Scheduled service between Akureyri, and Reykjavík. relics of Icelandic ecclesiastical and national history. Scholars give
• For more information, please visit www.visitskagafjordur.is. information about the excavation.
124
The Icelandic Emigration
Center in Hofsós
Attractive and
hospitable exhibits in
three imposing
buildings by the harbor.
The exhibits trace the
history of Icelanders’
emigration to North America.
Open every day from

june 1 to September 1
Events:
• April 24 – May 1: Sæluvika in Skagafjörður. Tel: 453 7935 - hofsos@hofsos.is - www.hofsos.is
• June 4: Beer festival.
• June 23 – 26: Lummudagar, Pancake Days in Skagafjörður.
• July 7 – 10: Baroque Festival
• Aug. 12 – 14: The Hólar Festival, concerts in the Hólar cathedral. Camping Site: By the primary school, tel. 899-3231.
• Concerts, buffets, family gatherings, conferences. Restaurant: Sólvík, tel. 861-3463.
• See Calendar of Events at www.holar.is or in the guest reception.
Leisure/Sport:
• Also see: www.visitholar.is.
• Swimming pool, hot tub, wading pool, tel. 455-6070.
• Málmeyjarferðir, tel. 453-7380/892-2881.
Health Care Center: Suðurbraut 15, tel. 453-7354.
HOFSÓS For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tire repair.
Bank: Arion Banki, tel. 453-7400.
Hofsós is a small village on the eastern shore of Skagafjörður fjord. At one
Local Handicrafts:
time it was the region’s main trading center, and it is one of the oldest still
• Sólvík, tel. 861-3463.
in existence, with trading believed to have begun in the 16th century. Pa- • The Icelandic Emigration Center, tel. 453-7935.
kkhúsið in Hofsós is an old log warehouse from the days of the Danish • The Icelandic Flag-sewing Factory, tel. 453-7366.
trade monopoly. There is also The Icelandic Emigration Center, which
chronicles the emigration of Icelanders to North America. It also has vari- Museums/Exhibitions:
• The Icelandic Emigration Center in Hofós, The office is open all
ous exhibitions related to the migration of Icelanders to America and their
year at regular office hours, exhibitions open daily June 1 – Sept.
way of living on the new continent. The old center of Hofsós is worth a
1, 11 – 18, and by arrangement. The Icelandic Emigration Center
visit as it is being rebuilt and has regained the charm of an old bustling houses a genealogical and information service, a library and
commercial community. The shoreline at Hofsós is also well worth explor- exhibitions on Icelandic emigration to North-America, tel.
ing, particularly because of the beautiful columnar basalt formations. 453-7935, fax 453-7936, hofsos@hofsos.is, www.hofsos.is.
• Kolkuós ses, www.kolkuos.is.
Gröf is a farm on Höfðaströnd, just south of Hofsós. It was once one of the
grandest farmsteads in Skagafjörður. It was the birthplace of Hallgrímur
Pétursson (1614 – 1674), Iceland’s most celebrated religious poet. The
small turf church there contains remnants of the oldest place of worship in
the country. The director of the national museum oversees the site.
Police: At Sauðárkrókur tel. 444-0700/emergency 112.

Accommodation: Prestabakki and Sunnuberg Guesthouse,
tel. 453-7434/893-0220, gisting@hofsos.is, www.hofsos.is.
125
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
126
The northeast
Northeast Iceland extends from Hvanndalsbjarg in the west to Mt. Gunnólfsvíkurfjall in the Northeast. Watersheds
and mountains are the main demarcations of the boundaries of this region. After the change in electoral districts
in 2003, Siglufjörður is now considered to be in the Northeast district.
The Northeast is divided into two main regions: Eyjafjörðursýsla district Fjörðum and the Flateyjardalur Valley. Popular hiking trails now criss-
and South and North Þingeyjarsýsla districts. The mountain range be- cross these areas. East of Vaðlaheiði Mountain is the Fnjóskadalur
tween Skagafjörður and Eyjafjörður has always been regarded as Valley, which is rich with vegetation and prominent tree growth.
rugged, harsh and difficult terrain for travelers. Before the beginning of Vaglaskógur is the largest forest in the area and is considered one of
the twentieth century, the range was dubbed Tröllaskagi, but prior to the most beautiful birch forests in the country. There, among other
that it had been unnamed. Hvanndalabjarg is Iceland’s highest stand- sights, one can see the remains of ancient peat pits used to make iron.
ing rock in the sea (600 m). In Ólafsfjörður and Dalvík, the western-
most communities in the region, there are sheer cliffs rising from the Bárðardalur Valley, situated east of Fnjóskadalur Valley, is home to the
sea with limited lowland areas. It is not uncommon to see snow-cov- Skjálfandafljót River. East of the river you will see stratified volcanic
ered mountains well into summer, while populated areas have green rock, also called palagonite, and the surrounding area is characterized
grass and blooming flowers. The lowland areas increase as you travel by low, undulating moorland separated by valleys. The few mountains
further inland from the Eyjafjörður Fjord, and this is where fertile farm- in the landscape are the product of sub-glacial eruptions during the
land is found. Large-scale farming is practiced around Akureyri, which Ice Age. Interesting fossils from that period have been found on the
is often called the capital of the North. In Akureyri, as well as the other Tjörnes Headland. There are many active volcanoes and geothermal
towns along Eyjafjörður Fjord, fishing is the primary occupation and areas to be found in this region, which are used for district heating in
many of Iceland’s major fishing companies are located in this area. Húsavík. Mývatn is the best-known lake in the north and the fourth
largest lake in Iceland. A plethora of fauna and wildlife flourish here. In
Hrísey and Hrólfssker are islands found in the Eyjafjörður Fjord. Grím- particular, the lake is famous for its birdlife; during the summers there
sey Island is 41 km offshore, with the Arctic Circle passing through it. are more varieties of ducks than are found in most other places on
The Eyjafjörður district is the second most densely populated area in earth.
Iceland and it often has favorable weather. The district contains nu-
merous hot springs and the thermal water is harnessed to heat the
major urban areas. For example, the Ólafsfjörður Heating Utility is the
oldest district heating provider in the country, along with the Reykjavik Tourist Information
District Heating. Basalt is the main rock type, but rhyolite and lignite
in Northeast Iceland
are found in some places also. In general there is rich vegetation, in-
cluding pastures, moorland, and even some low-lying forest scrub. Siglufjörður, Gránugötu 24, s. 464-9120
Akureyri - Strandgata 12 s. 450-1050
The Þingeyjarsýsla districts cover a much larger territory than the Ey- Mývatnssveit-Hraunvegur 8, Reykjahlíð, t. 464-4390
Húsavík - Húsavíkurstofa, Hafnarstétt 1, t. 464-4300
jafjörðursýsla district. The South Þingey district, to the east of Ey- Gljúfrastofa - Vatnajökull National Park,
jafjörður, is a mountainous peninsula with limited lowland areas. Until Jökulsárgljúfur t. 470-7100
the mid-20th century, there were settlements on Látraströnd beach, Raufarhöfn - Hótel Norðurljós, t. 465-1233
127
The low-lying land of Melrakkaslétta stretches between the Öx- Accommodation:
arfjörður and Þistilfjörður fjords. Further east is the Langanes peninsu- • Gh. Hvanneyri, Aðalgata 10, tel. 467-1506.
la, which stretches to the northeast until it ends in a narrow, rocky spit • Sigló Hótel, Snorragata 3, tel. 461-7730.
of land called Fontur. Most of the terrain in the North Þingey district is • Gh. Siglunes, Lækjargata 10, tel. 467-1222.
low, but it steadily rises to the south. Palagonite is the predominant • The Herring Guesthouse, tel. 868-4200.
rock type and lava fields are widespread. Geothermal activity is only • Sports Center by Hóll, tel. 897-0034.
found in Öxarfjörður. There are many lakes in the area, as well as the • Valló, apartments, tel. 893-5059.
Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, which is one of the most powerful rivers in Camping Site:
Iceland. The Dettifoss waterfall, arguably the most powerful in all of • By Snorragata in the center of town, tel. 464-9100/464-9120.
Europe, is along the Jökulsá River. There is a sprawling forest in this • By Stóra-Bola, tel. 464-9100/464-9120.
region and the land is fertile. Restaurants:
Langanes offers an array of outdoor activities and hiking trails, as well • Rauðka, Gránugata 19, tel. 461-7730.
as being home to one of four gannet nesting sites in Iceland. Addition- • Hannes Boy Café, Gránugata 23, tel. 461-7730.
ally, one of the largest arctic tern nesting areas in the country used to • Harbour House Café, Gránugata 5b, tel. 659-4809/897-1394.
be found in Skoruvík, while the area was populated. The ruins at Skála, • Allinn sportbar, Aðalgata 30, tel. 467-1111.
• Torgið, Aðalgata 32, tel. 467-2323.
which once was a flourishing village, are on the east side of the Lan-
• Hótel Siglunes, Lækjargata 10, tel. 467-1222.
ganes point.
• Aðalbakarí, Aðalgata 28, tel. 467-1720.
The main islands in the area are Flatey and Lundey in the Skjálfandi • Petrol Station-Grill, Tjarnargata, tel. 467-1415.
Bay, as well as Mánáreyjar, located north of the Tjörnes Headland.
Leisure and Sport:
Þingey, a small island found in the Skjálfandafljót River, is where the • Sport Center of Fjallabyggð, Hvanneyrarbraut 52, tel. 464-9170.
surrounding district draws its name. Húsavík is the largest settlement • Golf at Hóll, 9 holes.
in the area and operates a large fishing industry, in addition to serving • Skiing area in Skarðsdalur, tel. 467-1806/878-3399.
as a service center for the surrounding region. Whale watching from • Hvalaskoðun, tel. 822-0258.
Húsavík is a growing industry. There are three distinct villages in this
Hospital/Health Center: On Hvanneyrarbraut, tel. 460-2100.
northern region: the fishing towns of Raufarhöfn and Þórshöfn, and
Pharmacy: Siglufjarðar Apótek, Aðalgata 34, tel. 467-2222.
then Kópasker, which is home to a shrimp processing plant.
For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, tire repair.
Banks: Arionbanki, Túngata 3, tel. 444-7000, ATM.
FJALLABYGGÐ Post office: Aðalgata 24, tel. 467-1107.

Alcohol Store: Eyrargata 25, tel. 467-1262.
Fjallabyggð is a municipality that spans the northernmost part of the Museums/Exhibitions:
Tröllaskagi peninsula, between Skagafjörður and Eyjafjörður fjords, • The Icelandic Herring Era Museum, Snorragata, tel. 467-1604.
and is home to the fishing towns of Siglufjörður and Ólafsfjörður. Tall • Ljóðasetur Íslands, The Icelandic Poetry Center, Túnugata 5,
mountains separate the villages but two new tunnels, opened in 2010, tel. 865-6543
now connect them; only 15 km of road separates the two towns. Fjal- • Siglufjörður District Library, Gránugata 24, tel. 464-9120.
• Rev. Bjarni Þorsteinsson´s Folk Music Center, Maðdömuhús,
labyggð has many enjoyable hiking trails and there are different types
Norðurgata 1, tel. 898-0270/467-2300.
to suit all skill levels. Some are ancient routes that our forefathers
• Ljósmyndavélasafn, Camera Museum, Vetrarbraut 17,
walked for 1,000 years, but there are also newer, easier pathways that
tel. 892-1569.
are worth exploring. Thanks to a recent project, the trails on Tröllaska-
gi are well marked and there is an excellent hiking map for sale that Transportation: Strætó, Þönglabakki 4, 129 Reykjavík,
was charted by the Hólaskóli School. On January 1, 2016, the popula- tel. 540 2700, scheduled service nr. 78 - Siglufjörður- Ólafsfjörður-
tion was 2,040. Dalvík- Akureyri, kort@straeto.is.
Events:
• July 6 – 9: Folk Song Festival, www.folkmusik.is.
SIGLUFJÖRÐUR • June 18 – July 2: Reitir - international art project, www.reitir.com.
• July 29 – August 7: The Herring Era Family Festival,
www.sildaraevintyri.fjallabyggd.is.
Siglufjörður is located in a fjord of the same name, at the northernmost • Aug. 6 – 7: Pæjumót, Ladies football tournament.
point of the Tröllaskagi peninsula. It was a major center for the fishing
industry in the first half of the 20th century because of its excellent
harbor; at one point it was the largest herring-processing center in
Iceland, with its population peaking at 3,100. The town was quite iso-
ÓLAFSFJÖRÐUR
lated until a tunnel was built through Mt. Strákar in 1967, the first of
Ólafsfjörður is in a fjord of the same name that extends into the Tröll-
its kind in Iceland. There is a museum in town that commemorates the
skagi peninsula. Settled at the turn of the 19th century, it has a good
“herring years.” On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,191.
natural harbor, which is valuable since the economy is based on the
fishing industry. Iceland’s first memorial to drowned seamen was con-
Police: Gránugata 4-6, tel. 444-2860.
structed in 1940 near the local church. There is a 3.4 km-long tunnel
Local Tourist Information: The District Office, Town Hall, through Ólafsfjarðarmúli that links Ólafsfjörður to Dalvík. On January
Gránugata 24, tel. 464-9120/464-9100. 1, 2016, the population was 799.
128
GOÐAFOSS.
Tourist Information: Places of Interest/Excursions:

• Fjallabyggð Library, Ólafsvegur 4, tel. 464-9215. • Brimnes Hótel, tel. 466-2400.
• Joe’s Guesthouse, Strandgata, tel. 466-4044. • Arctic Freeride, tel. 859-8800.
Accommodation: Transportation: Strætó, Þönglabakki 4, 129 Reykjavík,
• Brimnes Hótel, Bylgjubyggð 2, tel. 466-2400, tel. 540-2700, scheduled service no. 78 - Siglufjörður - Ólafsfjörður
• Tröllakot, tel. 847-4331. - Dalvík - Akureyri, kort@straeto.is.
• Joe’s Guesthouse, Strandgata 2, tel. 466-4044, Events:
• Tindaöxl Ski Lodge, tel. 466-2527/878-1977. • June 4 – 5: Seaman´s Weekend Festival.
Camping site: By the Sports Center, tel. 464-9250. • June 24 – 25: Blue North Music Festival, www.blues.fjallabyggd.is.
Restaurant/Snack Bars: • Aug. 18 – 20: Berry days, www.berjadagar-artfest.com.
• Brimnes Hótel, Bylgjubyggð 2, tel. 466-2400.
• Olís petrol station, Bylgjubyggð 2, tel. 466-2272.
• Höllin, Hafnargata, tel. 466-4000.
• Kaffi Klara, Strandgata 2, tel. 466-4044.
HRÍSEY
Leisure and Sport: Hrísey is Iceland’s second largest island. It has a population of approxi-
• Sports Center of Fjallabyggð, tel. 464-9250. mately 154 people, most of whom make their living on small-boat fish-
• Golf at Skeggjabrekkuvöllur, (in the town), 9 holes, tel. 466-2611. ing in a small seaside town. The ferry, Sævar, connects Hrísey with the
• Tindaöxl skiing area, tel. 878-1977. mainland and runs every 1 – 2 hours, with the trip taking around 15
Health Care Center: Hornbrekka, tel. 466-4050. minutes. Activities on the island include walks, a hay cart trip, a guided
For Motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repair. lighthouse tour or a visit to the “Orkulind” – a grassy hollow that is said
Bank/Post Office: Arion banki, Aðalgata 14, tel. 444-7000, ATM. to be a source of energy originating from nearby Mt. Kaldbakur. Alterna-
tively, one can simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the island, its rich
Museum/Exhibition: birdlife or the surrounding view. For more info visit www.hrisey.is.
• Natural History Museum, Aðalgata 14, 466-2651.
• Museum House, Aðalgata, doll collection, tel. 848-4071.
Tourist Information: www.hrisey.is, www.visithrisey.is.
• District Library and Archives, Ólafsvegur 4, tel. 464-9215.
• House of the Arts in Fjallabyggð, Ægisgata 10, tel. 844-9538. Accommodation:
• Jónatanshús og Mínukot, www.visithrisey.is.
• Brekka, tel. 466-1751.
129
Dalvik hostel DALVÍK
620 Dalvík -  699-6616 / 865-8391
vegamot@vegamot.net - www.dalvikhostel.com Dalvík is a municipality located on the Tröllskagi peninsula. There are
three villages in the municipality: Hauganes, Árskógssandur and Dal-
vik, the final being the largest. The primary economic activities are
fishing, tourism, industry and trade. In the summer of 1934 a large
earthquake damaged or destroyed most houses in the town and its
vicinity. A folk and natural history museum in town has rooms dedicat-
ed to two locals: Jóhann Pétursson (1913 – 1984) - or Jóhann the
Giant - believed to be the tallest-ever Icelander at 2.34 m (7 ft 8 in);
Gimli Hostel, three Cottages and the “Old Farm House”. and Dr. Kristján Eldjárn (1916 – 1982), one-time president of Iceland.
Accommodation to fit everyone. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,362.
There are many interesting walks and hikes of varying distances to take
1
from Dalvík. A popular walk that is suitable for everyone goes along the
old road around Ólafsfjarðarmúli bluff, which offers a panoramic view.
Longer trails include the old route over Heljardalsheiði heath, linking
8
Svarfaðardalur valley and the Episcopal seat Hólar in Hjaltadalur, as well
as a choice of three old travelling paths leading to the neighboring town
of Ólafsfjörður: via Reykjaheiði, Grímubrekkur and Drangaleið.
Police: Gunnarsbraut 6, tel. 444 2865

Accommodation:
• Vacation house Höfði, tel. 696-5309, www.bungalo.is,
facebook.com/hofdi.dalvik, zoph55@gmail.com.
• Fosshótel Dalvík, Skíðabraut,
tel. 466-3395, www.fosshotel.is, bokun@fosshotel.is.
• Dalvik Hi Hostel, tel. 865-8391, vegamot@vegamot.net,
COFFEE . FISH SOUP. CAKES www.vegamot.net, www.hostel.is/dalvik.
HISTORY . EXHIBITION • 603. Húsabakki, Svarfaðardalur, tel. 466-1551/859-7811,
www.husabakki.is, husabakki@husabakki.is.
DALVÍK - NORTH ICELAND
• 605. Syðri-Hagi, Árskógsströnd, tel. 466-1961/866-7868,
TEL. 865 8391, 666 3399
www.sydrihagi.is, sydrihagi@sydrihagi.is.
• 606. Ytri-Vík/Kálfskinn, Árskógsströnd, tel. 899-8000/894-2967,
Camping Site: By the Sports Center, tel. 461-2255. sporttours@sporttours.is, www.sporttours.is.
• Ski-lodge Brekkusel, tel. 466-1005.
Restaurants/Snack Bars: Brekka, tel. 466-1751. • 601. Travel Service Dæli, Skíðadalur, tel. 466-1658/863-1698,
Food store: Hríseyjarbúðin, tel. 466-1750. daeli@simnet.is, www.internet.is/daeli.
• 602. Guesthouse Skeið, Svarfaðardalur, tel. 466-1636/866-7036,
Leisure/Sport:
md@thuletours.com, www.thuletours.com.
• Sightseeing tour on tractor, tel. 695-0077. Camping site:
• Walking tours to the lighthouse, 1.5 - 2 hour tours, offers a great • Dalvík campsite at the sports center, Svarfaðarbraut,
view and beautiful midnight sun, tel. 695-0077. tel. 466-3233,
• Marked hiking trails around the island. sundlaug@dalvikur.is, www.dalvikurbyggd.is/sundlaug.
• 603. Húsabakki, Svarfaðardalur, tel. 466-1551/859-7811,
Bank/Post office: Sparisjóður Svarfdæla, Norðurvegur 6-8,
www.husabakki.is, husabakki@husabakki.is.
tel. 460-1800, ATM.
• 604. Árskógur community center, Árskógsströnd, tel. 466-1970.
Local Handicrafts: Perlan Handicrafts, tel. 861-1305. • 602. Guesthouse Skeið, Svarfaðardalur, tel. 466-1636/866-7036,
Museum: md@thuletours.com, www.thuletours.com.
• The Shark Museum, in the old house of “Jörundur Restaurants/Snack Bars:
• the shark-catcher,” open daily in the summer from 13 – 17. • Gregor’s Pub, tel. 847-8846.
• Holt Folk Museum, the house of Alda Halldórsdóttir, • Við Höfnina, Hafnarbraut 5, tel. 466-2040,
tel. 695-0077, open by arrangement. dallas@dallas.is, www.dallas.is.
Transportation: • Tomman, pizzas, delivery service, tel. 466-1559.
• Sævar, The Hrísey ferry, tel. 695-5544, daily scheduled ferry • Þúla, Café bistro, Culture House Berg, tel. 897-9748.
service Árskógssandur/Hrísey. for schedule see: www.hrisey.is. • Olís, petrol station, Skíðabraut, tel. 466-1832.
• Sæfari, scheduled ferry service Dalvík-Hrísey-Grímsey, • Kaffihús Bakkabræðra - Gísli-Eiríkur-Helgi, Grundargata 1, Dalvík,
tel. 458-8970, www.saefari.is. tel. 865-8391.
• Bruggsmiðjan, Öldugata 22, Árskógssandur,
Events: July 10 – 12: The Hrísey Family Festival. tel. 861-3007/466-2505, bruggsmidjan@bruggsmidjan.is.
130
DALVÍKURBYGGÐ
How about experiencing Iceland in a different way and relaxing in a tranquil environment where every-
thing you need is within easy reach? In Dalvíkurbyggð you can enjoy Iceland’s magnificent nature close-up
by going on whalewatching- and birdwatching trips, or taking a hike into a nature wonderland. Visit the Great
FishDay in August and take part in the Hiking Week in early summer. You can also learn the story of Jóhann
Svarfdæling, the tallest Icelander on record. Visit us in Dalvíkurbyggð and enjoy beautiful nature and living culture,
all in one place.
SPORTFeRÐIR
Various Activities, Sea Angling, Coast Angling, Riding,
Diving, Incentive Travels, Company Trips,
Self- Driving Tours, Hiking, Event Management
and a lot more of exciting activity.
Tel.: 894 2967
www.sporttours.is
marino@sporttours.is
HIkIng Week:
End of June, beginning of July
Magnificient nature and history
in gigantic surroundings.
More info: www.dalvikurbyggd.is
cabInS aT YTRI-Vík
Árskógsströnd í Eyjafirði
Open all year | tel. 899 8000 and 894 2967
www.sporttours.is | sporttours@sporttours.is
bRUggSMIÐJan
The first brewery of its kind in Iceland is located
at Árskógssandur. Kaldi, Bruggsmidjan’s premium beer,
is brewed according to an ancient Czech tradition
with no preservatives and no added sugar.
Öldugata 22 | 621 Árskógssandur | Tel. 466-2505
Fax: 466-2510 | bruggsmidjan@bruggsmidjan.is
Siglufjörður
Ólafsfjörður
Hrísey
Grenivík
Dalvík
The Birdland
exhibition
The Old Turf Farm
at Laufás
Akureyri
The Sverrir
Hermannsson´s
Sundry Collection
The Icelandic Herring Era Museum Museum of Natural History

in Siglufjörður in Ólafsfjörður
The Icelandic Museum Award 2000. Bird- and egg-collection, arctic fox, polar bear.
European Museum Award 2004, the Micheletti Award. An interesting experience for the whole family!
www.sild.is www.arcticaves.is
The Hvoll Folk Museum Birdland - Exhibition and Bird Watching

in Dalvík 5 km from Dalvík
Kristján Eldjárn – President. Jóhann K. Pétursson – height 2.34m. Birds in Icelandic nature and culture.
Multi-media exhibition. Birds, Handicrafts. An adventure for ornithologists of all sizes!
Walking paths and bird watching huts.
www.dalvik.is/byggdasafn www.birdland.is
The House of Shark-Jörundur Davíðshús - Davíð Stefánsson

in Hrísey Island Memorial Museum in Akureyri
Old fishing equipment and other things relating The former home of Davíð Stefánsson, one of Iceland’s most-loved poets.
to the island in various ways. Unchanged since the time of his death in 1964.
www.hrisey.is www.minjasafnid.is
Sigurhæðir - Matthías Jochumsson Nonni´s House
Memorial Museum in Akureyri in Akureyri
A museum in memory of Rev. Matthías Jochumsson, A museum in memory of children’s book author
Iceland’s most prolific poet. Jón Sveinsson, “Nonni”, in one of Akureyri’s oldest buildings.
www.minjasafnid.is www.nonni.is
The Akureyri Museum The Industry Museum

in Akureyri in Akureyri
Unique exhibitions from the Settlement to modern times. A vibrant history of Icelandic
Nominated for the Icelandic Museum Award 2008. industrialisation in the past century.
www.minjasafnid.is www.idnadarsafnid.is
The Icelandic Aviation Museum The Sverrir Hermannsson´s

in Akureyri Sundry Collection - 27 km south of Akureyri
Preserving the history of aviation in Iceland from its beginnings. The Sverrir Hermannsson’s Sundry Collection is a
private collection of thousands of small objects.
www.flugsafn.is www.smamunasafnid.is
The Old Turf Farm at Laufás The Fishing Museum in Grenivík

way of living around 1900 38 km east of Akureyri
Experience the Icelanders’ way of life around 1900. Exhibition of artifacts used in hook and line fisheries
Turf farm, museum shop and ethnic-style refreshments. on small boats in the last century.
www.minjasafnid.is www.grenivik.is
Leisure/Sport/Whale Watching/Fishing: Events:
• Dalvík’s Sport Center, Svarfaðarbraut, tel. 466-3233, • End of June – early July: hiking week in Dalvíkurbyggð,
swimming pool, sundlaug@dalvikurbyggd.is, www.dalvik.is/gonguvika.
www.dalvikurbyggd.is/sundlaug. • Second weekend in Aug.: The Great Fish Day, all you can eat of
• Golf, Arnarholtsvöllur, Svarfaðardalur, 9 holes, tel. 466-1204. various seafood dishes are offered, in addition to fun for the whole
• Syðri-Hagi, Árskógsströnd, boat rental and fishing, family, free of charge in the entertainment area, tel. 460-
tel. 466-1961/866-7968. 5802/897-9748, www.fiskidagurinnmikli.is, julli@julli.is.
• Horse rental Tvistur, Hringsholt, tel. 861-9631/466-1679. • Culture House Berg, a variety of programs are available all year,
• Ski Area on Böggvisstaðafjall, ski lift, tel. 466-1010, tel. 460-4000, www.dalvik.is/menningarhus.
www.skidalvik.is, skidalvik@skidalvik.is. • Nov. 28 – 29: Skeiði, Svarfaðaradal, Christmas market.
• Concerts in Svarfaðardalur, Kristjana Arngrímsdóttir, • For further information see: www.dalvikurbyggd.is.
tel. 862-6155.
• Climbing Wall at Víkurröst, tel. 868-8051.
Health Center: Hólavegur, tel. 466-1500.
Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Goðabraut 4, tel. 466-1234. HÖRGÁRSVEIT
For Motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repair.
Hörgársveit is located north of Akureyri, on the western shore of Ey-
Bank: Sparisjóður, tel. 460-1800, ATM.
jafjörður fjord. The municipality consists of a series of small, individual
Post Office: Hafnarbraut 26, tel. 466-1100.
settlements extending across the rural area north of Akureyri. In addi-
Alcohol Store: Hafnarbraut 7, tel. 466-3430. tion, small residential areas have begun to form at Lónsbakki and
Local Handicrafts: Hjalteyri. Þelamerkurskóli school at Laugaland is the district’s compul-
• Gallerí Sigga búð, Grundargata 1, tel. 866-0556, sory school and the Þelamörk Sport Center and swimming pool are
www.stjarnan.net. located next to it. The small village of Fagriskógur is the birthplace of
• Gallerí Máni, Ásgarður, tel. 466-1634. one of Iceland’s best-loved poets, Davíð Stefánsson (1895 – 1964),
Museums/Exhibitions: where a memorial statue has been erected. On January 1, 2016, the
• Hvoll Folk Museum, tel. 466-1497, hvoll@dalvikurbyggd.is, population was 567.
www.dalvikurbyggd.is/byggdasafn.
• Dalvík Library, Berg Culture House, tel. 460-4930, Hjalteyri is a village on the Galmaströnd shoreline on the west bank of
bokasafn@dalvik.is, www.dalvikurbyggd.is/bokasafn. Eyjafjörður fjord. It became an official trading post in 1897, had a large
• The Birds´ Sanctuary - exhibition at Húsabakki, herring industry in the early 20th century, and later practiced fish
tel. 466-1551/861-8884, open from June 1 – Sept. 1, 12 – 17 farming for many years.
and by arrangement, www.dalvik.is/natturusetrid.
Hraun in Öxnadalur is the birthplace of poet Jónas Hallgrímsson (1807
Excursions: – 1845). There is a residence for scholars, as well as exhibition rooms
• Canoe rental, hiking trips, etc. Húsabakki, Svarfaðardal, in memory of Jónas. Most of the farmland has been turned into a
tel. 466-1551/859-7811, www.husabakki.is, public park.
husabakki@husabakki.is.
• Sport tours, a variety of trips available, tel. 461-2968/894-2967, Gásir is a major historical site located at the southern edge of the
marino@sporttours.is, www.sporttours.is. Hörgá River delta. From the time of settlement until the 16th century it
• Klængshóll, Skíðadal, guided hikes, yoga and meditation, was an important trading center. A major archeological excavation was
nature study, downhill skiing, tel. 466-1519/894-7788. carried out from 2001 – 2006 and plans to develop a visitor’s center
• Whale watching Hauganes, whale watching, fishing, with an emphasis on the middle ages are currently under way.
tel. 867-0000, niels@niels.is, www.niels.is.
• Arctic Sea Tours, whale watching, sea-fishing and birdwatching Möðruvellir in Hörgárdalur is a church, located at the mouth of
from Dalvík, tel. 771-7600, book@arcticseatours.is, Hörgárdalur Valley and is one of the main historical sites in north Ice-
www.arcticseatours.is. land. A monastery was established there in 1296, the regional gover-
• Bergmenn, Box 88, downhill skiing excursions, heli-skiing, nor lived there from 1797 – 1874 and it was a center of learning from
mountain hikes and climbing, tel. 698-9870, 1880 – 1902. Writer Jón (Nonni) Sveinsson (1857 – 1944) was born
info@bergmenn.com. there, and poets Bjarni Thorarensen (1786 – 1841) and Davíð
• The Sanctuary in Svarfaðardalur – trail running from the Olis Petrol Stefánsson (1895 – 1964) are buried in its cemetery.
Station to Húsabakki.
• Birdwatching shelters at Hrísatjörn and Tjarnartjörn ponds. Accommodation:
Transportation: • 601. Hótel Hjalteyri tel. 897-7070.
• Strætó, scheduled coach service: • 615. Litli Dunhagi, tel. 663-8595.
Siglufjörður-Ólafsfjörður-Dalvík-Akureyri, tel. 540-2700, • 616. Arnarnes, tel. 894-5358.
www.straeto.is. • 617. Skjaldarvík, tel. 552-5200.
• Sæfari, scheduled ferry service Dalvík-Hrísey-Grímsey. • 617. Pétursborg, tel. 461-1811.
tel. 458-8900/458-8970. • 617. Fagravík, tel. 462-1924.
• Sævar, scheduled ferry service between Árskógssandur and Hrísey, • 617. Sílastaðir, tel. 462-1924.
tel. 695 5544. • 618. Gh. Lónsá, tel. 462-5037/895-1685, lonsa@simnet.is.
• Ævar and Bóas, Sandskeiði 14, tel. 466-1597/8983345, post
delivery.
134
AKUREYRI INING NORTH
THE SH
CAPITAL OF
www.visitakureyri.is
Hof Cultural and Conference Center | 600 Akureyri | tel. 450 1050 | info@visitakureyri.is
136
Transportation:
• Sæfari, tel. 458-8970, scheduled ferry service: Dalvík-Hrísey-
GALLERY SÓL Grímsey (Mon, Wed., Fri. during summer.)
• Sailing time. 3 hrs. each way, stopover in Grímsey for 4 hrs.
arts & craft grímsey www.saefari.is.
• Air Iceland, tel. 460-7000, Norlandair tel. 414-6960,
irs, Scheduled flights and excursions from Akureyri to Grímsey.
Handicrafts, souven In winter, Tues.-Fri.-Sun. from Akureyri.
coffee, hot chocolate In summer, afternoon flights daily from Akureyri.
and waffles.
Events:
Gullsól • June 3 – 5: Grímseyjardagurinn, family festival.
Guesthouse • June 21: Summer Solstice Festival on Grímsey.
open all year
Tel: 467 3190 | 865 5110| 467 3153 Email: sterta@simnet.is

AKUREYRI
Akureyri, the largest town outside of Greater Reykjavík, is situated on
Restaurants:
the southwestern side of Eyjafjörður fjord. It is an old trading station,
• Hótel Hjalteyri tel. 897-7070.
the oldest references dating to 1602. Today, Akureyri is the center for
• Skjaldarvík, tel. 552-5200.
trade, services and communications in north Iceland. In addition, there
Swimming Pool: 615. Jónasarlaug, Þelamörk, tel. 462-4718. is a long history of processing marine and agricultural products. It is
Events: also a center of education, and has two secondary schools, a music
• July 15 – 17: Medieval Days at the old trading place Gásir, school, an art school and a university. On January 1, 2016, the popu-
www.gasir.is. lation was 18,041.
• July 31: Happy Days in the Country, Möðruvellir and Hjalteyri.
Akureyri has the greatest selection of goods and services outside the
capital area and distances are short, which makes shopping easy.
GRÍMSEY
Akureyri takes pride in its selection of cafés and restaurants and its
pubs and clubs make for a vibrant nightlife. There are numerous fit-
ness studios and health spas in the town that are excellent options for
The island of Grímsey is a very unique place. The small settlement is those interested in physical exertion or relaxation and pampering.
an outpost in the north with abundant fishing waters and colorful
birdlife. Grímsey is well known among visitors for being along the Arc- Tourists can enjoy a variety of leisure
tic Circle and many flock to the island to experience stepping north activities all year-round:
into the Arctic Circle. The island is 5.3 km2 in size and the distance to Culture: Akureyri has a variety of museums and galleries that hold
the mainland is 41 km. The main industries are fishing and fish pro- regular exhibitions. Among these are the Akureyri Art Museum and the
duction. The Sæfari ferry connects the island to the mainland with trips Akureyri Museum, which offer a diverse summer program of walks,
three days a week all year round. Flugfélag Íslands flies to Grímsey “activity days,” musical entertainment in the evening and an exhibition
three times a week in the wintertime and daily in the summer. On at the Nonnahús museum. Numerous galleries featuring events and
January 1, 2016, the population was 66. For more information visit exhibitions are located in Listagil, and the Akureyri Theatre Company
www.grimsey.is. hosts a compelling lineup of plays during its winter season.
Accommodation: Outdoor activities: Lystigarðurinn Public Park and Botanical Garden

• Gh. Básar, open all year, tel. 467-3103. is one of the most popular tourist spots during the summer. The out-
• Kvenfélagið Baugur, good for groups, accommodation and food, door recreation area in Kjarnaskógur and the Scouts’ area in Hamrar
tel. 467-3138/865-5110. are suitable for all age groups, with walking/hiking paths, playground
Restaurants/Pubs: equipment and picnic areas. Akureyri is the main winter sports site in
• Restaurant Krían, restaurant and pub, open daily in summer, on Iceland and prides itself on having the best skiing facilities in the coun-
weekends and by arrangement in winter, tel. 467-3112/567-3116. try. Among other leisure activities are guided hiking trips, bird watch-
• Gh. Básar, full board available for guests, tel. 467-3103. ing and bike, boat and horse rentals.
• Gallery Sól, Sólberg, tel. 467-3190.
Tourist Information Center: Strandgata 12, Culture House Hof,
General store: Búðin, tel. 467-3102, open daily.
open daily June 1 – Sept. 20, 8 – 18:30 and during the winter 8
Leisure and Sport: Swimming pool, tel. 467-3155/897-3123. – 16 on weekdays, closed on weekends, tel. 450-1050,
Post office: tel. 580-1200. info@visitakureyri.is, www.visitakureyri.is, www.nordurland.is.
Local Handicrafts: Gallery Sól, Sólberg, tel. 467-3190, handicrafts Police: Þórunnarstræti 138, tel. 444-2800.
and café. Open 3 times a week in summer during the stopover of the
Hotels:
Sæfari ferry, or by arrangement.
• Hótel KEA, Kea Hotels, Hafnarstræti 87-89,
tel. 460-2000, kea@keahotels.is, www.keahotels.is.
137
H Hótel kea H Hótel norðuRland
Hafnarstræti 87-89 - 600 Akureyri  460-2000 Geislagata 7 - 600 Akureyri -  462-2600 - Fax 462-2601
Fax 462-2060 - kea@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is nordurland@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is
71 41
198 104 1 3 2
G centrum guesthouse G guesthouse súlur

Hafnarstræti 102 - 600 Akureyri -  892-9838 Þórunnarstræti 93 and Klettastígur 6 - 600 Akureyri
hotelibudir@hotelibudir.is - www.centrumhostel.is  863-1400 - sulur@islandia.is - www.sulurguesthouse.is
14 40 15
7 3 0,2 0,2
7 two-person well-equipped room Þórunnarstræti 93, reception for both houses

with fridge, bathroom and large 0,5 GPS: N65° 40’ 36.473” W18° 5’ 55.826”
flat-screen. Rooms for 1-5 people.
Both locations close to town centre.
• Hotel Norðurland, Kea Hotels, Geislagata 7, tel. 462-2600,

nordurland@keahotels.is, www.keahotels.is.
• Hotel Edda Plus, Hrafnagilsstræti, open in summer,
tel. 444-4900.
• Icelandair Hotel Akureyri, Þingvallastræti 32,
tel. 444-4000/518-1000.
• Hótel Akureyri, Hafnastræti 67, tel. 462-5600.
Guesthouses/Youth Hostels:
• Gula Villan, Þingvallastræti 14, Brekkugata 8, tel. 896-8464,
gulavillan@nett.is, www.gulavillan.is.
HOSTEL-RESTAURANT-BAR • Gh. Súlur, Þórunnarstræti 93, Klettastígur 6,
www.akureyribackpackers.is tel. 461-1160/863-1400, sulur@islandia.is.
• Sólgarðar, Brekkugata 6, tel. 461-1133, solgardar@simnet.is.
Tel: +354 571 9050 • Hótelíbúðir, Geislagata 10, apartments, tel. 892-9838.
• Gh. Hrafninn, Brekkugata 4, tel. 661-9050,
www.hrafninn.is, info@akureyriguesthouse.is.
138
617 GUESTHOUSE Pétursborg G guesthouse gula villan
Pétursborg - 601 Akureyri -  461-1811 Two houses: Brekkugata 8 and Þingvallastræti 14 - 600 Ak.
guesthouse@petursborg.com - www.petursborg.com  896-8464 - gulavillan@nett.is - www.gulavillan.is
18 13
0,1 0,1
Þingvallastræti 14 Rooms for 1-5 people.

GPS: N65° 40’ 47.114” W18° 5’ 53.265” The houses are located
16 3
in the town center and
Brekkugata 8 by the geothermal
5
GPS: N65° 41’ 0.178” W18° 5’ 34.641” swimming pool.
• Youth Hostel, Stórholt 1, tel. 462-3657, 894 4299,

A gista apartments
Gránufélagsgata 43 - 600 Akureyri
akureyri@hostel.is, www.akureyrihostel.is.
 694-4314 - gista@gista.is - www.gista.is
• Akurinn, Brekkugata 27a, tel. 461-2500, akurinn@akurinn.is.
• Gh. Brekkusel, Byggðavegur 97, tel. 895-1260,
info@brekkusel.is, www.brekkusel.is.
• Akureyri Backpackers, Hafnarstræti 98, tel. 578-3700,
akureyri@backpackers.is, www.akureyribackpackers.is.
• Akureyri Centrum Hostel, Hafnarstræti 102, tel. 892-9838,
centrumhostel@centrumhostel.is, www.centrumhostel.com.
• Gh. 6 Hrafnar, Hrafnagilsstræti 6, tel. 770-2020.
• Sæluhús (Cottages), Sunnutröð, tel. 618-2800.
• Pearl of the North apartments, Hafnarstræti 86a
and Munkaflverástræti 33, tel. 865-9429/846-2692.
• Accommodation Akureyri, Skipagata 4, tel. 864-7504.
• Amma Guesthouse, Skólastíg 5, tel. 777-0200/899-8078.
• Apotek Guesthouse, Hafnarstræti 104, tel. 469-4104/696- 4104.
• Hvítahúsið gistiheimili, Gilsbakkavegur 13, tel. 869-9890. 14 3 3 1 2
• Lundargata 6, apartments, tel. 788-1226.

Other accommodation:
• Álfaíbúðir, apartments, Möðruvallastræti 5,
tel. 865-9429/846-2692. Camping Site:
• Gista Apartments, Gránufélagsgata, tel. 694-4314. • By Þórunnarstræti, tel. 462-3379.
• Íbúðagisting - Gisting Akureyri, apartments, Langholti 11, • Hamrar, north of Kjarnaskógur, tel. 461-2265/461-2264.
tel. 858-7900.
• Íbúðagisting Akureyri, apartments, Hamratúni, tel. 892-6515.
• 1862 Nordic Bistro, Culture House Hof, tel. 466-1862.
• Íbúðagisting, Helgi magri, apartments, Helgamagrastræti 30,
• Ak-Inn, Hörgárbraut, tel. 464-6474.
tel. 820-1950/821-3278.
• Akureyri Backpackers, Hafnarstræti 98, tel. 571-9050.
• Íbúðagisting, Margrétar, apartments, Kotárgerði 29,
• Amts-Café, Brekkugata 17, tel. 862-4258.
tel. 462-5668/849-9812.
• Bautinn, Hafnarstræti 92, tel. 462-1818.
• Center Hotel Apartments, Brekkugata 1b,
• Taste, Skipagata 2, tel. 578-6400.
tel. 571-7201/660-0700.
• Bláa Kannan, Hafnarstræti 96, tel. 461-4600.
• Hálönd v/Hlíðarfjallsveg, tel. 460-6100, www.halond.is.
• Brauðbúðin, Hafnarstræti 108, tel. 460-5930.
• Hrímland, Accomodation in the highlands, Hlíðarfjall,
• Ölstofa Akureyrar, Kaupvangsstræti 23, tel. 663-6888.
tel. 860-8160.
• R5 Micro Bar, Ráðhústorg 5, tel. 469-4020.
• Bjarmó Gisting Bjarmastígur 2, tel: 845-9255.
• Bryggjan, Strandgata 49, tel. 440-6600.
• Guesthouse Hardangur, tel. 868-8162.
• Brynja Ice-cream shop, Aðalstræti 3, tel. 462-4478.
• Íbúðagisting, Kaupvangsstræti 19, tel. 663-5791.
• Café Amor, Ráðhústorg 9, tel. 461-3030.
• Our Guesthouse, Hafnarstræti 82, 461-1200/777-0200.
139
Akureyri by Þórunnarstræti Akureyri - hamrar at kjarnaskógur
 462-3379 - Fax 461-2267  461-2264 - Fax 461-2267
hamrar@hamrar.is - www.hamrar.is hamrar@hamrar.is - www.hamrar.is
Full service
15.5-15.10
and by
arrangement.
Open 5.6 – 15.9

0,3 5
• Café Laut, Lystigarðinum, tel. 461-4601. • Golf, Jaðarsvöllur, 18 holes, tel. 462-2974.
• DJ Grill, Strandgata 11, tel. 462-1800. • Sailings with Húni II, tel. 848-4864.
• Domino´s Pizza takeaway, Undirhlíð 2, tel. 581-2345. • Siglingaklúbburinn Nökkvi, boat and kayak rental, sailing courses,
• Goya Tapas bar, Kaupvangsstræti 23, tel. 519-7650. tel. 864-5799/694-7509.
• Greifinn/Stássið, Glerárgata 20, tel. 460-1600. • Hlíðarfjall ski resort, tel. 462-2280.
• Hamborgarafabrikkan, Hafnarstræti 87-89, tel. 575-7575. • Skating Rink, Naustavegur 1, tel. 461-2440.
• Hlöllabátar, Ráðhústorg 1, tel. 462-7200. • Yoga, dogsledding, hiking tours, tel. 865-9429.
• Hótel Edda, (summer only) in the upper-secondary school,
Hospital: Akureyri Regional Hospital, Eyrarlandsvegur, tel. 463-0100.
tel. 444-4900.
• Hótel KEA, Múlaberg, Hafnarstræti 87-89, tel. 460-2000. Health Center: Hafnarstræti 99, tel. 460-4600.
• Icelandair veitingastaður, Þingvallastræti 32, tel. 518-1000. Pharmacy:
• Indian Curry Hut, Hafnarstræti 100b, tel. 461-4242. • Apótekarinn, Hafnarstræti 95, tel. 460-3452.
• Ísgerðin, ice cream, Kaupangur, tel. 469-4000. • Lyf og heilsa, Glerártorg, tel. 461-5800.
• Jón Sprettur, pizza, eat in or take away, Kaupangur, tel. 464-6464. • Lyf og heilsa, Hrísalundur 5, tel. 462-2444.
• Kaffi Amma Gunna, Glerártorg, tel. 461 4848. • Apótek Hagkaups, Furuvellir 17, tel. 461-3920.
• Kaffi Ilmur, Ingimarshúsi on Hafnarstræti, tel. 571 6444. • Akureyrarapótek, Kaupangur, Mýrarvegur. tel. 460-9999.
• Kaffi Jónsson, Hafnarstræti 26, tel. 461-1126.
• Kaffi Torg, Glerártorg, tel. 462-2200. For Motorists: Filling stations, garage and tire repair.
• Krua Siam, Thai restaurant, Strandgata 13, tel. 466-3800. Car Rentals:
• Kung Fu Express, sticks + sushi, Ráðhústorg, tel. 462 1400. • Bílaleiga Akureyrar, National Car Rental, Tryggvabraut 12,
• La Vita è Bella, Hafnarstræti 92, tel. 461-5858. tel. 461-6000.
• Leiru-Nesti, Leiruvegur, tel. 461-3008. • Hertz/Icelandair Car Rental, at the Airport, tel. 461-1005.
• Litla kaffistofan, Tryggvabraut 12, tel. 462-2345. • Budget, at the Airport, tel. 660-0629.
• N1 Kiosk, Hörgárbraut, tel. 461-3012. • Avis, at the Airport, tel. 824-4010.
• Pengs, Gránufélagsgata 10, tel. 571-9000. • Dollar Thrifty/Saga Car rental, Tryggvabraut 5, tel. 862-5131.
• Rub23, Kaupvangsstræti 6, tel. 462-2223.
Banks:
• Símstöðin, Hafnarstræti 102, tel. 462-4448.
• Íslandsbanki, Skipagata 14, tel. 440-4000.
• Strikið, Skipagata 14, tel. 462-7100.
• Landsbanki, Strandgata 1, tel. 410-4000.
• Subway, Kaupvangstræti 1, tel. 461-3400.
• Arion Bank, Geislagata 5 and Glerártorg, tel. 444-7000, ATMs.
• Te og kaffi, Eymundsson Hafnarstræti 91-93, tel. 540-2180.
• Sparisjóður, Glerárgata 36, tel. 462-4000.
• Örkin hans Nóa, Hafnarstræti 22, tel. 461-2100.
• Akureyri Fish Restaurant, tel. 414-6050. Post office: Strandgata 3, tel. 580-1200.
• Berlin, coffee house and breakfast café, Skipagata 4. Alcohol Store: Hólabraut 16, tel. 462-1655.
Tel. 661-0661.
Local Handicrafts:
• T Bone steikhús, steakhouse, Brekkugata 3, tel. 469-4020.
• Punkturinn, Rósenborg, handicraft and hobby center, Skólastígur 2,
Leisure and Sport: tel. 460-1244.
• Swimming Pool, Þingvallastræti 21, hot tubs, sauna, steam room, • Sveinbjörg Design, Njarðarnesi 4, tel. 461-3449.
playground for children by the Swimming pool, tel. 461-4455. • Ceramics workshop, Gránufélagsgata 48,
• Glerá swimming pool, Höfðahlíð, tel. 462-1539. tel. 462-5995/462-5668.
140
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Located in the
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CALL US: + 354 462 6800 GPS:
Torfunefsbryggja - 600 Akureyri 65°681567N
info@ambassador.is - ambassador.is 18°086479W
• Hvítspói, gallery and art studio, Brekkugata 3b, tel.466-2064. • The Industry Museum, Krókeyri 2, in summer open daily 10 – 17,
• Linda Óla, gallery and art studio, Krónan shopping center, in winter Sat. 14 – 16, tel. 462-3600, idnadarsafn@idnadarsafn.is.
tel. 862-4448. • The Icelandic Aviation Museum, Flugvöllum, in summer open daily
• Laufabrauðssetur, Strandgata 43, tel. 869-4341, www.laufabraud.is. 11 – 17, only Sat. in winter, tel. 460-4400, www.flugsafn.is.
• The Motor Cycle Museum, Krókeyri 2, open daily June – Aug.,
10 – 17, in winter Sat. 14 – 16, tel. 866-3500.
• Amtsbókasafn, District library, Brekkugata 17, open weekdays in
summer 10 – 19, Internet access, tel. 460-1250. Places of Interest and Hikes:
• Art Museum of Akureyri, Kaupvangsstræti 24, in summer open • Akureyri church, Open weekdays June – Aug., 10 – 19,
daily 9 – 17 (except Mon.), in winter open daily 13 – 17 except tel. 462-7700.
Mon. and Tues., tel. 461-2610, www.listak.is. • Lystigarðurinn, botanical garden, open June – Sept., weekdays 8
• Gallerí BOX, Kaupvangsstræti 10, tel. 663-0545. – 22 and weekends 9 – 22, tel. 462-7487.
• Minjasafnið á Akureyri, Akureyri Museum, Aðalstræti 58, • Kjarnaskógur, reforestation area, Recreational area with running
open daily in summer 10 – 17, and during winter open daily, and hiking paths, children’s playground and barbecue facilities, tel.
13 – 16, tel. 462-4162, fax 461-2562, akmus@akmus.is, 462-4047, www.kjarnaskogur.is.
www.museum.is. Excursions:
• Nonnahús, Memorial house to writer “Nonni,” Aðalstræti 54, open • Sport tours, offers a range of tours, tel. 899-8000/894-2967,
daily June 1 - Sept. 1, 10 – 17, in winter open by arrangement, www.sporttours.is.
tel. 462-3555, www.nonni.is. • Nonni Travel, Brekkugata 5, Akureyri. day tours, flights and sailing
• Friðbjarnarhús, historical museum, Aðalstræti 46, trips, etc., tel. 461-1841, www.nonnitravel.is.
open daily July – Aug., 13 – 17, tel. 863-4531. • Ferðafélag Akureyrar, Strandgata 23, tel. 462-2720.
• Davíðshús, home of poet Davíð Stefánsson, Bjarkarstígur 6, open • SBA-Norðurleið, tel. 550-0700, tours departing from Bus Terminal,
13 - 17 weekdays in summer, otherwise by arrangement, tel. Hafnarstræti 82, excursions to
462-4162. • Mývatn, Askja, Kverkfjöll, Vatnajökull, Krafla, Dettifoss, Hljóðaklettar,
• Sigurhæðir, home of poet Matthías Jochumsson, Eyrarlandsvegur Ásbyrgi, Goðafoss and Húsavík (whale watching), www.sba.is.
3, open weekdays 13 – 17 in summer, otherwise by arrangement, • Saga travel, a choice of excursions, winter trips, northern lights
tel. 466-2609. tours, tel. 558-8888.
141
• Sundays in July: Akureyrarkirkja church, summer concerts.
SAFNASAFNIÐ Free entrance. www.akirkja.is/sumartonleikar.
• July 18 – 24: Hiking Week in Akureyri.
- The Icelandic Folk and Outsider Art MuseumS -
• July 29 – Aug. 1: Iceland Summer Games.
• Aug. 26 – 37: Akureyri Town Festival.
EYJAFJARÐARSVEIT
Eyjafjarðarsveit is a verdant and densely populated area to the south
of Akureyri, with a number of historical sites. Helgi Eyvind settled in
Eyjafjörður and built his farm in Kristnes. Some sightseeing spots in-
clude churches, Sverrir Hermannsson’s sundry collection at Leyning-
Folk Art // Moderne Art // Library // Apartment for rent
shólar and Jólagarður, where you can buy Christmas decorations and
601 Akureyri, Svalbarðsströnd // www.folkart.is
gifts year-round. The district offices are in Syðra-Laugaland. On Janu-
461 4066 // safngeymsla@simnet.is // Safnasafnid
ary 1, 2016, the population was 1,032.
Hrafnagil was a chieftain’s estate and church site long ago, as well as
the scene of an infamous act of revenge committed on Christmas Day
1258, at the height of Iceland’s civil war. Today, the site functions as a
farm and travel service and an adjacent village also offers a variety of
services for visitors.
Grund is a major historical site and was home to one of the main
families involved in Iceland’s civil war. The church there, built in 1905
by Magnús Sigurðsson, is one of the most splendid examples of rural
ecclesiastical architecture in Iceland.
35 HI Hostels around Iceland Leyningshólar is an area of glacial formations (moraines and hillocks)
welcome you - www.hostel.is in west Eyjafjördur. Brushwood and scattered clumps of trees are like-
ly relics of a large forest that is referenced in ancient sources. The
wooded area was fenced in and protected by the Eyjafjörður Forestry
• Extreme Icelandic Adventure, mountain truck excursions, Society in the 1940s and is now gradually recovering from erosion.
tel. 862-7988. Below the hills is a small lake, Tjarnargerðisvatn, and beside it an an-
• Inspiration Iceland, adventure & wellness excursions for the body cient grave known as Völvuleiði (Prophetess’ Grave).
and soul, tel. 865-9429.
Möðruvellir in Eyjafjörður is a church site that was once home to Guð-
• The Traveling Viking, sightseeing in North Iceland, tel. 896-3569.
mundur Eyjólfsson “The Powerful,” one of the most powerful chieftains
• Ambassador Whale Watcing, Torfunesbryggja,is,
t. 462-6800, ambassador.is in Iceland during the Saga Age. He was said to have owned 120 cows
and had more than 100 farmhands working for him. The present-day
Transportation: church, built in 1848, contains many interesting artifacts, including an
• Air Iceland, tel. 460-7000, scheduled air services to various places
alabaster altar façade.
in Iceland.
• Mýflug, sightseeing flights, tel. 464-4400. Munkaflverá was an important church site and farm in ancient as well
• Norlandair, sightseeing flights, tel. 414-6960. as recent times. There were many leading figures in Icelandic history
• Sterna, tel. 551-1166, scheduled coach service Akureyri born there, one of which was the heroic saga killer Glum. A monastery
– Reykjavik, in the summer. was on the site from 1155 until the Reformation in 1550. The present
• Strætó, tel. 540-2700, from Strandgata by Hof, scheduled coach church was built in 1844. The cemetery is said to contain the body of
service Reykjavík – North and Northeast Iceland, www. straeto.is.
Sighvatur Sturluson (1170 – 1238) from the Sturlung clan, who died
• Scheduled boat journeys to Hrísey and Grímsey islands, further
along with his son at the battle of Örlygsstaðir in 1238. There is also a
information from Tourist Information Center, tel. 450-1050.
statue of the last Catholic bishop, Jón Arason (1484 – 1550), who
• SBA-Norðurleið, tel. 550-0720. In summer scheduled coach
service Akureyri-Ásbyrgi-Dettifoss-Akureyri, and to Reykjavík via lived and studied in the monastery.
highland route Kjölur. Saurbær is an ancient church site. The present church, built in 1858
Events: by Einar Thorlacius, is one of the few remaining examples of a turf
• April 21: Local Museum Day. church in Iceland.
• May 17: Icelandic Museum Day.
• June 15 – 17: National Arts of Akureyri. Accommodation:
• June 11 – 18: Automobile Days in Akureyri. • 620. Leifsstaðir, tel. 462-1610/861-1610.
• June 25: Aviation Day in Akureyri. • 621. Öngulstaðir, travel service, tel. 463-1500,
• June 22 – 25: Arctic Open, Intern. Midnight Sun Golf Tournament. hrefna@ongulsstadir.is, www.ongulsstadir.is.
142
At Tjörnes.
• 621. Ytra Laugaland, tel. 463-1472/868-8436.

• 622. Gistihúsið Hrafnagil, tel. 463-1197/693-6524. SOUTH ÞINGEY
• Gistiheimilið Uppsalir, tel. 894-6076.
• Gistiheimilið Brúnalaug, 848-8479. Svalbarðseyri is a village on Svalbarðsströnd beach, along the eastern
• 626. Hrísar, tel. 821-9819. shore of Eyjafjörður fjord. Svalbarðseyri was once a trading center, but
today its residents mainly provide services and work in neighboring
Camping Site: 622. By Hrafnagil School, tel. 464-8140.
communities. On January 1, 2016, the population was 2306.
• Holtssels-Hnoss, ice cream parlor, Holtssel, tel. 861-2859. Laufás is a church site on the eastern shore of Eyjafjörður, near the
• Kaffi Kú, Garður, tel. 867-3826. Fnjóská estuary. Ancient heathen burial mounds have been unearthed
here, and the present-day church, dating from 1865, contains many
Swimming Pools: 622. The Sport Center by Hrafnagil School,
interesting artifacts. The turf farmhouse, from a similar time, houses a
tel. 464-8140.
folk museum overseen by a curator and is a protected building.
Leisure and Sport:
• Þverá, 9 hole golf course, tel. 862-5516/893-1927.
• Leifsstaðir, 9 hole golf course (par 3), tel. 462-161 /861-1610. FACILITLES IN SVALBARÐSSTRÖND
Local Handicrafts: Accommodation:
• Jólagarðurinn, Christmas garden, tel. 463-1433. • Guesthouse Kambur, Smáratún 7, tel. 462-4885.
• Gallerýið í sveitinni, Teigur, tel. 820-3492. • Guesthouse and chalet, Smáratún 5, tel. 462-5043/893-6843.
• Safnasafnið, apartment, tel. 461-4066.
Museums/Exhibitions: • Country Hotel Natur, Þórisstaðir, tel. 467-1070/862-7711.
• Dyngjan Listhús, art gallery, tel. 899-8770. • Country Hotel Sveinbjarnargerði, tel. 462-4500.
• Sverrir Hermannsson, Sundry Collection, Sólgarður, Saurbær,
tel. 463-1261/856-1621/867-8104, www.smamunasafnid.is. Museums/Exhibitions: Safnasafnið, Icelandic folk art museum,
• Tónlistarhúsið Laugarborg, Music hall, tel. 463-1139. tel. 461-4066.
Events: August 4 – 7: Handicraft Fair in Hrafnagil School. Sport: Swimming pool near the school, tel. 461-2074.
143
GRENIVÍK turf farmhouse. Open daily June – Sept. 1, 9-17, during winter by
arrangement for groups, tel. 463-3196/895-3172,
laufas@akmus.is.
Grenivík is a fishing village located on a cove of the same name, on the
Places of Interest and Hikes: Kaldbaksferðir, snowmobile trips up
eastern shore of Eyjafjörður fjord. The community began developing during
Kaldbakur. The Kaldbak road is 430 m above sea level, tel. 867-3770.
the 1910s, and grew significantly after a new harbor was constructed in
1965. Grenivíkurkirkja church, built in 1885 – 1886, can be found in the Events:
village. On January 1, 2016, the population was 178. • The Museum Day in Eyjafjörður
• Summer workdays at the old Laufás farm
Grenivík village is located at the foot of Mt. Kaldbakur (1173 m). A number • Market Day at the old Laufás farm
of easy and enjoyable hiking routes can be climbed on both Kaldbakur and • Family festival in Grenivík
Mt. Þengilhöfði, a 260 m mountain south of Grenivík. Other mountains in • Advent workday in the old farm at Laufás
the vicinity offer more daring hikes, such as Mt. Blámannshattur and Mt.
Laufáshnjúkur.
Látraströnd is the vast peninsula between Eyjafjörður fjord and Skjálfandi

bay, which was once densely populated but is now deserted. Svínárnes is
ÞINGEYJARSVEIT
accessible by regular vehicles, whereas jeeps are required to reach The county of Þingeyjarsveit stretches from Víkurskarð in Eyjafjörður in the
Grímsnes. The whole area is ideal for longer hikes and enjoying the out- west to Hólasandur in Mývatnssveit in the east, and from Flatey Island in the
doors. A pleasant hiking path goes from Grenivík to Látrar, and then along north to Bárðarbunga in Vatnajökull in the south. Economic activities focus
Uxaskarð and Keflavíkurdalur out to Gjögurtá, the furthest point of the pen- on agriculture, fishing, forestry, tourism and food production.
insula. There is a considerable amount of lowland in the inland regions,
whereas the coastline has steep cliffs and is virtually impassable at Látur Flateyjardalur and Fjörður are areas on the peninsula between Eyjafjörður
because of this. The mountain slopes are lined with brooks, some of which and Skjálfandi Bay. Their shores and valleys were once populated, but are
run through deep canyons, and the vegetation is plentiful and diverse. now deserted. The region is an exceptionally varied and interesting destina-
Látraströnd has a rich history and is well known as the home of vagrant tion for hiking.
poetess Látra-Björg (1716 – 1784). For those interested in exploring this
Vaglaskógur is a birch forest on the eastern side of Fnjóskadalur Valley,
area further, the 1992 and 2000 annual travel guides published by
covering an area of 300 hectares. It is one of Iceland’s largest and most
Ferðafélag Íslands (The Icelandic Touring Association) give detailed informa-
beautiful wooded areas, with birches as tall as 12 m or more. The forestry
tion.
station for the northeastern region is located here. In the early 20th century
the forest was in poor condition, but the Icelandic state bought the nearby
FACILITIES IN GRENIVÍK AND GRÝTUBAKKAHREPPUR farm of Vaglir and created a protected area to restore what remained of
Police: tel. 112. Vaglaskógur.
Accommodation: The Church of Þorgeir at Ljósavatn was erected to commemorate the adop-
• 629. Ártún, travel service, tel. 892-3591/896-2275. tion of Christianity in Iceland in the year 1000. It is named after Þorgeir, the
• Lómatjörn, tel. 896-0847. Viking chieftain at Ljósavatn and Law speaker, who was instrumental in the
Camping site: By the school, tel. 414-5420. peaceful adoption of the new faith. The former bishop of Iceland, Karl Sig-
urbjörnsson, consecrated the church in 2000.
• Kontorinn, Túngata 3, tel. 571-7188. Goðafoss waterfall is along the Skjálfandafljót River, not far from the main
• Ártún, travel service, tel. 892-3591/896-2275. road at Fosshóll farm in Bárðardalur Valley. The waterfall can be viewed
Leisure and Sport: from several places and the river flows into a series of chasms beneath it.
• Swimming pool and fitness center, by the school, tel. 414-5420. The name Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) was given after Þorgeir the Law
• Pólarhestar, Grýtubakki II, tel. 463-3179, fax 463-3144, speaker threw his pagan idols into the waterfall after ruling at the Þingvellir
polarhestar@polarhestar.is, www.polarhestar.is. assembly that Iceland should adopt Christianity, signifying that he had taken
• Golf, Hvammur. up the faith himself.
Health Center: Túngata 2, tel. 460-4600. Laugar in Reykjadalur is a school district that was established in 1925 and
For Motorists: offers a recently added sports center. This is a highly active geothermal
• Filling station, Túngata 3. area.
• Birnir, Réttarholt, garage and tire service,
Grenjaðarstaður is a church site and popular benefice in Aðaldalur. The
tel. 463-3172/863-3172.
present-day church was built in 1865 and there is a medieval rune stone in
Bank: Sparisjóður Höfðhverfinga, Túngata 3, tel. 460-9400. the cemetery. The oldest parts of the protected farmhouse date back to
Post: Jónsabúð, Túngata 3, tel. 463-3236. 1876 and today it houses a regional Folk Museum.
Local Handicrafts: Mt. Geitafell is 432 m tall and has a fine panoramic view, as well as a
• Gallery Glóa, tel. 867-3772. viewing dial at the summit. It is easy to reach the peak of Geitafell: either by
• Skartgripir Pálu, tel. 894-1887. following the old track from Laxárvirkjun hydropower station and then as-
Museums/Exhibitions: cending the ridge north of the mountain; or by starting at Kísilsvegur (route
• Fisheries Museum in Grenivík, tel. 414-5400. no. 87) and trekking up the old path just north of Geitafell farm.
• Laufás, Grýtubakkahreppur, Church and Folk Museum in an old
144
647 Guesthouse narfastaðir 663 CAMPING SYSTRAGIL
Þingeyjarsveit - 650 Laugar -  464 3300 Hróarsstaðir - Fnjóskadal - 601 Akureyri
farmhotel@farmhotel.is - www.farmhotel.is  860 2213 - systragil@simnet.is - www.systragil.is
90 30
GOLD-CLASS
GUESTHOUSE ENVIRONMENTAL
GISTIHEIMILI UMHVERFISFLOKKUN
5 10 3
Vaglaskógur camping
 860-4714 - vaglir@skogur.is
Open 1/6-10/9
10
Museum of transportation
Located on road 85 between Akureyri and
1,5
Húsavík. Open from may 15 to 30th
of September, from 10.00 - 20.00
Ystafell 3, 641 Húsavík, tel. 464 3133, 861 1213

sverrir@islandia.is - www.ystafell.is
samgonguminjasafnid ystafelli
Accommodation: • 652. Hotel Rauðaskriða, tel. 464-3504.

• 631. Ferðaþjónustan Draflastaðir, tel. 461-1726. • 655. Staðarhóll, tel. 464-3707.
• 632. Hjarðarholt, tel. 462-6914. • 655. Brekka, Aðaldal, tel. 464-3518.
• Merki, Fnjóskadalur, tel. 862-6073. • 656. Hafralækur, tel. 464-3561.
• 635. Illugastaðir, tel. 462-6199. • 657. Hagi I, tel. 464-3526.
• 639. Hótel Edda Plus, Stóru-Tjarnir, tel. 444-4890. • 658. Þinghúsið Hraunbær, tel. 464-3695.
• 640. Ljósvetningabúð, for groups, tel. 464-3231. • Gistiheimilið Garði, Aðaldalur, tel. 464-3569/862-4080.
• 641. Gh. Fosshóll, tel. 464-3108. • Klambrasel at Langavatn, tel. 464-3515.
• 643. Kiðagil, Bárðardalur, accommodation and food, • Árbót Hostel at Berg, tel. 464-3677/894-6477.
tel. 464-3290. • Björg, tel. 464-3737/845-4800.
• 644. Stóratunga, tel. 464-3282. Camping site:
• 647. Narfastaðir, tel. 464-3300, fax 464-3319, • 632. Hjarðarholt, tel. 462-6914.
farmhotel@farmhotel.is, www.farmhotel.is. • 633. Vaglaskógur, tel. 860-4714.
• 648. Breiðamýri, for groups, tel. 464-3145/848-3512. • 633. Systragil, Hróarsstaðir, tel. 860-2213.
• 651. Fosshótel Laugar, tel. 464-6300/562-4000, • 637. Sigríðarstaðir, tel. 462-6731.
bokun@fosshotel.is, www.fosshotel.is. • 641. By Gh. Fosshóll, tel. 464-3108.
• 651. Stóra Laugar, tel. 464-2990. • 651. Hjalli, Reykjadal, tel. 864-8790.
145
666 HLÍÐ - travel service 667 Hótel Gígur
Hraunbrún - 660 Mývatn -  464-4103 / 899-6203 Skútustaðir - 660 Mývatn -  464-4455
G info@myvatnaccommodation.is - www.myvatnaccommodation.is H Fax 464-4279 - gigur@keahotels.is - www.keahotels.is
18 100 9 62 34 34
1 1 2
665 guesthouse dimmuborgir • 651. Fosshótel Laugar, tel. 464-6300.

Geiteyjarströnd 1 - 660 Mývatn -  464-4210 / 894-3042 • 651. Laugar Swimming pool, tel. 862-3822/898-3414.
G dimmuborgir@emax.is - www.dimmuborgir.is • Lundsgolf, Lundi Fnjóskadal, tel. 462-6477/893-0541.
For Motorists: Filling stations at Fosshóll and Laugar.
Bank: Sparisj. Suður-Þing, Kjarni, Laugar, tel. 464-6200.
Local Handicrafts:
• Surtla Design, Stórutjarnir, tel. 464-3327.
• Goðafoss Market, Fosshóll, tel. 464-3323.
• Tóverið Tumsa, Norðurhlíð, Aðaldalur, tel. 464-3550.
• Ystafell, Farm machinery and automobile museum,
tel. 464-3133, www.ystafell.is.
• Grenjaðarstaður, Aðaldalur, Church and Folk Museum in an old turf
farmhouse, open daily June – Aug., 10 – 18, tel.
464-3688/464-1860,safnahus@husmus.is, www.husmus.is.
40 40 5 5
Transportation/Sightseeing:
• Rúnar Óskarsson´s Mountain Views, excursions in Northeast
Iceland for groups and individuals, tel. 464-3940.
• Jón F. Sigurðsson, guided tours to Flateyjardals Heath and to
Flateyjardalur valley, tel. 462-6914/892-1638.
• 651. Stóru Laugar, tel. 464-2990.
• 655. Staðarhóll, tel. 464-3707.
Restaurants:
• Restaurant Goðafoss, tel. 464-3332.
• Restaurant Fosshóll, tel. 464-3108. MÝVATNSSVEIT
• Kiðagil, Bárðardalur, accommodation and restaurant,
tel. 464-3290. Mývatn is Iceland’s fourth-largest lake, measuring 37.3 km2. Frequent lava
• Dalakofinn at Laugar, snack bar and restaurant, tel. 464-3344. flows have caused the lake’s irregular shape and its many islets and rock
formations. It is also exceptionally shallow: no more than 4.5 m at its deep-
Groceries:
est point. It is said that more species of ducks breed at this internationally
• Vaglaskógur, tel. 464-3322.
renowned bird-watching site during the summer than anywhere else in the
• Illugastaðir, tel. 462-6199.
world. Particularly rich flora flourishes around the lake, which lies in the
• Goðafoss shop, Fosshóll, tel. 464-3261.
protection of Vatnajökull glacier. The southerly winds have lost their power
• Dalakofinn at Laugar, tel. 464-3344.
by the time they reach Mývatn, and as a result the region enjoys some of
Recreation and Sport: the best summer weather in Iceland. There is very little surface flow in this
• 635. Illugastaðir, tel. 462-6199. area and most of the water in Mývatn originates from springs in the bed of
• 639. Hótel Edda, Stóru-Tjarnir, tel. 444-4890. the lake, which drains into the Laxá River.
146
MYVATN
The inhabitants of the Mývatn region have enjoyed
healthy bathing in the geothermal hot springs since
Iceland was settled by the Vikings. There is heat in the
NATURE BATHS earth, hot springs sizzle in the surrounding fissures and
nowhere else in Iceland does such pure steam rise from
S. 464-4411 / info@jardbodin.is / www.jardbodin.is the earth; is free of sulphur vapors and other pollution.
Historic relics and folk tales have shown that shelters
were built to use the steam in this area for bathing. In
1940, a new structure was built above a steam hole that
has been used for steam bathing (also called dry bath-
ing) for centuries, which was previously blessed by the
good bishop Gudmundur as early as the 13th century.
A bathing hut that was built at Jardbadsholar around

1950 and was used until around 1970 was enjoyed
by travelers. Pétur Snæbjörnsson and Jóhann Fridrik
Kristjánsson revived this tradition in 1996 by building
a steam bath, thus preserving both the culture and
history of the Myvatn region. A steam bathing hut was
built south of Jardbadsholar that immediately became
,500
N 65°37 popular among health seekers and as a meeting spot
,520
W 16°50
for locals. This encouraged the development of ideal
bathing facilities as well as the notion of revolutionizing
tourist services in the area. Baðfélag Mývatnssveit ehf.
corporation was established in 1998 and the idea came
to fruition on June 30, 2004, welcoming visitors to the
new and impressive bathing facilities in Mývatnssveit:
Myvatn Nature Baths.
H HÓTEL LAXÁ by MÝVATN
Olnbogaár - 660 Mývatn
 464-1900 - hotellaxa@hotellaxa.is - www.hotellaxa.is
160 80 80
MÝVATN TOURS will take you there!
80 www.askjatours.is - askjatours@myvatntours.is - tel.+354 464 1920
665 VOGAR TRAVEL SERVICE unique and bizarre lava formations, which is worth exploring. There is also
Vogar 660 - Mývatn -  464 4399, 773 6060
G info@vogahraun.is - www.vogahraun.is
a road that leads to the foot of Mt. Hverfjall (Hverfell). Another enjoyable hike
is to the peak of Mt. Vindbelgjarfjall, which has a panoramic view. Lastly,
there is a well-marked hiking trail leading from Reykjahlíð to Mt. Hlíðarfjall,
and on to the parking lot below Leirhnjúkur at Krafla.
Please note that it is prohibited to leave the main road between Vagnbrekka
and Grímsstaðir between May 15 and July 20, so as not to disturb nesting
birds.
Local Tourist Information Center: The Mývatn Center, Hraunvegur

2,5 8, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4390, info@visitmyvatn.is, www.visitmyvatn.is.
Accommodation:
• Hótel Reynihlíð, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4170, www.myvatnhotel.is.
• Hótel Laxá by Mývatn, tel. 464-1900, www.hotellaxa.is.
• Eldá Travel Service, Helluhraun 15, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4220,
www.elda.is.
• 666. Hlíð Travel Service, Hraunbrún, tel. 464-4103,
info@myvatnaccommodation.is, www.myvatnaccommodation.is.
• 666. Bjarg Travel Service, Bjarg, tel. 464-4240,
Few areas offer such a wide spectrum of geological formations. Mývatn lies ferdabjarg@simnet.is.
on an active volcanic belt where eruptions are frequent, with the most recent • Private guesthouse acc., Helluhraun 13, tel. 464-4132,
eruption occurring in 1984. The area is known for its intense geothermal ac- helluhraun13@gmail.com.
tivity, which is harnessed and provides heating for a large part of the region. • 665. Vogafjós, Vogar I, tel. 464-3800, vogafjos@vogafjos.is,
www.vogafjos.is.
In 1974 laws were passed to ensure the protection of Lake Mývatn and the • 665. Vogar Travel Service, Vogar, tel. 464-4399,
Laxá River, including a 200 m strip on either side of the river until it reaches info@vogahraun.is, www.vogahraun.is.
the ocean. The purpose of these laws is to preserve the unique nature and • 667. Hotel Gígur, Skútustaðir, tel. 464-4455,
biosphere of the area and to contribute to research. gigur@keahotels.is, www.keahotels.is.
• 667. Skútustaðir II, tel. 464-4212.
Mývatn Geothermal Baths opened in July 2004 and are called the “Blue
• 667. Skútustaðir Farmhouse, tel. 464-4212, www.skutustadir.com.
Lagoon of the north.” You can swim in the lagoon, experience steam baths
• Sel-Hótel Mývatn, Skútustaðir, tel. 464-4164,
or visit the spa, all while enjoying excellent changing room facilities.
myvatn@myvatn.is, wwwmyvatn.is.
Lake Mývatn area offers countless walking trails ranging from 1 to 3 hours • 646. Stöng, tel. 464-4252, www.stong.is.
in length. One of these is the marked path from Reykjahlíð to Grjótagjá, and • 665. Gh.Dimmuborgir, Geiteyjarströnd, tel. 464-4210,
then up the side of Mt. Hverfjall. It is possible to return by the same route, dimmuborgir@emax.is, www.dimmuborgir.is.
or there is a path through Dimmuborgir, but transportation must be ar-
ranged to return to the starting point. Dimmuborgir is its own world of
148
Camping site:
• 666. Bjarg Travel Service, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4240.
• 666. Hlíð, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4103.
• 665. Vogar Travel Service, Vogar, tel. 464-4399.
• Hótel Laxá, tel. 464-1900.
• Hótel Reynihlíð, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4170.
• Gamli bærinn, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4270.
• Hótel Reykjahlíð, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4142.
• Samkaup Strax, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4466.
• Vogafjós, Vogar I, tel. 464-3800. Sigurgeirs Bird Museum, Tel. 464 4477
• Hótel Gígur, Skútustaðir, tel. 464-4455. fuglasafn@fuglasafn.is - www.fuglasafn.is
• Sel-Hótel Mývatn, Skútustaðir, tel. 464-4164.
• Kaffi Sel, Skútustaðir, tel. 464-4164.
• Kaffi Kvika, Myvatn Nature Baths, tel. 464-4411.
• The Sigurgeir Bird Museum, Ytri-Neslönd, tel. 464-4477. Sightseeing and Hikes:
• Kaffi Borgir, Mývatns Market, Dimmuborgir, open 9 – 22, • Myvatnsstofa, Information and booking center, 464-4390,
tel. 464-1144. www.visitmyvatn.is.
• Daddi’s pizza, Vogar, tel. 773-6060. • Mývatn Tours, Askja-Herðubreiðarlindir, tel. 464-1920,
Food store: Samkaup Strax, tel. 464-4466. www.askjatours.is.
• Hike & Bike, Múlavegur 1, various guided hiking and mountain bike
Leisure and Sport:
tours, tel. 899-4845, www.hikeandbike.is.
• Mývatn Nature Baths, geothermal spa, tel. 464-4411.
• Geo Travel, Heiður, guided jeep excursions, dog sled tours in the
• 667. Swimming pool, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4225.
winter, tel. 864-7080, www.geotravel.is.
• Golf, Krossdalsvöllur, Reykjahlíð, 6 holes, tel. 464-4165.
• SBA-Norðurleið, sightseeing tours around Mývatn, tel. 550-0700.
• Magma Essentials, Reykjahlíð, relaxing massage, tel. 464-3740.
Roundtrips: Mývatn-Askja-Kverkfjöll-Vatnajökull-Akureyri.
• Ski lift at Krafla.
Roundtrips: Mývatn-Krafla-Dettifoss-Hljóðaklettar-Ásbyrgi-Akureyri.
Bicycle hire: www.sba.is.
• Hlíð, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4103. • Rúnar Óskarsson´s Mountain Views, excursions in Northeast
• Hike & Bike, Múlavegur 1, tel. 899-4845, www.hikeandbike.is. Iceland for groups and individuals, tel. 464-3941.
• Bjarg Travel Service, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-4240. • Mýflug, Reykjahlíð airport, charter flights, sightseeing,
• Hótel Reynihlíð, tel. 464-4170. tel. 464-4400.
Horse Riding: • Sel-Hótel Mývatn, Skútustaðir, winter tours and Northern Lights
• Safaríhestar, Álftagerði III, tel. 464-4203. tours, tel. 464-4164.
• Saltvík, Reykjahlíð, tel. 847-6515. • Marked hiking trail from Reykjahlíð to Hverfell and Dimmuborgir.
• Saga Travel, travel from Akureyri to Mývatnssveit,
Health Care: Helluhraun 17, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-0500. tel. 558-8888, www.sagatravel.is.
For Motorists: Transportation:
• Filling stations in Reykjahlíð and Skútustaðir, • Straetó, bus service, www.bus.is.
• Garage and tire repair in Reykjahlíð, tel. 464 4117/848-2678. • SBA-Norðurleið, tel. 550-0700, www.sba.is.
Taxi: • Kynnisferðir, tours to Reykjavik via highland route; Sprengisandur,
• Car rental Múlavegur 1, Reykjahlíð, tel. 858-2660, www.six60.is. Landmannalaugur to Reykjavík, tel. 580 5400, www.austurleid.is.
• Þuríður Helgadóttir, tel. 464-4399/893-4389, www.vogahraun.is. Events:
Bank/Post Office: Sparisjóðurinn Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-6200, ATM. • June 6: Mývatn marathon.
• June 23: Invitation on mid-summer eve.
Local Handicrafts:
• Nov. 28: Advent Celebration with Yule lads at Dimmuborgir.
• Dyngjan, Hraunvegur 6, Reykjahlíð, tel. 464-2003.
• Dec. 12: The Yule Lads Christmas bath at Jarðböðunum of Mývatn.
• Mývatns Market, Dimmuborgir, open 9 – 22
tel. 464-1144, www.visitdimmuborgir.is.
• Mývatnsstofa, The Environmental Agency’s Visitors Center with an
exhibition on the biology and geology of the Mývatn district,
HÚSAVÍK
Hraunvegur 8, tel. 464-4460/822-4039, www.ust.is. Húsavík is situated on the eastern shore of Skjálfandi Bay. Fishing and fish
• Vogafjós, Vogar I, visit the dairy farm, watch the cows in the dairy processing, along with trade, services and tourism, are the economic main-
through the glass walls of the restaurant, tel. 464-3800. stays. Húsavík has three must-see museums; The Húsavík Whaling Muse-
• The Sigurgeir Stefánsson Bird Museum, Ytri-Neslönd, a fascinating um, The Exploration Museum and The Húsavík Cultural House.
museum of stuffed birds, tel. 464-4477.
• Bird watching facilities, fuglasafn@fuglasafn.is, www.fuglasafn.is. Tourism in the area has greatly increased in recent years and over 170,000
• Landsvirkjun – Visitors Center, Krafla Geothermal Power Plant, tourists visit the town annually. Visitors are drawn to the variety of activities
Introduction to the harnessing of geothermal power at the Krafla available, the beautiful nature in the area and the fascinating whale-watch-
Power Station and energy utilization in Iceland. Cinematic display ing trips in Skjálfandi Bay. The first organized whale-watching trips in Ice-
of the Krafla eruption. Open in summer. tel. 464-8200. land started in Húsavík in 1994.
149
G Guesthouse sigtún
Túngata 13 - 640 Húsavík -  464-0255 / 864-0250
Fax 464-0259 - gsigtun@gsigtun.is
www.guesthousesigtun.is
THE HÚSAVÍK WHALE MUSEUM

The museum’s main goal is to educate Open daily
and inform people about whales and May – Sept., 8:30 -18:30,
their habitat. Within the 1600 m2 Oct. – April, 9:00 - 14:00.
exhibition space, you’ll find the skele-
Hafnarstétt 1, 640 Húsavík
tons of many different kinds of whales
and fascinating information about the Tel. +354-414-2800
30
largest animal in the world.

2
In centuries past, Húsavík was an export harbor for sulfur from Þingey- • Café Hvalbakur, Garðarbraut 8, tel. 464-7278.
jarsýsla County. Garðar Svavarsson of Sweden was the first man to discov- • Naustið, restaurant, Ásgarðsvegur 1, tel. 464-1520.
er that Iceland is an island. He spent one winter at Húsavík in 870, four • Fish & Chips, by the harbor, tel. 464-2099.
years before the settler Ingólfur Arnarson arrived in Iceland, and named the • Salka coffee house and ice cream bar, Garðarsbraut 7,
island Garðarshólmi. There are many Swedish influences in Húsavík, such tel. 464-3999, salka@salkarestaurant.is, www.salkarestaurant.is.
as the name, which likely refers to the house built by Garðar Svavarsson. On • MiniBar Húsavík, Garðarsbraut 6, tel. 698-2551,
January 1, 2016, the population was 2,181. Further information about Leisure and Sport:
Húsavík is available at www.visithusavik.is and www.visithusavik.com. • Swimming pool, Héðinsbraut, tel. 464-6190.
• Golf, Katlavöllur, 9 holes, tel. 464-1000.
Police: Útgarður 1, tel. 444-2850. • Horse Farm, Saltvík, tel. 847-9515.
Tourist Information Center: Húsavíkurstofa, The Húsavík Whale • Paintball field, by Ásgarðsvegur.
Museum, Hafnarstétt 1, tel. 464-4300, info@visithusavik.is, Health Center: Auðbrekka 4, tel. 464-0500.
www.visithusavik.is. Pharmacy: Lyfja, Stórigarður 13, tel. 464-1212.
Accommodation: For Motorists/Auto Repair:
• Fosshótel Húsavík, Ketilsbraut 22, tel. 464-1220/ • Car Service, Garðarsbraut 52, tel. 464-1122.
562-4000, husavik@fosshotel.is, www.fosshotel.is. • Bílaleiga Húsavíkur, Garðarsbraut 66, tel. 464-2500.
• Húsavík Cape Hotel, Laugarbrekka 26, tel. 463-3399,
info@husavikhotel.com, www.husavikhotel.com. Car Rental: Bílaleiga Húsavíkur, Garðarsbraut 66, tel. 464-2500.
• Gh. Árból, Ásgarðsvegur 2, tel. 464-2220, Filling Station/Kiosk:
arbol@arbol.is, www.arbol.is. • N1, Naustagil, tel. 464-2650.
• Kaldbakskot, by Kaldbakur, tel. 464-1504, • OLÍS, Garðarsbraut 64, tel. 464-1040.
cottages@cottages.is, www.cottages.is. • Orkuskálinn, Héðinsbraut 6, tel. 464-1260.
• Gh. Sigtún, Túngata 13, tel. 864-0250,
Banks:
gsigtun@gsigtun.is, www.guesthousesigtun.is.
• Íslandsbanki, Stórigarður 1, tel. 440-3830, ATM.
• Gh. Laugarholt 7c, tel. 464-2127/899-2127.
• Landsbankinn, Garðarsbraut 19, tel. 410-4192, ATM.
• Guesthouse Húsavík, Laugarbrekka 16, tel. 463-3399,
• Sparisjóður Suður-Þingeyinga, Garðarsbraut 4, tel. 464-6200.
husavikguesthouse.is
• Höfði Guesthouse, Héðinsbraut 11, tel. 852-0010. Post Office: Garðarsbraut 70, tel. 517-1126.
• Húsavík Hostel, Valholtsvegur 9, tel. 463-3399, Alcohol Store: Garðarsbraut 21, tel. 464-2230.
info@husavikhostel.com, www.husavikhostel.com.
Local Handicrafts:
• Húsavík Penthouse, Stóragarður 7, t. 693-2232,
• Kaðlín, Community Center, Garðarsbraut 22, tel. 464-2060.
husavikpenthouse.com
• Fjúk Art and Design Centre, Verbúð 11, tel. 694-2074.
Camping site: Húsavíkurstofa, tel. 464-4300.
Museums/Exhibitions/Church:
Restaurants/Snack Bars: • The Húsavík Whale Museum, Hafnarstétt, tel. 414-2800,
• Fosshótel Húsavík, Ketilsbraut 22, tel. 464-1220. open daily May – Sept., 8:30-18:30, Oct. – April, 9 – 14.
• Restaurant Salka, Garðarsbraut 6 (basement), tel. 464-2600. info@whalemuseum.is, www.whalemuseum.is.
• Gamli Baukur, fish restaurant near the harbor, tel. 464-2442. • The Exploration Museum, Héðinsbraut 1, open daily May – Sept.,
• Heimabakarí, Garðarsbraut 15, tel. 464-2900. 9 – 17, open Sat., Sun. and Thurs. Oct. – April, 13 – 16,
150
660 heiðarbær
Heiðarbær - 641 Húsavík
C  464-3903 - info@heidarbaer.is - www.heidarbaer.is
11
20
tel. 463-3399, info@explorationmuseum.com,

www.explorationmuseum.com.
• Húsavík Cultural House (Museum), Stórigarður 17, Exhibitions: Man
and Nature, Maritime Exhibition, Art exhibitions, café, museum
shop, open daily June – Aug. 10 – 18, and on weekdays Sept.
– May 10 – 16, tel. 464-1860,
safnahus@husmus.is, www.husmus.is.
• Húsavík Library, Stórigarður 17, tel. 464-6165.
• Húsavík Church, beautiful architecture, open June – Aug.,
tel. 464-2136.
Sightseeing and Hikes:
• Norðursigling, cruises and whale watching, tel. 464-7272,
info@northsailing.is, www.northsailing.is.
• Gentle Giants, cruises and whale-watching excursions,
tel. 464-1500, info@gentlegiants.is, www.gentlegiants.is.
• Salka Whale Watching, Garðarsbraut 7, whale watching
excursions, tel. 464-3999, info@salkawhalewatching.is,
www.salkawhalewatching.is.
• SBA-Norðurleið, roundtrips: Húsavík-Ásbyrgi-Dettifoss-Húsavík,
tel. 550-0700, www.sba.is.
• Rúnar Óskarsson´s Mountain Views, excursions in Northeast
Iceland for groups and individuals, tel. 464-3940,
www.fjallasyn.is.
• Public park in the center of town.
• Hiking paths, e.g. a marked hiking route around Lake
Botnsvatn, which can be walked in approximately 1.5 hours.
• Hiking maps available at the Tourist Information Center.
Transportation:
• Eagle Air, (Flugfélagið Ernir), scheduled flight service
Reykjavík-Húsavík, 6 days a week, tel. 562-2640, www.ernir.is.
• Strætó, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service;
Akureyri-Húsavík-Raufarhöfn-Þórshöfn-Mývatn,
www.straeto.is.
• SBA-Norðurleið, summer: Húsavík-Mývatn, tel. 550-0700,
www.sba.is.
151
685 grímstunga I & Hólssel 685 grímsstaðir á fjöllum
Hólsfjöll - 660 Mývatn -  464-4294 / 899-9991 / 546-4294 660 Mývatn -  464-4292 / 852-8855
G djupadokk@simnet.is - www.grimstunga.is G grimsstadir@simnet.is - www.grimsstadir.is
Hólssel
8 8
rooms
By road 864 (Dettifossveg):

Grímstunga An ideal place to stay for 2-3 nights
and go on day trips.: Nearby:
Askja 100 km Ásbyrgi 50 km Dettifoss, Ásbyrgi
22 22 Herðubreiðar- Dettifoss 25 km 6 10 Mývatn
lindir 60 km Húsavík 100 km Herðubreiðarlindir
Mývatn 40 km Askja
NORTH-ÞINGEY / TJÖRNES Center, representing the northern territory of the national park, is located at
Ásbyrgi.
Norðurþing covers the municipality of Husavik, Öxarfjörður, much of Melrak- Dettifoss is considered the most impressive waterfall in Europe. It is 45 m
kaslétta and stretches far into the wilderness south Öxarfjörður to Gríms- high and 100 m wide. Further down the Jökulsá River you will find Ha-
staðir. There are many natural wonders in the municipality, making it popu- fragilsfoss (27 m), and upriver there is Selfoss (10 m). These three water-
lar with tourists. Húsavík is the whale watching capital of the country. On falls form a unit unlike any other in the world. There is a marked walking
January 1, 2016, the population was 2,806. path from Dettifoss to Hafragilsfoss.
“The Diamond Ring” is a circular route that links Húsavík and some of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum is one of the most powerful glacial rivers in Iceland, and it
most stunning places of natural beauty in the area, such as Jökulsárgljúfur is the second longest at 206 km. It flows from the Vatnajökull glacial cap in
National Park, Ásbyrgi, Hljóðaklettar, Hólmatungur and Dettifoss waterfall. two main branches that merge near the interior “oasis” of Herðubreiðarlindir.
The route runs south to Mývatnssveit district and back along Hólasandur The river follows a gentle slope most of the way to the inhabited area of
sands and Reykjahverfi to Húsavík. The route is 215 km long and the trip Kelduhverfi, and from there it plunges down to the Öxarfjörður lowlands
takes approximately 7 – 10 hours, depending on how long travelers stop at over the dramatic and unique Jökulsárgljúfur waterfall series that stretches
each site. several kilometers.
Tjörnes is a peninsula between the bays of Skjálfandi and Öxarfjörður, with Hófaskarðsleið is a new route leading from Norðausturvegur (route no. 85),
remarkable strata in the sandstone banks along its entire western shore. just south of Kópasker, that goes straight over Melrakkaslétta eastward to
These contain lava, sediment from rivers, lakes and the seabed, and glacial Þistilfjördur. A new road has also been created that goes from the Hófas-
moraine, as well as some lignite. The strata provide a continuous record of karðsleið route to Raufarhöfn. The new road is an improvement in transport
changes in climate, vegetation and marine life from the start of the Ice Age, communication for the district and shortens the drive between Þórshöfn
3 million years ago, all the way into the Tertiary period. The easiest place to and Húsavík by about one hour. A beautiful stopover point can be found in
approach the strata is on the south side of the Hallbjarnarstaðaá River. the Hófaskarð pass, with a great view over Þistilfjörður and information
about Melrakkaslétta. Visitors, who prefer peace and solitude to watch birds
Vatnajökull National Park and Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. Vatnajökull National and experience nature, often use the old route through Melrakkaslétta.
Park is one of Iceland’s three national parks and was founded in 2008. The
area of the national park near Jökulsárgljúfur canyon includes the land west Rauðinúpur is a 73 m-high rock formation that stands on the westernmost
of the Jökulsá River as well as the Dettifoss waterfall. It’s 30 km long and part of Melrakkaslétta. Rauðinúpur is thought to have been an old volcano,
the total area is 120 km2. The Jökulsárgljúfur canyon is among the largest which would account for the bowl shape. The rock is used as a landmark by
and most impressive of Iceland’s many river canyons; over 25 km long with boats and its red color is from cinder. There is a good hiking path up to
a width of up to 0.5 km and a depth of up to 100 m. This area is ideal for Rauðinúpur with excellent views from the top.
hiking.
Hraunhafnartangi was long considered to be Iceland’s northernmost point,
Ásbyrgi canyon is a large, horseshoe shaped rocky depression in the land. but according to the most recent land measurements, Rifstangi point, a spit
The enormous hollow was most likely caused by catastrophic flooding of of land only a short distance to the west, stretches slightly further into the
the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River after the last Ice Age. The canyon is about 3.5 sea. Here, the Arctic Circle is only 3 km from the mainland. One of the most
km long, 1 km wide and 100 m deep. According to legend, the horseshoe notorious saga heroes, Þorgeir Hávarsson (“who feared absolutely noth-
shaped canyon was formed when Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged horse, ing”), was killed there and is said to be buried beneath the huge pile of
touched one of its hooves to the ground there. The Gljúfrastofa Visitor’s rocks at Hraunhöfn Cove.
152
Langanes is a peninsula on the eastern side of Þistilfjördur fjord. At one time
settlers lived off of fishing and catching birds, but it is now largely aban-
doned.
671 Travel Service KelduneS
Keldunes II, Kelduhverfi - 671 Kópasker -  465-2275 /
Hiking trails in the vicinity of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. This part of Vatnajökull
National Park is ideal for walking and hiking, and in fact cannot be explored
G 861-2275 - info@keldunes.is - www.keldunes.is
to the fullest except on foot. A marked path leads through the park from
Dettifoss waterfall to the campsite at Ásbyrgi, generally threading its way
along the canyon. It can take up to two days to complete this walk, but many
shorter hiking options are available. A popular circular walk from Hljóðaklet-
tur (Echoing Rocks) to Hólmatunga connects the two areas. The Vesturdalur
valley is a good starting point to walk to Rauðhólar or the Svínadalur valley,
and from Ásbyrgi a variety of hiking trails are available, including shorter,
guided tours. Gljúfrastofa, the visitor and information center in the Vatna-
jökull National Park, houses an interesting exhibition on nature and life in
the area. Forvöð, a lone rock opposite Hólmatungur, stands approximately 8
km from route 864, to the east of Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
Local Tourist Information: Gljúfrastofa – visitor and information 12 6 8

center in the Vatnajökull National Park at Ásbyrgi, open daily May 1 –
Sept. 30, tel. 470-7100, asbyrgi@vjp.is, www.vjp.is.
12
Accommodation:
• 659. Klambrasel, Reykjahverfi,
tel. 464-3514/895-2514, ksel@emax.is. Museums/Exhibitions:
• 659. Langavatn, Reykjahverfi, tel. 464-3514/895-2514, • Þórshamar, Folk Museum at Mánárbakki, Tjörnes, tel. 464-1957.
ksel@emax.is. • Gljúfrastofa - Vatnajökull National Park Jökulsárgljúfur,
• 660. Heiðarbær, Reykjahverfi, tel. 464-3903/864-0118, • Exhibit on nature, geology and culture of the region, Open daily
heidarbaer@simnet.is, www.heidarbaer.is. May 1 – Sept. 30, tel. 470-7100. asbyrgi@vjp.is, www.vjp.is.
• 661. Skógar III, Reykjahverfi, tel. 464-3919, www.skogar1.is. Sightseeing and Hikes:
• Tungulending guesthouse at Tjörnes, tel. 8966948 • Vatnajökull National Park Jökulsárgljúfur, daily guided tours with
• 671. Hótel Skúlagarður, Kelduhverfi, tel. 465-2280/821-1388, park wardens from June 20 – Aug. 14, tel. 470-7100.
skulagardur@simnet.is, www.skulagardur.com. • Icelandic Falcon Center, Gljúfrastofa Visitors Center, Ásbyrgi,
• 671. Keldunes II, Kelduhverfi, tel. 465-2275/861-2275, educational activities focusing on the falcon, tel. 470-7100.
keldunes@keldunes.is. Transportation:
• 671. River Guesthouse, tel. 465-2280/847-5513. • Strætó tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service;
• 671. Dettifoss Guesthouse, tel. 869-7672, olga@kopasker, • Akureyri-Húsavík-Raufarhöfn-Þórshöfn-Mývatn, www.straeto.is.
www.facebook.com/dettifossguesthouse. • Flights to Þórshöfn, www.flugfelag.is; flights to Húsavík,
• 685. Grímstunga I, Hólsfjöll, tel. 464-4294/899-9991, www.ernir.is.
djupadokk@simnet.is.
• 685. Grímsstaðir á Fjöllum, tel. 464-4294/852-8855, Events:
grimstadir@simnet.is. • Aug. 6: Jökulsárhlaup, a run through Jökulsárgljúfur canyon.
• Aug. 13: Sléttugangan, a walk from Raufarhöfn around
Camping Sites: Melrakkaslétta Plains.
• 660. Heiðarbær, Reykjahverfi, tel. 464-3903/864-0118.
• 673. Ásbyrgi, tel. 470-7100.
• 673. Vatnajökull National Park Jökulsárgljúfur,
• Ásbyrgi and Vesturdalur, tel. 470-7100.
• 685. Grímsstaðir á Fjöllum, tel. 464-4292/852-8855,
KÓPASKER
grimstadir@simnet.is. Kópasker is on the eastern shore of Öxarfjörður fjord. Its economy centers
Restaurant/Snack Bars: on services for the surrounding farms, as well as the fishing industry, de-
• Heiðarbær, Reykjahverfi, tel. 464-3903. spite poor harbor facilities. An earthquake center with a fascinating exhibi-
• Hótel Skúlagarður, Kelduhverfi, tel. 465-2280. tion opened recently at Kópasker and it is open daily during the summer.
• Ásbyrgi, Kelduhverfi, restaurant/shop, tel. 465-2260. The local folk museum is located at Snartarstaðir, just outside the village. On
• Tungulending café, at Tjörnes tel. 896-6948. January 1, 2016, the population was 124.
Leisure and Sport:
• 660. Heiðarbæjarlaug, swimming pool, hot tub, tel. 464-3903. Accommodation:
• Golf, at Ásbyrgi, 9 holes, tel. 465-2260. • Kópasker Hostel, Akurgerði 7, tel. 465-2314,
• 676. Lundur, swimming pool, tel. 465-2247/465-2248. hostel@kopasker.is, www.hostel.is/kopasker.
• 671. Active North, Ásbyrgi, horseback riding, bike tours and • Víðihóll, apartments, tel. 465-2122/869-8166,
walking tours, tel. 858-7080, www.activenorth.is. valholl@kopasker.is, www.vidiholl.com.
Local Handicrafts: Heimöx, Ásbyrgi, tel. 465-2230.
153
Accommodation:
• Hotel Norðurljós, Aðalbraut 2, tel. 465-1233, fax 465-1383,
info@hotelnordurljos.is, www.hotelnordurljos.is.
• Gistihúsið Hreiðrið, The Nest Guesthouse, Aðalbraut 16,
tel. 472-9930, info@nesthouse.is, www.nesthouse.is.
Camping Site: By the swimming pool, tel. 465-1144.
Restaurant/Snack Bar:
• Hótel Norðurljós, tel. 465-1233.
• Kaffi Ljósfang, Aðalbraut 26, tel. 465-1115, open in summer.
Food store: Verslunin Urð, Aðalbraut 35, tel. 465-1111.
Leisure and Sport:
• Swimming pool, Skólabraut, tel. 465-1144.
• Fishing license in lakes Deildarvatn, Höfði, Nanna St. Höskulds-
dóttir tel. 868-8647.
• Fishing license for Ölduá river, info@deildara.com, tel. 666-9555.
Camping Site: Austurtröð, tel. 864-3013/898-2180. • Fishing license for Fremri Deildará river, info@deildara.com,
tel. 666-9555.
Food store: Skerjakolla, Bakkagata 10, tel. 465-2122, • Arctic Angling, guided fishing trips, tel. 868-9771,
skerjakolla@kopasker.is. info@arcticangling.is, www.arcticangling.is.
Health Center: Akurgerði 13, tel. 464-0640. Health Center: Aðalbraut 33, tel. 465-1145.
For Motorists: For Motorists:
• N1, petrol station by the shop Skerjakolla, Bakkagata 10, • N1 Filling station, Aðalbraut 26, pay-at-pump, garage.
tel. 465-2122. • Véla- og trésmiðja SRS, garage and tire service, tel. 465-1264.
• Röndin, Röndin 5, garage and tire repair, tel. 465-2124.
Bank/ Post Office:
Bank and post: Landsbankinn, Bakkagata 8-10, tel. 455-1300. • Landsbankinn, Aðalbraut 23, tel. 455-1300.
Leisure and Sport: • Íslandspóstur, Aðalbraut 23, tel. 464-9898.
• Putting green, info available in the earthquake center shop. Local Handicrafts: Gallerý Ljósfang, Aðalbraut 26, tel. 465-1115.
• Guided walking tours around Kópasker, info available in the
earthquake center. Transportation:
• Various interesting walking paths, map at the camping site. • Strætó, scheduled coach service;
• Akureyri-Húsavík-Raufarhöfn-Þórshöfn-Mývatn,
Museum/Exhibition: tel. 540-2700, www.straeto.is.
• Folk Museum, Snartarstaðir, interesting collection of handicrafts,
costumes, books, etc. Café and museum shop. Free admittance. Events:
Open daily June – Aug., 13 – 17 , tel. 465-2171/464-1860, • Aug. 13: Sléttugangan, hike around Melrakkaslétta Plains.
safnahus@husmus.is, www.husmus.is. • First weekend in Oct.: Ram´s Day, the exhibition and sale of rams
• The Earthquake Center, exhibition in the primary school. Open daily from the neighboring communities.
June – Aug., 13 – 17, at other times by arrangement, tel. • Oct.: Culture Week.
845-2454/465-2105, earthquake@kopasker.is.
Transportation: Strætó tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service;
Akureyri-Húsavík-Raufarhöfn-Þórshöfn-Mývatn, www.straeto.is.
SVALBARÐSHREPPUR
Svalbarðshreppur in Þistilfjördur fjord is a fertile agricultural area and ideal
for sheep farming, with grassy heaths that extend into the highlands. There
RAUFARHÖFN is an old chieftain’s residence and church site is at Svalbard. Well-known

salmon rivers run through the area, including the Svalbarðsá, Sandá, Hölkná
and Hafralónsá rivers. As of January 1, 2016, the population was 97.
Raufarhöfn is on the eastern shore of the Melrakkaslétta peninsula. During
the years of large herring catches in the mid-20th century, Raufarhöfn was Rauðanes is a beautiful inlet on the western side of Þistilfjörður fjord. There
one of the main landing and processing stations, and one of Iceland’s larg- are interesting caves and rock formations with a variety of birdlife. It is a
est export harbors. On the Melrakkaás ridge, above Raufarhöfn, work is nice drive up to the Vellir farm where there is a map with information about
underway on Heimskautsgerði, a unique public artwork that is partly in- a marked 7 km-long walking path. This is a wonderful spot for nature lovers.
spired by Old Norse religion. There are numerous marked walking paths in
the area. On January 1, 2016, the population was 189. Accommodation: 680. Svalbarðskóli Travel Service (school),
tel. 468-1290/863-1290.
Police: Víkurbraut, tel. 444-2850. Restaurant/Snack Bar: 680. Svalbarðsskóli School,
Local Tourist Information: tel. 468-1290/863-1290.
• Kaffi Ljósfang, Aðalbraut 26, tel. 465-1115. Leisure and Sport:
• Norðurþing local authority office, Aðalbraut 23, tel. 464-6100. • Forystufjársetur, Svalbard in Þistilfjörður. Open daily June 1 – Aug.
31, 11 – 18, tel. 852-8899, forystusetur@forystusetur.is,
154
www.forystusetur.is, facebook.com/fræðasetur-um-forystufé. Health Center: Miðholt 4, tel. 464-0600, emergency 112.
• Salmon and trout fishing in the vicinity. Pharmacy: Lyfja, Miðholti 4, tel. 464-0609.
• Marked hiking trail to Rauðanes.
For Motorists:
• N1 filling station, tel. 468-1174.
LANGANESBYGGÐ • Mótorhaus, Stórholt 6, tel. 847-4056.
• Bílalega Akureyrar, Europcar, tel. 840-6078.
Langanes is the peninsula east of Þistilfjördur. It is wide at its base, and then Bank/Post Office: Landsbankinn, Fjarðarvegur 5,
narrows until it ends at the Fontur cliff. A wide variety of birdlife can be seen tel. 455-1300, ATM.
along the coastline. In previous times, boats rowed out to fish, the shores Alcohol Store: Langanesvegur 2, tel. 468-1505.
were littered with driftwood, and locals utilized eider and cliff birds. The area
was always sparsely populated and now it is mostly deserted. Handicrafts: Gallery Beita, Eyrarvegur, tel. 847-4056.
Museum: Sauðaneshús, stories, legends and artifact collections from
Skálar at Langanes is a deserted village from the early 20th century. It was
the Langanes region. Café, traditional cuisine, tourist information.
the site of a thriving fishing station where over 100 people resided. It is an Open daily June – Aug., 11 – 17. Open to groups at other times by
interesting site for those curious about history and culture. arrangement, tel. 468-1430, www.saudaneshus.is.
Skeggjastaðir is a church site and vicarage on the coast of Bakkafjörður Transportation:
fjord. This is the site of the oldest timber church in Iceland, built in 1845 and • Strætó, tel. 540-2700, scheduled coach service;
reconstructed in 1962. It contains a Danish pulpit, probably from the early • Akureyri-Húsavík-Raufarhöfn-Þórshöfn-Mývatn, www.straeto.is.
part of the 18th century, and an altarpiece painted by Knippel in 1857. • Air Iceland, scheduled weekday flights to Þórshöfn from Reykjavík
via Akureyri. tel. 468-1420, www.flugfelag.is.
Events: Mid-July: Kátir dagar: Merry Days family festival, throughout
ÞÓRSHÖFN Langanesbyggð.
Þórshöfn is situated on the eastern shore of Lónafjörð fjord, which cuts

in from Þistilfjörður fjord on the southeast side. It has an excellent
natural harbor. In addition to its fishing industry, the town provides
BAKKAFJÖRÐUR
various services to the surrounding countryside. On January 1, 2016,
Bakkafjörður is a town situated on the Bakkafjörður fjord, which stretches
the population was 350.
inland to the south from Bakkaflói Bay. Trade and fishing both began there
in 1888. The town flourished in the first decades of the 20th century, but
Police: Eyrarvegur 2, tel. 468-1133.
after 1930 the population began to decline. Fishing from the town is limited
Tourist Information: Ver, Sport Center, tel. 468-1515. to small vessels at present. A good hiking path, approximately 8 km in
Accommodation: length, runs along Viðvíkurdalur valley, between Bakkafjörður and Viðvík.
• Guesthouse Lyngholt, tel. 468-1238/897-5064, The area was inhabited until the beginning of the 20th century. On January
lyngholt@lyngholt.is, www.lyngholt.is. 1, 2016, the population was 85.
• 682. Hostel Ytra-Lón, tel. 846-6448, ytralon@hostel.is,
www.hostel.is/ytralon. Police: Eyrarvegur 2, tel. 468-1133.
Camping site: By Miðholt. Accommodations: Fell Cottages, tel. 473-1696/822-1696, infofell-
cottages@gmail.com, www.fellcottages.is.
Restaurants:
• Báran, bar/restaurant, Eyrarvegur 3, tel. 468-1250. Camping Site: By Skólavegur, tel. 468-1515.
knaveitingar@gmail.com, www.baranrestaurant.is. Food store: Mónakó, tel. 473-1370/866-7813.
• Grillskálinn, Bakkavegur 1, tel. 468-1174/868-8647.
Leisure and Sport:
Food store: Samkaup, Langanesvegur 2, tel. 468-1100. • Salmon and trout fishing in the Bakká River,
Leisure and Sport: • Lake Bakkavatn and other lakes, tel. 866-7813.
• Sport center and swimming pool, tel. 468-1515. • Guided hike to Digranes lighthouse, tel. 892-8202.
• Þórshöfn Kayak tel. 468-1250, knaveitingar@gmail.com,
www.baranrestraurant.is/kayak.
• Fishing license: Sauðanesós, tel. 468-1242.
• Ytra-Lón, tel. 846-6448.
• Hlíð, tel. 468-1109. P O L I C E
• Lake Krókavatn at Fell, tel. 473-1696.
• Bakká River and Lake Bakkavatn, salmon and trout fishing, F I R E
tel. 866-7813. M E D I C A L
• Arctic Angling, guided fishing trips, tel. 868-9771,
info@arcticangling.is, www.arcticangling.is. D O C T O R S
• Guided bird-watching tours: Ytra-Lón tel. 866-6448, ONE ONE TWO
ytralon@hostel.is.
• Guided hiking tours around Þórshöfn/out to Grenjanes lighthouse,
tel. 892-8202.
155
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
156
the east
Eastern Iceland once stretched as far south as Skeiðarársandur, but now that region, Austur-Skaftafellssýsla,
geographically belongs to South Iceland. On the inland side the border lies along Helkundaheiði and the moun-
tains near the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River, and then follows the river south to Vatnajökull glacier.
Eastern Iceland is divided into two main districts: Múlaþing and Rich flora typifies the valleys, while the mountains tend to be bare.
Austur-Skaftafellssýsla, the latter of which now belongs to Southern Extensive pastures cover the heaths, making Múlaþing one of the
Iceland. The northeastern coast is marked by three bays: Bakkaflói, main sheep farming districts in the country. Hérað has the densest
Vopnafjörður and Héraðsflói. From the shore, the land quickly trans- vegetation and includes Hallormsstaðaskógur, the largest forest in
forms into grassy valleys that lead up to densely vegetated heaths Iceland. Another large forest, Egilsstaðaskógur, is located a short dis-
further inland. A high mountain range, topped by Smjörfjall (Butter tance away.
Mountain), separates Vopnafjörður bay and Fljótsdalshérað. Fljóts-
dalshérað is a vast, low-lying area bordered by Héraðsflói bay to the Eastern Iceland boasts many natural harbors. As a result, it became
north and Vatnajökull glacier to the south. The plain gives way to three densely populated around 1900, with fishing as the main industry. The
valleys: Jökuldalur, Skriðdalur and Fljótsdalur. Fljótsdalur is the main largest of the older municipalities are Seyðisfjörður, Neskaupstaður,
valley, Skriðdalur lies to the east and Jökuldalur is the northernmost Eskifjörður and Fáskrúðsfjörður. Egilstaðir and Fellabær are newer mu-
valley. Jökuldalur is East Iceland’s longest inhabited valley, and to the nicipalities, located near Lagarfljót, and has evolved into the main
north of it lies Jökuldalsheiði heath. Fljótsdalsheiði heath is located transport and service center for the district.
between Jökuldalur and Fljótsdalur. The heaths and the surrounding
VOPNAFJÖRÐUR
areas, stretching all the way to the edge of Vatnajökull glacier, are
home to the Icelandic reindeer. Two of the longest and largest rivers in
Eastern Iceland, Jökulsá á Brú and Lagarfljót, originate from under-
neath Vatnajökull glacier and flow through Fljótsdalshérað. Vopnafjörður fjord lies southwest to northeast and divides the land into
two peninsulas - Kollumúli to the south and Digranes to the north. The
A large mountain range, Austfjarðafjallgarður, lies northeast of Vatna- boundary of the Vopnafjörður district runs a horseshoe-shaped route
jökull glacier and to the south of Fljótsdalshérað. This is the oldest part connecting the peninsulas and around the fjord. Mountain ranges and
of the country and the fjords that mark the shoreline are similar to
those in the Westfjords region. The most dramatic fjord is Reyðarfjörður,
while Breiðdalur has the most extensive lowlands. The largest islands Tourist Information
are Seley, Skrúður, Andey and Papey.
in East Iceland
Basalt is the most common rock type, but palagonite is commonly Vopnafjörður, t. 473-1331
found on the heaths and highlands east of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River. Egilsstaðir; Miðvangur 1-3, t. 471-2320
Rhyolite is also typical in the area, mostly around Borgarfjörður. There Skriðuklaustur, Fljótsdalur, t. 471-2990
Seyðisfjörður-bei, Ferjuleira, t. 472-1551
are no active volcanoes in the region and there is little geothermal Seyðisfjörður - Austfar, Fjarðargata 8, t. 472-1111
activity. Glaciers have carved the landscape of southern Múlaþing and Breiðdalsvík, t. 470-5560
some of the valleys contain strata created by moraine. Djúpivogur, Sætún, Bakki 3, t. 478-8204
157
Ljósastapi is a giant stone pillar that stands in the sea to the east of Vopna-
701 fjörður. Its shape undoubtedly calls to mind an elephant and is an awe-in-
guesthouse fjalladýrð spiring sight. A few kilometers into the fjord one may see Glúfursárfoss by
Möðrudalur - 660 Mývatn -  471 1858 the side of the road. This tall, grand and powerful waterfall plunges into a
fjalladyrd@fjalladyrd.is - www.fjalladyrd.is deep, narrow ravine and is sure to impress all who see it.
G Bustarfell is a village in the Hófsardal valley in Vopnafjörður, and is situated

at the base of the mountain range from which it takes its name. The Bus-
tarfell range stretches 67 kilometers. On the mountain above the village,
there are panoramic viewing binoculars. The folk museum in Bustafell is
located in one of the most beautiful turf houses in Iceland. Generations of
the same family lived on this farm for over 500 years. This unique museum
primarily exhibits the former residents’ farming practices and lifestyle, be-
ginning before 1770 until they stopped living there in 1966. The Icelandic
government took over the ownership and maintenance of the original turf
DAILY ASKJA EXCURSIONS home in 1943, but all the household tools are the original belongings of the
residents. The Hjáleigan café and service center is close to the original
farmhouse.
27 27
The town of Vopnafjörður lies on the eastern side of the Kolbeinstangi spit.
There has been a trading center here since ancient times and the town was
established before the end of the 19th century. Author Gunnar Gunnarson
grew up at the Ljótsstaðir farm in Vopnafjörður. He moved to Copenhagen
freestanding peaks also encircle the fjord. As of 1 January 2016, the as an adult, but later returned to Vopnafjörður and bought the Arnarvatn
population of Vopnafjörður was 511. farm, where he lived for a while. On what would have been Gunnar’s 100th
birthday in 1989, a monument in his memory was unveiled in Vopnafjörður.
Vopnafjörður rests on top of alkaline and silicic volcanic rock and sediment. The composer Björgvin Guðmundsson was born and grew up at Rjúpnafell
In some places around the fjord, more recent strata from the Palaeogene in Vopnafjörður, where he lived until he moved to North America to pursue
and Pleistocene, or ice age, periods (older than 11,000 years) have become his musical education. He returned home to Iceland in his adulthood and
visible. The Torfastaðanúpur ridge protrudes from the edge of the land and now lives in Akureyri. Guðfinna Þorsteinsdóttir, who wrote under the pen-
divides the Selárdal and Vesturárdal valleys. The most distinctive character- name of Poet Erla, lived for a long time at Teigur in Vopnafjörður. She was
istics of this ridge are the columnar basalt formations on its peaks. Nearby, among the first women in Iceland to publish a book of poetry. It has been
the oldest central volcano in East Iceland can be found in the Fagradal suggested that the trading center that Bjartur-of-Summerhouses visits in
Mountains, which run down to the sea between Héraðs bay and Vopna- the book Independent People (Sjálfstætt fólk), by Iceland’s Nobel Laureate
fjörður fjord. These mountains and the eastern edge of the Hellisheiði lava Halldór Laxness, was inspired by Vopnafjörður.
plateau are primarily comprised of silicic rock, most notably rhyolite, which
is a light-colored rock that is quite vibrant in the midst of its surroundings. Emergency Number: 112.
The skeleton of a prehistoric deer, dating back to before the ice age, was
Police: Lónabraut 2, tel. 444-0610.
discovered in the Þuríðarárgil ravine in Vopnafjörður. This is the only place in
Iceland where mammal remains of this age have been found. Fire Department: Slökkvistöð Vopnafjarðar, Búðaröxl 3,
tel. 471-1221/861-2164.
The Smjörfjöll Mountains separate Vopnafjörður and the Jökulsárhlíð moun-
Tourist Information Center: Kaupvangur v/Hafnarbyggð,
tain range. These mountains are high and steep, reaching about 1250
tel. 473-1331/844-1153, info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is, www.vopnafjörður.is.
meters at their highest point. The road between Vopnafjörður and the outly-
ing district runs through the Hellisheiði lava plateau to the north of the Accommodation:
Smjörfjöll Mountains. This road is quite elevated—around 655 meters— • Ásbrandsstaðir, summer house, tel. 473-1459/863-8734.
making it one of the highest mountain roads in the country. Due to its ele- jon_haralds@hotmail.co.uk,
vation, the plateau receives heavy snowfall in the winter, so the road is only • www.facebook.com/ferdatjonustanasbrandsstadir.
open in the summer time. When accessible, however, it provides a number • Síreksstaðir Travel Agency, two summerhouses (4-6 people),
of ideal vantage points from which to take in the surroundings. guesthouse with 7 bedrooms (twin). Restaurant. Accessibility for
people with disabilities. 20 km. from the town of Vopnafjörður.
Three major valleys run out of the fjord and into the surrounding country- tel. 473-1458/848-2174, sirek@simnet.is, www.sireksstadir.is.
side: Hofsárdalur valley is southernmost, followed by Sunnudalur, and then • Mávahlíð Guesthouse, guesthouse in Vopnafjörður town,
the northernmost valley of Vesturárdalur and Selárdalur. Three eponymous Hafnarbyggð 26, tel. 695-2952, www.mavahlid.123.is,
stem rivers—named Hofsá, Vesturdalsá, and Selá, respectively— flow gudnikr@internet.is.
through these valleys. These rivers are all known for excellent salmon and • Hauksstaðir, summer house, tel. 473-1469/846-4851/868-4169,
trout fishing. hauksst@simnet.is.
• Hótel Tangi, Hafnarbyggð 17, 4 bedrooms with toilet and shower,
Fuglabjarganes peninsula, on the north coast, is an enjoyable hiking area 13 bedrooms with shared toilet and shower. Restaurant in the
with marked trails. It is on the border of Ljósaland and Hámundarstaður hotel. Accessibility for people with disabilities.
farms. There is a marked trail from Strandhafnarvegur road that runs along tel. 473-1203/845-2269, tangihotel@simnet.is,
the Fuglabjörg River. The promontory itself is a flat plain with stone sheep- www.facebook.com/Hoteltangi.
folds, white beaches, caverns, rock pillars and spectacular cliffs. • Hvammsgerði, 9 km from the town of Vopnafjörður. guesthouse
158
Vopnafjörður
„Home away from Home“
In the heart Vopnafjördur

delicious coffee from Kaffitár, homemade
cakes & snacks, soup for lunch.
rooms for up to 50 people.
Summer: june 1 - aug. 31, 10-22 every day.
M M SGER
Winter: weekdays from 11-17, A
HV
Ð
or by appointment.
I
KaupVanGur
hafnarbyggð 4a
In hafnarBYGGÐ
same location as tourist information.
tel. 662-3588 / 473-1331 Tourist Information Center.
www.facebook.com/kaupvangskaffi Vesturfarinn - genealogy service in hVaMMSGerÐI
kaupvangskaffi@gmail.com West Iceland.
Bed & BreaKfaSt
Múlastofa - museum.
tel.: +354 588 1298 / +354 821 1298
tel: 473-1331 / 844-1153
hvammsgerði 1 - 690 Vopnafjörður
email: info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is
stay@hvammsgerdi.is
www.visitvopnafjordur.com
www.hvammsgerdi.is
hauKSStaÐIr farMer´S GueSthouSe

haukstaðir is the innermost farm in the
Vesturár Valley, 21 km from Vopnafjörður.
VopnafjörÐur CaMpSIte the guesthouse can accommodate 8 visitors
BurStafeLL: the campsite is located in a beautiful and has two bedrooms: one bedroom with
Coffee houSe and MuSeuM spot near the top of the village. double bed and the second has a bunk and
there are two flat areas overlooking the single beds. In addition, sleeping accom-
Impressive turf farm full of modation is available in the sitting room.
soul from the past. town, the fjord and the impressive
mountains across the fjord. the house is equipped with all the basic
Local snacks, coffee and cakes necessities.
at hjáleigunni coffee house. tel: 473-1331
for further information and bookings
tel: 855-4511 / 844-1153 email: info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is
tel. 473 1469/ 846 4851/868 4169
email: bustarfell@simnet.is www.visitvopnafjordur.com
email: hauksst@simnet.is
with 7 bedrooms (1-4 people), breakfast, tel. 588-1298/821-1298, • Bílaleiga Akureyrar, car rental, tel. 840-6076.
stay@hvammsgerði.is, www.hvammsgerdi.is. • Hirðfíflin thrift shop, tel. 866-8972.
• Syðri-Vík, 2 summerhouses, (4 and 8 people) and guesthouse with • Gym, weight lifting room, tel. 473-1492.
6 bedrooms (twin). Accessibility for people with disabilities. 7 km • Efnalaugin Anný, dry cleaning, tel. 473-1346.
from the town of Vopnafjörður, tel. 473-1199/848-0641, • Austurbrú, community advocacy and services, tel. 470-3850.
kristinbrynjolfs@simnet.is. Museums/exhibitions: Múlastofa, exhibition on the life and art of
Campsite: Excellent facilities along Miðbraut road, near the play- the brothers Jónas and Jón Múla. Open daily,
school, tel. 473-1331/844-1153, info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is, tel. 473-1331/844-1153, info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is,
www.vopnafjörður.is. www.vopnafjörður.is. Minjasafnið á Bustarfelli, Bustarfell Folk
Restaurants: Museum, tel. 855-4511/844-1153, open daily throughout the
• Hótel Tangi, Breakfast and dinner. Groups are kindly requested to summer, or by request, service center with facilities and
make reservations in advance. Accessibility for people with refreshments, bustarfell@simnet.is, www.facebook.com/bustarfell.
disabilities. tel. 473-1203, tangihotel@simnet.is, Interesting sites and outdoor activities:
www.facebook.com/Hoteltangi. • Diverse, marked walking and riding trails through the mountains
• Hjáleigan, Bustarfelli, service center and café, and valleys.
tel. 855-4511/844-1153, bustarfell@simnet.is, • Krossavíkurfjall, Gljúfursá-Drangsnes, Búrið-Fagridalur,
www.facebook.com/bustarfell. Skjólfjörur- Ljósastapi (‘The Elephant’), Fuglabjargarnes,
• Kaupvangskaffi, Kaupvangur, coffee, snacks and light meals, Tangasporður, municipality of Vopnafjörður, Hof, and more. Great
tel. 473-1331/662-3588, www.facebook.com/Kaupvangskaffi. views from Hellisheiði lava plateau. More information, Vopnafjörður
• Ollasjoppa, sweets, groceries and grill, tel. 473-1803, Information Center, tel. 473-1331/844-1153,
www.facebook.com/Ollasjoppa. • info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is,
• Restaurant at Síreksstaðir Travel Agency, breakfast and dinner. • www.vopnafjörður.is.
Groups are kindly requested to make reservations in advance. Events:
Accessibility for people with disabilities. • Vopnaskak family festival.
tel. 473-1458/848-2174, sirek @simnet.is, www.sireksstadir.is. • Bustarfell Day.
Groceries: • For more information, see: www.vopnafjörður.is.
• Kauptún, supermarket, Hafnarbyggð 4, tel. 473-1403.
• Ollasjoppa, convenience store, Kolbeinsgata 35, tel. 473-1803.
Recreation/sport:
• Selárdal swimming pool, tel. 473-1499/473-1331/844-1153,
FLJÓTSDALUR DISTRICT
open year-round. info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is, www.vopnafjörður.is.
Fljótsdalshérað is an expansive municipality located in mid-Eastern Iceland,
• Golf course at Skálar (south of the village), 9-hole course in a
extending from Héraðsflói bay in the north to Vatnajökull glacier in the south.
beautiful setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky bluffs.
With 8884 km2, it is the largest municipality in Iceland in terms of area, and
Accessibility for people with disabilities in accordance with the
regulations of the Icelandic Golf Association. Clubhouse with it is the most populous municipality in Eastern Iceland. Most residents of
facilities and area to relax. tel. 473-1331/844-1153. Fljótsdalshérað are employed in the service industry and public administra-
info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is, www.vopnafjörður.is. tion. A large communications, trading and service industry has developed in
• Syðri-Vík Travel Service, horse rental, guided tours and trout Egilsstaðir and Fellabær, serving all of mid-Eastern Iceland. The Egilsstaðir
fishing licenses sold for the Hofsá river, tel. 473-1199/848-0641, International Airport plays a significant role in the economy and tourism of
kristinbrynjolfs@simnet.is. the region. On January 1, 2016, the population was 3,454.
• Many marked hiking trails through Vopnafjörður’s beautiful
Möðrudalur is the site of the highest altitude farm in Iceland, at 469 m. As
landscape, tel. 473-1331/844-1153 info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is,
one of the largest farmlands in the country, Möðrudalur has been inhabited
www.vopnafjörður.is.
almost continuously since its settlement. The local church was built sin-
Health Care/Pharmacy: gle-handedly by farmer Jón Stefánsson (1880-1971), at his own expense
• Heilsugæslustöðin Health Care Center, tel. 470-3070. and in memory of his wife, and was consecrated in 1949. He also painted
• Pharmaceuticals available in the Kauptún supermarket, the distinctive altarpiece depicting the Sermon on the Mount. The tablet is
Hafnarbyggð 4, tel. 473-1109. considered quite unique.
Automotive Services:
Jökuldalsheiði is a heath with an average altitude of 500 m. It is located to the
• Gas station at Ollasjoppa convenience store, tel. 473-1803.
southwest of Vopnafjörður and the west of Jökuldalur, with route 1 passing
• Bíla og véla car and tire repair shop, tel. 473-1333.
through its northern end. It has alternating gravel dunes and hills, with wet-
Bank/Post Office: Landsbankinn, Kolbeinsgata 10, tel. 410-4178. lands, pastures and numerous lakes in between. Some 16 farms were built
Local Handicrafts: Vopnfirskt handverk, Hafnarbyggð 4, on Jökuldalsheiði in the middle of the 1800s, but the area was rendered al-
tel. 473-1331/844-1153, info@vopnafjardarhreppur.is. most uninhabitable by the eruption of Mt. Askja in 1875. Some farms re-
mained until the middle of the 1900s, but the heath is now uninhabited. Many
Salon/hairdresser:
of those who migrated to North America left because of the Mt. Askja eruption.
• Snyrtistofan Hafblik, tel. 893-0098.
The farms of Jökuldalsheiði have been an inspiration to many artists.
• Hársnyrtistofan Sóló, Kolbeinsgata 8, tel. 473-1221.
Other Services: Sænautasel on Jökuldalsheiði is a replica of one of the original farms and is
• Alcohol Store, Vínbúð, Hafnarbyggð 4, tel. 473-1403. a fine representation of an old homestead. During the summer it is open to
• Airport, tel. 473-1121. tourists, offering coffee and refreshments. Open daily June – Aug.
160
Aðalból in Hrafnkelsdalur is the farmstead of Hrafnkell Freysgoði and also
the location of his burial site. Various artifacts have been discovered in its
vicinity and appear to support the validity of the Saga of Hrafnkell. Today, an
informational center is run at Aðalból and Hrafnkelsdagurinn, or the ‘Hrafn-
kell’s Day’ festival, is celebrated annually with tours of important saga sites,
as well as games, handicrafts, BBQ specialties, informative presentations,
and more.
Kárahnjúkar and Hafrahvammagljúfur. Kárahnjúkar is a group of liparite

mounds on the eastern side of the Jökulsá á Brú River, opposite Sauðárda-
lur; the tallest one is 835 m high. The Jökulsá River cuts through Kárahn-
júkar, forming canyons called Hafrahvammagljúfur and Dimmugljúfur, the
latter of which is one of the darkest and most imposing canyons in Iceland. 35 HI Hostels around Iceland
The entire canyon spans from Desjará to Tröllagil, a total of 10 km. The welcome you - www.hostel.is
biggest rock dam in Europe was erected at Kárahnjúkar, measuring 190 m
high. The Hálslón reservoir is located behind the dam, with a total area of
57 km2. The water of the Jökulsá á Brú River runs from the reservoir
through 40 km of underground tunnels to an underground power plant lo-
cated in Fljótsdalur. When the reservoir overflows in late summer, excess
water finds its way down the old riverbed. The power plant also receives
water from the Jökulsá á Fljótsdal River, whose water travels through a 13
km underground tunnel before connecting with the longer tunnel from the
Jökulsá á Brú River. Laugarvalladalur, a remote valley, is located a short
distance from the power plant. Today travellers enjoy bathing in the warm
brook at the site of an old farmhouse, then rinsing off in a natural shower
where the water cascades from a cliff, becoming small waterfall. Visitors
should be aware that cold water has been in short supply in recent sum-
mers so the streams tend to be too hot for bathing.
Lagarfljót is one of the main rivers in Eastern Iceland. It stretches 140 km

from its source in the Jökulsá á Fljótsdal River to its estuary. The upper part
of the river is a long lake, called Lögurinn or Lagarfljót, which is the third
largest lake in the country, with an area of 53 km2. The lake is 112 m at its disembarkation was moved to Stapavík, where a manual capstan was
deepest point and its floor is approximately 90 m below sea level. Folklore erected. The facilities at Stapavík were never very good, however, and so
claims that a monster called Lagarfljótsormurinn lives in the lake. In centu- disembarkation in both locations was finally ended in 1945. The Stapavík
ries past this monster was greatly feared and it was believed to bode ill landing has continued to deteriorate in recent years, due to continued sand
tidings if the monster’s back appeared out of the water. The monster has not buildup.
been discussed much lately, although it has been claimed that clear photo-
graphs of the creature—and even a video—have been taken in recent www.visitegilsstadir.is has information about activities, attractions, events,
years. restaurants and accommodation in the Fljótsdalur District.
Stórurð, meaning Boulder Hollow, is an area to the west of the Dyrfjöll

Mountains and is unique in Iceland. It is the site of impressive landscapes:
FACILITIES OUTSIDE URBAN AREAS
lush, grassy hollows; massive rock mounds; sheer cliffs dozens of meters IN FLJÓTSDALSHÉRAÐ
tall; beautiful ponds; and distinctive vegetation. A hike through Stórurð is an Accommodation:
exceptional experience. It is best to set off from Vatnsskarð, hike along the • 701. Óbyggðasetur Íslands / The Wilderness Center.
mountain range, and then take the “lower route” back to Mt. Ósfjall (approx- tel. 440-8822/896-2339/863-9494, info@wilderness.is.
imately 16 km long). It is also possible to continue on to Borgarfjörður, to the • 701. Guesthouse Fjalladýrð, Möðrudalur, tel. 471-1858/894-0758,
north or south of Dyrfjöll. An entire day is needed to fully experience the fjalladyrd@fjalladyrd.is, www.fjalladyrd.is.
area. Visitors can sign a guest book found at Stórurð. Markings that show • 703. Sámur bóndi, Aðalból 2, Hrafnkelsdalur, tel. 471-2788.
the starting point of the hiking trails are located on route 1 where it ascends • 704. Á hreindýraslóðum, Skjöldólfstaðir, Jökuldalur,
to Vatnsskarð, on the way to eastern Borgarfjörður. The Víknaslóðir trail map tel. 471-2006/895-1085, hreindyr@ahreindyraslodum.is,
that is widely available in the area is a valuable resource for planning local allij@centrum.is, www.ahreindyraslodum.is.
hikes. • 706. Hótel Svartiskógur, country hotel, Jökulsárhlíð,
tel. 471-1030/899-1035, svartiskogur@svartiskogur.is.
Stapavík, 15a. Unaós – Stapavík. 1,5 hours, 5 km. This is an easy hike with • 708. Youth Hostel Húsey, Hróarstunga, tel. 471-3010/695-8832.
beautiful scenery along the Selfljót River. Rare plants can also be found in husey@simnet.is, www.husey.de.
this area. En route are the old stonewalls of a cart road from the early 20th • Ekra, chalets, road nr. 944, tel. 868-0957/471-3054,
century. There are ruins from the ancient fishing operation of Eidaver to the ekra701@simnet.is, sumarhusekru.blogspot.com.
west of the estuary, as well as remnants of old sheep cots. The Krosshöfði • 709. Flúðir, (Við-Bót Cottages) chalet, tel. 471-1917/869-7269.
headland is located on the estuary and an important trading post for farm- annabraga@simnet.is.
ers from all over the region was established here in 1902. When the landing • 712. Hótel Eyvindará II, Fljótsdalshérað. tel. 471-1200/691-9240.
at Krosshöfði became impassable due to a buildup of sand in the 1920s, eyvindara2@simnet.is.
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• 713. Útnyrðingsstaðir/Gæðingatours, Vellir, • Útnyrðingsstaðir/Gæðingatours, Vellir, tel. 471-1727.
tel. 471-1727/869-8210/691-9240. • Húsey, Hróarstunga, seal watching on horseback, tel. 471-3010.
• 714. Vallanes, Vellir, tel. 471-1747/899-5569. For Motorists:
• 714. Eyjólfsstaðir, Hérað, tel. 471-2171, info@eyjolfsstadir.is, • Möðrudalur – filling station in a turf house!
www.eyjolfsstadir.is. • Laufið, Hallormsstaður and Sámur bóndi, Aðalból, Jökuldalur.
• 715. Hótel Hallormsstaður, tel. 471-2400/859-2403, • Á Hreindýraslóðum, Skjöldólfsstaðir, Jökuldalur, tel. 471-2006.
• 701hotels@701hotels.is, www.701hotels.is.
• 715. Sumargistihús Hússtjórnarskólans, Hallormsstaður, Local Handicrafts:
tel. 471-2400/859-2403, hotel701@hotel701.is, www.hotel701.is. • Sænautasel, Jökuldalsheiði, tel. 892-8956.
• 715. Grái hundurinn, Hjalli, Hallormsstaður, • Möðrudalur, Fjallakaffi , tel. 471-1858.
tel. 471-2400/471-2128, 701hotels@701hotels.is, • Klaustursel, Jökuldalur, handmade products from reindeer leather,
www.701hotels.is. tel. 471-1085.
• 715. Hafursá, cottages, Hallormsstaður, tel. 899-9028/893-9428, • Á Hreindýraslóðum, Skjöldólfsstaðir, Jökuldalur, Icelandic
annagerdur@gmail.com. handicrafts, tel. 471-2006.
• 718. Stóra-Sandfell, Skriðdalur, tel. 471-2420/661-4457, • Húsey, Hróarstunga, tel. 471-3010.
jfk@emax.is. • Eik listiðja, Miðhús, tel. 471-3010.
• Fljótsdalsgrund Guesthouse, Végarður, Egilstaðir, • Hús handanna, Miðvangur 1, Icelandic design and handicrafts,
tel. 865-1683/863-5215, fljotsdalsgrund@fljotsdalur.is. tel. 471-2433.
• Hálsakot in Jökulsárhlíð, Úlfsstaðarskógur 20, Egilsstaðir, Places of Interest and Hikes:
• tel. 567-5204, ellidason@strengir.is, www.strengir.is. • Möðrudalur, Church of Jón Stefánsson, marked hiking trails, hiking
Camping Sites: map available in Fjallakaffi in Möðrudalur.
• 701. Fjalladýrð, Möðrudalur, tel. 471-1858/8594-8181, • Klaustursel, Jökuldalur, farm – zoo and gallery, tel. 471-1085.
fully equipped. • Sænautasel, Jökuldalsheiði, an old restored farmhouse. Open daily
• 702. Sænautasel, Jökuldalsheiði, tel. 892-8956. June – Aug., tel. 854-2666.
• 704. Á Hreindýraslóðum, Skjöldólfsstaðir, Jökuldalur, • Hafrahvammagljúfur, one of the most splendid canyons in Iceland.
tel. 471-1085. • Kárahnjúkar Dam, the largest construction project in the history of
• 706. Svartiskógur, Jökulsárhlíð, tel. 471-1030/899-1035, Iceland.
svartiskogur@svartiskogur.is, www.svartiskogur.is. • Hjálpleysa, a deep and beautiful deserted valley, full of history.
• 715. Hallormsstaðaskógur (Atlavík og Höfðavík), • Marked hiking trails in Hallormsstaður woods and Eiðar woods.
tel. 471-1774/470-2070, hallormsstadur@skogur.is. • Fardagafoss waterfall. Located around from 5 kilometers from
• 718. Stóra-Sandfell, Skriðdalur, tel. 471-2420/661-4457. Egilsstaðir, on the way to Seyðisfjörður, Fardagafoss is located in
the foothills of the Fjarðarheiði heath. Coming from the direction of
Restaurants: Seyðisfjörður, you’ll find a parking lot from which you can hike to
• Fjallakaffi, Möðrudalur, Fjöllum, tel. 471-1858/854-0758. the waterfall in about half an hour. It’s remarkably beautiful to look
• Sænautasel, Jökuldalsheiði, café, tel. 854-2666. out along the ravine and also over the Fljótsdalur region. Behind
• Sámur bóndi, Aðalból 2, Jökuldalur, tel. 471-2788. the waterfall is a small cave where travelers can make a wish and
• Á Hreindýraslóðum, Skjöldólfsstaðir, Jökuldalur, tel. 471-2006. then sign a guestbook.
• Hótel Svartiskógur, Jökulsárhlíð, tel. 471-1030/899-1035. • Geirsstaðir in Hróarstunga, a replica of a turf and wood chapel, like
• Hússtjórnarskólinn, Hallormsstaður, tel. 471-2400/894-1761. those that would have been constructed around the time of the
Leisure/Sport: Icelandic settlement in the 10th century.
• 701. Möðrudalur, Fjalladýrð, fishing, jeep tours and hiking; Askja, • Galtastaðir, a farm house exhibit of an old communal living room,
Kverkfjöll, Herðubreið, tel. 471-1858/894-8181. supervised by the National Museum of Iceland. Open by
• 704. Skjöldólfsstaðir, Jökuldalur, swimming pool, tel. 471-2006. appointment.
• Horse and Boat Rental, Hallormsstaður, • Kirkjubær in Hróarstunga, a beautiful old church full of history.
tel. 867-1441/847-0063/847-3706, vediskl@simnet.is, • Stórurð in Mt. Dyrfjöll, large cliffs surround glacial ponds and
www.hallormsstadur.is. marked hiking trails. Mt. Snæfell 1833 m.
• Grái hundurinn, bike rental, Hjalli, Hallormsstaður, • Enjoyable hiking paths. Krosshöfði at Stapavík.
tel. 471-2128. • An easy hike along Selfljót. Stapavík is a lovely cliff-lined inlet,
• Reindeer hunting, information at tel. 471-2964. where goods were imported as late as the 1940s.
• Sámur bóndi, Aðalbóli 2, Jökuldalur, Reindeer hunting, • Viewing dial in Fjarðarheiði, can be accessed by way of
tel. 471-2788. Norðurbrún. Magnificient view over Fljótsdalshérað.
• Sænautasel, Jökuldalsheiði, fishing in Sænautavatn, • Hvanngil, a pleasant hiking route from Möðrudalur.
tel. 892-8956. Events:
• Klaustursel, farm animal zoo, Jökuldalur, tel. 471-1085, • May 17: The Icelandic museum day.
• Veiðiþjónustan Strengir – Fishing licenses. • June: Jazz Festival.
• Veiðihúsið Hálsakot í Jökulsárhlíð tel. 567-5204/898-2798, • June: The Great Forest Day in Hallormsstaðarskógur Forest: A
ellidason@strengir.is. family festival.
• Jeeptours ehf, half day and full day mountain and fjord trips, • Aug.: Tour de Ormurinn: A bike race around Lagarfljót. For further
www.jeeptours.is. information, please visit www.traveleast.is.
Horse Rentals: • Aug.: Ormsteiti family festival: An annual ten-day celebration
• Hallormsstaður, tel. 847-3706/847-0063. throughout the Fljótsdalshérað district. For more information,
• Stóra Sandfell, Skriðdalur, tel. 471-2420/661-4457, jfk@emax.is. please visit www.ormsteiti.is and www.east.is.
• Nov.: Days of darkness: A ten -day festival around Eastern Iceland.
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Franski spítalinn (French hospital) in Fáskrúðsfjörður.
• Austurland Tourist Information Center, Miðvangur 1-3,

EGILSSTAÐIR tel. 471-2320, east@east.is, info@east.is, www.east.is.
Accommodation:
The first house in Egilsstaðir was built in 1944, and the town has grown • Kaldá, tel. 618-9871/897-6060 /552-4665, asdisa@gmail.com.
steadily since that time. Today, it is a thriving center with an economy based • Icelandair Hótel Hérað, tel. 471-1500.
on providing services for Eastern Iceland and its visitors. Egilsstaðir was the • Hótel Edda, Menntaskólinn Egilsstaðir, tel. 444-4880.
site of an ancient assembly as well as Gálgaás, a cliff near the local church • Hótel Valaskjálf, 701 Hotels, Skógarlönd 3, tel. 471-2400.
where criminals were once executed. Gálgaás is also related to the story of • Apartments, Hamragerði 3, tel. 847-1733, annfi@simnet.is,
Valtýr the green-shirted farmer. The headquarters for the State Forestry www.gisting707.is.
Service are located in Egilsstaðir, as well as the country’s largest forest, • Egilsstaðir Guesthouse, tel. 471-1114.
Hallormsstaðarskógur, which is 30 km south of town. On January 1, 2016, • Skipalækur, Fellabær, tel. 471-1324.
the population was 2,306. • Guesthouse Sara, Faxatröð 3, tel. 820-2192,
guesthouse.sara.faxatrod3@gmail.com
• Olga Guesthouse, tel. 860-2999, info@gistihusolgu.is,
www.gistihusolgu.is.
FELLABÆR • Birta Guesthouse,Tjarnarbraut 7, tel. 860-2999,
info@gistihusbirtu.com

This village is situated to the west of the bridge over the Lagarfljót River and • Vínland, Fellabær, tel. 615-1900/471-2259.
has been expanding into an area called Fellabær in recent years. There is • Heimagisting, Bláargerði 43, tel. 864-3082.
an old ferry site named Ferjusteinar and Ferjuklettur. Like the residents of • Lyngás Guesthouse, Lyngás 5-7, tel. 471-1310.
Egilsstaðir, the people of Fellabær support themselves primarily by providing • Hótel Eyvindará II, tel. 471-1200/867-4551/691-9240.
various services to travelers and nearby municipalities. Fellabær and • Fljótsdalsgrund Guesthouse, tel. 865-1683/863-5215.
Egilsstaðir are now part of Fljótsdalshérað County. On January 1, 2016, the • Hálsakot in Jökulsárhlíð, Úlfsstaðarskógur 20 tel. 567-5204,
population was 400. ellidason@strengir.is, www.strengir.is.
• Stóri Bakki, Egilsstaðir, tel. 866-5783 / 843-7634.
Camping Sites:
FACILITIES IN EGILSSTAÐIR/FELLABÆR
• Kaupvangur 17, tel. 470-0750.
Police: Lyngás 15, tel. 444-0640; 112 for emergencies. • Skipalækur, Fellabær, tel. 471-1324.
Tourist Information Center: Restaurants:
• Egilsstaðastofa: Information about Fljótsdalur District, Kaupvangur • Hótel Hérað, tel. 471-1500.
17, tel. 470-0750, info@visitegilsstadir.is, www.visitegilsstadir.is. • Hótel Edda, Menntaskólinn Egilsstaðir, tel. 444-4880.
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• Hótel Valaskjálf, Glóð, Skógarlönd 3, tel. 471-2400. • Bílar og fólk, tel. 551-1166, scheduled coach service daily
• Café Nielsen, tel. 471-2626. between Egilsstaðir and Höfn May 15 to Sept. 15, www.sterna.is.
• Egilsstaðir Guesthouse, tel. 471-1114. • Austfjarðaleið, tel. 477-1713, scheduled coach service in the
• N1, Kaupvangur 2, tel. 440-1450. Eastfjords, www.austfjardaleid.is.
• Skálinn, Shell, Fagradalsbraut 13, tel. 471-1899. • FAS - Ferðafljónusta Austurlands, tel. 472-1515, scheduled coach
• Subway, Miðvangur 13, tel. 477-2777. service daily to Seyðisfjörður.
• Bókakaffi Hlöðum, Helgafell 2, tel. 471-2255. • Jakob Sigurðsson, tel. 472-9805/894-8305, scheduled coach
• Kaffi Egilsstaðir, Kaupvangur 17, tel. 470-0200. service weekdays with the postal service, to Borgarfjörður eystri.
• Salt Café & bistro, Miðvangur 2-4, tel. 471-1700. Events:
Leisure/Sport: • May 17: The Icelandic museum day.
• Vilhjálmsvöllur, by Skógarlönd, Egilsstaðir. • June: The Great Forest Day in Hallormsstaðarskógur Forest: A
• Fellavöllur, Fellabær. family festival.
• Swimming pool, Sports Center, Tjarnarbraut 26, tel. 470-0777. • Aug.: Tour de Ormurinn: A bike race around Lagarfljót. For further
• Sport Center, Fellabær, Smiðjusel 2, tel. 470-0776. information, please visit www.traveleast.is.
• Stafdalur skiing area, Fjarðarheiði, tel. 472-1160/878-1160 • Aug.: Ormsteiti family festival: An annual week-long celebration
(answering machine). throughout the Fljótsdalshérað district. For more information,
• Ekkjufellsvöllur, Fellabær, 9-hole golf course, tel. 471-1113. please visit www.ormsteiti.is and www.east.is.
• Information on walking tours, horse rental and fishing at Tourist • Oct: Jazz Festival in Egilsstaðir.
Information Center, tel. 471-2320. • Nov.: Days of darkness: A ten day festival around Eastern Iceland.
• Reindeer hunting information, tel. 471-2964. • www.visitegilsstadir.is
• Stóri Bakki, Egilsstaðir, tel. 866-5783 / 843-7634.
Hospital: Lagarás 19, tel. 470-3000.
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Kaupvangur 6, tel. 471-1273. FLJÓTSDALUR
For Motorists:
• N1, Kaupvangur 4, tel. 440-1451. At over 120 meters tall, Hengifoss is the second highest waterfall in the
• Orkan, Fagradalsbraut 13, tel. 471-1899. country and is located in a magnificent gorge that faces Hallormsstaður,
• Orkan, Miðvangur 13 (next to the Bónus grocery store) across Lagarfljót. At the top of the waterfall are basalt strata and there is
• Olís, Lagarfell 2, tel. 471-1623. sandstone that contains fossilized tree trunks in the gorge below, which is
• Atlantsolía, Fagradalsbraut 15. evidence of a much warmer climate when the rock was formed during the
• Dekkjahöllin, Þverklettum 1, tel. 471-2002. Tertiary period. A second waterfall, Litlanesfoss, is located downriver in a
• Bílaverkstæði Austurlands, Miðás 2, Egilsstöðum, garage, tire beautiful columnar basalt setting - it’s surrounded by some of the tallest
repair and car dealership, tel. 470-5070, www.bva.is. basalt columns in the country, in fact. There is a hiking trail up to Hengifoss
• Bón og púst, Lyngás 5, tel. 471-3113. from a parking lot along Route 1.
• AB Varahlutir, Fagradalsbraut 25, tel. 471-2299, austur@ab.is.
Valfljófsstaður in Fljótsdalur is a benefice and ancient chieftain’s manor. A
Banks: replica of the famous Valfljófstaðarhurð door, one of the most precious ob-
• Landsbankinn, Kaupvangur 1, tel. 410-4175, ATM. jects owned by the National Museum of Iceland, is kept there. It is from the
• Arion Banki, Fagradalsbraut 11, tel. 470-1800, ATM. 13th century and is thought to have originally been part of the manor, later
• Íslandsbanki, Miðvangur 1-3, tel. 440-4000, ATM. becoming the inner door at the large timber church that stood at Valfl-
• ATMs at the Airport. jófsstaður long after the Reformation.
Post office: Fagradalsbraut 9, tel. 471-1100.
Fljótdalsstöð Power Plant is a short distance up from Valfljófsstaður, about
Alcohol Store: Miðvangur 2-4, tel. 471-2151. 0.8 kilometers inside the mountain, and is the biggest power plant in Ice-
Local Handicrafts: land, producing 690 MW. Underneath the mountain, at the entrance to the
• Eik Listiðja, Miðhús, tel. 471-1320/860-2928. plant, is the location of the control center and transformer plant. This hydro-
• Hús Handanna, Miðvangur 1, tel. 471-2433. electric power plant provides energy for the aluminum factory in
• Galleri Gnótt, Lagarfell 2, tel. 861-1794. Reyðarfjörður. The whole structure - dams, tunnels, power plant, control
Museums/Exhibitions: center and transformer plant - is called Kárahnjúkavirkjun, and is powered
• Minjasafn Austurlands, The Eastern Iceland Heritage Museum, by harnessing the flow of powerful water sources in the area. The water
Laufskógar 1, tel. 471-1412, for opening hours see: www. from the Hálslón reservoir is conducted eastwards to the plant by a tunnel
minjasafn.is. that runs under the Fljótsdalsheiði heath. There, it combines with water that
• Library, tel. 471-1546 and Archives, tel. 471-1417, Laufskógar 1. has been siphoned through more tunnels running from the Ufsarlón lagoon.
This combined waterflow is then sent northeast through another tunnel,
Places of Interest/Hikes: where it is fed into an intake within Valþjófsstaðafjall mountain. There is an
• Selskógur woods, marked hiking trails by Egilsstaðir. energy-related exhibition at Kárahnjúkavirkjun which is open to visitors by
• Gálgaás in Egilsstaðir.
appointment.
• Viewing dial at Fénaðarklöpp, Taglarétt.
Transportation: Skriðuklaustur is ancient manor estate in Fljótsdalur. From 1493-1552 a
• Air Iceland, tel. 471-1210, daily scheduled air service to Reykjavík. monastery was operated there. Extensive archaeological research took
• SBA-Norðurleið, tel. 550-0700, scheduled coach service daily to place from 2002 to 2011, and the cloister ruins are now open to visitors all
Myvatn and Akureyri, Egilsstaðir and Höfn. year round. The novelist Gunnar Gunnarsson (1889-1975) bought Skriðuk-
laustur in 1939 and built a large house designed by the German architect
164
Lagarfljót & Hallormsstaður
Upphéraðsve
gur 931
www.hengifoss
.is
by a mysterious lake
+(354) 773 3323

+(354) 471 2400 +(354) 471 2990 www.laugarfell.is
www.hotel701.is www.skriduklaustur.is
+(354) 847 3706 +(354) 849 1461 +(354) 893 1428

vediskl@simnet.is www.hallormsstadur.is annagerdur@gmail.com
Hesta- og bátaleigan Hallormsstaðaskógur
Hallormsstað - camping & hiking in the fores Hafursá
- horse riding & boat rental t - a room with a view
+(354) 440 8822

+(354) 865 1683 +(354) 699 3673 www.wilderness.is
www.fljotsdalsgrund.is www.easthighlanders.com
Fljótsdalsgrund
- sleep by the Giantess’s path
Restaurants:
• Óbyggðasetur Íslands / Wilderness Center, tel. 440-8822/863-
9494/896-2339, www.wilderness.is
P O L I C E • Klausturkaffi, Skriðuklaustur, tel. 471-2992.
• Laugarfell Highland Hostel (open June 1 - September 30) offers
F I R E breakfast and dinner, as well as lunch packets for hikers. Orders
M E D I C A L must be made in advance (book dinner before 16:00).
D O C T O R S Museums/Exhibitions: Skriðuklaustur, art exhibitions, the history of

ONE ONE TWO the author Gunnar Gunnarsson, exhibitions of the National Museum
R E S C U E S Q U A D and various events, www.skriduklaustur.is.
Leisure:
• Óbyggðasetur Íslands / Wilderness Center, tel. 440-8822/863-
9494/896-2339, www.wilderness.is Into the wild – highland horse
Fritz Höger. Gunnar moved to Reykjavík in 1948 and donated Skriðuklaustur tours, www.ridin-iceland.com/tours/into-the-wild.
to the Icelandic government. An agricultural research center was located at • Laugarfell, jeep, hiking, and reindeer tours, tel. 773-3323.
Skriðuklaustur for a long time. In 2000, the Gunnar Gunnarsson Foundation • Vatnajökull National Park, numerous hiking trails. More information
resumed operations at Skriduklaustur, reopening as a cultural research at Snæfellsstofa Information Center the Snæfell mountain hut, both
center. Skriðuklaustur offers various exhibitions, cultural events and guided of which have regular hours during the summer.
tours of the writer’s house and the archaeological site. A visitor’s center for
Places of Interest:
the Vatnajökull Glacier National Park has been opened in a new building
• Bessastaðaárgljúfur, Spectacular gorge between Bessastaðir and
with an exhibition as well as information about the National Park.
Skriðuklaustur.
Snæfell is 1833 m high and is the tallest mountain in Iceland, excluding the • Laugarfell, natural thermal pools in close proximity to Snæfell,
glaciers. Recent research suggests that the mountain may be a dormant which some believe to have healing powers.
volcano. Eyjabakkar, a unique vegetation oasis and goose sanctuary in the • Melarétt, stone barn and century-old, circular sheepcote next to
highlands, is located near Snæfell. The mountain can be climbed fairly eas- the Bessastaðaá river.
ily and most departures are from a mountain hut beneath its western slope, • Ranaskógur forest, one of the most beautiful birch forests in the
or from Sandfell, on the northern side. An unpaved road leads to Snæfell, country, on the banks of the Gilsá river.
which is passable in the summer, and it is possible to make a daytrip from • Skriðuklaustur, former home of Gunnar Gunnarsson and the ruins
of a medieval monastery.
Egilsstaðir to hike the mountain.
• Strútsfoss waterfall in Suðurdalur valley, two-tiered , 120-meter
Located on the Fljótsdalsheiði health, Laugarfell is an ancient resting place tall waterfall in a sheer and colorful canyon.
for travelers popular for its natural hot pots. There is a highland guesthouse • Valþjófsstaðarkirkja, church that contains an artfully carved replica
located on site today, with good bathing facilities and access to many hiking of a church door from the middle ages.
trails. Laugarfell is about a 30 kilometer drive on the paved road from Fljóts- Events:
dalur valley, on the way to the Kárahnjúkur dam. • Aug.: Ormsteiti, family festival. An annual week-long celebration
throughout the Fljótsdalshérað district held during the later part of
The Wilderness Center is an authentic and peaceful hideaway, located right
Aug. For more information, please visit www.ormsteiti.is and www.
by the edge of Northern Europe’s largest wilderness area. It’s a gateway to
east.is.
the greatest highland in North Europe. Guests experience the spirit of the
• Sept.: Annual sheep roundup at Melarétt around the 20th of the
past through a variety of services, such as its unique accommodations, lo-
month. www.fljotsdalur.is.
cally-sourced food products, exhibitions, horse riding and hiking, and a va-
• Nov.: Days of darkness. Ten-day festival around Eastern Iceland.
riety of tours including day tours, escorted tours, and tailor-made tours. • Advent: Grýlugleði – Skriðuklaustur: the first Sunday during Advent.
Gunnar Gunnarsson’s classic novella, Aðventa, is read aloud. www.
Tourist Information Centers: skriduklaustur.is
• Snæfellsstofa – Visitor and information center in the Vatnajökull
National Park, tel. 470-0840.
• Skriðuklaustur, Fljótsdalur.
Accommodation: BORGARFJÖRÐUR EYSTRI
• Óbyggðasetur Íslands / Wilderness Center,
tel. 440-8822/863-9494/896-2339, www.wilderness.is Borgarfjörður eystri is a short, wide fjord that leads into the Austfjarðarfjöll
• Fljótsdalsgrund Guesthouse, Végarður, 701 Egilsstaðir, mountain range. Many of the mountains in the area are light-colored and
tel. 865-1683, info@fljotsdalsgrund.is, www.fljotsdalsgrund.is. exceptionally beautiful. It is one of the two largest deposits of rhyolite in
• Laugarfell Accommodation & Hot Springs, open June 1 Iceland. The two major industries have long been agriculture and small boat
- September 30, tel. 773-3323, info@highlandhostel.is, fishing. Álfaborg, a unique set of cliffs reported to be the home of elves,
www.highlandhostel.is. including Borghildur, Iceland’s Queen of the Elves, is located at the edge of
• Snæfellsskáli - Mountain Hut in the Vatnajökull National Park, Bakkagerði. There are numerous accounts of elves linked to Borgarfjörður.
tel. 4700840 Álfaborg is a protected site and there is a viewing dial at its top. Iceland’s
Camping Sites: great landscape painter, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, was raised in Borgarfjörður
• 716. Végarður community center, Fljótsdalsgrund, tel. 865-1683. and he took a great deal of inspiration from his natural surroundings, as well
as from local folk beliefs about elves. The small boat marina on Hafnarhólmi
Island has been awarded the Blue Flag, indicating that its inhabitants are
166
Blábjörg Blábjörg Guesthouse is located in a renovated fish factory
in the center of Bakkagerði in Borgarfjörður eystri, East
Iceland.
11 double rooms with made-up beds with shared access
to three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi
and a living room with TV. Also two studio apartments.
Excellent location for bird-watching and perfect views of
the fjord.
Variety of well-marked hiking routes.
Spa with hot tubs and sauna.
rg .i s
w w w.bla bjo
861-1792
helgisig@simnet.is
respectful of their natural surroundings. Also on the island are two viewing
platforms for bird watching, which are especially good for observing puffins camping
from April 10 to August 10. On January 1, 2016, the population of the
Borgarfjarðarhreppur district, including Borgarfjörður Eystri, was 82. borgarfjörður eystri
BORGARFJÖRÐUR EYSTRI
Víknaslóðir is a group of hiking trails that has been mapped out by 472 9999 - GSM 857 2005
Ferðamálahópur Borgarfjarðar, or the Borgarfjörður Tourist Association. borg@eldhorn.is - Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
They published a high-quality map with the most important information 472 9999 - GSM 857 2005
about 20 – 30 of these routes; this map is readily available throughout the borg@eldhorn.is - Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
472 9999 - GSM 857 2005
east. Víknaslóðir is considered to be one of the best-planned hiking areas in
borg@eldhorn.is - Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
Iceland. There is a ten-day trek along marked paths, as well as two five-day
472 9999 - GSM 857 2005
trips; one through the northern region and one through the southern region.
borg@eldhorn.is - Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
There are a variety of services available to hikers, such as tour planning, spa - GSM 857 2005
472 9999
treatments, hot pots, accommodation, guiding and shuttling of gear. Food
Opið/Open
borg@eldhorn.is - Opið/Open 15.5-15.10
 472 9999 - GSM 857 2005
15.5.-15.10. www.borgarfjordureystri.is - borg@eldhorn.is
may also be purchased and there are three well-maintained 472 9999 -huts
mountain GSM 857 2005
at Breiðuvík, Húsavík, and in Loðmundarfjörður fjord.borg@eldhorn.is - Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
472 9999 - GSM 857 2005
BORGARFJÖRÐUR
Hvítserkur, which is situated along road to Húsavík and-EYSTRI
the borg@eldhorn.is Urðarhólavatn, and the hike can be extended if further exploration is de-
Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
Loðmund-
472 9999
arfjörður, is one of the most unusual and beautiful - GSMin 857
mountains 2005
Iceland. It sired.
borg@eldhorn.is
is largely comprised of ignimbrite, which is a light-colored- deposit
Opið/Open 15.5.-15.10.
from past Innra Hvannagil, a canyon in Njarðvík, is accessible by car. A hiking route
volcanic eruptions. The mountainside that faces Húsavík has dark-colored starts from the parking lot, approximately 100 m up along a river and past
dikes crisscrossing back and forth that stand out against the light-colored a dyke that blocks the view of the canyon. Beyond the dyke there is a
ignimbrite and give the surface a unique appearance. stunning view of rock formations along the walls of the canyon, as well as
river rapids flowing on the canyon floor.
Kúahjalli and Hrafnatindur are mountains and the site of another enjoying
hiking path. It is best to start along the Bakkaá River and continue up to Loðmundarfjörður fjord is approximately 6 km long, 3 km wide and opens
Hrafnatindur, which offers a magnificent view of the town and Borgarfjörður. up to the ocean. The basalt rocks surrounding area are at least 1000 m
The path continues on to Kúahjalli, and then down to the Kjarval memorial thick from the shore to the highest peaks. The most unique natural phe-
at Geitavík. The hike takes around three hours and reaches an elevation of nomenon in Loðmundarfjörður is Loðmundarfjarðarskriður (also known as
350 m. Near the memorial there is a path that leads to the ruins of Kjar- Stakkahlíðarhraun), which is a rock formation that was formed by three
vals’s shepherd hut. separate glacial surges during the last ice age. Loðmundarfjörður is also the
location of several remarkable fossil discoveries.
Brúnavík is a bay to the south of Borgarfjördur that is an easy day hike at 12
km. The route begins at the television broadcast tower at Ölduhamar and Information on the Internet: www.borgarfjordureystri.is
travels along Brúnavíkurskard (350 m), east of Geitfell. A relatively steep hill Accommodation:
leads down to a farmstead and a river must be waded or crossed on stones, • 717. Álfheimar Guesthouse, tel. 471-2010/ 861-3677,
unless hikers choose to go out onto the sand at the bottom of the inlet. This info@elftours.is, www.alfheimar.com.
is recommended since the coastline is highly unusual and colorful. The • 719. Borg Guesthouse, tel. 472-9870/894-4470, fax 472-9880,
route then travels back along the inlet, on both sides of the river, down to gisting-borg@simnet.is.
Brotagil. There is a footbridge overt the river a short distance from there. • 717. Blábjörg Guesthouse, tel. 861-1792, helgisig@simnet.is,
From Brotagil the route travels along a dirt road across Hofstrandarskard www.blabjorg.is.
(320 m). This hike takes 5-6 hours and is on marked paths and dirt roads. • 719. Lífið í sveitinni, farm accomodations in Njarðvík by
Borgarfjörður, tel. 472-9805/894-8305.
Urðarhólar, located at the far end of Borgarfjörður, is a lovely spot and the • Mountain huts in 720. Breiðuvík, 721. Húsavík eystri and 722.
starting point of an easy hike (3 km). The route passes a beautiful lake, Loðmundarfjörður, tel. 863-5813, ferdafelag@egilsstadir.is.
167
Camping Sites: • Viewing platform on Hafnarhólmi in the harbor, birdwatching. Blue
• By Álfaborg, tel. 472-9999/857-2005. ribbon awarded small boat marina, www.puffins.is.
• Mountain huts in 720. Breiðuvík, 721. Húsavík eystri and 722. • Urðarhólar at the far end of Borgarfjörður. A stunning, marked,
Loðmundarfjörður, tel. 863-5813. circular route leading up to a unique scree.
Restaurants: Transportation: Coach service weekdays Borgafjörður-Egilsstaðir
• Fjarðarborg, tel. 472-9920/848-5515. -Borgarfjörður, tel. 472-9805/894-8305, hlid@centrum.is.
• Álfacafé, Iðngarðar, tel. 472-9900/892-9802/862-9802. Events: July: Bræðslan 2016, a music festival in an old fish liver oil
• Álfheimar Guesthouse, tel. 471-2010/ 861-3677. factory which received Eyrarrósin in 2010, an award given annually in
• Convenience Store: Eyrin, tel. 472-9940. recognition of outstanding cultural work outside of Reykjavík.
Health Care Center: Heiðargerði, tel. 472-9945/471-1400,
emergency 112.
For Motorists: Pay-at-the-pump facility.
Bank: Landsbankinn, tel. 410-4175.
SEYÐISFJÖRÐUR
Sightseeing/Excursions: Seyðisfjörður is a town situated at the innermost point of a fjord with the
• Borg Guesthouse, guided hikes in Víknaslóðir, transport of luggage, same name. It began as a trading center in the mid 19th century. In the
tel. 472-9870/894-4470, gistingborg@simnet.is. latter part of that century, many Norwegians travelled to Iceland to fish
• Álfheimar Travel Service, hiking tours, offers for groups, herring, with many settling in Seyðisfjörður. Among them was an entrepre-
tel. 471-2010/861-3677, info@elftours.is. neur named Otto Wathne (1844-1898). Many houses from that prosperous
• Hafþór Snjólfur Helgason, geographer, guide around Víknaslóðir, period have now been renovated, adding to the town’s appeal. Being a
tel. 863-2320, hshelgason@gmail.com. naturally sheltered harbor facilitated ocean-related transport, which result-
Places of Interest/Hikes: ed in many new technologies arriving in Seyðisfjörður before other parts of
• Víknaslóðir, marked hiking trails in the area of Héraðsflói-Seyðis- Iceland, such as the telephone. The Fjarðará River, in the center of town, is
fjörður. Breiðavík, Stórurð, Húsavík and Loðmundarfjörður, amongst home to the first AC power plant in Iceland. During WW II, Seyðisfjörður was
other places, with roads accessible to 4x4 vehicles, although these one of the main Allied bases in Iceland. During the summer there are week-
roads are only open in the summer months, weather-depending. ly ferry trips between Seyðisfjörður and Europe, with layovers in the Faroe
Good hiking maps available. Guided hikes. Islands. There are numerous exciting hiking trails in the nearby mountains.
• The region contains many excellent locations for viewing unique flora. On January 1, 2016, the population was 643.
• Bakkagerði church, open daily, altarpiece by famous painter
Kjarval. Vestdalur is a valley near Seyðisfjörður that has a variety of interesting 1 – 3
• Viewing dials at Álfaborg and Gagnheiði. hour walks. One leads into the lower part of the Vestdalur Valley, starting
168
Seyðisfjörður - now!
Culture – cuisine – mountains
Information Centre
- in the Ferry House
Open weekdays (8 - 16) from
1. May - 31. September.
Always open on ferry arrival.
Tel. +354 472 1551
Tvísöngur : Lukas Kühne. Photo: Goddur.
ferdamenning@sfk.is
visitseydisfjordur.com
The Technical Museum

Seyðisfjörður‘s living museum
The way to now. The fascinating history of
modern life. Welcome to our exhibitions.
Touch, look and listen.
1/6-15/9 workdays, 11-17 or by arrangement
Smithy Festival 22-24 July.
Hafnargata 44, Seyðisfjörður
Tel. +354 472 1696
www.tekmus.is | tekmus@tekmus.is
Skaftfell
East Iceland´S Center
For Visual Art
Art exhibitions, events, Geiri's house, book
shop, art library and bistro.
Open daily - free admission.
Tel. +354 472 1632 | +354 472 1633
www.skaftfell.is | skaftfell@skaftfell.is
either from Háubakkar, or by following the Vestdalsá Roiver from Vest- • Silla Guesthouse, Botnahlíð 10, tel. 865-4605/472-1189.
dalseyri. Vestdalur and Vestdalseyri are registered on the natural features • Langahlíð cottage. seydis@seydis.is, www.seydis.is.
database and offer unique vegetation and cultural relics. • Dagmál guesthouse, tel. 869-5107, thorunne@gmail.com.
• Gamla Apótekið guesthouse, tel. 861-7008.
Austdalur Valley is a good destination for a half-day or full-day hike to Brek-
kugjá gully and continuing on to Mjóifjörður, to the south. Another route to Camping Sites: Near town center, tel. 472-1521, open May 1 – Sept. 30.
Mjóifjörður is farther inland, from the Sörlastaðir/Hánefsstaðadalur Valley Restaurants:
through Hesteyrarskarð pass. Austdalur and the Austdalsá River are regis- • Norð Austur – Sushi & Bar, Norðurgata 2, 2nd floor, tel. 787-4000,
tered on the natural features database. Another interesting hike travels facebook.com/nordaustur/.
along the Sörlastaðaá River. There is much to see on the path from the • Hótel Aldan, Norðurgata 2, tel. 472-1277.
airport on the southern side of the fjord towards Austdalur, as well as from • Skaftfell, Austurvegur 42, Bistró, Internet-café and gallery, tel.
Selstaðir on the northern side of the fjord towards Brimnes. Sörlastaðadalur 472-1633, skaftfell@skaftfell.is, www.skaftfell.is.
is the starting point for a hike to Gullþúfa, which is the highest point on the • Orkuskálinn, Hafnargata 2a, tel. 471 2090.
mountains south of town. For the descent you can either head toward • Kaffi Lára, Norðurgata 3, pub and café, tel. 472-1703.
Neðri-Stafur or Botnarnir. A marked path is available from Sunnuholt, on the Leisure/Sport:
northern side of the fjord, into Kolstaðadalur then over Hjálmárdalsheiði • Swimming pool, Suðurgata 5, sauna and hot tubs, tel. 472-1414.
heath to Loðmundarfjörður. • Sports center, sauna, hot tubs, solarium and Fitness Studio, open
year-round, tel. 472-1501/861-7787.
The Mountain Champ. The Seyðisfjörður Hiking Club has installed boxes
• Hlynur’s kayak and mountain bike rental, tel. 865-3741.
with logbooks atop seven separate summits along the Seyðisfjörður fjord.
• Hagavöllur, golf course, 9 holes, tel. 472-1240.
The boxes also contain hole punches with a different pattern for each sum-
• Fishing licenses, Orkuskálinn, tel. 471-2090.
mit. A map with the names of the seven mountains and a route description
• Ski lift at Fjarðarheiði, tel. 472-1160.
may be purchased from the Information Center. This is a fun activity for avid • SFS sea fishing, tel. 861-7789.
hikers. • Sál Seyðisfjarðar, guided walking tours, tel. 659-1435.
• Guided walking tours, tel. 861-7008.
Tourist Information Center:
• In the Ferry House by Ferjuleira 1, tel. 472-1551, open weekdays Hospital: Health Care Center, Suðurgata 8, tel. 4720-3060.
in summer 6 – 16, and in winter on Tuesdays from 8:00 - 12:00 Pharmacy: Lyfja, Austurvegur 32, tel. 472-1403.
and Wednesdays from 12 – 17, ferjuhus@simnet.is/info@sfk.is. For Motorists:
ferdamenning@sfk.is, www.visitseydisfjordur.com. • Shell, filling station, Hafnargata 2a, tel. 472-1700.
• Austfar, Fjarðargata 8, open year-round, tel. 472-1111, • Oil change.
fax 472-1105, austfar@smyrilline.is.
Bank: Landsbankinn, Bjólfsgata 7, tel. 410-4176, ATM.
Accommodation:
Post Office: Vesturvegur 1, in the Samkaup strax shop, tel. 472-1201
• Við Lónið Guesthouse, Norðurgata 8 tel. 899-9429
• Hótel Aldan, Norðurgata 2, tel. 472-1277, Alcohol Store: Hafnargata 4a.
hotelaldan@simnet.is, www.hotelaldan.com. Local Handicrafts:
• Hafaldan Guesthouse and Youth Hostel, Ránargata 9, Suðurgata 8 • The Handicrafts Market, Austurvegur.
(reception), tel. 472-1410/611-4410, seydisfjordur@hostel.is, • Gallerí Vigga, Botnahlíð 4, glass and ceramics, tel. 865-0633.
www.hafaldan.is. • Borgarhóll art&craft, Austurvegur 17b, Icelandic crafts and design,
• Gistihúsið Norðursíld – Habour Hostel, tel. 777-5007, boas@b1.is. borgarhollartandcraft@gmail.com.
• Post Hostel, Hafnargata 4, tel. 898-6242. • Gullabúið, Norðurgata 5, Icelandic crafts, souvenirs and more, tel.
• Lónsleira apartments, by Lónsleira, tel. 472-1474/849-3381, 899-9429/866-6201, gullabu.verslun@gmail.com, https://www.
lonsleira@simnet.is, www.lonsleira.com. facebook.com/gullabuid/.
• Óla Guesthouse, tel. 862-2990.
Souvenirs: Samkaup Strax, Vesturvegur, food, souvenirs, postcards a.m.
• Skálanes, a nature and cultural center, accommodation. Guided
tours and refreshments offered in the summer, Museums/Exhibitions:
tel. 690-6966, www.skalanes.com. • Harbor shop, ferry building, Ferjuleiru 1.
• Tækniminjasafn Austurlands, Technical Museum, Hafnargata 44,
tel. 472-1696, Jóhann Hansson’s Machine Shop, the first
telegraph station in Iceland, printer. Open weekdays, June 1 –
Sept. 15, 11-17, winter by arrangement,
• tekmus@tekmus.is, www.tekmus.is.
• Skaftfell Center for Visual Art, exhibitions, various events, café,
tel. 472-1632, skaftfell@skaftfell.is, www.skaftfell.is.
• Fjarðarselsvirkjun power plant (since 1913), first alternating-cur-
rent power plant in Iceland; power station for the Seyðisfjörður
Power Co., the first proper township power company in Iceland.
Electric Museum on second floor open by appointment,
tel. 472-1122, www.fjardarsel.is.
• Seyðisfjörður Church, open weekdays in the summer.
Sightseeing/Hiking:
• There are numerous marked walking trails to mountain peaks and
170
WONDERFUL FJARDABYGGD
EXPLORE THE EAST

The region of fjords and majestic mountains
Héraðsprent
Rich in food, culture and natural wonders,

Fjarðabyggð is just the perfection destination.
Visit Fjarðabyggð and enjoy life the East Icelandic way.
START YOUR JOURNEY TO THE EAST

ON VISITFJARDABYGGD.IS
FJARÐABYGGÐ
from eskifjörður
valleys. See beautiful views, viewing platforms and hiking paths • July 10 – 17: LungA, an annual festival hosted by the LungA
next to the avalanche guards in Bjólfur, 640 m above sea level. school with art exhibitions, lectures, and concerts.
The road opens in June. • Mid-Aug.: Town Festival.
• Skálanes, nature and cultural center on the outer reaches of the • First Sat. in Oct.: Haustroði, a family day, free admission to
fjord. See a magnificent landscape of varied fauna. Nature and museums, open markets, and much more.
cultural guided tours are available during the summer, • Nov.: Days of Darkness, various activities.
tel. 690-6966. • Advent: Various activities.
• Loðmundarfjörður, experience peaceful and beautiful nature, • Jan. and February: Þorrablót celebrations throughout East Iceland.
tel. 472-1551. • For further information, please visit www.visitseydisfjordur.is.
• The Mountain Champ, a fun activity for avid hikers, see main text.
• Tvísöngur, outdoor sculpture by Lukas Kuhne.
• Hvað er að frétta, outdoor artwork by Guðjón Ketilsson. To
commemorate Iceland’s connection to the outside world by laying
FJARÐABYGGÐ
a marine cable, tel. 566-1906.
• Útlínur, outdoor sculpture by Kristján Guðmundsson. Fjarðabyggð extends from Mjóifjörður in the north to Stöðvarfjörður in the
• A gift from the municipality to commemorate its 100th anniversary south, and has the largest population of all municipalities in Eastern Iceland.
in 1995. The landscape is magnificent, with coves along the coastline as well as vast
mountainous regions. Fishing and fish processing are the main industries in
Transportation: Fjarðarbyggð, with three of Iceland’s largest fishing companies located
• The Norræna Ferry sails from Seyðisfjörður to the Faroe Islands there. The municipality has six townships and is named after the six majes-
and Denmark every Thursday in summer, and every Wednesday in tic fjords within its region. The community consists of strong and well-es-
winter. For further information please contact Austfar, Seyðisfjörður, tablished fishing villages. Diverse forms of trade thrive in the region and it is
tel. 472-1111 and Smyril-Line Iceland, Stangarhylur 1, Reykjavík,
known for its handicrafts and arts. It is an ideal place for outdoor activities
tel. 570-8600.
that take advantage of nature. “Á fætur í Fjarðarbyggð” is a week-long local
• Bus service between Seyðisfjörður and Egilsstaðir. For further
hiking celebration (Saturday to Saturday) that is held during the last week in
information please contact FAS, Seyðisfjörður, tel. 472-1515.
June. There are guided hikes for everyone, family events in the evening and
Events: a nature school is hosted for the children. Tourist information can be found
• All year: Skaftfell art exhibitions and a variety of other events. at the Fjarðarbyggð Tourist Information Center, and by visiting www.visit-
• July – Aug.: The Blue Church, concerts most Wednesday evenings. fjardarbyggd.is. On January 1, 2016, the population was 4,747.
172
Mjóifjörður is a narrow fjord with an exceptionally fine climate. Ancient foot-
paths to neighboring fjords cross the high mountain passes and birch shrub
grows in much of the fjord. At the beginning of the 20th century there was H Hótel Austur
a fairly large settlement in Mjóifjörður, mostly to take advantage of herring Búðareyri 6 - 730 Reyðarfjörður -  456 2555
and whale fishing. A road leads from the fjord via Mjóafjarðarheiði Heath
hotelaustur@simnet.is
and Slenjudalur Valley to the inland district of Egilsstaðir, although it is often
impassable during the winter. At the crossroads, the southern road leads to
Reyðarfjörður fjord and the northern road leads to Egilsstaðir. When the road
is closed in the wintertime, a ferry runs between Mjóifjörður and Norðfjörður
on Mondays and Thursdays.
Dalatangi was the first lighthouse built in Iceland. The drive out to it is on a
gravel road that is carved out along the fjord. It is accessible to regular vehi-
cles. It passes along landslides and cliff edges, past waterfalls and ravines,
and when Dalatangi is within sight there is the sensation of being on an is-
land surrounded by land. This is the easternmost point in Iceland. There are
two historic lighthouses on site: the older one was built in 1895 and the
younger was built in 1908. The farm fields extend all the way to the coast
and a botanical garden and greenhouse are situated next to the farm build- 20 20 20
ings.
Klifbrekkufossar are a magnificent series of waterfalls far inland and can be

found on the right side of route 1, as you drive south from Mjóifjörður heath.
Prestagil gully is located far inland, on the southern side of the Mjóifjörður The Tærgesen house is
fjord. It is named after the priests who were lured to their death at the hands built in 1870, that makes it
of a troll that lived in the gully. one of the oldest, if not the
oldest guesthouse in Iceland.
FACILITIES IN MJÓIFJÖRÐUR IN FJARÐABYGGÐ Guesthouse/RestauRant Experience a journey to the
past in this wonderful old
Camping Site – Accommodation - Restaurant:
house. We at Tærgesen also
Sólbrekka ín Mjóifjörður, camping, hiking, café,
have a good restaurant with
tel. 476-0007/476-0020.
wide selection of food plus
traditional Icelandic food and
our famous Pizzas.
REYÐARFJÖRÐUR
Búðargata 4
730 Reyðarfjörður Telephone 4705555 and
( 470 5555 8929136, fax 4705556.
Reyðarfjörður, at approximately 30 km in length, is the largest of the East www.taergesen.com taergesen@gmail.com.
Fjords. The town has a good, naturally sheltered harbor and is the adminis-
tration center for Fjarðarbyggð. It has a small shopping center and bakery,
which also sells local handicrafts. The camping site is located by Andapol- Grænafell is a friendly, sheltered area beneath the shrub-covered slopes of
lurinn, which is a short distance from the town entrance. An Alcoa alumi- Mt. Grænafell, just west of the town. There is an easy, marked hiking path
num plant, with an annual production capacity of 340,000 tons, is located that leads onto the mountain from Fagradalur valley, as well as an addition-
in Reyðarfjörður. The plant receives its power from the Fljótsdalsstöð power al hiking path along the beautiful Geithúsaá River ravine. Large boulders in
plant. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,188. the shrubbery could be mistaken for elf homes, but they are in fact deposits
left by avalanches and landslides from the mountain. For decades, students
The Icelandic Wartime Museum. The war did not leave Iceland untouched
had a tradition of planting their own trees on the slopes of Mt. Grænafell, as
and the first troops arrived in Reykjavík on May 10, 1940. Shortly after July
witnessed by the tall evergreens found in the area. The mountain was pre-
1, the first troops arrived in Reyðarfjörður. The occupation had a large im-
viously a gathering place for the residents of Reyðarfjörður, and the site of
pact on Reyðarfjörður, which was populated by only 300 people at that time.
their sports tournaments. It is currently the most popular walking and hiking
3,000 British troops were stationed in the village over the course of World
area for the town’s residents.
War II, during which time they constructed an extensive hospital camp just
outside of town. This camp, is now the site of the Icelandic Wartime Muse-
Lögregla: 444-0600. Í neyðartilvikum 112
um, which also houses a number of other relics of the wartime era. The
museum’s exhibitions aim to create a realistic picture of the war years in Tourist Information Center: Icelandic Wartime Museum and
Reyðarfjörður, such as the overall spirit of the time and popular fashions, as www.visitfjardabyggd.is.
well as the feelings of fear that pervaded the era. There’s a beautiful hiking Accommodation:
trail that borders the museum, running from down Reyðarfjörður up to the • Hótel Austur, Búðareyri 6, tel. 456-2555, hotelaustur@simnet.is.
Búðará river. If you join the path at the museum, you’ll pass the Búðarfoss • Hjá Marlín, Vallargerði 9, tel. 474-1220/892-0336,
waterfall and Búðarárstífla dam, which was completed in 1930, when bakkagerdi@simnet.is, www.bakkagerdi.net.
Rafveita Reyðarfjarðar, the local electricity company, began its operations. • Guesthouse Tærgesen, Búðargata 4, tel. 470-5555/892-9136,
taergesen@gmail.com, www.taergesen.com.
173
Camping Sites: By Andapollur at the outskirts of town
(coordinates: 665° 2,020’N, 14° 14,453’W).
Restaurants:
• Hótel Austur, Búðareyri 6, tel. 456-2555.
• Staupasteinn, Félagslundi, Bakkagerði 8, tel. 474 1245.
• Hjá Marlín, Vallargerði 9, café, tel. 474-1220/892-0336.
• Sesam brauðhús, Hafnargata 1, bakery, brasserie, café and local
handicrafts, tel. 475-8000.
• Olísskálinn, Búðareyri 33, tel. 474-1147.
• Orkuskálinn, fast food and home cooking, Búðareyri,
tel. 474-1111.
Kaffihúsið Eskifirði • Tærgesen, Búðargata 4, tel. 470-5555.
• Kaffi Kósí, Búðargata 6, pub, open evenings and weekends,
tel. 474-1666.
Kaffihúsið Eskifirði is a Guesthouse and an excellent Health Care Center: Búðareyri 8, tel. 470-1420.
a la carte restaurant run by it‘s owners, Pharmacy: Lyfja, in the shopping mall at Hafnargata 2, tel. 477-1780.
Sigríður Rósa Finnbogadóttir and Völundur Þorgilsson,
Post Office: Búðareyri 35, tel. 474-1106/1100.
Chef de cuisine, whose reputation of fine cuisine is
renown in Iceland and abroad. For Motorists:
• Bíley, Leiruvogi 6, tel. 474 1453.
For further information check www.kaffihusid.is. • Launafl, Hraun 3, tel. 414-9400.
Strandgata 10 // 735 Eskifjörður // Tel. +354 476-1150 & +354 894-6606 Banks:
www.kaffihusid.is Kaffihúsið Eskifirði • Landsbankinn, Hafnargata 2, tel. 410-4167, bank and ATM.
• Íslandsbanki, Búðareyri 7, tel. 440-4000, bank and ATM.
Alcohol Store: Molanum, Hafnargata 2, tel. 474-1406.
okyo
Book urto
your urss
tour Museums/Exhibitions: Íslenska stríðsárasafnið, Heiðarvegi 37,
Bo on::
an recre
anddre ionon
ation
creat Hæðargerði, World War II memorabilia, open daily from June 1 – Aug.
31, 13 – 17, and by appointment, tel. 470-9063, sofn@fjardabyggd.is.
Leisure/sport:
• Kollur, 9-hole golf course maintained by the Fjarðabyggð Golf Club.
Centrally located in town.
• Oddskarð Ski Center: downhill and cross-country skiing for skiiers
at all levels, 853-1465/878-1474, oddsskard@fjardabyggd.is,
http://www.visitfjardabyggd.is/oddsskard.
Places of Interest/Hikes: Walking path up the shores of the
Búðará River and along the mountain. Bird-watching shelter near
Andapollurinn.
Transportation: Austurland bus service, www.svaust.is.
Events: Last weekend in June: Military Occupation Day: the
Reyðarfjörður war years remembered.
Village walks
AA fun
fun and
AA local
and aa rather
local person
rather easy
person will
easy walk
will be
walk in
be your
in aa charming
your guide
charming village.
guide whowho will
village.
will give
give you
you ESKIFJÖRÐUR
insight into
insight into daily
daily life.
life. In
In each
each tour
tour wewe visit
visit aa local
local
home/person and
home/person and get get some
some refreshments.
refreshments. AA greatgreat Eskifjörður is a town situated along a fjord of the same name that extends
way to
way to get
get to
to know
know Icelandic
Icelandic culture
culture and
and howhow off of Reyðarfjörður fjord. Its most notable feature is the large number of red
Icelanders live
Icelanders live in
in the
the eastern
eastern most
most part
part of
of Iceland.
Iceland. houses along the harbor, which give the town a welcoming atmosphere.
Come as
Come as aa stranger
stranger,, leave
leave as
as aa friend!
friend! Eskifjörður began growing rapidly after 1870, when Norwegians began
fishing herring off the Eastern Fjords. The first independent church in Ice-
land was built in Eskifjörður in 1884. There is a memorial to the town’s
Tanni Travel
Tanni Travel sailors who lost their lives at sea that was designed by Ragnar Kjartansson,
Strandgata 14,
Strandgata 14, 735
735 Eskifjörður
Eskifjörður as well as a maritime museum located in an old store from the early 19th
tannitravel@tannitravel.is||www.tannitravel.is
tannitravel@tannitravel.is www.tannitravel.is
century. Nearby is the Hólmanes Peninsula, which was declared a protected
Tel.+354
Tel. +354476-1399
476-1399
area in 1973 because of its diverse and beautiful environment. On January
1, 2016, the population was 1,012.
Hólmatindur peak is Eskifjörður’s pride and joy. Hólmatindur is 985 m high

and towers over the fjord, opposite the town. The hike to the top is demand-
ing, but once there hikers can record their names in a logbook.
174
H Hótel Eskifjörður A HÓTELÍBÚÐIR - apartments
Strandgata 47 - 735 Eskifjörður - Fjarðabyggð Strandgata 26 - 735 Eskifjörður -  892-8657 / 845-8801
 +354 476-0099 - info@hoteleskifjordur.is addie@simnet.is - www.hotelibudir.net
www.hoteleskifjordur.is
Fully equipped, 2 roo

ms apartments.
For rent the whole
year.
28 14 14 14
G mjóeyri - travel service

1 5 Strandgata 120 - 735 Eskifjörður -  477-1247
696-0809 / 698-6980 - mjoeyri@vortex.is - www.mjoeyri.is
14 double rooms
with ensuite bathrooms
Hólmanes, located between Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður, was declared a

commons and partially a nature reserve in 1973. There is a great deal of
10 cottages.
birdlife in the area and unique rock formations abound. This is a great loca- The Guesthouse:
tion for outdoor activities, either along the cliffs or the shoreline. The nature 4 rooms with 45 beds.
preserve has a marked hiking trail.
The Iceland spar mine at Helgustaðir is one of the best known in the world.
Iceland spar was mined there from the 17th century until the early 20th
century, until spar became obsolete. The mine is located a short distance
40 40 11
out along Reyðarfjörður fjord and has a walking path leading to it. The Hel-
gustaðir mine has been declared a natural monument.
2 4
The gravesite of the völva is located at the top of Hólmaháls hill, a short
distance above the road. Völva, who is a female seer in Icelandic mythology,
is said to have protected Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður from outside attacks
for centuries. There is an exceptional view from this site. Restaurants:
• Randulfssjóhús, Strandgata 96, tel. 477-1247/696-0809,
Police: Strandgata 52, tel. 444-0600, 112 for emergencies. mjoeyri@mjoeyri.is.
• Kaffihúsið Eskifirði, Strandgata 10, tel. 476-1150.
Tourist Information Center: Maritime Museum and
• Shell station, Strandgata 13, tel. 476-1383.
www.visitfjardabyggd.is.
Leisure/Sport:
Accommodation:
• Swimming pool, Dalbraut 3a, tel. 476-1218.
• Hótel Askja, Strandgata 86, tel. 477-1247/696-0809,
• Byggðarholtsvöllur, on the outskirts of town, 9-hole golf course.
info@hotelaskja.is, www.hotelaskja.is.
• Mjóeyri Ferðaþjónustan, The Mjóeyri Travel Service,
Strandgata 120, tel. 477-1247/696-0809/698-6980,
mjoeyri@mjoeyri.is, www.mjoeyri.is.
• Boat and fishing equipment rental, Randulfssjóhús,
• Hótel Eskifjörður (Puffin Hotel), Strandgata 47, tel. 476-0099,
Strandgata 96.
info@puffinhotel.is; www.puffinhotel.is
• Fishing in the Eskifjarðará River is free of charge.
• Kaffihúsið Eskifirði, Strandgata 10, tel. 476-1150, www.kaffihusid.is.
• Hótelíbúðir, Strandgötu 26, tel. 892-8657, addie@simnet.is, Health Care Centre/Pharmacy:
www.hotelibudir.net. • Strandgata 31, tel. 470-1430.
• Lyfja, tel. 476-1287.
Camping Sites: Directly upon entering the town
(coordinates: 65° 4,664’N, 14° 1,876’W). For Motorists: Kría and Shell filling stations.
175
Banks: Landsbankinn, ATM services. Gerpissvæði hiking area is a true paradise for hikers. Located between
Museums/Exhibitions: Norðfjörður and Reyðarfjörður, it is becoming one of the most popular hiking
• Maritime Museum, Gamla búð, Strandgata 39b, areas in the country. The Fjarðamanna Touring Association has designated
open daily June 1 – Aug. 31, 13 – 17, and by arrangement, numerous hiking paths there, as well as elsewhere in the region. Their
tel. 476-1605/470-9063. hiking maps may be purchased at Tourist Information Centers and shops
• Church and Cultural Center, concerts, exhibitions, throughout Fjarðabyggð.
tel. 476-1740, www.tonleikahus.is. Rauðubjörg is a set of lovely rhyolite rocks located in Barðsnes, near
• Randulffssjóhús, an original fisherman’s hut from the war,
Norðfjarðarflói. The residents of Norðfjörður have long said that the sun
2nd floor, tel. 477-1247/696-0809, mjoeyri@mjoeyri.is.
shimmering on Rauðubjörg in the evening signals fine weather for the fol-
• Rock Collection of Sören and Sigurborg, Lambeyrarbraut 5,
lowing day.
tel. 476-1177.
Sightseeing/Hiking: Police: Melagata 2a, tel. 444-0620; 112 for emergencies.
• Helgustaðanáma, spar mine located just outside of town.
Accommodation:
• Skiing Center, in Oddskarð between Eskifjörður and Neskaup-
• Hotel Capitano, Hafnarbraut 50, tel. 477-1800/861-4747,
staður.
fax 477-1501, island@islandia.is, www.hotelcapitano.is.
• Hólmanes Nature Reserve.
• Hildibrand Hotel, Hafnarbraut 2, tel. 477-1950,
• Maps of hiking trails, including the hiking trail over Eskifjörður
hildibrand@hildibrand.com, www.hildibrand.com.
heath.
• Hótel Edda Neskaupstaður, Mýrargata 10, summer hotel,
• Randulfssjóhús, boat rental, tel. 477-1247/696-0809,
tel. 444-4860.
mjoeyri@mjoeyri.is.
• Siggi Nobb Guesthouse, Strandgata 14, tel. 477-2000,
Excursions: island@islandia.is.
• Tanni Travel ehf., Strandgata 14, tel. 476-1399, fax 476-1599, • Egilsbúð Guesthouse, Egilsbraut 1, tel. 477-1430, island@islandia.is.
tannitravel@tannitravel.is, www.tannitravel.is. Tanni Travel is • Tónspil Accommodation, Hafnarbraut 22,
working with Fly Europe to schedule direct flights from London’s tel. 477-1580/894-1580.
Gatwick airport to Egilsstaðir during the summer. • Skorrahestar, Skorrastaður 4, tel. 477-1736/891-8036,
info@flyeurope.is for more information. skorra@simnet.is, www.skorrahestar.is.
• Mjóeyri Travel Service, tel. 477-1247/696-0809,
mjoeyri@mjoeyri.is, www.mjoeyri.is.
Camping Sites: By the avalanche guards above the town center
Transportation: Austurland bus service, SVAust, www.svaust.is. (coordinates: 65° 12,180’N, 13° 47,619’W).
Events: Restaurants:
• Seamans´s Weekend Festival, diverse events. • Kaupfélagsbarinn, Hótel Hildbrad, Hafnarbraut 2, tel. 477-1950,
• Church and Cultural Center, tel. 476-1740, various events all year, hildibrand@hildibrand.com, www.hildibrand.com.
www.tonleikahus.is. • Hótel Edda, Neskaupstaður, Mýrargata 10, tel. 444-4860.
• Nesbær, Egilsbraut 5, tel. 477-1115.
• Olísskálinn, Hafnarbraut 19, tel. 477-1500.
NORÐFJÖRÐUR • Hótel Capitano, Hafnarbraut 50, tel. 477-1800/861-4747.

• Pizzafjörður, Hafnarbraut 17, tel. 475 1500.
Neskaupstaður is located on the northern coast of the Norðfjörður fjord, Leisure/Sport:

which is the northernmost of the three fjords that make up Norðfjarðarflói
• Norðfjörður swimming pool, Miðstræti 15, tel. 477-1243.
• 9-hole golf course, tel. 477-1165.
Bay. The other two fjords are Hellisfjörður and Viðfjörður, the latter of which
• Fishing permits, tel. 477-1133.
is famous for ghostly occurrences. Three valleys, all filled with shrubbery,
extend from the fjord: Oddsdalur, Seldalur and Gannardalur. The town be-
gan expanding during the latter part of the 19th century, but it was not until
1949 that Norðfjörður had a land route to neighboring towns. The route
• Skorrahestar, Skorrastaður 4, horse rental, tel. 477-1736/
went over Oddskarð, one of Iceland’s highest mountains and which is very
891-8036, skorra@simnet.is, www.skorrahestar.is.
difficult to traverse in the snow. A tunnel, 626 m long and 632 m above sea
level, was built from 1974-1977. Oddskarð is the center for winter sports in For Motorists: Filling station, tire repair.
the area. The Culture House in Neskaupstað contains various museums and Hospital: Mýrargata 20, tel. 470-1450.
a nature reserve is located to the east of the town. Construction on the Pharmacy: Lyfja, Hafnarbruat 15, tel. 477-1118.
Norðfjarðargöng tunnel to Eskifjörður began in 2013. Upon completion (es-
Banks:
timated to be 2017), it will be 7.9 km long. On January 1, 2016, the popu-
• Landsbankinn, Hafnarbraut 40, tel. 410-4168.
lation was 1,481.
• Sparisjóður Norðfjarðar, Egilsbraut 25, tel. 470-1100, ATM.
Avalanche defense structures have been erected above Neskaupstaður to Post office: Miðstræti 26, tel. 477-1100.
protect against show avalanches. Hiking paths lead up to the structures,
Alcohol Store: Hafnarbraut 6, tel. 477-1890.
from which there is a breathtaking view. There are also paths leading from
there to the nature reserve, which is east of Neskaupsstaður – a route that Local Handicrafts: Gallery Thea, Skorrastaðir 4,
should not be missed. The path leading to the Páskahellir cave has several tel. 477-1736/891-8036, skorra@simnet.is, www.skorrahestar.is.
information signs and is a wonderful and informative walk. Museums/Exhibitions: Safnahúsið, Egilsbraut 2, houses 3 different
museums: The Natural History Museum of East Iceland; The Tryggvi
176
Ólafsson Museum; and The Maritime and Machine Shop Museum of
Jósafat Hinriksson, open daily June 1 – Aug. 31, 13 – 17, and by
arrangement, tel. 470-9063/477-1446, sofn@fjardabyggd.is. H hildibrand hótel & Tours
Hafnarbraut 2 - 740 Neskaupstaður -  477-1950
Places of Interest/Hikes: hildibrand@hildibrand.com - www.hildibrand.is
• Avalanche guard wall above town provides a good view over the fjord.
• Ferðafélag Fjarðamanna, organized hiking tours, tel. 477-1790.
• Neskaupstaður Nature Reserve.
Transportation: Austurland bus service, SVAust, www.svaust.is,
www.austfjardaleid.is.
Events:
• Easter: Easter Festival in Oddskarð skiing area and neighboring
towns.
• 1st weekend in June: Seaman´s Weekend Festival celebrated
throughout the Eastern Fjords.
• 2nd weekend in July: Eistnaflug, Rock-Metal Music Festival.
• August 1 – 3: Neistaflug, a family festival, including the
Barðsneshlaup race, free admission and camping at the campsite.
100 24 24 0,5
Tourist Information Centre:
Safnahúsið in Neskaupstaður and www.visitfjardabyggd.is.
6 2 6
FÁSKRÚÐSFJÖRÐUR
The municipality, also known as Búðir, is located at the innermost point of Accommodation:
Fáskrúðsfjörður fjord. It is believed to have derived its name from Skrúður, a • Guesthouse Elínar Helgu, Stekkholti 20, tel. 868 2687.
rocky island at the mouth of the fjord. During the 19th century it was one of • Fosshótel Austfirðir, Hafnargata 11-14, tel. 562-4000,
the main bases for French fishermen operating off the East Fjords. The austfirdir@fosshotel.is, www.fosshotel.is.
French consul was stationed there and the French built a hospital and • Hótel Bjarg, Skólavegur 49, tel. 475-1466/899-6221,
chapel. Street names are still in Icelandic and French. Some of the houses hotelbjarg@simnet.is, www.hotelbjarg.is.
have been restored and now service the town as a hotel and museum. Camping Site: On the outskirts of town
Forty-nine French and Belgium fishermen are buried at Krossar, on the (coordinates: 64° 56,186’N, 14° 2,190’W).
north shore of town. A traditional open-deck boat, built by Einar Sigurðsson,
Restaurants:
is displayed on the lake in the town park. There are many walking trails that
• L‘Abri, Fosshótel Austfirðir, Hafnargata 11-14, tel. 462-4000.
have been marked in Fáskrúðsfjörður and the town is an excellent location
• Sumarlína, Búðavegur 59, café and light refreshments,
for spotting Northern Lights. On January 1, 2016, the population was 672.
tel. 475-1575/894-5707.
Skrúður is a grassy island situated at the mouth of Fáskrúðsfjörður fjord. On • SJ Filling station, grill and coffee shop, tel. 475-1490.
the island are Skrúðshellir caves: high and spacious, they are considered Leisure/Sport:
the largest in East Iceland. Fishermen in in the old days would dwell in these • Swimming pool, Skólavegur 37, tel. 475-9070.
caves between trips out to sea. Birdlife thrives on the island, and there was • Nes, 9-hole golf course.
a time when egg collecting and bird hunting were an important part of • Hótel Bjarg, ATV tours and sea fishing, tel. 475-1466/899-6221.
daily life. The island is now a nature preserve.
Health Care Center: tel. 475-1225, answering machine.
Kolfreyjustaður is a parsonage and benefice. The present-day church was Pharmacy: Lyfja, Hlíðargata 60, tel. 475-1551.
built in 1878 and has preserved many ancient church relics. Poets Jón and For Motorists: Filling station, garage, tire repair.
Páll Ólafsson grew up at Kolfreyjustaður. Alcohol Store: Skólavegur 59, tel. 475-1530.
Mt. Sandfell is a rhyolite mountain (743m) south of Fáskrúðsfjörður. It is a Museums/Exhibitions: Fransmenn á Íslandi, Hafnargata 12, A new
wonderful example of laccolith formations in Iceland. On the south side of and interesting exhibition about French sailors in Iceland during the
the mountain it is possible to see how the laccolith has folded the basalt war, tel. 470-9000, www.fjardabyggd.is.
over itself. The laccolith is estimated to be 600 m thick and is one of the Local Handicrafts
best examples from the tertiary period found in the northern hemisphere. A • Kolfreyja gallery, Tangi, Hafnargata, tel. 852-2288.
very enjoyable and beautiful walking trail leads up Mt. Sandfell, which takes • Anna frænka, Búðavegur 49, tel. 844-7817.
2 – 3 hours.
Transportation: Austurland bus service, SVAust, www.svaust.is.
Police: Skólavegur 53, tel. 444-0660/emergency 112. Events:
Tourist Information Center: Kolfreyja gallery, Tangi, Hafnargata, • July 17-18: The National Holiday of France, flag day in
tel. 852-2288 and www.visitfjardarbyggd.is. Fáskrúðsfjörður.
• French Days, a family festival during the Icelandic Merchant’s
Weekend. For more information, please visit
• www.visitfjardarbyggd.is.
177
Restaurants:
STÖÐVARFJÖRÐUR • Hótel Saxa, Fjarðarbraut 41, restaurant and coffee house, tel.
511-3055, saxa@saxa.is, www.saxa.is.
The settlement in Stöðvarfjörður was established approximately 100 years • Brekkan, Fjarðarbraut 44, convenience store and restaurant, tel.
ago along the fjord of the same name. The beautiful natural environment 475-8939.
offers many possibilities for outdoor activities. Rare rocks and minerals have Leisure/Sport: Stöðvafjörður swimming pool, tel. 475-9046.
been found in the vicinity, many of which can be seen at the Steinasafn, run Health Care Center: Túngata 2, tel. 470-3088.
by Petra Sveinsdóttir. Stöðvarfjörður has a thriving artistic culture and is
For Motorists: Pay-at-the-pump facilities.
home to an excellent center for graphic arts, which is run by Ríkharður and
Sólrún Valtingojer. The Sköpunarmiðstöðin (creativity center) is located in an Local Handicrafts:
old fish process freezing plant, and during the summer the Salthúsmarkaður • Art Gallery Snærós, Fjarðarbraut 42, tel. 475-8931/861-7556,
is home to a magnificent local handicraft and art market. Stöð, a settlement solrun.frid@simnet.is.
site located in the deepest point of Stöðvarfjörður fjord, was established by • Salthúsmarkaður, Fjarðarbraut 43, market and showroom.
Þórhaddur “the old.” He banned the hunting of wild animals and birds in the Museums/Exhibitions:
area and has hence been named the first nature conservationist in Iceland. • Steinasafn Petru Sveinsdóttur, Sunnuhlíð, rock and mineral
On January 1, 2016, the population was 197. collection, open daily 9 – 18, tel. 475-8834, www.steinapetra.com.
• Grafíksetrið, Fjarðarbraut 42, tel. 475-8931/861-7556,
Einbúi is a set of large, unique rocks that stand out in otherwise flat sur-
solrunf@yahoo.com.
roundings. It is located at the end of the Jafnadalur valley, which leads up-
• Svarthol gallery, Skólabraut 10, tel. 861-9164,
wards from Stöðvarfjörður fjord on the north side. A hiking path leads
annahrefnu@gmail.com, www.eastartist.com.
through the valley, across Stöðvarskarð. A large stone archway that is ap-
proximately 6 m in diameter can also be found in Jafnadalur, to the east of Transportation: Austurland bus service, SVAust, www.svaust.is.
Mt. Álftafell.
Saxa is a “sea geyser” located just outside of Lönd. It is a natural phenom-

enon where the ocean waves crash into a rock crevice and then shoot high BREIÐDALUR
into the air creating an “eruption” effect. The name Saxi is derived from the
kelp and seaweed called “saxað” (translated as chopped), which are found Breiðdalur is an expansive valley in comparison to the other Eastern Fjord
inside the crevice and then hurled into the air with the waves. valleys, and it is divided into three parts: Norðurdalur, Suðurdalur and Útsve-
it. On January 1, 2016, the population was 124.
Tourist Information Center:
Breiðdalsvík, the district’s service center, is probably the youngest town in
Brekkan, Fjarðarbraut 44, tel. 475-8939 and
www.visitfjardarbyggd.is. Eastern Iceland and did not truly become established until after 1960.
Accommodation: Nothing is known for sure about the settlement until about 1880, when
• Hótel Saxa, Fjarðarbraut 41, tel. 511-3055. saxa@saxa.is, Gránufélagið built a warehouse. However, full-time settlement did not begin
www.saxa.is. until 1896, when the Brynesverslun store in Seydisfjörður built a branch at
• Kirkjubær, Fjarðarbraut 37a, tel. 475-8938/892-3319. the top of Selnes, at the eastern corner of Selnesbót. The store burned
• Gallerí Svarthol Guesthouse, Skólabraut 10, tel. 861-9164, down in the spring of 1906 and was rebuilt the same year, but this time to
annahrefnu@gmail.com, www.eastartist.com. the west of the inlet. That building still stands today, making it the oldest in
• Sólhóll, Fjarðarbraut 66, tel. 863-4631. Breiðdalsvík. The old shop has been rebuilt as a geology center, which is
Camping Sites: Near the town center, tel. 470-9000 fitting since Breiðdalur is Eastern Iceland’s volcanic center, as evidenced by
(Coordinates: 64° 49,943’N, 13° 51,691’W). the colors of the mountains. A collection dedicated to Stefán Einarsson,
former professor at John Hopkins University in Baltimore, is also housed in
Breiðdalsvík’s oldest building.
178
730 Hótel bláfell
Sólvellir 14 - 760 Breiðdalsvík -  475-6770 - Fax 475-6668 - info@hotelblafell.is - www.hotelblafell.is
H
80 35 35 35
730 Hótel staðarborg

BREIÐDALSETUR H
Staðarborg - 760 Breiðdalsvík -  475-6760 - Fax 475-6761
stadarborg@simnet.is - www.stadarborg.is
G e o l o g y – L i n g u istics – H isto r y
The Breiðdalssetur Centre, occasion-

ally also called „the Walker Centre“, is
housed in the old cooperative „Gamla
Kaupfélagið“. Breiðdalssetur facilitates Opening times:
earth and literary research activities Summer:
focused on East Iceland, as well as 20th May to 15th sept,
hosting exhibitions on geology, linguistics daily, 11-18
and local history. Actual exhibitions are Winter: By appointment
about: The the mineral Iceland spar & Entrance fee 500 kr.,
history of science, the writer & linguist free for children under 16
Stefán Einarsson from Breiðdalur valley, Sæberg 1, 760 Breiðdalsvík
the geology & minerals of the Eastern Tel: (+354) 470 5565 38 15 15
Fjords and the world famous British info@breiddalssetur.is

volcanologist George P.L.Walker www.breiddalssetur.is
Tourist Information Center: • 733. Óðinsferðir Íslands, chalet/farmhouse accommodation,

• Kaupfjelagið, Sólvellir 25, tel. 475-6670. tel. 861-4392.
• At the District Office during office hours, tel. 470-5560, • 734. Silfurberg, Þorgrímsstaðir, tel. 475 1515,
www.breiddalur.is. silfurberg@silfurberg.com, www.silfurberg.com.
Breiðdalssetur, tel. 470-5565, www.breiddalssetur.is. Camping Sites:
Accommodation: • By Hótel Bláfell, tel. 475-6770.
• Hótel Bláfell, Sólvellir 14, tel. 475-6770, fax 475-6668, • 730. Hótel Staðarborg, tel. 475-6760.
info@hotelblafell.is, www.hotelblafell.is. Restaurants:
• 727. Veiðihúsið Eyjar, tel. 567-5204/660-6890, • Hótel Bláfell, tel. 475-6770.
ellidason@strengir.is, www.strengir.is. • Kaupfjelagið, Sólvellir 25, tel. 475-6670.
• 729. Háaleiti, chalets, tel. 475-6798. • Café Margret, Heimaleiti, tel. fax 475-6625.
• 730. Hótel Staðarborg, tel. 475-6760, stadarborg@simnet.is, • Veiðihúsið Eyjar, tel. 567-5204/660-6890.
www.stadarborg.is. • Hótel Staðarborg, tel. 475-6760.
• 731. Café Margret, Heimaleiti, tel. /fax 475-6625,
cafemargret@simnet.is. Leisure/Sport:
• 732. Innri-Kleif, tel. 475-6789, chalet. • Breiðdalshreppur Swimming pool, tel. 470-5575.
179
• Veiðiþjónustan Strengir, Veiðihúsið Eyjar, the association in 2013 and remains the first and only town in Iceland with
tel. 567-5204/660-6890, ellidason@strengir.is, www.strengir.is. the Cittaslow designation. Keep an eye out for the Cittaslow symbol on your
• Innri-Kleif, trout fishing, tel. 475-6789/475-06754. trip around the area: an orange snail carrying a village on top of its shell.
• Óðinsferðir Íslands, Höskuldsstaðir, horse rental, Local Supporters of the Cittaslow ethos use this symbol as an seal of qual-
tel. 475-8088/861-4392. ity. It indicates, for instance, the seller’s promose that his or her products—
• Tinna Nature Adventure. Sólvellir 14, tel. 475-1100, such as food items or produce, handicrafts, or anything else—originate in
tinna-adventure.is, Facebook.com/tinna.adventure. the district. The motto shared by Djúpivogur and Cittaslow is “Slow down
Health Care Center: Selnes 44, tel. 470-3099. and enjoy life—speed doesn’t have to be a way of life.”
For Motorists: Papey is often referred to as one of the pearls of Icelandic nature and has
• Bifreiðaverkstæði, Selnes 28-30, tel. 475-6616/899-4300. been listed on the National Conservation Register since 1975. Birdlife Inter-
• N1, Ásvegur, tel. 475-6664. national, an international partnership supporting bird conservation, also lists
Bank/Post Office: Sparisjóður Hornafjarðar, Selnes 38, tel. 470-8720. it as one of Europe’s Important Bird Areas. Papey is the largest of the nu-
merous islands that lie off the Djúpavogur coastal area and it is rich in both
Local Handicrafts: Ás gallery, Sólvellir 25, tel. 475-6797.
seal and seabird life, including Puffins. So rich in resources is the island,
Museums/Exhibitions: Breiðdalssetur, Cultural Center in the old that in the olden days it was said that the Papey’s owners dressed in so-
Kaupfélag, tel. 470-5565. Geological Exhibition, History of the commu- called ‘Papey Pants,’ which granted their wearers with untold riches. Papey
nity (a.m.), breiddalssetur@breiddalssetur.is, www.breiddalssetur.is. takes its name from the word ‘papi,’ which refers to the Christian hermits
Transportation: Scheduled transportation in the East fjords, from Ireland and Scotland who were said to have lived on the island before
www.east.is, www.fjardabyggd.is/samgongur. the Norsemen settled in Iceland. Papey is also home to the oldest timber
church in Iceland, which was built in 1807. Boat trips to the island can be
taken on the Gísla í Papey ferry, which sails from Djúpivogur.
DJÚPIVOGUR Langabúð is a long red house that stands right above the Djúpivogur harbor.
The oldest part of the house was first built in 1790, which makes it one of
the oldest trading houses in the country. A café, the Djúpivogur folk muse-
The municipality of Djúpavogur extends from the middle of the Hvalnes um, and two museums dedicated to lives and work of the sculptor Ríkarður
scree in the south to Streiti á Berufjarðarströnd beach in the north. Three Jónsson (1888-1977) and the politician Eysteinn Jónsson (1906-1993) are
fjords lie within this district: the sea lagoons Álftafjörður and Hamarsfjörður now based out of Langabúð. In fact, Eysteinn’s first job in his youth was
and, to the north, the deep Berufjörður. The landscape and wildlife in this setting up the pins for Langabúð’s former bowling lane.
area is extremely diverse. For instance, a large herd of reindeer live here for
a large part of the year, and out along the beach, seals sprawl among the Eggin í Gleðivík, or “The Eggs in Gleðivík Bay,” is an outdoor art installation
skerries. The municipality boasts wetlands that are brimming with birdlife by the artist Sigurður Guðmundsson. It comprises precise replicas of the
and have excellent bird watching facilities. Countless islands are just off eggs of thirty-four different nesting birds that can be found in the Djúpu-
Djúpavogur’s shores, as well as many isthmi and skerries. There are fami- vogur region. The eggs are all marked with plaques that indicate which bird
ly-friendly black, white, and red sand beaches, exquisite waterfalls and flo- species they belong to, giving both their Icelandic names and their scientif-
ra, numerous hiking trails through magnificent mountains, verdant valleys, ic names in Latin. The largest egg is that of the Red-throated loon, which is
and even a few glaciers. One reason for the beauty and diversity of the re- the region’s signature bird.
gion is that within it stand the remnants of two central volcanos with
The Blábjörg cliffs in Berufjörður are peaceful natural monuments. The cliffs
light-colored rhyolite and igneous dikes (sheets of rock), as well as basalt
are part of welded tuffs, or pyroclastic rocks which have fused together, and
lava beds that most resemble grey layer cakes. There are many marked
that have been called Berufjarðartúff, or Berufjörður acid tuffs. These were
hiking trails in the Djúpavogur district and it is possible to obtain a trail map
formed by the pyroclastic flow of an acidic and phreatic, or steam-driven,
at the information center and various other places in town.
eruption. The blue-green color of the rock can be attributed to the chlorite
Djúpivogur is the main town in the Djúpavogur municipality, situated to the minerals that are derived when the rocks themselves are formed. Disturbing
north of the Búland peninsula that divides the Hamarsfjörður and Be- or damaging this area’s geological formations in any way is strictly prohib-
rufjörður fjords. Djúpivogur has historically been an important trading cen- ited.
ter, dating all the way back to 1589 when merchants from Hamburg ob-
Teigarhorn við Berufjörð—often just known as Teigarhorn—was given a
tained trading licenses there. The cove that the village is named
protected status in 2013 and now employs a park ranger. The area is
after— Djúpivogur means ‘deep cove’—is an excellent natural harbor that,
known for its natural formations, as well as for its commercial and cultural
before the turn of the century in 1900, was the most important shipping
history. Teigarhorn is home to one of the most significant concentrations of
center in East Iceland. Djúpivogur boasts robust and diverse occupational
zeolite in the world, the formation of which is largely dependent upon the
industries, although fishing is still the primary industry of the region. Many
extensive system of dykes that extend from the Álftafjörður volcano. Zeolite
homes in the village have been renovated in recent years and are quite
from Teigarhorn was sold to collections all over the world in the late 18th
lovely. Above the town stands the Bóndavarða cairn, which is said to have
century. Since the area was declared a protected natural monument in
been established in 1627. Barbary pirates had raided the village and so the
1976, however, it has been illegal to tamper with or remove the minerals.
cairn became a place to keep watch over the village and the fjords in all
The Weywadthús is also located at Teigarhorn, a house which was built by
directions. As of January 1, 2016, the population of Djúpivogur was 354.
Níels P.E. Weywadt from 1880-1882. Níels’ daughter, Nicoline Weywadt,
Cittaslow is an international association of towns and rural municipalities was the first Icelandic woman to study photography and she operated a
that emphasizes the creation of people-friendly societies which provide photography studio from Teigarhorn. Nicoline also owned the first sewing
clean, safe, and eco-friendly environments and produce local specialties, machine in East Iceland. Iceland’s record high temperature—30.5°C was
working methods, and cultural traditions. Djúpivogur became a member of recorded at Teigarhorn in 1939.
180
HÓTEL FRAMTÍÐ
tel. 478-8887, fax 478-8187
framtid@simnet.is - www.hotelframtid.com
88 30 27
0,2
d e n v ir o nmentall y sound
Fri e n d ly a n
DJÚ P I V O G U R PAPEYJARFERÐIR FERRY

tel. 478-8119, 862-4399 and
659-1469 (guide)
papey@djupivogur.is
YOUR PERSONAL GUIDE, the Wapp app and PocketGuide app. Available at your
App Store and Play Store.
HIKING AND WALKING along shores and valleys or onto mountains and glaciers.
Get a trail map at the information centre in Djúpivogur.
BOAT TRIPS TO PAPEY, an island paradise of seals, puffins and other seabirds,
along with Iceland’s smallest wooden church, leaving Djúpivogur daily in summer at
1:00 p.m.
THE GLEÐIVÍK EGGS, sculptures by the artist Sigurður Guðmundsson represent the LANGABÚÐ
eggs of 34 locally breeding birds. tel. 478-8220
TROUT FISHING is offered in two rivers, Búlandsá and Hamarsá. langabud@djupivogur.is
www.langabud.is
BIRDWATCHING is very popular on the Búlandsnes peninsula, close to Djúpivogur,
where the society behind www.birds.is provides information, trails and hides.
TEIGARHORN is a protected area, world-famous for zeolites.
REINDEER and SEALS are frequently seen in Djúpivogur community, so keep your
eyes peeled.
WATERFALLS that will surprise and delight you, even in series, can be viewed along
the Fossá river and Öxi road in the fjord Berufjörður, or near Bragðavellir farm in
Hamarsfjörður.
ROLLING SNOWBALL/7 in Djúpivogur’s former fishmeal plant in Gleðivík, exhibits DJÚPIVOGUR SWIMMING POOL
the works of contemporary international artists. Open from Jul. 2 to Aug. 21. Varða 4 - 765 Djúpivogur - tel. 470-8730
RESTAURANTS AND CAFÉS Enjoy snacks or fine meals, at Við Voginn, Hótel Framtíð,
Havarí and Langabúð.
COLLECTIONS AND HANDICRAFTS: Langabúð, Auðunn’s rock collection, the Nanna
museum, Gallery Bones Stick & Stones, JFS Icelandic handicrafts, Arfleifð design,
Bakkabúð and the Zeolite museum at Teigarhorn.
r
jo y Djúpavogshreppu The promise of operation in
Slow down and en the spirit of Cittaslow !
Búlandsnesið peninsula is an especially good spot for bird watching and is
H hótel framtíð also the source of numerous hiking trails. The bird-watching society birds.
is has erected a bird observation tower there and has also prepared infor-
Vogaland 4 - 765 Djúpivogur -  478-8887 - Fax 478-8187 mational materials about local birds as well as marked trails that are opti-
framtid@simnet.is - www.hotelframtid.com mal for bird-watching expeditions. These materials can be picked up at the
Information Services Center in Djúpivogur.
5 apartments
4 summerhouses Hálsaskógur forest is a forestation area belonging to the Djúpivogur Forest-
ry Society and is a great area for hiking. In the summer, the forest is deco-
rated with the artwork of children from the Bjarkartún playschool in Djúpiv-
ogur. Within the forest, there are also the ruins and remains of the old
Búlandsnes farm, as well as an outdoor art installation by Vilmundur Þor-
grímsson, sometimes known as Vilmundur í Hvarfi, or Vilmundur the Invisi-
ble. The installation is made of materials that were found in the woods.
Hótel Framtíð - Framtid Apartament and holiday home - Framtid Hostel - Campsite Framtid FACILITIES IN DJÚPIVOGUR AND BERUFJÖRÐUR
Police: Sætún, Markarland 2, tel. 444-0665/emergency 112.
88 30 27 18 Tourist Information Center: Sætún, Bakki 3, tel. 478-8204, open
daily in the summer, tel. 470-8740, info@djupivogur.is.
0,2 Accommodation:
• Hátún, Hammersminni Guesthouse, Hammersminni 4,
tel. 478-8895/894-2292/892-8895, haaleiti@simnet.is
739 Bragðavellir cottages • Hótel Framtíð, Vogaland 4, tel. 478-8887, framtid@simnet.is,
Bragðavellir - 765 Djúpivogur -  787-2121 www.simnet.is/framtid.
info@bragdavellir.is - www.bragdavellir.is • 735. Farfugla og gistiheimilið Berunesi, guesthouse,
tel. 478-8988, berunes@hostel.is.
• 737. Eyjólfsstaðir, Fossárdal, Berufjörður,
tel. 478-8971/847-9850.
• Klif Hostel, Kambur 1, tel. 478-8802/869-9422,
klifhostel@simnet.is, www.klifhostel.is.
• Adventura, Hamarsfjörður, tel. 843-9889/863-8380,
adventura@adventura.is, www.adventura.is.
• Seglskip, Hamarsfjörður, tel. 478-8860, vidvoginn@simnet.is.
10
• 739. Bragðavellir, Hamarsfjörður, tel. 787-2121, 8661735,
www.bragdavellir.is.
Camping Sites:
• Hótel Framtíð, tel. 478-8887.
5 cottages with a total of 14 prepared beds, • 735. Farfugla og gistiheimilið Berunesi, guesthouse,
plus a double sofa bed in the living room of tel. 478-8988, berunes@hostel.is.
each cottage. • Félagsbúið Lindarbrekka, accommodation and reindeer tours,
tel. 865-0870, beggav@gmail.com
• 737. Eyjólfsstaðir, Fossárdal, Berufjörður,
The Þvottá, or Cleansing River, was thusly named because it is said that the tel. 478-8971/847-9850. info@fossardalur.is.
first christenings in Iceland took place there. King Ólafur of Norway, who
was then King of Iceland as well, sent Þangbrandur the missionary to con- Restaurants:
vert Icelanders to the Christian faith at the end of the 10th century. Þang- • Hótel Framtíð, tel. 478-8887.
brandur landed at Álftafjörður and spent his first winter at the Síða-Hallur
• Langabúð, café, refreshments, tel. 478-8220.
• Við Voginn, tel. 478-8860.
farm there. By the year 1000, he had converted all of Iceland to Christianity.
• 735. Farfugla og gistiheimilið Berunesi, tel. 478-8988.
A monument was erected in 1999 to memorialize Icelanders’ conversion to
Groceries:
Christianity.
obtained Samkaup – Strax, Búlandi 1, tel. 478-8888.
Búlandstindur Mountain is 1,069 m tall. It is considered one of the most • Við Voginn, tel. 478-8860.
beautiful mountains in Iceland and is thought of as the regional mountain of Leisure/Sport:
the Djúpavogur municipality. There is a great view from its summit; in good • Sports Center/Swimming pool, Varða 4, open (summer) weekdays,
weather it’s possible to see Snæfell Mountain, Þrándarjökull glacier and far 7 – 20:30, and weekends, 10 – 18, tel. 478-8999.
out over the surrounding fjords. To the east of Búlandstindur stands a cliff • Papeyjarferðir, daily boat trips to the island of Papey,
that is about 700 m tall and is called Goðaborg, or Cliff of the Gods. It is said tel. 478-8119/862-4399/659-1469.
that people carried their pagan idols up this mountain right after the Chris- • Adventura, Hamarsfjörður, Icelandic fishing adventures, tel.
tian conversion so that they could hurl them over the side. However, other 843-9889/863-8380, adventura@adventura.is, www.adventura.is.
sources say that Goðaborg once had a lake atop it where the entrails of • Karlsstaðir, Berufjörður, various events/concerts, tel. 663-5520,
sacrificial animals were cleansed. www.havari.is.
182
At djúpivogur: utdoor sculptures “Eggin í Gleðivík”.
Health Care Centre/Pharmacy: Eyjaland 2, tel. 470-3090. • Hálsaskógur, woods with hiking routes decorated with artwork by
For Motorists: the youngest inhabitants of Djúpavogur.
• N1, gas station, Búland 1, tel. 478-8888. • Papeyjarferðir, sea fishing and daily excursions to Papey Island,
• N1 gas station, Víkurland 2, tel. 478-8889/849-6347 tel. 862-4399/478-8119/659-1469, papey@djupivogur.is.
• Smástál, car repair, tel. 891-9440 • Birds.is, Bird watching in the vicinity of Djúpivogur, www.birds.is,
fuglar@birds.is, birds@djupivogur.is.
Bank/Post office: Landsbankinn, Markarland 1, savings bank and • Gönguleiðakort, hiking trail map showing numerous diverse trails.
ATM, tel. 410-4000. Can be obtained from the information center in Djúpivogur or at
Alcohol Store: Búland 1, tel. 478-8720. other places around the village.
Local Handicrafts and Designs: Transportation:
• Bakkabúð, souvenir and gift store, tel. 478-2288. • Bílar og fólk, tel. 551-1166, scheduled coach service daily
• Arfleifð, Samkaup – Búland 1, designer clothes and accessories, between Höfn, and Egilsstaðir June 1 – Aug. 31, www.sterna.is.
tel. 863-4422. • Flugrúta, Fly-bus, tel. 478-8933/893-4605/844-6831,
• Bones, sticks & stones, Gallery, Víkurland 7, tel. 868-9058. Djúpivogur-Höfn-Djúpivogur, scheduled coach service.
• JFS Icelandic handicraft studio, Icelandic handicrafts, workshop,
tel. 478-8916/899-8331.
• Langabúð, culture house, collection of art from artist Ríkharður
Jónsson and the Eysteinn Jónsson Memorial Museum. Regional
Museum, open daily. tel. 478-8220, www.rikhardssafn.is.
• Nanna Guðmundsdóttir Memorial Museum, open by arrangement,
P O L I C E
Berufjörður, tel. 478-8977/478-8978/478-8977. F I R E
• Bones, sticks & stones, Gallery and Nature Exhibition, Víkurland 7,
tel. 868-9058. M E D I C A L
• Steinasafn Auðuns, mineral museum, tel. 861-0570. D O C T O R S
Places of Interest/Hikes: ONE ONE TWO
• Outdoor sculptures “Eggin í Gleðivík” by artist Sigurður R E S C U E S Q U A D
Guðmundsson, installation in Djúpivogur’s Gleðivík bay.
183
184
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool

the south
South Iceland extends from Hvalnesskriður in the east to Herdísarvík on Reykjanesskagi in the west. This region
contains the largest uninterrupted area of lowland in Iceland. Sands and lava characterize the eastern part of the
region, and the vegetation is sparse. West of Mt. Eyjafjall, the lowlands are more expansive, with grass and moor-
land areas. Foothills and highlands rise from the lowlands in the east, but west of Mt. Eyjafjall a sharp distinction
can be seen between the lowlands and the mountains. Volcanic palagonite, or tuff, is the main rock type, with
dolerite or grey basalt rock also found, and in some places there is rhyolite. South Iceland has numerous volca-
noes and geothermal activity. The main volcano of the region is Mt. Hekla, with the primary geothermal areas
found around Torfajökull glacier, in Haukadalur valley in Biskupstungur, in Hveragerði and in the Hengil region.
Thermal water is widely used to heat homes and water is piped from Nesjavellir to Reykjavik. There are more
power plants in South Iceland than in any other region.
The East-Skaftafell district is unlike any other region of the country. It Basalt is the main rock type in the East Skaftafell district, but west of the
covers the coastal strip in the southeastern corner of the country, with Breiðamerkur sands palagonite dominates. Rhyolite occurs in many
the whiteness of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, towering in places, along with many types of plutonic rock.
the background with its steep, carved mountainsides. From the main
glacier, the glacial arms reach down into the valleys to the sea, picking Next is the West Skaftafell District, stretching as far as the districts of
up sand, silt and glacial lava on their way. Throughout the region power- Rangarvallasýsla and Árnessýsla in the west. From the lowlands of this
ful, short rivers flow to the sea, such as Jökulsá í Lóni, Hornafjarðarfljót,
Jökulsá á Breiðamerkursand, and Skeiðará. For centuries, these rivers
created obstacles for travellers. However, in 1974 a bridge built over the
Skeiðará River finally closed the ring road around the country. This re-
Tourist Information
lieved the Öræfasveit region, in the foothills of the Öræfa glacier, from its in South Iceland
long isolation. Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest mountain, rises Höfn, Hafnarbraut 30, t. 478-1500
from the Öræfajökul glacier, which is an ice-covered volcano. Bæ- Skaftafell - Skaftafellsstofa, t. 470-8300
jarstaðaskógur, one of the most magnificent forests in the country, is Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Kirkjuhvol, t. 487-4620
Vík, Brydebúð, Víkurbraut 28, t. 487-1395
found here, and considerable areas of scrub forest cover the terrain of
Hvolsvöllur, Austurvegur 8, t. 487-8043
the Skaftafell district. Almost all the beaches are low and sandy. In the Þingvellir, Service Centre, t. 482-2660
east, Lónsvík, Skarðsfjörður and Hornafjörður are lagoon bays separated Selfoss, Tourist Information Centre, Eyrarvegur 3.
from the sea by low sand spit ribs. On both sides of Lónsvík Bay the t. 482 4241
Hveragerði –Tourist Information Centre
mountains of Eystrahorn and Vestrahorn descend into the sea. To the in Shopping Centre Sunnumörk T. 483-4601
west of this area, the flat coastal terrain extends all the way west to the Þorlákshöfn, Publ. Library Ölfus, t. 480-3830
high cliffs of Ingólfshöfði headland, home to an array of birds, including Vestmannaeyjar, Tourist Information at Eymundsson,
guillemots, razorbills, puffins and fulmars. Bárustígur 2, t. 488-2555
185
745 Brekka í Lóni HÖFN SWIMMING POOL
Brekka - 781 Hornafjordur Víkurbraut 9 - 780 Höfn í Hornafirði
G  849 3589 - olgaf@simnet.is  470-8477 - www.hornafjordur.is/stjornsysla
SUMMER Winter
Mon. - Fri. Mon. - Fri.
06:45 - 21:00 06:45 - 21:00
Sat. - Sun. Sat. - Sun.
8 4 10:00 - 19:00 10:00 - 17:00
county in the east rise low, but steep mountainsides, above which slop- lir, the ancient site of the nation’s parliament where Christianity was adopt-
ing moorland climbs up towards the Vatnajökull glacier. The Grænalón ed in 1000, and Skálholt, the seat of Icelandic bishops for eight centuries.
and Langisjór lakes are in the highlands. Among the rivers in the prov- In practical terms, it can be said that Skálholt was the functioning capital
ince is Kúðafljót, the third most powerful in the country, as well as the of Iceland from 1056 until the end of the 18th century.
Skaftá River. Towering over the inhabited areas stand the well-known
volcanoes Eldgjá, Lakagígar and Katla, the latter of which erupted in Agriculture is the most important economic activity for the rural inhabi-
1918. The Skaftáreldahraun lava flow is the result of the Lakagígar erup- tants in the south, however the towns and villages also depend on fish-
tion in 1783. It is one of the largest lava flows that has ever occurred in eries, processing agricultural products, trade and services. Major horti-
a single eruption and the volcanic ash was carried to mainland Europe. cultural centers that utilize thermal heating in greenhouses flourish in
The main towns in the county are Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Vík in Myrdal. the geothermal areas. The largest towns are Selfoss and Heimaey, one
In the vicinity of Vík is one of the largest nesting areas for arctic terns in of the Westman Islands and also Iceland’s largest island. There was a
the country. volcanic eruption on Heimaey in 1973 and all the inhabitants had to be
evacuated to the mainland during the eruption. The birdlife on the island
The Rangárvallasýsla coastline is low, sandy and devoid of harbors. The is unique, with the puffin being the most common bird. Stórhöfði is the
lowlands are fertile and grassy and strike a contrast with the scant, up- south headland of Heimaey Island, which is the southernmost inhabited
land vegetation, which has been severely eroded in places. From Gal- spot in the Iceland.
talæk, roads lead into the highland area where many rivers originate;
among them are the Markarfljót, Eystri and Ytri Rangá and Þjórsá rivers.
They create a landscape sprinkled with waterfalls, including the majestic
Skógarfoss. The historic site from Njál’s Saga is in the vicinity of
HORNAFJÖRÐUR
Hvolsvöllur, and nearby are the Fljótshlíð and Þórsmörk areas, renowned Höfn is located on the headland between the Hornafjörður and Skarðs-
for their beauty. fjörður fjords, and along with neighboring communities it forms the mu-
West of the Þjórsár River is the district of Árnessýsla. The terrain is al- nicipality of Hornafjörður. Settlement began late in the 19th century
most uninterrupted vegetated lowland along the coast, with the town of when Ottó Tuliníus (1869 – 1948) moved his store from Papaós to Höfn.
Þorlákshöfn being the only port. Inland there are incredible mountains The shop still stands and the building has been moved to its original lo-
separated by grassy valleys with scrub slopes. On the outskirts of the cation on the harbor, where it now houses the Vatnajökull National Park
region, to the west, are the mountainous areas of Bláfjöll and Hengill. Visitor and Information Center. Near the port there is a project to reno-
Bláfjöll (Blue Mountains) is the main ski area for the capital region, and vate the old townscape of Mikligarður, south of the old shop, which will
the Hengill area has many popular, marked hiking trails, amidst clouds of bring new life to the area. Mikligarður was home to fisheries and an
steam rising from the ground, that can be explored. The district has important part of the social and economic development of the port. It
many lakes, the largest being Lake Þingvallavatn. The main rivers are was also used for meetings of various kinds and was the lifeblood of the
Þjórsá and Hvítá. Once the Sog River, which flows from Lake Þingvallav- region.
atn, joins the Hvítá River, the combined rivers become the Ölfusá River; In addition to being a thriving fishing town, Höfn has always been a trade and
the most powerful in the country. Gullfoss, the best-known waterfall in service center for the East Skaftafell district. Within the town limits is Ósland,
Iceland, is located in a canyon on the river Hvítá. a protected park area. In January 1, 2016, the population was 1,736.
South Iceland possesses numerous natural wonders and many of the most
remarkable historical sites in the country. The main attractions are Þingvel- Police: Hafnarbraut 36, tel. 444-2050.
186
Horn a fj ö r ð u r
Experience the wonders of Vatnajökull
on the southeast coast year-round
Vatnajökull, the largest national park in Europe, welcomes

you. There are a variety of accommodations, delicious local
food and great activity options in spectacular nature.
The lobster town of Höfn Culture and museums

Great swimming pool Diverse birdlife
Golf course with unique Glacier adventures
views of glaciers Northern lights
Further information at
www.visitvatnajokull.is
höfn camping & cottages H HÖFN INN
Tjaldsvæði og smáhýsagisting á höfn Vesturbraut 3 - 780 Höfn
Hafnarbraut 52, 780 Höfn -  +354 478-1606  478-1544 - info@hofninn.is - www.hofninn.is
camping@simnet.is - www.campsite.is
28 12 12 0,4 0,7
0,5 0,5
G GUESTHOUSE Hvammur Restaurants/Snack Bars:

Ránarslóð 2 - 780 Hornafjörður-  478-1503 • Ósinn, Hótel Höfn, Víkurbraut 24, tel. 478-1240.
Fax 478-1591- hvammur3@simnet.is - www.hvammurinn.is • Humarhöfnin, Hafnarbraut 4, tel. 478-1200/846-1114,
info@humarhofnin.is, www.humarhofnin.is.
• Hafnarbúðin, Ránarslóð 2, tel. 478-1095.
• Restaurant Víkin, Víkurbraut 2, tel. 478-2300.
• Kaffi Hornið, Hafnarbraut 42, tel. 478-2600.
• Kaffi Nýhöfn, Hafnarbraut 2, tel. 478-1818.
• Pakkhúsið, Krosseyjarvegur 3, tel. 478-2280, www.pakkhus.is.
Leisure and Sport:
• Swimming pool, Víkurbraut 9, tel. 470-8477.
• Golf, Silfurnesvöllur, 9 holes, tel. 478-2197.
Health Center: Víkurbraut, tel. 470-8600.
Pharmacy: Lyfja, Miðbær, Litlubrú 1, tel. 478-1224.
Banks:
50 • Landsbankinn, Hafnarbraut 15, tel. 410-4172,
• ATM also in Landsbankinn, Miðbær shopping mall.
0,2 2
• Sparisjóður Hornafjarðar, Hafnarbraut 36, tel. 470-8700, ATM.
Post Office: Hafnarbraut 21, tel. 478-1100.
Tourist Information: Alcohol Store: Miðbær, Litlabrú 1, tel. 471-3267.
• Gamlabúð, The Old Store, Heppuvegur 1, tel. 470-8330, internet Local Handicrafts: Handraðinn, Vikurbraut 4, tel. 868-7028.
access.
• Vatnajökull National Park Visitors’ Center, Hafnarbraut 1,
• Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður, Vatnajökull National Park Visitor Center,
Internet access, tel. 470-8330, www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is.
exhibition on geology, glaciers, and bird life, with regular
Accommodation: screenings of films about Vatnajökull, such as its eruption in 1996,
• Hótel Höfn, Víkurbraut 24, tel. 478-1240. and internet access, Heppuvegur 1, tel. 470-8330, hofn@vjp.is,
• Gh Hvammur, Ránarslóð 2, tel. 478-1503, http://www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is.
hvammur3@simnet.is, www.hvammurinn.is. • Culture Center and Library, Nýheimar, Litlabrú 2, internet access,
• Guesthouse Dyngja, Hafnarbraut 1, tel. 690-0203/846-0161. tel. 470-8050.
• Youth Hostel, Höfn, Hvannabraut 3, tel. 478-1736. • Listasafn Hornafjarðar, Hafnarbraut 27, art gallery, tel. 470-8000,
• Náttból, chalets, Hafnarbraut 52, tel. 478-1607, hornafjardarsofn@hornafjordur.is, www.hornafjardarsofn.is.
camping@simnet.is, www.campsite.is. • Huldusteinn – Steinasafn, rock museum, Hafnarbraut 11,
• HöfnINN, Vesturbraut 3, tel. 478-1544, hofninn.is. tel. 478-2240, www.huldusteinn.is, huldusteinn@simnet.is.
• Brekka í Lóni, Brekka, tel. 849-3589.
Places of Interest in Höfn and Vicinity:
• Hótel Glacier, Nesjar, tel. 478-1400.
• Hiking trails around Höfn and surrounding neighborhood.
Camping Site: By Hafnarbraut 52, tel. 478-1606, • Ósland, nature reserve, diverse birdlife and popular hiking trails.
camping@simnet.is, www.campsite.is. • Walking with views of glaciers and the coastline of Höfn.
188
Sightseeing and Excursions:
• Glacier Jeeps, snowmobile and snow-scooter tours to Vatnajökull
glacier, tel. 478-1000/894-3133,
glacierjeeps@simnet.is, www.glacierjeeps.is.
• Ice guides, glacier and nature hikes, tel. 661-0900,
info@iceguide.is, www.iceguide.is.
• Vatnajökull Travel, daily trips Höfn, Jökulsárlón, Vatnajökull, June 1
– Aug. 31, tel. 894-1616.
Transportation:
• Flugfélagið Ernir, daily scheduled air service to Reykjavík in
summer, 5 days a week in winter, tel. 562-4200, www.eagleair.is.
• Strætó bs, daily scheduled bus service between Höfn and
Reykjavík year-round, tel. 540-2700, www.straeto.is/sudurland
• Sterna, daily scheduled bus service between Höfn and Egilsstaðir,
June 1 – Aug. 31, tel. 551-1166, www.sterna.is, www.bogf.is.
Events:
• March 11 – 13: Höfn Blues and Rock Festival.
• June 24 – 26: Lobster Festival in Höfn.
• Weekends in Oct.: Musicals from the Hornafjörður Skemmtifélag.
IN THE KINGDOM
OF VATNAJÖKULL
Lón (Lónssveit) is the easternmost area of Austur-Skaftafellssýsla and
south Iceland. It is hailed for its great natural beauty. Mountains reach
the sea on both sides; Mt. Eystrahorn, Mt. Vestrahorn and Lónsvík lie
between them. Long sandy rifts enclose the inlet, which is where you will
find Papafjörður and Lónsfjörður. The eastern part of Lónsfjörður is
called Lón. The waterway connections between Papafjörður and Lóns-
fjörður crisscross through Papós. Just south, there was a merchant vil-
lage in 1863, but just before 1900 the shop moved to Höfn. Above the a tunnel has been constructed there. There were almost 300 inhabitants
lagoons are far-reaching lowlands, consisting mostly of silt and mud in Lón at the end of the 19th century, but now there are fewer than 50.
brought by glacial river Jökulsá á Lóni. The river divides the district into Granite is the main rock type, but in many places you can see liparite,
Suður-Lón and Austur-Lón. Grassy valleys hide between barren and rug- gabbro and other rare rock types that give the mountains a mysterious
ged mountains. From Lón you travel to Hornafjörður through Almannas- look, making the area a true paradise for tourists. The colorful mountains
karð. It features one of the most beautiful views in the country, but now in the innermost part of Lón are the product of volcanic eruptions that
189
745 Stafafell hostel & cottages 751 HÓtel Jökull
Stafafell, Lón - 781 Höfn -  478-1717 Nesjum - 781 Hornafjörður -  478 1400 - Fax 78 1401
G info@stafafell.is - www.stafafell.is H info@hoteljokull.is - www.hoteljokull.is
12
30 3 * 115 41 41
*Open:
Mai-Oct.
7 2 7
750 this point. There is a moderately accessible walking path leading up to
Dilksnes Guesthouse the site.
Borgarhöfn in Suðursveit. Just east of Borgarhöfn is Hálsaós estuary,

where Hestgerðislón drains into the sea. Hálsar, the low cliffs at the es-
tuary, were once an important fishing center; people are said to have
walked across the glacier from northern Iceland to work there. Fishing
largely stopped in the area in 1575 when almost 100 men from 17
boats drowned in a single day.
Guesthouse (apartment), 781 Hornafjörður.
Tel. 849-1920 and 478-1920 Hali in Suðursveit is the birthplace of author Þórbergur Þórðarson (1889
dilksnes@simnet.is · www.dilksnes.com – 1974). Þórbergssetur is a learning center featuring exhibitions devoted
to the history of his life and work. It is open year-round 9 – 18. Þórbergs-
There is also a greenery at Dilksnes.
setur offers diverse culture, a museum, souvenir shop and restaurant.
Jökulsá on Breiðamerkursandur is a short glacial river, only 1500 m

long, but very powerful. It drains from the Glacier Lagoon (100 m deep),
occurred approximately 9 million years ago. There is a road from Sta-
where icebergs calve from Breiðamerkurjökull, part of the Vatnajökull
fafell, along the eastern part of the Jökulsá River, up to the camping
glacial cap. Jökulsá was a major obstacle to travel in the area and many
grounds at Smidjunes. The landscape is beautiful, featuring colorful
people on foot opted to skirt the side of the glacier instead. A bridge was
rocks and trees. There are many summerhouses along this road. A pop-
built in 1966 – 1967, but it is in danger of being eroded by ocean waves.
ular hiking trail begins at Smidjunes and leads up to Lónsöræfi, where a
Due to climate changes and warmer temperatures, this area has gone
walking bridge was constructed over Jökulsá in 2002 at Eskifell. A jeep
through many changes since the 1920’s; a lagoon, known as
trail runs from the highway up the muddy sands south of Jökulsá and
Jökulsárlón, began to form between the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and
into Lónsöræfi.
a glacial ridge by the ocean. The lagoon is very deep and the greater part
Lónsöræfi is an extensive uninhabited area stretching inland east of Vat- of it was formed after 1950. Large icebergs have broken off the glacier
najökull glacier, with dramatic mountains gouged out by gullies and and they float on the lagoon, creating an impressive site. Jökulsárlón has
chasms. Vegetation is fertile and the landscape is richly colored, with become a popular tourist spot and has been used as a location for Hol-
rhyolite and minerals found in many places. Reindeer frequently enter lywood films, including James Bond.
Lónsöræfi from their habitat in the interior. This is an interesting place to
Ingólfshöfði is a headland (76 m) directly south of Öræfajökull glacier. It
hike and Travellers’ Societies from the East Skaftafell district along with
is easily accessible from the northwest, but blocked by sheer mountains
Fljótdalshéraði district have built a travelers’ hut on the route from Kol-
elsewhere. The headland is named after Ingólfur Arnarson, the first set-
lumúli to Snæfell. This is a protected area since 1977.
tler of Iceland, who came ashore and spent his first winter there before
Vestrahorn is a mountain (454 m) between Skarðsfjörður and Pa- moving along the coast to live in what is now Reykjavík. There is a me-
pafjörður, and one of the few plutonic gabbro formations in Iceland. The morial to Ingólfur on the headland and it was constructed in 1974. A
mountain can be approached from the sea, however this is a dangerous teeming bird colony, featuring puffins, is found on and around Ingólf-
pathway and not accessible. West of Mt. Vestrahorn, the cape of Stokk- shöfði, and there is a beautiful panoramic view along the shore. You can
snes juts out into the sea. A NATO defense station once operated from visit it from Fagurshólsmýri on a tractor with a hay wagon.
190
Öræfajökull is the location of Iceland’s highest mountain, Hvannadalsh- tioned in Njál’s Saga, where a character named Þorgeir lived near
núkur (2119 m), which rises 300 m above the glacier, on the southern Svínafell. Due to large amounts of mud and silt deposited by the glacial
side of Vatnajökull. It is a rhyolite formation and the first recorded ascent floodwater from the Skeiðará River, the farm had to be moved to higher
was in 1813 by a Norwegian surveyor and Jón Árnason from Fagurhóls- ground on the Skaftafell moorlands. Skaftafell sits on a strip of land
mýri. Öræfajökull is a central volcano with a caldera 12 km2 in area, flanked by two glacial tongues: Morsárjökull glacier to the west and
from which the glacier creeps down to the lowlands. The volcano is ac- Skaftafellsjökull glacier to the east. Skaftafell has panoramic views, and
tive and has erupted twice in recorded history: in 1362 and 1727. A to the west of Mórsárdalur valley lies Bæjarstaðaskógur, one of the larg-
number of tourist service companies organize walks to Öræfajökull gla- est birch forests in Iceland. Some 210 higher plant species have been
cier and other nearby areas. identified in Skaftafell, which is renowned for its frequent good weather.
There are excellent facilities for travellers and this is one of the Iceland’s
Öræfi district extends across the black glacial outwash sands of most popular outdoor spots.
Breiðamerkursandur to the Skeiðará River, and deep into the glacial in-
terior. Its flourishing farming community was destroyed by a catastroph- Skeiðará is a vast glacial river that originates from beneath Skeiðarár-
ic eruption beneath Öræfajökull glacier in 1362. At least 24 farms were jökull glacier. The river was a major obstacle in centuries past, and it was
abandoned after the eruption and the resulting flood. The landscape in not bridged until in 1974 and the Ring Road around Iceland opened.
Öræfi is majestic and vegetation is richer and more diverse than in most Tremendous surges come in the river every few years, carrying large
parts of the country. With no harbors, Vatnajökull glacier behind it and icebergs out onto the sands. The last major glacial surge was in Novem-
roaring glacial rivers on either side, the district was relatively isolated ber 1996, reaching its height at a volume of about 45,000 m3/sec. The
until the rivers were bridged in 1967 and 1974, thereby completing the surge destroyed the ring road and took out a bridge over the Gígjukvísl
Ring Road around Iceland. River, in the western part of the sands. Since then, smaller surges have
come in the river, but none have caused substantial damage.
Vatnajökull National Park in Skaftafell is the former site of major farms
and an ancient assembly site in Öræfi district. The place is first men- Walking paths in Skaftafell. There are no roads in the Skaftafell area,
Glacier Jeeps – Ice & Adventure

Glacier jeeps Ice & Adventure offer adventure tours with
specially equipped 4WD Superjeeps and Skidoos, or glacier
hiking tours on the great Vatnajökull Europe’s largest
glacier.
Tours are available all year around

May - Oct. daily 9.30 AM and at 14.00 PM
Departure from: F985 (GPS: N 64° 1344,7 – W 0,15°
4159,3)
Oct. - May please call for depart time
Departure from Vagnsstaðir Hostel
(GPS: N64°1609,0 – W 0,15° 4858,6)
Minimum: 2 persons
Duration: 3 hours, one hour on skidoo
snowmobile.
191
763 hali country hotel Þórbergssetur
Suðursveit - 781 Hornafjörður -  478-1073 / 867-2900 - Hali Suðursveit
G hali@hali.is - www.hali.is
Museum – Exhibition – Restaurant

Cultural Heritage Museum
Restaurant with local food
Open all year around 8:00 - 21:00
Tel. 478-1078/867-2900 - hali@hali.is
23 rooms w/ private bath.

6 rooms share a bath. except to the farm; marked paths lead from the car park by the camp-
70
Two luxury apartments. site. Visitors are free to explore the park as they please, however they are
Restaurant at expected to follow marked paths when possible. Paved walking path
Þórbergssetur. leads up to Skaftafellsjökull glacier, allowing for easy access for disabled
people. Park wardens provide interesting guided tours that are adver-
tised in the visitor’s center, Skaftafellsstofa. The center also houses an
760 Hrollaugsstaðir interesting exhibition about the nature and life in the area. Some exam-
Gerði - 781 Höfn -  846-0641 / 478-1905 ples of hikes: the gully route to Svartifoss waterfall, which takes 2 hours;
G Fax 478-1905 - bjornborg@centrum.is to Sjónarsker rock; and to the rim of Skaftafellsjökull glacier. Worthwhile
destinations for on longer hikes (4-8 hours) include Kristínartindar, the
C source of Skeiðará River, or the Bæjarstaðarskógur forest.
IN THE KINGDOM OF VATNAJÖKULL - FACILITIES

Tourist Information: Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Center,
Vatnajökull National Park in Skaftafell, tel. 470-8300,
open year-round, skaftafell@vjp.is, www.vjp.is.
Accommodation:
• 745. Youth Hostel, Stafafell, Lón, tel. 478-1717.
• 750. Hafnarsnes, tel. 423-7515/844-6175.
• 750. Dilksnes, tel. 849-1920/478-1920, dilksnes@simnet.is.
• 750. Árnanes, Nesjar, tel. 478-1550.
• 751. Hótel Jökull, Nesjar, tel. 478-1400.
60 60 • 752. Fosshótel Vatnajökull, Nesjar, tel. 478-2555/562-4000,
bokun@fosshotel.is, www.fosshotel.is.
• 753. Hoffell, Nesjar tel. 478-1514/898-5614,
760 gerði hoffell@hoffell.com, www.hoffell.com.
Suðursveit 781 Höfn, Hornafjörður • 755. Brunnhóll, Mýrar tel. 478-1029.
 846-0641 - 478-1905 - bjornborg@centrum.is • 755. Lambhús, smáhýsi, tel. 662-1029, info@lambhus.is.
• 755. Hólmur Travel Service, Mýrar, tel. 478-2063/861-5959,
holmur@eldhorn.is, www.eldhorn.is/mg/gisting.
• 756. Skálafell, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1041.
• 756. Smyrlabjörg, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1074.
• 756. Kálfafellsstaður, Suðursveit, tel. 478-8881/898/2427.
• 757. Youth Hostel Vagnsstaðir, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1567/1048.
• 759. Fallastakkur, Lækjarhús, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1517,
13 km east of • www.fallastakkur.is. http://glacierjourney.is/.
Jökulsárlón • 760. Hrolllaugsstaðir/Gerði, Suðursveit,
tel. 478-1905/846-0641, bjornborg@centrum.is.
• 761. Brunnavellir, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1055/1056.
• 763. Guesthouse Hali, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1073/867-2900,
hali@hali.is, www.hali.is.
• 770. Litla-Hof, Öræfi, tel. 478-1670.
72 36
• 771. Hof, Frost og funi, Öræfi, tel. 478-2260.
• 771. Vesturhús, Hof, Öræfi, sleeping bag accommodation,
tel. 857-2235, vesturhus@vortex.is.
192
Glacier Lagoon
J ö k u l s á r l ó n
A cruise between floating icebergs Amphibian Boat tours and
A unique adventure and great opportunity Zodiac Boat tours
For spectacular photographing Boat tours available from
Café open all year round May till November
www.jokulsarlon.is
Tel: +354 478 2222
G Kálfafellsstaður • Stafafellsfjöll Mountains, Lónsöræfi, the area around Horn,
Mt. Ketillaugarfjall.
Kálfafellsstaður - 781 Hornafjörður -  478-8881, 898- • Hoffellsjökull glacier, Nesjar and nearby pearls of nature.
2427 - info@kalfafellsstadur.is - www.kalfafellsstadur.is
• Haukafell in Mýrar, a shrub-covered mountain near a glacier.
• Heinaberg, the area around Skálafell.
• Staðarfjall í Suðursveit, once home to distinguished author
Þórbergur Þórðarson (1889 – 1974).
• Marked walking trails from reforestation area beneath the
mountain to Klukkugil.
• Fláajökull, marked hiking trails.
• Fjallsárlón Lagoon, the area around Kvíármýrarkambar.
Sightseeing and Excursions:
• Hoffell Travel Service, Nesjum, ATV and jeep tours in the vicinity of
Hoffellsjökull glacier, tel. 478-1514/898-5614, www.hoffell.com.
• Hólmur Travel Service, Mýrar, coastal trips, reindeer watching in
winter, tel. 478-2063/861-5959, www.eldhorn.is/mg/gisting.
• Glacier Jeeps, snowmobile and snowscooter tours to Vatnajökull,
tel. 478-1000/894-3133, glacierjeeps@simnet.is,
16 www.glacierjeeps.is.
• Vatnajökull Travel. daily trips Höfn, Jökulsárlón, Vatnajökull, June 1
– Aug. 31, tel. 894-1616.
• 775. Hotel Skaftafell, Öræfi, tel. 478-1945, • Cruises on Jökulsárlón, Breiðamerkursandur, open daily March
info@hotelskaftafell.is, www.hotelskaftafell.is. – Nov., tel. 478-2222/851-1822,
• 776. Bölti, Öræfi, tel. 478-1626. jokulsarlon@jokulsarlon.is, www.jokulsarlon.is.
• 745. Brekka í Lóni, Brekku, s. 849-3589 • Ice Guide, guided glacier and mountain hikes, tel. 661-0900,
• Hótel Glacier, Nesjum, s. 478-1400 www.iceguide.is, info@iceguide.is.
• Ice Walk, guided glacier walks, tel. 866-3490, www.icewalk.is,
Camping Sites:
info@icewalk.is.
• 745. Stafafell in Lón, tel. 478-1717.
• Glacieradventure, guided glacier and mountain hikes,
• 754. Haukafell, Mýrar.
tel. 699-1003, www.glacieradventure.is, info@glacieradventure.is.
• 755. Lambhús, tel. 662-1029.
• Guided hikes from Visitors Center, Skaftafell, tel. 478-1627.
• 760. Hrolllaugsstaðir/Gerði, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1905.
• Icelandic Mountainguides, guided glacier hikes, June – Oct.,
• 772. Svínafell, Öræfi, tel. 478-1765.
tel. 894-2959, mountainguide@mountainguide.is,
• 776. Skaftafell National Park, Öræfi, tel. 470-8300.
www.mountainguide.is.
Restaurants: • Glacierguides í Skaftafelli, glacier hikes with guides,
• Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður, Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell, Öræfi, tel. 659-7000, info@glacierguides.is, www.glacierguides.is.
restaurant and cafeteria, tel. 470-8308. • Local Guide, trips to Ingólfs headland, all days except Sundays,
• Hótel Jökull, Nesjaskóli, Nesjar, tel. 478-1400. June – Aug. Hiking tours on Vatnajökull, and glacier trips in winter.
• Fosshótel Vatnajökull, Nesjar, tel. 478-2555, tel. 894-0894, info@localguide.is, www.localguide.is.
bokun@fosshotel.is, www.fosshotel.is. • Kynninsferðir, trips from Skaftafell to Jökulsárlón twice daily (June
• Hólmur á Mýrum, tel. 478-1037/861-5959. 15 – Sept. 9), tel. 580-5400.
• Smyrlabjörg, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1074. Daily tours (July 1 – Aug. 31) from Skaftafell to Lakagígar.
• Hrolllaugsstaðir/Gerði, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1905. Daily tours (June 15 – Sept. 9) to Eldgjá and Landmannalaugar.
• Þórbergssetur, Hali, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1078/867-2900.
• Jöklasel, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1000. Events:
• Jökulsárlón, Suðursveit, restaurant, tel. 478-2122. • Aug. 16 at 23:00: Firework display at Jökulsárlón.
• Hotel Skaftafell, Öræfi, tel. 478-1945. • Travel arranged from Höfn.
• Söluskáli Freysnesi, tel. 478-2242.
Leisure and Sport:
• 750. Árnarnes, Nesjar, horse rental, tel. 478-1550.
• 754. Hólmur á Mýrum, farm zoo, tel. 478-2063/861-5959.
SKAFTÁRHREPPUR
For Motorists: Filling station, Freysnes, Öræfi, tel. 478-2242. Fjaðrárgljúfur is a magnificent site 10 km west of Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Museum/Exhibition: and is believed to have formed during the last glacial period, about 9
• Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður, Visitor Center for the Vatnajökull National thousand years ago. The land feathers out from the heath in the wide,
Park at Skaftafell, tel. 470-8300, open year round. Includes beautiful tuff ravine that is well worth visiting. The entrance to the can-
exhibitions on local nature, history, and culture, as well as yon is after Lakavegi/Holtsvegi, and then continues up to the tuff forma-
screenings of films about the Vatnjökull glacier. www.vjp.is. tions and natural sculptures. It is also possible to walk up the canyon
• Þórbergssetur, Hali, Suðursveit, tel. 478-1078/867-2900. itself, but you should expect to wade through water. Fjaðrárgljúfur is a
The wondrous world of author Þórbergur Þórðarson. protected area.
Open year-round, 9 – 20 everyday, www.thorbergssetur.is,
www.thorbergur.is. Dverghamrar (Dwarf Cliffs) are peculiar twin columnar basalt cliffs form-
194
VISITKL AUSTUR .IS
Center of the South Skaftárhreppur
MEET US ALL YEAR ROUND
www.visitklaustur.is
Eldhraun Guesthouse www.eldhraunguesthouse.is Tel: +354 659 6800

Hótel Geirland www.geirland.is Tel: +354 487 4677
Hótel Laki www.hotellaki.is Tel: +354 412 4600
Hunkubakkar Guesthouse www.hunkubakkar.is Tel: +354 487 4681
Hvoll Guesthouse www.road201.is Tel: +354 487 4785
Icelandair Hótel Klaustur www.icelandairhotels.is Tel: +354 487 4900
Nonna og Brynjuhús, Þykkvabæjarklaustur www.kiddasiggi.is Tel: +354 487 1446
Vatnajökull National Park – Visitor Centre www.vjp.is Tel: +354 487 4620
• 803. Hotel Geirland, tel. 487-4677,
804 hótel laki geirland@centrum.is, www.geirland.is.
• 804. Hótel Laki, Efri-Vík, tel. 412-4600,
Efri-Vík - 880 Kirkjubæjarklaustur -  412-4600
H Fax 412-4601 - hotellaki@hotellaki.is - www.hotellaki.is
hotellaki@hotellaki.is, www.hotellaki.is.
• 807. Hunkubakkar Travel Service, tel. 487-4681/865-2652,
hunku@simnet.is, www.hunkubakkar.is.
• 808. Eldhraun Guesthouse, Meðalland, tel. 659-6800,
info@eldhraun.is.
• 811. Hólaskjól Highland Center, at Fjallabaksleið North,
tel. 855-5812/855-5813, holaskjol@holaskjol.com.
• 814. Glacier View Guesthouse, Hrífunes, tel. 770-0123.
• Hrífunes Guesthouse, tel. 864-5540,www.hrifunesguesthouse.is.
• Klausturhof, tel. 567-7600, 863-7601,
klausturhof@klausturhof.is, www.klausturhof.is.
• 816. Nonna and Brynjuhús, Þykkvabæjarklaustur,
tel. 487-1446/849-7917, kiddasiggi@simnet.is.
• 805. Dalshöfði, tel. 487-4781/861-4781, dalshofdi@gmail.com.
Camping Site:
• Kirkjubær II, tel. 894-4495.
• 802. Travel Service Hörgsland 1, tel. 487-6655.
• 806. Kleifar, near Kirkjubæjarklaustur, tel. 487-4675/863-7546.
• 814. Hrífunes, tel. 770-0123.
• Hólaskjól Highland Center, at Fjallabaksleið North,
ing a horseshoe shape in Austur-Síða, just east of the farm Foss and tel. 855-5812/855-5813, holaskjol@holaskjol.com.
down from the Ring Road. The Dverghamrar landscape was formed by
wave action when the sea level was higher at the end of the Ice Age. The Restaurants/Snack Bars:
cliffs are a protected area. • Icelandair Hotel Klaustur, tel. 487-4900.
• Systrakaffi, Klausturvegur 13, tel. 487-4848,
Kirkjugólf, or Church Floor, is a rock formation near Kirkjubæjarklaustur. systrakaffi@systrakaffi.is, www.systrakaffi.is.
Geologists believe that this is the top of a columnar basalt cluster ex- • Skaftárskáli, tel. 487-4628, systrakaffi@systrakaffi.is.
posed by the sea’s erosion, giving the appearance of a tiled floor. This is • Kaffi Munkar, tel. 567-7600, www.klausturhof.is.
a protected natural site since 1987. • Hótel Geirland, tel. 487-4677, www.geirland.is.
• Hótel Laki, Efri-Vík, tel. 412-4600, www.hotellaki.is.
• Fosshótel Núpar, tel. 517-3060.
KIRKJUBÆJARKLAUSTUR Leisure and Sport:

• Swimming pool and Sport Center, tel. 497-4856.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur is a village in the Síða district, with a hotel and the • Information on fishing, sightseeing, and hiking maps featuring the
shopping center serving the region. According to the Book of Settle- Skaftár district at the Tourist Information Center, tel. 487-4620.
• Sheep dog show, Jón Geir Ólafsson, Gröf, tel. 865-5427.
ments, Irish monks were the first settlers and there was a convent at the
• Kind Adventure, mountain hikes and tours of Kirkjubæjarklaustur
site from 1186 until the Reformation. Various folk tales are associated
and the vicinity, tel. 692-6131/847-1604.
with the convent, such as the one about Systrastapi (Sisters Rock), locat-
ed near the west hayfield at Kirkjubær. There was a church at Kirkjubæ- Health Center: Skriðuvellir 13, tel. 432-2880/432-2888.
jarklaustur until 1859, and the local cemetery contains the grave of Jón For Motorists:
Steingrímsson (1728 – 1791), the local vicar at the time when the Skaf- • Filling station, tel. 487-4628.
tá eruption occurred. On July 20, 1783 he delivered his famous sermon • Garage and tire repair, tel. 487-4630.
that is believed to have convinced God to stop the flow of lava before it
Banks: Arion Bank, Klausturvegur 13, tel. 488-4070, ATM.
reached Systrastapi. In 1974 a new chapel was consecrated in his
memory. Kirkjubæjarstofa is a new cultural and research center. On Jan- Post Office: Mail truck, tel. 580-1200.
uary 1, 2016, the population was 136. Food store: Kjarval, Klausturvegur 13, tel. 487-4616.
Local Handicrafts:
Police: Iðjuvellir 7b, tel. 444-2040. • Klausturhólar at Klausturvegur, tel. 487-4767/867-2915.
Local Tourist Information: Skaftárstofa, Vatnajökull National Park • Sveitabragginn, Community Center basement,
Visitor Center, tel. 487-4620, klaustur@vjp.is, www.visitklaustur.is, tel. 893-2115, sveitabraggin@gmail.com.
www.vpj.is. Museums/Exhibition:
Accommodation: • Skaftárstofa, Community center in Kirkjuhvoli, www.visitklaustur.is.
• Icelandair Hotel Klaustur, tel. 444-4000/487-4900, • Vatnajokull National Park, exhibition in Skaftárstofa, Vatnajökull
klaustur@icehotels.is, www.icelandairhotels.is. Visitor Center, tel. 487-4620, www.vjp.is, klaustur@vjp.is.
• 800. Hvoll guesthouse, tel. 487-4785/861-5553, • Exhibition in Skaftárstofa: Katla Geopark, www.katlageopark.is.
hvoll@road201.is, www.road201.is. • Baptism of fire, documentary about the Skaftár eruption, in
• 801. Foss Hotel Núpar, tel. 517-3060. Skaftárstofa. www.eldmessa.is.
• 802. Hörgsland I Travel Service, tel. 487-6655. • Kirkjubæjarstofa, exhibition in the Skaftárstofa, www.kbkl.is.
196
• Kynnisferðir, daily trips to Lakagígar, Eldgjá, and Landmannalaugar, 820
June 20 – Sept. 7, tel. 580-5400. HÓTEL KATLA
• Hólasport, Efri-Vík, jeep and ATV tours,
tel. 660-1151, holasport@holasport.is, www.holasport.is. H Höfðabrekka - 871 Vík í Mýrdal
 487-1208 - info@hotelkatla.is
• Icelandic Mountainguides, tel. 587-9999, www.hotelkatla.is
mountainguides@mountainguides.is, www.mountainguides.is.
• Útivist, hiking trips, tel. 562-1000, www.utivist.is.
Transport:
• Sterna, tel. 551-1166, daily scheduled coach service to Reykjavík
and Höfn, www.sterna.is.
• Strætó, daily trips, www.straeto.is
• Kynnisferðir, tel. 580-5400, daily trips from June 1 - Sept. 7,
www.re.is.
Events:
• March 23 – 28: Easter program: The Victory of Life.
• June 24 – 26: Chamber music festival, www.kammertonleikar.is.
• Oct./Nov.: Harvest festival.
VÍK Í MÝRDAL
Vík has been a trading post since 1887. The natural surroundings in Vík
are quite beautiful and the climate is relatively mild. The birdlife is di-
verse and there are good conditions for bird watching. The area is per-
fect for exploration and there are many lovely walking and hiking paths
in Vík and the surrounding areas. On January 1, 2016 the population
was 318.
Hjörleifshöfði (Tuff island) (221 m) is to the southwest of Mýrdalssandur.

144 72
This was a coastal headland until the 14th century, when the shore be-
gan to advance as deposits piled up after glacial floods from Mt. Katla.
Hjörleifshöfði (Hjörleifur’s Headland) is named after first settler Ingólfur
Arnarson’s foster-brother, who was killed by his slaves during their first
year in Iceland. The island is the product of a submarine eruption during
an Ice Age interglacial and was inhabited up until the 20th century. The Katla UNESCO Global Geopark lies along the south coast of Iceland
and contains numerous natural wonders, such as the Seljalandsfoss and
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is 595 km2 in area and 1493 m tall. Its glacial Skógarfoss waterfalls, Dýrhólaey and Reynisfjara, the Eldhraun lava field,
tongues creep down to the lowlands, the most prominent being Sólhei- and the Landbrótshólar pseudo-craters. It is one of the most volcanical-
majökull, which is close to the Ring Road. Katla, an active central volca- ly active areas of the country and boasts internationally important geo-
no with a caldera up to 10 km in diameter, is found under the southeast- logical artefacts that together tell the story of volcanic activity, and con-
ern side of the glacier is. On average, Katla has erupted at intervals of tinental drift and dispersion as connected to the hotspot under Iceland.
40 – 80 years, melting the glacial cap and causing catastrophic floods Some of the most prominent of these volcanic artefacts include the El-
that sweep glacial debris across the entire sands. 16 Katla eruptions dgjá and Lakagígar volcanic fissures, and the Katla, Eyjafjallajökull, and
have been recorded in historical times, but there have probably been 20 Grímsvötn volcanoes. From the beginning, the landscape and residential
in all. Katla’s last eruption was in 1918, but it did not cause significant settlements of the area have developed in tandem with the area’s volca-
damage. nic activity and glacial rivers, and continue to do so.
Dyrhólaey is a sheer promontory (120 m) west of Reynishverfi that rises Katla Geopark is built on the cooperation of locals and scholarly institu-
towards the sea and is the southernmost point of the mainland, as well tions and its goal is to protect nature, as well as geological and cultural
as home to rich birdlife. A narrow point called Tóin juts out into the sea, artefacts as they are sustainably utilized for the purposes of informative
with an opening that is large enough to be passable by boats. It is be- nature tourism and initiatives which advance the region. Geological-
lieved that Dyrhólaey formed during a later interglacial period as a result ly-based tourism, or Geotourism, is already strong at the park, which
of a submarine eruption, similar to the one that created Surtsey. Dýrhó- emphasizes education related to geological artefacts, man’s interaction
laey has been a protected area since 1978. with nature, and outdoor activities. Regional products and locally-pro-
Reynisfjara is in Reynishverfi, west of Mt. Reynisfjall, and is undoubtedly duced foods are also highlighted within the park. Katla Geopark is a
one of the most majestic beaches in Iceland. It is also home to a beauti- member of the European collaborative network of UNESCO geoparks.
ful columnar basalt cave. It’s important to use caution when visiting this
area, particularly at high tide.
197
• Halldórskaffi, Víkurbraut 28, tel. 487-1202.
823 Guesthouse reynir • Víkurskáli, restaurant Ströndin, Austurvegur, tel. 487-1230.
Reynir - 871 Vík í Mýrdal • Restaurant Suður-Vík, Suðurvíkurvegur 1, tel. 487-1515.
G  894-9788 - gistiheimilidreynir@gmail.com • Berg Restaurant, Klettsvegur, tel. 487-1480.
Fishmonger: Lindarfiskur ehf, Sunnubraut 18, tel. 663-4528, open
Tuesdays from 16-18.
Leisure and Sport:
• Golf, tel. 862-5111.
• Sport Center/swimming pool, Mánabraut 3, tel. 487-1174.
• Katratrack, Jeep tours, at Víkurskáli, tel. 849-4404.
• Katla Center (Brydebúð), Víkurbraut 28, tel. 487-1395,
exhibitions, handicrafts, information center, info about horse rental
and fishing permits etc.
• Gallery Leirbrot and Gler, Bakkabraut 6, tel. 849-1224.
• True Adventure, Vík, paragliding, tel. 698-8890,
trueadventure@trueadventure.is, www.trueadventure.is.
10 8 Health Care Center/Pharmacy: Hátún 2, tel. 480-5340, after hours
tel. 480-5344.
8 For Motorists:
• Filling station, garage and tire repair.
• Framrás, Smiðjuvegur 17, garage and tire repair, towing service,
tel. 487-1330.
VÍK FACILITIES
• Víkurskáli, Austurvegur, petrol station, tel. 487-1230.
Police: Ránarbraut 1, tel. 444-2030. • Orkan, Smiðjuvegur 11, petrol station.
Tourist Information: Kötlusetur, Brydebúð, Víkurbraut 28, Bank: Arion banki, Ránarbraut 1, tel. 488-4050.
tel. 487-1395, info@vik.is.
District Commissioners Office:
Accommodation: • Ránarbraut 1, tel. 488-4300.
• Icelandair Hotel Vík, Klettsvegur, tel. 487-1480/444-4840. • Postbox at Kjarval, stamps sold in Kjarval.
• Puffin hotel, Puffin Guesthouse, Puffin apartments, Vík, Víkurbraut
Alcohol Store: Ránarbraut 1, tel. 486-8660.
26, tel. 467-1212, nausthamar@gmail.com.
• Gh. Ársalir, Austurvegur 7, tel. 487-1400. Local Handicrafts:
• Hostel Norður-Vík, Suðurvegur 5, tel. 487-1106/867-2389. • Icewear - Víkurprjón, Austurvegur 20, tel. 487-1250.
vik@hostel.is www.hostel.is. • Gallerý Leirbrot and Gler, Bakkabraut 6, tel. 849-1224.
• B&B, home guesthouse Erika, Sigtún 5, • Kötlusetur, Mýrdælingur, cultural center and shop, tel. 487-1395.
tel. 487-1117/693-5891, www.erika.is. Museum/Exhibition:
• Einarsstaðir Homestay, tel. 849-4938, Pet friendly accommodation. • Katla Geopark center, Vík Cultural Center, Brydebúð, tel. 487-1395.
• Like Vík, Suðurvíkurvegi 8a, tel. 898-8274. • Exhibition: Life and Nature in Mýrdal.
• Kózý Vík, Hátún 6, tel. 567-9845/821-3549, www.kosyvik.is. • Gallery Leirbrot and Gler, Bakkabraut 6, tel. 849-1224,
• Guesthouse Vík, Hátún 8, tel. 848-1861/866-0787. hand-worked porcelain and glass items. Guðrún’s rare collection of
• Guesthouse Carina, Mýrarbraut 13 tel: 699-0961, cups, each with its own story. Shop open when red flag flying.
www.guesthousecarina.is.
Camping Site: By Klettsvegur, tel. 487-1345. • Vík Church, tel. 487-1118.
Shop: Kjarval, Víkurbraut 4, tel. 487-1235. • Katla Center, tel. 487-1395, hiking maps sold.
Transport: Cars and People, tel. 551-1166, daily scheduled coach
service: Reykjavík-Vík-Höfn-Vík, www.sterna.is.
FACILITIES IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

Accommodation:
• 825: Volcano Hotel, tel. 486-1200,
info@volcanohotel.is, www.volcanohotel.is.
• 823. Guesthouse Reyni, tel. 487-1434,
gistiheimilidreynir@gmail.com, www.reyni.is.
• 825. Hótel Dyrhólaey, tel. 487-1333/487-1420, www.dyrholaey.is.
• 827. Travel Service Vellir, tel. 487-1312/849-9204,
www.F-vellir.123.is .
• 827. Travel Service Steig, tel. 487-1324/868-7651,
www.gesthousesteig.is.
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Rangárþing eystra
A vibrant community offering visitors diversity
Hvolsvöllur
NATURAL BEAUTY - RECREATION - CULTURE
• 829. Travel Service Eystri-Sólheimar, tel. 487-1316, Ice Cream: FossÍs, Reynishverfi, tel. 861-0294, sudur-foss@simnet.is.
www.eystri-solheimar.is. Camping Sites:
• 829. Sólheimahjáleiga guesthouse tel. 487-1305/ 864-2919, • 819. Þakgil, camping and huts in pristine nature, Höfða-
www.solheimahjaleiga.is. brekkuheiði, tel. 893-4889.
• 828. Travel Service Mið-Hvoll, Suður Hvoli, • 823. Eyrarland Community Center, Reynishverfi, tel. 861-0294.
tel. 863-3238/864-2462, www.hvoll.com.
• 828. Travel Service Pétursey, Pétursey, Leisure and Sport: Travel Service Mið-Hvoll, horse rental,
tel. 487-1307/893-9907/845-9907, petursey@isl.is. tel. 863-3238/864-2426.
• 824. Giljur Guesthouse, Giljum, tel. 487-1369/866-0176, Sightseeing and Excursions:
olisteini@simnet.is. • Arcanum Travel Service, Ytri-Sólheimar, snowmobile trips, glacier
• 823. Guesthouse Garðakot, at Garðakot, tel. 894-2877, tours, and ATV trips on Mýrdalsjökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers
www.ggg.is. and Sólheimasandur, tel. 487-1500, www.arcanum.is.
• Skammidalur guesthouse, Skammadal 2, tel. 863-4310, • Katratrack, Travel Service, Víkurskáli, tel. 849-4404,
skammidalur2@gmail.com. www.katlatrack.com.
• Farmhouse Lodge, Skeiðflöt, tel. 571-5879, www.farmhouse.is. • Ferðafélag Mýrdæla, guided hikes, tel. 869-0170,
• Hvammból Guesthouse, Hvammból tel. 863-2595, sa- www.myrdalur.com.
lometv1983@gmail.com. • Þakgil, camping and huts in pristine nature, tel. 893-4889,
• Götur cottages, tel. 483-5101/847-8844. www.thakgil.is.
• Hótel Katla, Höfðabrekka, tel. 487-1208, info@hotelkatla.is, • Fagradalsbleikja, visitors welcome to look around our fish hatchery
www.hotelkatla.is. and farm, tel. 487-1105.
Café: • Mountain Excursion, jeep tours, ice climbing and more. Ketilstaðir,
• Svarta Fjaran, Reynisfjara, restaurant, open year-round, tel. 868-3642/897-7737.
tel. 571-2718/659-7141, blackbeach@blackbeach,is, • Icelandic Mountain Guides, glacier hikes on Sólheimajökull
www.blackbeach.is. tel. 587-9999. www.mountainguides.is.
• Arcanum Jöklakaffi, at Sólheima glacier, tel. 487-1500.
199
200
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool

Events:
middle of the ice age. The apex of the cone crater is 3-4 km in diameter.
• April 18 - 25: Geopark Week, Environmental Day on April 25.
Eyjafjallajökull Glacier is about 100 km2. The volcano last erupted in the
• Oct. 7 – 9: Regnboginn – List í fögru umhverfi, important cultural
spring of 2010, with the ash eruption causing an enormous disturbance
festival in Vík, celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year. First
to air traffic in Europe and the North Atlantic.
weekend in Oct. For information see Regnboginn-List í fögru
umhverfi on Facebook. Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfurárfoss. Seljalandsfoss is along the Seljalandsá
River and plunges over the mountainside of West Eyjafjalla. It is one of
the highest waterfalls in Iceland and it is possible to walk behind the
RANGÁRÞING EYSTRA cascading water. In Hamragarða park, just to the north Seljalandsfoss, is
the Gljúfurá River (Hamragarðsá) with a mountainside waterfall.
Þórsmörk is the high plateau west of Mýrdals glacier, between the Kro- Fljótshlíð – Hlíðarendi is on the northern side of the valley where Mark-
ssá River in the south and the Þröngár and Markarfljót rivers in the north, arfljót drains from Þórsmörk and it is very grassy and sheltered. Fljótsh-
cut by ravines and small valleys. In 1919, the farmers in the Fljótshlíð líð was the home of Gunnar Hámundarson, one of the most memorable
area requested that the Forestry Service assume the protection of characters of Njál’s Saga. According to tradition, he was buried in the
Þórsmörk and enclose the land due to heavy erosion. The land was large mound in the meadow above from the Gunnarshaugur farm.
fenced in and protected in 1924, and since then the vegetation has
undergone an extensive transformation. The views from the mountains Bergþórshvoll is a church farm in Vestur Landeyjar, on the west bank of
in Þórsmörk are magnificent and it is now one of the most popular rec- the Affall River. It was an important site in Njál’s Saga, where Njál, his
reational areas in the country. family and household were attacked by his enemies and burned alive in
1011. Njál’s son-in-law, Kári Sólmundarson, escaped the blaze and his
Skógar is to the east of Eyjafjöll. The local folk museum is considered revenge is the focus of the latter part of the Saga. Signs of ancient
one of the finest of its kind in the country. The Skógaá River originates fencing can be seen on the part of the farmland known as Línakrar, a
south of Fimmvörðuháls and cascades down over Skógaheiði heath. protected site where flax was probably grown in ancient times.
There are about 20 waterfalls along the river, many beautiful and mod-
erate, with the largest being Skógafoss at 60 m high. Legend says that Hvolsvöllur, a small town in the Rangárþing eystra district, began devel-
Þrasi, who settled in Skógar, hid a chest of gold in a cave under Skóga- oping in the late 1930s and it grew rapidly after the main rivers in the
foss. The waterfall is a protected site. area were bridged. Most of the residents work in industry, trade and
services for the surrounding communities. An exhibition devoted to the
Eyjafjallajökull (1666 m) has erupted numerous times since from the settlement years and Njál’s Saga has been set up, and tours around the
201
Saga’s historical sites are available. Information signs have been placed Restaurants/snack bars:
at the various saga sites. On January 1, 2016, the population was 942. • Hótel Edda, Skógar, tel. 444-4830.
• Skógakaffi, Folk Museum Skógar, tel. 487-8845.
• Hótel Skógar, Skógum, tel. 487-4880.
FACILITIES IN EYJAFJÖLL • Fossbúð Restaurant, tel. 487-8843.
Accommodation: • Hótel Skógafoss, tel. 487-8780.
• 830. Hotel Edda, Skógar, tel. 444-000. • Drangshlíð I, tel. 487-8868.
• 830. Youth Hostel Skógar, tel. 487-8801/899-0850. • Gamla Fjósið, Steinar, tel. 487-7788.
• 830. Hótel Skógar, tel. 487-4880. • Café Anna, Moldnúpur, tel. 487-8950.
• 830. Skógar Guesthouse, tel. 894-5464. • Volcano Huts, Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, tel. 552 8300.
• Hótel Skógafoss, tel. 487 8780.
Museums/Exhibition:
• 832. Drangshlíð I, tel. 487-8868.
• Byggðasafnið in Skógar, Folk Museum, tel. 487-8845.
• 836. Guesthouse Edinborg, tel. 487-1212.
• Museum of Communication, Skógar, tel. 487-8845.
• Hótel Lambafell, tel. 566 7979, www.lambafell.is.
• Anna from Moldnúpi, Anna´s house, Moldnúpur, tel. 487-8950.
• 837. Hotel Anna, Moldnúpur, tel. 487-8950/899-5955.
• Visitors Center, Þorvaldseyri by the ring road,
• 837. Skálakot, tel. 487-8953.
tel. 487-8815/487-5757.
• 837. Ásólfsskáli, summerhouses, tel. 487-8989//861-7489.
• 841. Stóra Mörk III Travel Service, tel. 487-8903/698-0824. Sightseeing and Excursions:
• 842. Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, Volcano Huts, tel. 552-8300. • TG Travel, tel. 869-0093.
• 842. Básar, Þórsmörk, tel. 562-1000/893-2910. • South Coast Adventure, tel. 867-3535.
• 842. Langidalur, Þórsmörk, tel. 568-2533/893-1191.
• 833. Fimmvörðuskáli, travelers mountain hut,
FACILITIES IN HVOLSVÖLLUR AND VICINITY
tel. 562-1000/893-4910.
• Baldvinsskáli, tel. 568-2533/855-0808. Police: Hlíðarvegur 16, tel. 444-2020; 112 for emergencies.
Camping Site: Tourist Information: Sögusetrið, Hlíðarveg 14, Hvolsvöllur,
• 830. Skógar, tel. 899-5955. tel. 487-8781, open May – Sept., 9 – 18, information about
• 838. Hamragarðar, tel. 866-7532. recreation in the area and accommodations, tourinfo@hvolsvollur.is.
• 842. Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, tel. 552-8300. Accommodation:
• 842. Básar, Þórsmörk, tel. 562-1000/893-2910. • Vestri-Garðsauki, tel. 487-8078.
• 842. Langidalur, Þórsmörk, tel. 893-1191/568-2533. • Hotel Hvolsvöllur, Hlíðarvegur 7, tel. 487-8050.
• Ásgarður, Stórólfshvoll, tel. 487-1440/896-1248.
• Eldstó cafe Guesthouse, tel. 482-1011/691-3033.
The Saga Centre

at Hvolsvöllur
Unique Njal´s Saga Exhibition, Njal´s Saga Tapes-
try in progress, The Saga Hall, Ormur Gallery,
Thingvellir A.D. 1000, Co-Op Museum,
Information Centre, elegant souvenirs,
books, food and drink, weapons and
costumes for the kids.
Open daily all summer 09:00 – 18:00.
The Saga Cetre at Hvolsvöllur

Hlíðarvegur 14, 860 Hvolsvöllur
Tel.: (+354) 487 8781 / 618 6143
Email: njala@njala.is
www.njala.is
202
Hekla
Leirubakki
Landmannalaugar
Hekla
Are you on your way to Landmannalaugar

or planning to come see the volcano
Hekla? If so, then Leirubakki is definitely
the place for you to stop!
Leirubakki is on Route 26, on the way to

Hekla and Landmannalaugar. There you
will find the Hekla Center, with exhibitions
about Hekla and information and advice
for travelers to Landmannalaugar and
all of the other most important sites in
southern Iceland.
Lan dmanna
Leirubakki has a hotel, a guesthouse with sleeping laugar
bag accomodation, a campsite, hot tubs and the Vikingpool, a
restaurant with a diverse menu, a shop, a gas station, good hiking trails, horse
rental for both the experienced and inexperienced, short and long horseback trips, evenings of
storytelling, and cultural walks in the Leirubakki vicinity.
Leirubakki is known to tourists and nature lovers from all parts of the world for its excellent,
personalized service, stable weather conditions, beautiful landscapes, outstanding mountain
scenery, and more than 1000 years of history.
Leirubakki is situated in the center of southern Iceland. It is only 100 km from Reykjavík, with Photo: RthSig.
easy access both by car and bus. All of the most outstanding natural gems of this part of the
country, as well as the Icelandic highlands, are within an hour’s drive.
Leirubakki is a natural and unmissable stop for anyone traveling in southern Iceland and who
has an interest in the country’s natural wonders and history. Volcanoes and glaciers. Hot
springs and pools. Lava and sand. Icelandic forests and green landscapes. Diverse bird-life.
Leirubakki welcomes you, all year round!
The Pool at Leirubakki
Hotel Leirubakki and The Hekla Center, Leirubakki, 851 Hella, Iceland.
Tel: +354 4878700. - www.leirubakki.is - leirubakki@leirubakki.is 203
The Hekla Centre at Leirubakki.
• Borg Apartments, tel. 664-5091. Camping Site:

• 840. Bergþórshvoll, A-Landeyjum, tel. 487-7715/863-5901. • Austurvegur, Hvolsvöllur, tel. 487-8785/866-8945.
• 843. Youth Hostel Fljótsdalur, tel. 487-8498. • 840. Grandavör, Hallgeirsey, tel. 898-8888/864-6486.
• 846. Hótel Fljótshlíð, tel. 487-1416. • 846. Smáratún Travel Service, tel. 487-1416.
• 846. Goðaland Guesthouse, tel. 848-9758. • 847. Kaffi Langbrók, tel. 487-8333/863-4662.
• 846. Húsið Guesthouse, tel. 892 3817, www.guesthousehusid.is. • 848. Hellishólar, tel. 487-8360.
• 847. Hellishólar, tel. 487-8360, www.hellisholar.is. Restaurants:
• 847. Guesthouse Fagrahlíð, tel. 863-6669, • Hótel Hvolsvöllur, Hlíðarvegur 7, tel. 487-8050.
• Lax-á East Rangá Lodge, tel. 531-6100. • NI Service Station, tel. 487-8197.
• Bakland að Lágafelli, tel. 891-809.1 • Björkin, Austurvegur 10, tel. 487-8670.
• South Iceland Guesthouse, tel. 581-4480. • Gallery Pizza, Hvolsvegur 29, tel. 487-8440.
• Langanes Villa, tel. 840-1489. • Café Eldstó, Austurvegur 2, tel. 482-1011.
• Kaffi Langbrók, tel. 487-8333.
• Hellishólar, tel. 487-8360.
• Hótel Fljótshlíð, tel. 487-8471.
hvolsvÖllur swimming pool Leisure and Sport:
Gym center • Swimming pool and Sports Center, Hvolsvöllur, tel. 488-4295.
Vallarbraut 16 - 860 Hvolsvöllur - • Njálurefill, The Saga Hall, Hvolsvöllur, 855-2013/861-8687.
 488-4295 - sundlaug@hvolsvollur.is • Strandarvöllur, 18-hole golf course, tel. 487-8208.
SUMMER • Grandavör, Hallgeirsey, tel. 898-8888.
Mon. - Fri. • Hellishólar, golf 9 and 18 holes, tel. 487-8360/660-7600.
06:00 - 20:45
Sat. - Sun. Health Center: Öldubakki, tel. 432-2700.
10:00 - 18:45 Pharmacy: Apótekarinn, Austurvegur 15, tel. 487-8630.
For Motorists: Filling stations, garage, carwash and tire repair.
WINTER Bank: Landsbanki, Austurvegur, tel. 410-4182. ATM.
Mon. - Fri. Post Office: Austurvegur 2, tel. 487-8100.
06:00 - 20:45 Alcohol Store: Austurvegur 1, tel. 487-8198.
Sat. - Sun.
10:00 - 14:45 Museums/Exhibition: The Saga Center: Njál’s Saga,
tel. 487-8781/691-6143, njala@njala.is.
Söguskálinn:
• The Co-op Museum; Gallery, souvenirs.
• Gallery Lambey, tel. 487-8321.
• Eldstó, gallery and café, Austurvegur 2, tel. 482-1011.
204
• Listakot Dóru, Ormsvelli 5, tel. 868-7837.
• Sveitabúðin Una, local Icelandic products and design, 544-5455. RANGÁRÞING YTRA
Places of Interest: Meyjarhof Móðir jörð by Kaffi Langbrók,
a temple of the Norse pagans, tel. 487-8333. Keldur is an ancient farm and church site in Rangárvellir, mentioned in
Njál’s Saga and elsewhere. It is located on the edge of a lava flow where
Sightseeing/Excursions:
there is a natural spa, which is the origin of the name. The land around
• The Saga Center, guided tours to the setting of Njál´s Saga,
Keldur is now barren, but records show that many farmsteads were lo-
tel. 487-8781/895-9160.
cated here in the past. The present ironclad timber church was built in
• Midgard Adventure, tel. 770-2030.
1875 and contains many interesting items. The main hall of the turf-built
• Norðurflug, flight excursions, tel. 562-2500.
• South Coast Adventure, hiking trails, jeep tours, ATV tours, caves, farm at Keldur is of ancient origin and the only one of its kind now pre-
waterfalls, etc., tel. 867-3535/897-9468. served. Old household utensils and agricultural implements are also on
display at Keldur.
Transport:
• Sterna, tel. 551-1166. Oddi is home of one of the leading families in the 12th and 13th centu-
• Reykjavík Excursions, tel. 580-5400. ries and a major center for learning and culture. A church was built on
• Trex, tel. 587-6000. the site after the introduction of Christianity, although the present-day
• Iceland Excursions, tel. 540-1313. church only dates from 1924. Oddi was the home of many important
• Herjólfur, tel. 481-2800. cultural and political figures in the past, including Sæmundur the Wise,
• Strætó, tel. 540-2700.
855 HÓTEL LEIRUBAKKI 867 Laugaland swimming pool

Leirubakka - 851 Hella -  487-8700 Laugaland, Holtum - 851 Hella
H bookings@leirubakki.is - www.leirubakki.is  487-6545
SUMMER
Mon. - Fri.
46 17 14
14:00 - 21:00
Sat. - Sun.
10:00 - 19:00
894 Þykkvibær camping 867 laugaland camping

850 Hella -  895-7680 - sport@rang.is 851 Hella -  895 6543
ran@laugaland.is - www.tjalda.is/laugaland
0,5
Open 15.5.-15.9.
Open 1.6.-31.8.
0,2 6 20
205
HELLA SWIMMING POOL 856 galtalækur II
Útskálum 4 - 850 Hella -  488-7040 - sport@rang.is Galtalækur II - Rangárþing ytra v/ veg 26 - 851 Hella
 861 6528 - gl2@simnet.is - www.1.is/gl2
SUMMER
Mon.-Fri.
06:30 - 21:00
Sat.-Sun.
10:00 - 19:00
Winter
Mon.-Fri.
06:30 - 21:00
Sat.-Sun.
12:00 - 18:00
30 30
Hella stands on the eastern bank of the Ytri-Rangár River. The commu-
nity began in 1927 when a store was opened and has continued to grow
since. Residents provide a variety of general services for the surrounding
area. On the west bank of the river, facing Hella, are caves dug into en-
crusted sand. Other such examples are at Árbær, Áshverfi and Hellar.
Some of the caves have indecipherable inscriptions and one hypothesis
is that they are relics from the time of Irish monks, over 1,100 years ago.
On January 1, 2016, the population was 814.
HELLA FACILITIES
Accommodation:
• Gh. Árhús, Rangárbakkar, tel. 487-5577, fax 487-5477,
arhus@arhus.is, www.arhus.is.
the subject of many folk tales in which he consistently outwits the devil. • Galtalækur II, s. 861-6528.
His grandson, Jón Loftsson (1124 – 1197), was the most powerful man • Hótel Hella, Þrúðvangur 6, tel. 487-4800, hella@southdoor.is.
in Iceland in his day and fostered the great historian and Saga writer • Guesthouse Nonni, Arnarsandur 3, tel. 894-9953.
Snorri Sturluson (1178 – 1241). • Stracta Hótels, Rangárflötum 4, tel. 531-8010.
Mt. Hekla is Iceland’s most famous volcano and still very active. The Camping Site: On the banks of river Rangá, contact Árhús, Hella
mountain is 1,491 m high and towers impressively above the lowlands tel. 487- 5577, arhus@arhus.is, www.arhus.is.
of the south. For centuries, Hekla was thought to be the gateway to Hell, Restaurants/Snack Bars:
where the souls of the damned burned in eternal flames. Hekla is a • Café Árhús, Rangárbakkar, tel. 487-5577.
central volcano that has been piled up along a 40 km fissure, and stud- • Kanslarinn, Dynskálar 10c, tel. 487-5100.
ies of ash strata reveal that it has been active for at least 6,600 years. • Bakery Kökuval, Suðurlandsvegur 1-3, tel. 487-5214.
Some 20 eruptions in Hekla have been witnessed since the settlement, • Stracta, Hotel Hella, Þrúðvangur 6, tel. 531-8010.
and another 8 in the vicinity. The best approach for hiking Hekla is from Leisure and Sport:
the north or northwest. The explorers Eggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson • Swimming pool, Útskálar, tel. 487-5334.
were the first men to climb the mountain in 1750. An exhibition featuring • Golf, Strandarvöllur, between Hvolsvöllur and Hella,
Mt. Hekla has been set up at the Hekla Center, at Leirubakki á Landi near • 18 holes, tel. 487-8208.
Mt. Hekla, in which the nature of the volcano and the relationship be- • For details on fishing, horse rentals, etc., contact South Door Hella,
tween the mountain and the Icelandic nation over 11 centuries is ex- tel. 487-5577.
plored. The Hekla Center also provides information about the best route • Mudshark adventure tours, Mudshark.is, tel: 691-1849
to Mt. Hekla and provides certificates to those who hike up the mountain. • South tour adventure tours, Southtour.is, tel. 788-9700.
The easiest way to ascend Mt. Hekla is by driving from Landmannaleið Health Center: Suðurlandsvegur 3, tel. 480-5320.
on the west side of Nýjahraun and parking at Rauðaskál, and from there Pharmacy: Apótekarinn, Suðurlandsvegur 3, tel. 487-5030.
the peak can be reached by walking along the ridge. The walk is 7 km For Motorists:
each way, so a whole day should be set aside for the trip. • Filling stations, garage and tire repair.
• Bílaþjónustan Hellu, garage, tel. 487-5353.
206
Taxi: tel. 862-1864/860-2802. • The Visitor Center Sagnagarður, Gunnarsholti, exhibition of the
Bank: Arion Bank, Þrúðvangur 5, tel. 488-4000, ATM. struggle to restore the soil and vegetation of Iceland,
Post Office: Þrúðvangur 10, tel. 487-5800. tel. 488-3060, www.sagnagardur.land.is, sagnagardur@land.is.
• Icelandic Horse World, Skeiðvöllur, tel. 899-5619, www.iceworld.is,
Local Handicraft: Litla Lopasjoppan, tel. 486-1434.
info@iceevents.is.
Places of Interest/Sightseeing: Toptours, snowmobile tours to
Hekla, tel. 487-5530, toppferdir@mmedia.is. Places of Interest/Excursions: Hellar á Landi, man-made caves
Transport: can be explored in summer, admission fee, tel. 487-6583.
• Cars and People, tel. 551-1166: Daily scheduled coach service
• Reykjavík - Selfoss - Hella - Hvolsvöllur - Vík - Höfn, www.sterna.is.
• Strætó, bus service, route 51, tel. 540-2700, www.straeto.is.
Events: Mid-Aug.: Töðugjöld, Family Festival, www.ry.is.
SKEIÐA- &
RANGÁRÞING YTRA FACILITIES IN THE VICINITY
GNÚPVERJAHREPPUR
Accommodation: Þjórsá is the longest river in Iceland and its source is at Bergvatnskvísl
• 851. Hotel Rangá, tel. 487-5700, on Sprengisandur, in the Highland interior. As it flows past Hofsjökull
hotelranga@hotelranga.is, www.hotelranga.is. glacier, the river runs through the extensive Þjórsáver wetlands, a pro-
• 853. Austvaðsholt, tel. 487-6598. tected natural site that is the world’s main breeding site for the
• 854. Gh. Hrólfsstaðahellir, tel. 861-2290. pink-footed goose. The Þjórsá River is 230 km long and drains a catch-
• 855. Hotel Leirubakki, tel. 487-8700/862-8005, ment area of 7,530 km2. Typical summer flow in the river is 350-700
leirubakki@leirubakki.is, www.leirubakki.is. m3/sec. at the Urriðafoss waterfall. Many other waterfalls are on the
• 856. Galtalækur II, chalets, tel. 487-6528/861-6528, Þjórsá’s course seawards, especially in the Highlands, and a number of
gl2@simnet.is, www.1.is/gl2. hydroelectric power stations have been built to harness the power of the
• 857. Rjúpnavellir, sleeping bag acc., tel. 892-0409. river and its tributaries. The Búrfell, Sigalda and Hrauneyjarfoss power
• 916. Hótel Háland, near Hrauneyjar, tel. 487-7750, stations utilize the river itself, while reservoirs have been created for
www.hotelhighland.is/is/, hrauneyjar@hrauneyjar.is. others at Lake Þórisvatn and Sultartangi.
• 916. Hrauneyjar Highland Center, tel. 487-7782,
hrauneyjar@hrauneyjar.is, www.hrauneyjar.is. Þjórsá was once a major obstacle, although it was possible to cross by
• 858. Gh. Heimaland, Holta and Landssveit, tel. 487-5787. fording or on a ferry in some places, the oldest of these was the Sandhó-
• 859. Hótel Lækur, tel. 466-3930, www.hotellaekur.is. la ferry crossing. A bridge was constructed across the Þjórsá in 1895,
• 915. Landmannahellir, tel. 893-8407. and became the second-largest bridge construction in the country. A
• 912. Mountain hut at Álftavatn, FÍ, tel. 568-2533. new bridge replaced it in 1949. However, the current bridge was official-
• 911. Mountain hut at Hvanngili, FÍ, tel. 568-2533. ly opened on December 11, 2003.
• 914. Landmannalaugar, FÍ, tel. 568-2533/860-3335.
Accommodation:
Camping Site: • 871. Foss Hótel Hekla, tel. 486-5540.
• 855. Áning, Stóra Klofa, tel. 487-6611. • 872. Hestakráin, Húsatóftir, tel. 486-5616/895-0066.
• 855. Leirubakki, tel. 487-8700. • 872. Vorsabær II, tel. 486-5522/861-9634.
• 856. Galtalækjarskógur, tel. 618-7400. • Álftröð Skeiðum, tel. 895-6247.
• 867. Laugaland, tel. 487-6543. • 860. Hólaskógur, mountain hut, tel. 486-8757.
• 894. Þykkvibær, tel. 895-7680, caravans, campers. • 864. Steinsholt II, accommodation, horse riding, tel. 486-6069.
• 915. Landmannahellir, tel. 893-8407.
Camping Sites:
Restaurants/Snack Bars: • 872. Brautarholt, tel. 897-2612.
• Leirubakki, tel. 487-8700. • 860. Hólaskógur, tel. 486-8757.
• Hótel Háland, tel. 487-7750.
• Hrauneyjar Highland Center, tel. 487-7782. Restaurants/Snack Bars:
• Foss Hótel Hekla, tel. 486-5540.
Leisure and Sport: 867. Laugaland, swimming pool, tel. 487-6545.
• Verslunin Árborg, Árnesi, tel. 486-6006.
Horse Rentals: • Hestakráin, Húsatóftir, tel. 486-5616.
• Leirubakki, tel. 487-6545.
• Hekluhestar, tel. 487-6598. Swimming Pool: 872. Brautarholt, tel. 663-4666 /823-3999,
• Horsetravel.is, Hrólfstaðahelli, tel. 860-8101. kertasmidjan@web.is, www.kertasmidjan.is.
• Hraunhestar, tel. 566-6693. Horse Rentals:
Local Handicrafts: • Land og hestar, Húsatóftir, tel. 486-5560/895-0066/894-4062.
• Hlutverk frá Dóru, ceramics, Hákot, Þykkvibær, tel. 487-5618. • Núpshestar, Breiðanes, horse riding, tel. 852-5930,
• Gallery Guðfinna, Saurbær, tel. 869-6135/487-6560. www.nupshestar.is.  
• Fossnes, accommodation and horse riding, tel. 486-6079.
Museums/Exhibition:
• Keldur, Rangárvellir, tel. 487-8452. Folk Museum in one of the Places of interest: Vorsabær II, open farm, tel. 486-5522/861-9634.
oldest buildings in Iceland, open daily June – Sept. Events: Mid-Sept.: sheep round-up at Skeiðaréttir and Stafholtsréttir.
• The Hekla Center, Leirubakki, Modern and informative multi-media
exhibition about Mt. Hekla, its history and impact on the Icelandic
people, from the Settlement to the present day, tel. 487-8700.
207
ÁRNES / ÞJÓRSÁRDALUR Bræðratunga farm, is a great improvement in communications between
Flúðir and Biskupstungur. The population in Flúðir 1, 2016, was 441.
Árnes is a hamlet that has been developing in Gnúp-verjahreppur in re- Accommodation:

cent years. During summer the community center provides food and • Icelandair Hotel Flúðir, tel. 444-4000/486-6630.
refreshments. There is also a guesthouse, swimming pool and sports • 873. Syðra-Langholt, Hrunamannahreppur district,
facility. tel. 486-6574/861-6652, sydralangholt@emax.is.
• 870. Dalbær, tel. 486-6770/847-3485.
Þjórsárdalur Valley is the easternmost valley in Árnessýsla, and it lies to
• 870. Gistiheimilið Grund, tel. 565-9196/ 896-1286.
the north of Gaukshöfði, between the Hagafjall and Búrfell mountains.
The land in the valley was once a sandy wasteland, but land reclamation Camping Site:
and reforestation efforts have been made around the area of Mt. • 873. Álfaskeið, tel. 486-6774/486-6574.
Skríðufell and beyond since it became a preservation area in 1938. In • Flúðir camping site, tel. 486-6535/618-5005.
addition to the Þjórsá, there are three rivers that traverse the Þjórsárda- Restaurants/Snack Bars:
lur valley: the Fossá, Rauðá and Þverá rivers. In addition to the remark- • Hótel Flúðir, tel. 486-6630.
able Hjálparfoss and Háifoss waterfalls, there is also the smaller, pictur- • Útlaginn Kaffihús, Flúðir, tel. 486-6425.
esque Gjárfoss waterfall in the valley. A flourishing farming community • Verslunin Strax, Flúðir, tel. 486-6633.
lived in Þjórsárdalur after the settlement until the valley was swamped by • Kaffi-Sel, at the golf course, tel. 486-6454/891-7811.
ash from an eruption of Mt. Hekla in 1104. One of the ruined farms, • Golfskálinn Snússa, tel. 486-6601/896-6683.
Stöng, has been excavated and served as the model for the nearby Sa- • Kaffihúsið Grund, tel. 565-9196/896-1286.
ga-Age Farm reconstruction at Þjóðveldisbærinn. The Þjóðveldisbærinn • Bragginn, Birtingaholt (10 mins from Flúðir), pottery and café,
farmhouse in Þjórsárdalur was built from 1974 – 1977 for the occasion tel. 847-8384.
of the 1100 anniversary of Iceland’s history, and shows how a house • Minilik Ethiopian restaurant, tel. 846-9798.
would have been constructed in the latter part of the 11th century. Leisure and Sport:
• Flúðir swimming pool, tel. 486-6790.
Accommodation: • Gamla laugin Hvammi, Secret Lagoon, natural pool and geothermal
• 860. Hólaskógur, tel. 486-8757/895-9500/852-7158. area, 555-3351.
• 864. Steinsholt, tel. 486-6069/863-8270. • Golf, Selsvöllur, 18 holes, nearby Flúðir, tel. 486-6454/891-7811.
• 866. Guesthouse Árnes, tel. 861-2645. • Ásatúnsvöllur, 9-hole golf course near Flúðir,
• Guesthouse Denami, west Geldingaholt, tel. 892-8452/698-7090. tel. 486-6601/898-6683.
• Ásólfsstaðir Þjórsárval, tel. 486-6062/893-8889. • Syðra-Langholt, tel. 486-6774/894-8974, horse rental.
Camping Sites: For Motorists: Filling station, garage and tire repair, tel. 486-6769.
• 862. Sandártunga, Þjórsárdalur, tel. 893-8889.
Museum/Exhibition/Local Handicrafts:
• 866. By Árnes, tel. 664-6555.
• Glass Workshop, Rut Sigurðardóttir, tel. 486-6770/847-3485.
Restaurants: • Efra-Sel, farmer’s market, tel. 486-6454.
• Árborg, tel. 486-6006. • Bragginn, Birtingaholti, pottery studio/ceramics/café,
• Árnes Community Center, tel. 664-6555. tel. 847-8384.
Leisure and Sport: Places of Interest: Sólheimar, open farm, a small museum,
• 866. Neslaug, swimming pool, Árnes, tel. 486-6117. tel. 486-6590/865-8761.
• Steinsholt, horse rental, hot tubs, tel. 486-6069.
Events:
• Vestra-Geldingaholt, riding school, Guesthouse Denami,
• Harvest Festival in Flúðir.
horse rental, tel. 892-8452/698-7090.
• Mid-Sept.: Hrunaréttir, sheep round-up.
• Fossnes, riding tours tel. 486-6079/ 895-8079.
For Motorists: In Árnes, tel. 486-6089.
Museum/Exhibitions:
• Þjóðveldisbærinn, in Þjórsárdalur, Saga-Age Farm, replica of BLÁSKÓGABYGGÐ
original farm Stöng found by archaeologists, tel. 488-7713,
www.thjodveldisbaer.is. Bláskógabyggð is a municipality in upper Árnessýsla district, west of the
• Þjórsá Visitor Centre at Árnes, www.thjorsarstofa.is, tel. 486-6115. Hvítá River. To the south is the district of Grímsnes and Grafningshreppur,
and to the west it borders Mosfellsbær, a community east of Reykjavik.
The municipality was formed in 2002 through the merger of Þingval-
FLÚÐIR lahreppur, Laugardalshreppur and Biskupstungnahreppur districts. Res-

idential centers have formed in Laugarás, Reykholt and Laugarvatn. The
name of the municipality is taken from an area around Lake Þingvallav-
Flúðir is a hamlet in Hrunamannahreppur and was developed because of atn known as Bláskógar (Blue Forests). A new road has been construct-
its proximity to the Hellisholt geothermal field. An important greenhouse ed over the Lyngdalsheiði heath connecting Þingvellir and Laugarvatn.
industry is operated at Flúðir, including Iceland’s largest production of This road opens up a route connecting Reykjavík with the upper regions
mushrooms. In 1899 geologist Dr. Helgi Pétursson (1872 – 1949) found of Árnessýsla County. On January 1, 2016, the population was 961.
palagonite tuff formations at Hellisholt, which led to new theories about
the duration of the Ice Age. A new bridge over the Hvíta River, at the
208
BISKUPSTUNGUR 884 Skálholt
Reykholt and Laugarás are two hamlets in Biskupstungur, both of which Skálholt - 801 Selfoss (Laugarás) -  486-8870
have large reserves of geothermal water used to heat numerous green- G Fax 486-8994 - skoli@skalholt.is - www.skalholt.is
houses. There is a health care center and domestic animal zoo at Lau-
garás, and a swimming pool, store and accommodation facilities at
Reykholt. On January 1, 2016, the combined population was 237.
Gullfoss (Golden Waterfall), on the glacial Hvítá River, is renowned for its
breathtaking beauty and is one of Iceland’s main sightseeing attractions.
This mighty, two-tiered cataract creates a majestic spectacle as it thun-
ders 32 m over a fault into a gorge measuring 2.5 km in length and up
to 70 m deep in places, which the river has cut into the strata over the
past 10,000 years. The waterfall can be viewed close up, as well as from
above the chasm, where Sigríðarstofa, the Gullfoss information center,
has been built in memory of Sigríður Tómasdóttir, a local woman from
Brattholt. She campaigned against plans to develop a hydroelectricity
plant there in the early 19th century. The land around Gullfoss is owned 36 18
by the state, and the tract of land to the west of the river has now be-
come a protected conservation area.
10
Geysir is another must-see site for tourists, which has lent its name
(meaning Gusher) as the generic term for this strange phenomenon of
spouting hot springs. It is thought that Geysir was formed in an earth-
882 farmhouse efsti-dalur II
quake towards the end of the 13th century. The eruptions of boiling Efsti-Dalur II - 801 Selfoss (Laugarvatn)
water from Geysir, which are accompanied by rumbling and roaring G  486-1186 / 848-1622 - Fax 486-1086
sounds, can reach a height of 40 – 60 m. A smaller, adjacent hot spring, efstadal@efstadal.is - www.efstidalur.is
called Strokkur, is a popular attraction, erupting at 5-10-minute inter-
vals. The Geysir geothermal field contains a variety of hot springs and
bubbling pools and the area is protected. Geysisstofa, an educational
and information center, was opened in the summer of 2000 and it cov-
ers volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, glaciers, hot springs, waterfalls and
vegetation. There is also a technological exhibition on geology in Iceland.
Skálholt was a bishopric from 1056 – 1801, and for centuries one of the
main cultural, educational and political centers in Iceland. It is located in
a geothermal area in Biskupstungur with a commanding view of the
surrounding countryside. In all, 44 bishops served at Skálholt during its
almost 700-year tenure as the center of religious life in south Iceland:
31 Catholic bishops until the Reformation in 1550, and 13 Lutheran af- 20 10
ter that. In 1796 the bishopric was moved to Reykjavík, but in 1801
Skálholt and the northern see of Hólar were merged to form the pres-
ent-day single bishopric which is based in Reykjavík. Among the many
important historical events that occurred at Skálholt was the execution
of the last Catholic bishop, Jón Arason (b. 1484), and his three sons in
1550. The present cathedral was consecrated in 1963, but visitors can Restaurants/Snack Bars:
still see much older relics, including a tunnel that linked it to the nearby • Café Mika, Reykholt, tel. 896-6450.
houses and school, and the sarcophagus of Bishop Páll Jónsson, who • Friðheimar, Reykholt, tel. 897-1915.
died in 1211. • Bjarnabúð, Reykholt, food store, tel. 486-8999.
• Slakki, Laugarás, tel. 486-8783.
REYKHOLT AND LAUGARÁS FACILITIES Leisure and Sport:
Accommodation: • Reykholtslaug, swimming pool, tel. 480-3040.
• Húsið, Bjarkarbraut 26, Reykholt, tel. 486-8680/897-5728, • Farm animals at Slakki, Laugarás, tel. 486-8783/868-7626.
husid@best.is. • Garðyrkjustöðin Engi, Laugarás, open farm, tel. 486-8913.
• Fagrilundur Reykholt, tel. 486-8701/ 891-8106, • Garðyrkjustöðin Espiflöt, Reykholt, open farm,
www.fagrilundur.is. tel. 486-8955/896-8720.
• The White House Inn, Reykholti 660-7866/660-7860. • Friðheimar Reykholti, horse center and farm.
• Horse shows and unique guest salon in the greenhouses,
Camping Site: tel. 897-1915, www.fridheimar.is.
• Laugagerði, Laugarás, tel. 486-8809. • Iceland River Jet, sailing in the Hvítá River on jet boats,
• Reykholt, tel. 893-1434/897-5728. tel. 863-4506, www.icelandriverjet.com.
209
Local Handicrafts/Art Studio: Art studio, in a stable, Reykholt, Museums/Show: Geysisstofa, multimedia show, tel. 480-6800.
tel. 695-1541. Places of Interest:
Health Center: Laugarás, tel. 432-2770. • Hrosshagi, open dairy farm, forestry, tel. 486-8905/861-1915.
For Motorists: Garage and tire repair, Iða, tel. 486-8840. • Arnarholt, open sheep farm, tel. 486-8621/696-9824.
Bank: Landsbanki, Reykholt, tel. 410-4151. Events:
• Skálholtshátíð Festival.
• July and Aug.: Summer Concerts in Skálholt,
BISKUPSTUNGUR - FACILITIES • Sat. at 15 and 17 and Sun. at 15, followed by a church service at
Accommodation: 17, www.skalholt.is.
• 875. Hótel Gullfoss, tel. 486-8979. • First weekend in Aug.: Úthlíð, Family Festival.
• 876. Kjóastaðir, 2 chalets, tel. 486-3333/848-0969. • Aug. 13: Two from Tungur Country Festival
• 876. Skálinn, Myrkholt, tel. 486-8757/867-3571. • Mid-Sept.: Tungnaréttir, sheep round-up
• 877. Hótel Geysir, tel. 480-6800, geysir@geysircenter.is,
www.geysircenter.is.
• 878. Úthlíð, tel. 486-8770/699-5500.
• 880. Sveitasetrið, cottage, tel. 698-9874/898-6033.
• 881. Hrosshagi, chalets and overnight stays in plastic bubble,
LAUGARVATN
tel. 486-8905/861-1915. Laugarvatn is a rooted, rural inhabited area in Laugardalur Valley in
• 884. Skálholt, tel. 486-8870, skoli@skalholt.is, www.skalholt.is. Bláskógarbyggð and was formed around the local schools. Laugarvatn
Camping Site: Lake contains a lot of geothermal heat and there are many hot springs
• 874. By Faxi, tel. 486-8710/898-1594. around the lake and on the lakeside. For a long time, Laugarvatn has
• 877. Geysir, tel. 486-6800. been popular among tourists and praised as a summer resort. According
• Skjól, tel. 899-4541. to folklore, the bodies of Jón Arason and his sons, who were beheaded
• 878. Úthlíð, tel. 486-8770/699-5500. at Skálholt in 1550, were washed in a warm pool by the lake, called
Restaurants: Vígðalaug (Christening Pool), before they were transported north to their
• Skálholt, tel. 486-8870. burial grounds. Next to the pool are a few stones called Líkasteinar (Body
• Hótel Geysir, tel. 480-6800. Stones). On January 1, 2016, the population was 159.
• Geysir Glíma restaurant, tel. 480-6800.
The Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths offer the experience of the
• Geysir Shop restaurant, tel. 480-6800.
unique steam rooms directly over the famous fumaroles, which locals
• Réttin, Úthlíð, tel. 486-8770/699-5500.
and guests have used for therapeutic bathing for ages. The entire area
• Skjól, tel. 899-4541.
is stunning, and in addition to the steam it is possible to enjoy therapeu-
• Gullfosskaffi, tel. 486-6500/899-3014.
tic bathing in a tripartite bathing pool, relax in the hot sauna, take a stroll
Swimming Pools: 878. Hlíðarlaug, Úthlíð, tel. 486-8770. in the warm sand or wade into Laugarvatn Lake itself. The café offers
Leisure and Sport: exquisite refreshments and it is possible to bake your own hot spring
• Golf, Úthlíð, Biskupstungur, 9 holes, tel. 486-8770. bread in the geothermal heat, an experience that is available every day.
• Haukadalsvöllur, Geysir, 9-hole golf course, 893-8733/898-9141.
• Kjóastaðir, riding tours, tel. 486-3333/848-0969. Mt. Laugarvatnsfjall is an ideal place for a panoramic view of the trails
• Friðheimar, horse farm, horse shows, greenhouses, tel. 897-1915. that go around Lake Laugarvatn. The easiest approach is up the shoul-
• Arctic Rafting, various leisure activities, river rafting, sailing, der by the ski lift. The mountain is wide and flat at the top, so it is worth
climbing, snorkeling, caving etc. tel. 562-7000, walking around it for a complete view. Mt. Gullkista also offers a pan-
info@arcticrafting.is, www.arcticrafting.is, www.explore.is. oramic view and can be approached by car from Miðdalur valley.
• Fjallamenn, Mountaineers, river rafting on Hvítá River, ATV tours
on Haukadalsheiði and snowmobile tours on Langjökull, Accommodation
tel. 580-9900. • Hótel Edda, at the College, tel. 444-4810.
• Hótel Edda, Sport gymnasium, tel. 444-4820.
Local Handicrafts:
• Guesthouse Dalsel, hostel, tel. 899-5409.
• Ranka í Kotinu, Gígjarhólskoti, wood carving, tel. 486-8921.
• Sport Center, tel. 899-5409.
• Rósin, Austurhlíð, handicrafts, tel. 865-9300.
• Gallerí Laugarvatn, tel. 486-1016/486-1017.
• 882. Efsti-Dalur, accommodation, refreshments and
• cow shed open to visitors, tel. 486-1186/862-1626,
www.efstadal.is.
• Golden Circle Apartments, Laugarbraut 1-5, tel. 852-7010,
P O L I C E accommodation year-round.
F I R E • Héraðsskólinn in Lauarvatn, hostel, open year-round,
tel. 537-8060, www.heradsskolinn.is.
M E D I C A L Camping Site: Laugarvatn Camping Center, facilities for RVs,
D O C T O R S hot and cold water, showers, grill facilities tel. 615-5848.
ONE ONE TWO Restaurants/Snack bars:
• Restaurant Lindin, tel. 486-1262/898-9599,
lindin@laugarvatn.is, www.laugarvatn.is.
210
Geothermal baths
Natural steam bath
Geothermal Bakery
Local Kitchen
www.fontana.is
Completing the Golden Circle
• One Stop, Dalbraut 6, tel. 511-4455. Parliament) in Þingvellir held supreme authority over the country. The
• Fontana, Hverabraut 1, tel. 486-1400. Alþingi was both a legislative and judicial assembly and they resolved dis-
• Gallery Laugarvatn, café, tel. 486-1016. putes from all over the country. In ancient times, the Alþingi convened each
• Samkaup Strax, tel. 486 1126. year at the end of June for a period of approximately two weeks, but in
• Hótel Edda, at the College, tel. 444-4810. later centuries it became one week at the beginning of July.
• Hótel Edda, Sport gymnasium, tel. 444-4820.
• 882. Efsti-Dalur, accommodation, food and refreshments and cow During “Iceland’s Golden Age,” Þingvellir was the site of many events
shed open to visitors, tel. 486-1186/862-1626, www.efstadal.is. related in the Icelandic Sagas, most of which were written in the 13th
• Héraðsskólinn in Lauarvatn, hostel, food and refreshments, century and are the cornerstone of Icelandic civilization.
open year-round, tel. 537-8060, www.heradsskolinn.is.
After 1262, Iceland became a part of the monarchy of the Norwegian
Leisure and Sport: King, and later of the Danish King. The Alþingi nevertheless continued to
• Swimming pool and hot tubs, tel. 486-1251, convene in Þingvellir as a legislative assembly and judicial court until the
• For opening hours see advertisement on this page. end of the 18th century. Evidence has been found that there were gen-
• Fontana, Hverabraut 1, natural steam bath, tel. 486-1400, eral festivals held during this period. Thus, Þingvellir, as in earlier times,
fontana@fontana.is, www.fontana.is. was the center of national life at the time of assembly each year.
• 882. Efsti-Dalur, accommodation, food and refreshments and
• cow shed open to visitors, tel. 486-1186/862-1626, In the 19th century there were several gatherings held in Þingvellir, the
www.efstadal.is. most outstanding of which was the National Celebration of 1874 when
• Laugarvatn Adventure, various leisure activities, cave exploration,
canoeing and more, tel. 862-5614, smari@laugarvatn.net.
• Well marked jogging tracks, sports fields and putting green.
• Golf, Dalbúi, 9 holes, tel. 894-1169.
For Motorists: Filling station, garage and tire repair.
Post: Samkaup Strax, tel. 486-1126.
Local Handicraft: Gallery Laugarvatn, tel. 486-1016.
ÞINGVELLIR
THE SACRED SITE OF ALL ICELANDERS
Icelanders first gathered at the Öxará River in Þingvellir in 930 AD. From
then until 1798 - continuously for 868 years - Þingvellir was the nation’s
meeting place.
35 HIwelcome
The first part of this period has been named “Iceland’s Golden Age.” This
refers to the Icelandic Commonwealth that lasted from 930 to 1264. Ice-
35Hostels
HI Hostelsaround Iceland
around Iceland
you - www.hostel.is
welcome you - www.hostel.is
land was an independent nation during this period. The Alþingi (Icelandic
211
883 borg Sports center GRÍMSNES
Borg, Grímsnesi - 801 Selfoss
 480-5530
& GRAFNINGSHREPPUR
Sólheimar in Grímsnes is an eco-village founded in 1930. This charming
village of about 100 inhabitants is renowned for its international, artistic
and ecological atmosphere, which prides itself on its varied cultural,
social and sporting activities.
summer Accommodation:
Mon. - Fri. • 883. Minni Borgir, Minni Borg, tel. 486-1500/868-3592,
10:00 - 22:00 info@minnniborgir.is, www.minniborgir.is.
Sat. - Sun.
10:00 - 19:00 • 885. Sel, tel. 486-4441.
Winter • 886. Gistiheimili Sólheima, tel. 422-6080/855-6080.
Mon. - Thur. • 899. Hótel Grímsborgir, Grímsnes, tel. 555-7878.
14:00 - 22:00 • Ion Luxury Adventure Hotel, at Nesjavellir,
Fri accommodation, catering, spa, leisure, tel. 482-3415.
Lokað • Hótel Borealis, Efri-Brú, tel. 897-6549, www.hotelborealis.is.
Sat. - Sun.
11:00 - 18:00 Camping Site:
• 883. Borg, Grímsnes, tel. 486-4402/863-7139.
• 888. Þrastaskógur, Grímsnes, tel. 486-8686/864-6154.
Iceland acquired its constitution. Poets wrote poetry about Þingvellir, Restaurants/ Snack Bars:
and the site became a symbol for all that Iceland is. In the 20th century, • Ion Luxury Adventure Hotel, at Nesjavellir,
Icelanders held national celebrations in Þingvellir that were attended by accommodation, catering, spa, leisure, tel. 482-3415.
a great many people, such as the Alþingi Festival in 1930. The most • Græna Kannan, restaurant, Sólheimum, tel. 480-4483.
remarkable one, however, was the Dedication of the Republic on 17 • Hótel Grímsborgir, Grímsnes, tel. 555-7878.
June 1944, when the Republic of Iceland was founded. From this occa- • Minni Borgir, Minni Borg, tel. 486-1500/868-3592,
sion and others, Þingvellir has become “the sacred site of all Icelanders,” info@minnniborgir.is, www.minniborgir.is.
as the Act of 1928 on the Protection of Þingvellir states. • Hótel Borealis, Efri-Brú, tel. 897-6549, www.hotelborealis.is.
• Þarastalundur, tel. 486-8686.
In addition to the above, Þingvellir is remarkable for scientific reasons:
the site of the ancient Alþingi (Parliament) lies in a rift valley and the Swimming Pools:
basin is part of the Great Atlantic Rift that runs through Iceland from • 883. Swimming pool Borg, tel. 486-4402.
• 889. Swimming pool Hraun, Hraunborgir, tel. 486-4414.
Southwest to Northeast. The present-day rift valley basin in Þingvellir
has been formed over the last 10,000 years. Lake Þingvellir is the larg- Leisure/Sport:
est lake in Iceland and teems with life; it is home to four different kinds • Golf, Kiðjabergsvöllur, Grímsnes, 9 holes, tel. 486-4495.
of trout. • Golf, Öndverðarnesvöllur, Grímsnes, 9 holes, tel. 482-3380.
• The Adrenaline Garden, diverse leisure activities, treasure hunts,
Þingvellir has been protected for more than 80 years and is the oldest group motivation, mystery tours and more,
national park in Iceland. Þingvellir National Park is under the manage- tel. 567-8978/511-1140, www.adrenalin.is.
ment of the Alþingi. In summer 2004, Þingvellir was registered on the • Útilífsmiðstöð skáta, Úlfljótsvatn, jungle gym, boats and diverse
UNESCO World Heritage List and it is the first place in Iceland to be leisure activities for groups, tel. 550-9800, www.ulfljotsvatn.is.
featured on the list, which only includes the most unique places of inter- • Paintball, Grafningur, tel. 857-2000.
est in the world. Source: www.kristni.is/ • Jeep tours from Minni-Borgir, tel. 486-1500/868-3592.
Local Handicrafts: Vala, gallery, Sólheimar, Grímsnes, tel. 480-4450.
Tourist Information: Service Center in Leira, tel. 482-2660/3606,
silfra@thingvellir.is, www.thingvellir.is. Places of interest: Sesselja House Eco-Center, conference center,
courses, auditorium, sculpture park, tel. 480-4430.
Accommodation:
• 901. Cottages Lake Thingvellir, chalets, tel. 892-7110, Events:
cottages@lakethingvellir.is, www.lakethingvellir.is. • Aug. 6: Grims-adventure in Borg in Grímsnes.
• 903. Skógarhólar, tel. 899-7052. • Performances and art exhibitions in Sólheimar, www.solheimar.is.
Camping Site:
• 902. National Park, Þingvellir, tel. 482-2660.
• 903. Skógarhólar, tel. 863-9975. FLÓAHREPPUR
Restaurants/Snack Bars: Service Center at Leira, tel. 482-3606.
The borders of the Flói area are the Ölfusá River, the Hvítá River,
Leisure and Sport: Marked hiking trails in the National Park.
Merkurhraun, the Þjorsá River and the coast. Vegetation is diverse and
Museum/Exhibition: Þingvellir Info. Center, Hakið, near entrance to birdlife thrives. Flóahreppur is in the easternmost part of the community
the Almannagjá gully, multimedia-show, open daily in summer from and is inhabited by about 620 people who make their living off of agri-
9 – 19, free entry, tel. 482-2660, www.thingvellir.is. culture and various service sectors.
212
Welcome to Flóahreppur
The greatest view - Exceptional environment
Historical area - Hospitality
www.floahreppur.is
Þjórsá is the longest river in the country at 230 km and has a similar 892
volume to the Ölfusá River, at 360 m3/sec. The water comes from under Country Guesthouse Vatnsholt
Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers. There is a great deal of clay carried
along the river: 4.5 million tons per year.
G Vatnsholt 2 - 801 Selfoss -  899-7748
info@stayiniceland.is - www.stayiniceland.is
Þjórsárhraun, the largest lava flow from a single volcanic eruption on
earth since the Ice Age, rests underneath most of Flói. It occurred in a
great eruption east of Þórisvatn Lake approximately 8,700 years ago. An
enormous amount of magma (almost double the volume produced in the
Skaftáreldar eruptions at Laki) flowed from a 20-30 km crack in the
earth, down Skeið and Flói towards the sea at Stokkseyri and Eyrarbak-
ki—almost 140 km away from the eruption site.
Flóahreppur is fairly densely populated. The countryside is reasonably

flat, but also punctuated by mountain ridges and rocky outcroppings that
offer fantastic vistas. There is a lot of birdlife in the area, as well as great
views of the mountains in the distance. Photographers will find many
ideal vantage points here.
34 24
Information: www.floahreppur.is.
Accommodation:
• 890. Guesthouse Lambastaðir, tel. 777-0705.
• 891. Þingborg Community center, tel. 482-3093.
• 892. Þjórsárver, Villingaholtshreppur, groups, family reunions, • Iceland South Coast Travel, guided jeep excursions, tel. 777-0705,
tel. 480-4370, www.thjorsarver.is. www.isct.is.
• 892. Vatnsholt Travel Service, tel. 899-7748, • Egilsstaðakot, visitors welcome to the barn, tel. 867-4104.
www.stayiniceland.com. • Dog Sled Tours, tel. 899-1791.
• 892. Egilsstaðir 1, tel. 567-6268/862-3628. • Salmon fishing in the Hvítá river. tel. 695-9833.
• 893. Gaulverjarbæjarskóli, youth hostel, tel. 551-0654/865-2121. • Íslenski bærinn, Turf House exhibition and café,
• 893. Communty Center Félagslundur, sleeping bag accommoda- tel. 694-8108/864-4484/892-2702.
tion for groups, tel. 486-3385/692-8565.
• Höfðatún. tel. 864-1147. Local Handicrafts:
• Icelandic Cottage - Hraunmörk, tel. 570-2700. • Ullarvinnslan Þingborg, near Selfoss, tel. 482-1027/693-6509,
• 199. Lambastaðir, tel. 777-0705, www.lambastadir.is. thingborg@simnet.is.
• Arabær, tel. 487-5818/868-0304. • Gallery Flói, Þingborg, 868-7486, www.fanndis.com.
• Julias Guesthouse, tel. 483-5687/856-4788. • Country Store Sóley, Tunga, tel. 566-8191.
• Guesthouse Bitra, tel. 480-0700. • Tré og list, Forsæti III, open Sat. and Sun., 13 – 17 and by arrange-
ment, tel. 868-9045/486-3335.
Camping sites: • Flói og mói, s. 354-898-0728
• 892. Þjórsárver, service hut, tel. 480-4370.
• 893. Gaulverjarbæjarskóli, youth hostel, tel. 551-0654/865-2121. Events: May 27 – 29: Fun in Flói, a family festival.
Leisure and Sport:
• Krían á Kríumýri, country inn, tel. 899-7643/897-7643.
• Egilsstaðir 1, guided riding tours, tel. 862-3628.
• Vatnsholt Travel Service, varied activities, tel. 899-7748,
www.stayiniceland.com.
213
ÁRBORG
Árborg municipality is in the west part of Flói district and is the strip of
land between the Þjórsá and Ölfusá rivers. The municipality was created
when four municipalities merged in 1998. Árborg has three towns: Sel-
foss, Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki. Árborg offers diverse and stunning
landscapes, beautiful mountain vistas, unique birdlife and shoreline. Ár-
borg has a range of services catering to the citizens of the South and
visitors alike – restaurants, accomodation, interesting museums and
galleries. On January 1, 2016, the population was 8,052.
SELFOSS
Tourist Selfoss is part of the municipality of Árborg. It is the largest residential
area in south Iceland and is situated next to the Ölfusárbrú bridge. Sel-
Information Centre foss was settled in 1891 when a suspension bridge was built across the
Ölfusá River. At the time the bridge was the largest man-made structure
in Iceland. Around 1930, the town expanded when the Kaupfélag Árne-
Information, Booking singa co-op and Mjólkurbú Flóamanna dairy processing plant began
Office, internet, souvenirs, operations. Selfoss is the main center of trade, services and industry in
maps and travel books southern Iceland. It has a Tourist Information Center, various accommo-
dation options, a campground, restaurants and cafés, a swimming pool
Eyrarvegur 3, 800 Selfoss
tour www.tourinfo.arborg.is with a sauna, art gallery, hospital, two elementary schools, a music
info tourinfo@arborg.is - info@icelandforever.is school and the Fjölbrautaskóli Suðurlands upper secondary school.
There are robust sport and leisure activities in and around Selfoss, in-
cluding a nine-hole golf course, fine walking and hiking paths and an
214
Guesthouse Selfoss The Bobby Fischer Center
v/Engjaveg - 800 Selfoss
 482-3585 / 663-2449 - gesthus@gesthus.is Austurvegur 21, 800 Selfoss // Tel. +354-832-1972
www.fischersetur.is // fischersetur@gmail.com
2
Two summer-
houses, each
with their own
Jacuzzi.
1 Memorabilia of World Chess Champion BOBBY FISCHER.

44 22
2 The Bobby Fischer Grave Site, Laugardælakirkja, is about
2 km from the Center.
exceptional view of the mountains. On January 1, 2016, the population
Dyrhólaeyjarferðir
was 6,878. Árborg Swimming Facilities
Selfoss Swimming Pool – open year round
Police: Hörðuvellir 1, tel. 444-2010.
Ferðir á sjó og landi
Tourist Information:
• Árborg Tourist Information and Booking Service, Eyravegur 3,
Weekdays: 06:30 - 21:30
Weekends: 09:00 - 19:00
tel. 899-8663, tourinfo@arborg.is, www.arborg.is. Stokkseyri Swimming Pool
• Iceland Forever Booking Service, Eyravegur 3, tel. 899-8663, Summer June 1 - Aug 15
info@icelandforever.is. www.icelandforever.is. Weekdays: 13:00 - 21:00
Accommodation: Weekends: 10:00 - 17:00 Eitt elst
• Hótel Selfoss, Eyrarvegur 2, tel. 480-2500. Winter Aug. 16 - May 31 sögu H
• Gesthus, Engjavegur, tel. 482-3585/663-2449, Opnuna
Mon - Fri: 16:30 - 20:30
gesthus@gesthus.is, www.gesthus.is.
Dyrhólaeyjarferðir, 487-8500 & 893-6800 fax: 487-8545 11-17.
�
• Fosstún, Eyrarvegur 26, Apartment hotel, open June 15 – Aug. 15, Sat: 10:00 - 15:00
info@dyrholaey.com - www.dyrholaey.com Á öðru
tel. 480-1200, fosstun@fosstun.is, www.fosstun.is. Sun: Closed
• B14 Guesthouse, Birkivellir 14.
• Riverside Villa, Miðtún 22. • Tryggvaskáli, on Tryggvatorg, á la carte menu, tel. 482-1390,
• Menam, Eyravegur 8, tel. 482-4099. tryggvaskali@tryggvaskali.is, www.tryggvaskali.is.
• Hostel, Austurvegur 28, tel. 482-1600/660-6999.
• Geirakot, farm guesthouse, tel. 482-1020/895-8493.
Bakery: Byggðasafnið að Skógum
• Guðni’s bakery, Austurvegur 31b, tel. 482-1755.
Camping site: Gesthús, by Engjavegur, tel. 482-3585. Byggðasafnið að Skógum varðveitir menningararf
• Almar’s bakery, Austurvegur 1, tel. 482-2829.
Rangárvallasýslu og Vestur-Skaftafellssýslu.
Restaurants/Snack Bars: Leisure/Sport:
• Riverside, Hótel Selfoss, Eyrarvegur 2, tel. 480-2500. • Swimming poolÍ safninu eru m.a.
by Bankavegur, tel.endurbyggðir
480-1960, gamlir torfbæir
• Surf & Turf, Austurvegur 22, tel. 482-2899. • Opening hours:ogsee
Skógakirkja,
advertisementsemabove.
er dæmigerð fyrir stíl kirkju-
• Kaffi-Krús, Austurvegur 7, tel. 482-1266. bygginga
• Golf at Svarfhólsvöllur on frá
the miðöldum framRiver,
banks of Ölfusá á 19. öld.
9 holes,
• Kaffi Selfoss, Eyravegur 2, tel. 482-1132. tel. 482-2417.
• Subway, Eyrarvegur 2, tel. 482-7877. Samgöngusafnið var opnað 2002, þar er sýnt
• Fishing permits at Veiðisport, Eyrarvegur 15, tel. 482-1506.
• Golfskálinn Svarfhólsvöllur, tel. 482-2417. yfirlit yfir
• Selfossbíó, Eyravegur þróun
2, movie ferðalaga
theater, og samgangna,
tel. 517-7000,
861 Hvolsvelli
• Pylsuvagninn, - Opið hot
Tryggvatorg, daglega frá482-1782.
dogs, tel. kl. 9:00 til 18:30 á sumrin, selfossbio@selfossbio.is,
vegagerðarwww.selfossbio.is.
og vélvæðingar frá upphafi 20. aldar.
og frá Fried
• Kentucky kl. 11:00 til 16:00
Chicken, á veturna.
Austurvegur 46, tel. 482-3466. • For details on Heimsækið
horse rentals and more leisureogactivities contact
safnabúðina veitingaskálann í
Sími: 487
• Menam, 8845 8,· Fax
Eyrarvegur 487 8858
tel. 482-4099. Tourist Information, tel. 899-8663.
nýja safninu.
skogasafn@skogasafn.is · www.skogasafn.is
• Bókakaffið, Austurvegur 22, netcafé, tel. 482-3079. • Iceland Forever Booking Service, Eyravegur 3, tel. 899-8663,
• Hlöllabátar, Austurvegur 52, tel. 771-7372. info@icelandforever.is. www.icelandforever.is.
• Ísbúð Huppa, Ice-cream parlor, Eyravegur 2.
Health Center: Árvegur, tel. 480-5100,
• Seylon, Eyravegur 15, tel. 571-6657/849-9325.
or tel. 480-5112 between 18:00 to 08:00.
• Hamborgarabúlla Tómasar, Eyrarvegur 32, tel. 571-8288.
• Eldhúsið, Tryggvagata 40, tel. 660-1840. Pharmacy:
• Dóminos Pizza, Eyravegur 2, tel. 581-2345. • Lyf og heilsa, Austurvegur 3-5, tel. 482-1177.
• Vefjan food truck and fast food on Engjavegur, tel. 844-5544. • Lyfja, Austurvegur 44, tel. 482-3000.
215
For Motorists: Filling station, garage and tire repair. • Kynnisferðir, N1 Austurvegur 48, tel. 580-5450,
Car Rentals: daily trips to Landmannalaugar June – Aug.
• Europcar/Bílaleiga Akureyrar, tel. 840-6098. • TREX group tours, N1 Austurvegur 48, tel. 587-6000,
• JÞ, Eyravegur 15 b, tel. 482-4040/892-9612, transportation to Landmannalugar and Þórsmörk in the summer.
www.carrentalselfoss.is. • SBA-Norðurleið, N1 Austurvegur 48, tel. 550-0700,
• Iceland Cars, tel. 691-5256/897-6554. scheduled tours to Akureyri via Kjölur in summer.
• Coach service, Guðmundur Tyrfingsson, Fossnesi C,
Banks: tel. 482-1210, various entertaining tours.
• Landsbanki, Austurvegur 20, tel. 410-4152. • Hópferðabílar ÞÁ bílar, Gagnheiði 36, tel. 511-5510/842-5510.
• ATM in Samkaup, Tryggvagata 40. • Strætó, N1, Austurvegur 48, tel. 540 2700, bus – see schedule for
• Arion Bank, Austurvegur 10, tel. 444-7000, ATM. South Iceland, straeto.is.
• Íslandsbanki, Austurvegur 9, tel. 440-4000, ATM. • Bifreiðastöð Árborgar, Kirkjuvegur 8, tel. 482-3800.
• Kjarninn, Shopping Center, Austurvegur 3-5, ATM.
Events:
Post Office: Austurvegur 26, tel. 580-1200. • Drepstokkur: cultural festival for youth from the south.
Alcohol Store: Vallholt 19, tel. 482-2011. • April 23: First Day of Summer in Selfoss, a family festival.
Local Handicrafts: • Spring in Árborg.
• Gallery Viss, Gagnheiði 39, sheltered workplace, tel. 480-6920. • Kótelettan, family and music festival.
• Handverk Jóhönnu, Grashagi 1a, wooden toys, tel. 694-5282. • June 17: National Day celebrations.
• Töfraljós, Fossheiði 5, tel. 893-6804. • Vintage Car Club National Meeting.
• Handverksskúrinn, Eyravegur 3, tel. 898-1550. • Brúarhlaup run, UMF Selfoss.
• Cultural October - a month of cultural events.
Museum/Exhibition: • For more information: www.arborg.is.
• Árborg Library and Listagjáin showroom, Austurvegur 2,
tel. 480-1980.
• Fischer Center, Austurvegur 21, exhibits connected to Bobby
Fischer, tel. 894-1275, fischersetur@gmail.com,
STOKKSEYRI
www.fischersetur.is. Stokkseyri is a seaside town, just east of Eyrarbakki. The Stokkseyri shore-
Sightseeing/Transportation: line has many small pools of water and is renowned for its beauty and di-
• Sterna, tel. 551-1166, day tours and bus-passport: verse birdlife. There is a rich artistic and cultural life in Stokkseyri. The town
Reykjavík-Selfoss-Hella-Hvolsvöllur-Vík has a number of artists’ workshops, as well as strong ties to the nation’s
and Reykjavík-Selfoss-Brautarholt-Flúðir, www.sterna.is. ghost, troll and elf myths. There are also museums and leisure activities for
216
Magical Soup
and Luscious Lobster
at Fjörubordid in Stokkseyri
Spör ehf.
The giant lobster meets up with mermaids and

landlubbers at the seashore. He waves his huge claws and tries
to attract the attention of these who choose to keep company
with sea stars and lumpfish.
> Just 45 minutes from Reykjavík

Reykjavík
Stokkseyri
Eyrarbraut 3, 825 Stokkseyri · Tel. 483 1550
Eyrarbakki info@fjorubordid.is · www.fjorubordid.is
A Bakki hostel & apartments
Eyrargata 51-53 - 820 Eyrarbakki
 788 8200 - info@bakkihostel.is - www.bakkihostel.is
Take a step back in time and enjoy

modern Icelandic & international
cuisine in a setting rich with history
Rau›a Húsi› (The Red House) is countryside fine dining at its best. Located in a
historic house in the 19th-century trading hub of Eyrarbakki on the south coast, it
is a stop not to miss on your Golden Circle or South coast trip.
We specialize in seafood direct from the fisherman, including the finest langoustines in
Iceland, although our varied menu also includes Icelandic lamb, other meat and vegetari-
36 3 3
an dishes, and sumptuous desserts and coffee drinks. Top off your lunch or dinner with a
stroll down the seaside path just across the street from the restaurant.   
6
www.raudahusid.is
Tel. +354 483 3330
• Húsið við hafið (The house by the sea), Íragerður 14,
Open 7 days a week year-round tel. 588-6212/699-2040.
• Vestri Grund, Vestri Grund 1, tel. 844-3882.
Camping Site: by Sólvellir in the center of the village, tel. 896-2144.
THE HOUSE AT EYRARBAKKI Restaurants/Snack Bars:
• Við fjöruborðið, Eyrarbraut 3a, tel. 483-1550, info@fjorubordid.is,
Today one can enjoy www.fjorubordid.is.
exhibitions about the story • Shell Kiosk, Háteinsvegur 2, tel. 483-1485.
and culture of the region,
famous piano, shawl made Leisure and Sport:
out of human hair and the
kings pot, are among items. • Swimming pool and hot tubs by Stjörnusteinn, Eyrarbraut,
Húsið prides itself with tel. 483-3260, opening hours as advertised.
warm and homelike • Kajakaferðir, Stokkseyri, Eyrarbraut, tel. 868-9046/695-2058,
atmosphere. kajak@kajak.is, www.kajak.is.
The Maritime museum is • Hólaborg, Hólaborg1801, Hólavellir, s: 664 8088, ATV tours and
close by where the beautiful
twelverower Farsæll is the Animal Visitor Center with Icelandic horses and farm animals.
Árnessýsla folk museum is located in Húsið, the House, historical
home of the Danish merchants built in 1765.
largest item. • Information about fishing permits from Veiðisport,
Húsið is one of the oldest houses in Iceland and a beautiful monument A glimpse of the past lives Eyrarvegur 15, Selfoss, tel. 482-1506/482-1043/695-3034.
of Eyrarbakki´s time as the biggest trading place on the south coast. of Eyrarbakki´s villagers is
what meets the eye of the For Motorists: Filling station, Shell Kiosk, tel. 483-1485.
guests.
Local Handicraft:
• Hólmaröst, Hafnargata 9, Herborg pottery, tel. 661-7599.
Opening hours: May 1st - September 30th daily 11.00-18.00 or by an agreement
Tel: +354 483 1504 & +354 483 1082 | husid@husid.com | www.husid.com
• Sjöfn Har Listaskálinn Stokkseyri, Hafnargata 6, artist workshop,
tel. 894-0367, www.sjofnhar.is.
• Organ Workshop, Hafnargata 9, instruction about organ making
and music and the history of music from the south coast,
tel. 861-1730, orgel@simnet.is, www.orgel.is.
the whole family. Þuríðarbúð is an old dwelling that has been renovated, • Gallery Gimli, Hafnargata 1, tel. 894-7909/848-8612.
where seamen slept, ate and dwelt during their days ashore. It is named • Gallerí Svarti Klettur, gallery and workshop, Hafnargata 9,
after “foreman” Thurídur Einarsdóttir (1777 – 1863). Knarrarósviti light- tel. 861-1733.
house is east of Stokkseyri village, built in Funkis and Jugend style from • Þóra Mosaik, gallery and workshop, Hafnargata 9, tel. 863-2330.
designs by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, and is the tallest building in Museum/ Exhibition:
South Iceland. On January 1, 2016, the population was 454. • Þuríðarbúð, on Strandgata, ancient seaman’s house and museum,
tel. 483-1082.
Accommodation: • The dairy farm at Baugsstadir, 5 km east of Stokkseyri,
• Guesthouse Kvöldstjarnan, Stjörnusteinar 7, tel. 486-3369, open by appointment.
tel. 483-1800/896-6307. • The Ghost Center, Hafnargata 9, open daily in summer 13 – 18,
• Art Hostel, Hafnargata 9, tel.854-4510/894-2910. in winter by arrangement, tel. 483-1202/895-0020,
• Gistiheimili Hebu, Íragerður 12, tel. 565-0354. www.draugasetrid.is.
218
• Icelandic Wonders Museum, Hafnargata 9, dedicated to elves, Leisure and Sport: Vesturbúð, Eyrargata 49, fishing permits
trolls and the northern lights, tel. 483-1202/895-0020, available for Ölfusá River, tel. 483-1385.
www.icelandicwonders.com. For Motorists: Filling station ÓB, Vesturbúð, Eyrargata 49,
• The Wildlife Museum, Eyrarbraut 49, collection of mounted tel. 485-1385.
animals, firearms and artifacts relating to hunting,
www.veidisafnid.is. Museums/ Exhibitions:
• Húsið, Regional Folk Museum, Eyrarvegur 50, open daily May 15
Places of Interest and Hiking: Knarrarósviti, lighthouse, west of the – Sept. 15, 11 – 18, or by arrangement, tel. 483-1504,
Baugsstaðir farm. www.husid.com.
Events: • Sjóminjasafnið Eyrarbakka, Maritime Museum, Túngata 59,
• Seaman´s Weekend Festival. open daily May 15. – Sept. 15, 11 – 18 or by arrangement,
• Pier Festival. tel. 483-1504.
• Faroese Family Days. • Konubókastofan, woman’s library, Túngata 40,
• Further information: www.stokkseyri.is. tel. 483-1504 /862-0110, open by arrangement with the curator,
• Hallur Karl, artist, Eyrargata 16e, tel. 892-1976, www.hallurkarl.is.
EYRARBAKKI Local Handicrafts:

• Óðinshús, Eyrargata, gallery and artist’s studio, tel. 896-2866.
• Gallerí Regína, Eyrargata 36, tel. 866-1962/483-1143.
Eyrarbakki is an old trading post on the seashore, just east of the Ölf-usá
Places of Interest and Hiking:
River estuary, and is bursting with history. The town’s heyday was from
• Hiking along the shore.
the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. A number of houses from
• Bird sanctuary in Flói.
around 1900 exist, many of which have been preserved and renovated
• Historical tours around Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri,
in recent years. “The House” in Eyrarbakki, built by Danish merchants in
• Menningar-Staðir, Búðarstígur 7, tel. 898-4240.
1765, is one of the oldest buildings in Iceland and currently houses the
Árnes Folk Museum. The Eyrarbakki Maritime Museum is located a short Events:
distance from “The House,” as well as a few private museums. The • Spring in Árborg.
Women’s Book Center was opened in Eyrarbakki in 2013, which collects • Seaman’s Day Festival.
and promotes the writings of Icelandic women. The Flói bird conserva- • June 17: National Day.
tion area is located north of Eyrarbakki and the seashore is popular for • Midsummer Night, campfire and songs.
walks and exploration. On January 1, 2016, the population was 517. • The Icelandic Museums’ Day is celebrated in the Regional Folk
Museum.
• Turn of the Century Festival in Eyrarbakki.
Accommodation:
• Further information: www.eyrarbakki.is.
• Suðurgisting, Eyrargata 37a, tel. 898-1197/482-1197.
• Rein B&B, Þykkvaflöt 4, tel. 777-5677.
ÖLFUS
Camping Site: west of the village. 483-3330/898-1366.
Restaurant/Snack Bars:
• Rauða húsið (The Red House), Búðarstígur 4, tel. 483-3330.
• Menningar-Staður, Búðarstíg 7, tourist info and coffee, Ölfus is on the western edge of Árnessýsla district and is bordered by the
tel. 898-4240. Ölfusá River in the east. In the east the countryside is characterized by
• Laugabúð, Eyrargata 46, tel. 483-1443. marshes and sandy beaches, while in the west there are mountains, lava
HELLISHEIÐI GEOTHERMAL POWER PLANT

VISIT THE GEOTHERMAL
ENERGY EXHIBITION
Enjoy our coffee shop and our
fine selection of souvenirs.
Open daily from 9:00 – 17:00.
We are about 20 min. drive
from Reykjavík on Route 1 www.orkusyn.is
orkusyn@orkusyn.is
toward Hveragerði. ( 412-5800
219
fields, and seaside cliffs. To the north is a mountainous area and the seamen whose prayers for rescue were miraculously answered. Even
Hellisheiði heath, while in the south, there is a large agricultural area. today, many people still pledge donations to the church in the hope that
Ölfus is one of the largest centers of horse breeding in Iceland, although they will overcome illness or adversity. There has not been a priest serv-
residents increasingly commute to work in Reykjavík or Selfoss. The ing the church since 1907. There is an informational sign in front of the
residential areas of Hveragerði, Þorlákshöfn and Árbæjarhverfi are con- church.
sidered part of Ölfus, despite the fact that Hveragerði is its own munici-
pality. On January 1, 2016, the population was 1,967. Herdísarvík is an old fishing center where there are the ancient remains
of fisherman’s huts. Poet and campaigner-for-progress Einar Benedikts-
Mt. Hengill and the surrounding area is an ideal place to enjoy outdoor son (1864 – 1940) spent the last years of his life in the small black
activities. There are many interesting paths, covering a total of 125 km, timber house here. The house and land were donated to the University of
that have been marked by the Reykjavík District Heating Company, Iceland, which is now protected. There is a sign on the house of Einar
which harnesses hot water for the capital’s central heating. There are Benediktsson and Hlín Johnson Herdísarvík with a map of the area.
parking areas and information posters with maps where the paths start.
The walks are of varying difficulty, so hikers must be sure to get the Accommodation:
necessary information before setting off. Paths start at the parking lots • 895. Ölfusborgir, vacation rentals, tel. 483-4260.
located in the following places: • Núpar I-II, tel. 857-2040, nupar@nupar.is, www.nupar.is.
• 897. Hótel Hlíð, Króki, tel. 483-5444,
Sleggjubeinsdalur, by the geothermal water borehole. info@hotelhlid.is, www.hotelhlid.is.
Rjúpnabrekkur, inland from Hveragerði. • 895. Hótel Eldhestar, Vellir, tel. 480-4800/483-4884,
Lake Úlfljótsvatn, by the Scouts’ huts. info@eldhestar.is, www.eldhestar.is.
Lake Ölfusvatn, by the bridge over the Ölfusvatnsá River. • 895. Akurgerði, chalets, akurgerdi@akurgerdi.is,
Nesjavellir, by Nesbúð. www.akurgerdi.is, tel. 483-4449/893-9814.
Kýrdalsbrúnir, above Nesjavellir. • 895. Gljúfur, chalets, tel. 483-4461,gljufur@gljufur.is, www.gljufur.is.
Botnadalur in Dyrafjöll. • Guesthouse Hjarðarból, tel. 567-0045/840-1574,
Dyradalur in Dyrafjöll. info@hjardarbol.is, www.hjardarbol.is.
• 898. T-bær, Selvogur, tel. 483-3150.
A map of the Hengill area has been published, as well a book describing
Camping Site: 898. T-Bær, Selvogur, tel. 483-3150.
the topography, geology and hiking paths.
Selvogur are tranquil bays on the southwest coast with rich birdlife. It is • T-Bær café, in Selvogur, tel. 483-3150.
said that the original Strandarkirkja church was built by shipwrecked • Skíðaskálinn, The Ski Lodge, Hveradalir, table bookings,
tel. 567-2020, skidaskali@skidaskali.is, www.skidaskali.is.
220
• Litla kaffistofan, by Route 1, Svínahraun, tel. 557-7601. the library and relax at the popular pool. When the Óseyrarbrú bridge
• Básinn, Ingólfsskáli, Efstaland, tel. 483-4160, was completed a few years ago, communication between Þorlákshöfn
basinn@islandia.is, www.basinn.is. and the south coast communities greatly increased. On January 1,
• Hafið bláa, at Óseyrarbrú, tel. 483-1000, 2016, the population was 1,527.
hafidblaa@hafidblaa.is, www.hafidblaa.is.
• Fákasel, Ingólfshvoli, tel. 480-5050, Tourist Information: Ölfus Information Center in the Municipal
fakasel@fakasel.is, www.fakasel.is. Library, Hafnarberg 1, tel. 480-3830, bokasafn@olfus.is, www. olfus.is.
Leisure/Sport: Accommodations: Hjá Jonna guesthouse, Oddabraut 24,
• Eldhestar, horse rental, Vellir, tel. 480-4800/483-4884, hjajonna@gmail.com, jonnaguesthouse.is, tel. 483-5292/868-5292.
info@eldhestar.is, www.eldhestar.is.
Camping Site: By the sport center, Hafnarberg 41, tel. 483-3890.
• Sólhestar, Borgargerði, horse rental, tel. 892-3066,
solhestar@solhestar.is, www.solhestar.is. Restaurants/Snack Bars:
• Fákasel, Ingólfshvoli, tel. 480-5050, • Skálinn, Óseyrarbraut 17, tel. 483-3801.
fakasel@fakasel.is, www.fakasel.is. • Meitillinn, Selvogsbraut 41, tel. 483-5950.
• Fishing in Hlíðarvatn Lake, Stangveiðifélagið Árblik, tel. 483-3848. • Svarti Sauðurinn, Unubakka 4, tel. 483-3320.
• Fishing in Þorleifslækur Creek, tel. 557-6100. • Hendur í höfn, Unubakka 10-12, café, tel. 848-3389.
• Bakaríið (The Bakery), Selvogsbraut 41.
Local Handicrafts: Ceramics gallery, Hraun, tel. 862-5077.
Leisure and Sport:
Exhibitions:
• Swimming pool, Sport Center, tel. 483-3890.
• Geothermal exhibition in Hellisheiðavirkjun power station,
• Golf, 18 holes, by Óseyrarbraut, tel. 483-3009.
open daily 9 – 17, tel. 412-5800, on@on.is,
http://www.onpower.is/exhibition. Health Center: Selvogsbraut 24, tel. 480-5240.
Places of Interest/Excursions: Pharmacy: Apótekarinn, Selvogsbraut 41, open 13:30-17:30
• Hiking paths in the Hengill mountain area, maps available weekdays, tel. 483-3868.
at the Hellisheiði Power Plant, Tourist Information Center For Motorists: Filling station, garage and tire repair. Unubakki 48,
in Hveragerði and at the Municipal Library in Þorlákshöfn. tel. 483-3540.
• Hiking trails on the coast and to Mt. Geitafell, see map available at
tourist information centers. Bank/Post Office:
• Selvogur – Strandarkirkja – Herdísarvík: interesting outdoor areas • Landsbankinn, Hafnarberg 1, tel. 410-4000.
with historical connections. • ATM in the shop Skálinn, Óseyrarbraut 15.
• Informational sign by Strandakirkja and Herdísarvík. Alcohol Store: Selvogsbraut 41, tel. 481-3963.
• Raufarhóls cave – 1,360 m long cave with many beautiful
Local Handicrafts: Hendur í höfn, Unubakka 10-12, glass, handi-
pictures. Extreme care must be taken in the cave.
crafts, tel. 848-3389.
• Arnarker cave, Leitarhrauni, cars can approach on the old
Selvogsvegur road. Extreme care must be taken in the cave. Museum/Exhibition: Municipal Library, Hafnarberg 1, art exhibitions
and mounted fish on display, tel. 480-3830.
Places of Interest:
ÞORLÁKSHÖFN • Þorlákshöfn church, open during summer.
• Walking paths and information signs east of Þorlákskirkju church.
• Outdoor recreational areas in the surrounding countryside.
Þorlákshöfn is a town by the Ölfusá River. It was a seasonal fishing cen- • Karlsminni, a monument north of the town.
ter for centuries, but major harbor improvements were made after the • Outdoor photo exhibition at Selvogsbraut.
Westman Island eruption in 1973 that strengthened the town’s fisheries
industry. Þorlákshöfn has a challenging sand golf course and it is enjoy- Transportation: www.straeto.is, www.olfus.is
able to walk along the coast, go to the health hill in town, see the outdoor Events:
photography exhibition on the main street, view fascinating exhibits at • 5-7 August: Hafnardagar, Familiy festival, www.hafnardagar.is.
• Music by the Sea, concerts in the winter months.
• For more information visit: www.olfus.is.
HVERAGERÐI
Hveragerði became a municipality in 1946. In previous years Hveragerði
was known as the town of horticulture and artists. The street Frumskógar
is often called Poets Street because poets lived in every second house
there in the middle the 20th century. Large horticultural and gardening
shows are held in the town every summer and attract many visitors. On
January 1, 2016, the population was 2,461.
3535HIHIHostels
Hostels around Iceland
around Iceland
welcome
welcomeyouyou -- www.hostel.is
www.hostel.is Hot Spring Zone. One of the biggest assets of Hveragerði is the Hot
Spring Garden. Such a natural wonder in the middle of a residential
221
area is extremely rare in today’s world. When a powerful earthquake mer of 2000, as well as an illuminated earthquake rift under the floor of
hit the region in May 2008 a new hot spring zone was created above the Information Center and Library.
the town.
Tourist Information Center: South Iceland Information Center, in
Outdoor life – Nature – Exercise. The natural surroundings in Hveragerði the Shopping Center at Sunnumörk, open in summer, weekdays
are a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts. Hiking and riding trails run from 8:30 – 18, Sat. 9 – 16, Sun. 9 - 14, and in winter, weekdays
the town through Ölfusdalur valley to the Hengill district, all the way to 8:30 – 17 and Sat. 9 -13. Internet access, tel. 483-4601/660-3905,
Nesjavellir and Þingvellir. Along the way there are natural hot springs fax 483-4604, tourinfo@hveragerdi.is, www.south.is,
where it is possible to bathe. www.hveragerdi.is, www.south.is.
The South Iceland Tourist Information Center, located in Hveragerði has Accommodation:
an earthquake simulator that simulates the earthquake from the sum- • Hotel Örk, Breiðamörk 1c, tel. 483-4700,
info@hotel-ork.is, www.hotel-ork.is
222
From Vestmannaeyjar.
• HVER, Hótel Örk, Breiðamörk 1c, tel. 483-4700.
• Hoflandssetrið, Breiðamörk 2, tel. 483-4467.
Núpar travel service • Kjöt & kúnst, Breiðamörk 21, tel. 483-5010.
Núpar I-II - 816 Ölfus • Veitingahúsið Varmá, restaurant, Hverhamar, tel. 483-4959.
 857-2040 - nupar@nupar.is - www.nupar.is • Shell Kiosk, Austurmörk 22, tel. 483-4221.
• Matstofa NLFÍ, Grænamörk 10, vegetarian restaurant, book in
advance, tel. 483-0300.
• Almar´s Bakery, Sunnumörk 2-4, tel. 483-1919.
• Magga’s Grill, Breiðumörk 19, tel. 483-4727.
• Nielsen, Sunnumörk 2-4, health and gourmet shop, tel. 483-3301.
• Dalakaffi, Reykjadal, tel. 862-8522.
• Mæran/Gottís, Breiðamörk 10, tel. 483-4879.
Leisure and Sport:
• Swimming Pool, Laugaskarð, tel. 483-4113.
• Hotel Örk, swimming pool, tennis court, pitch and putt,
tel. 483-4700.
• Golf, Gufudalsvöllur, 9 holes, tel. 483-5090.
• Iceland Activities, Mánamörk 3-5, tel. 777-6262,
3 4 www.icelandactivities.is.
Health Center: Breiðamörk 25b, tel. 480-5250.
Pharmacy: Lyf og heilsa, Breiðamörk 25, tel. 483-4197.
For Motorists:
• Bílaverkstæði Jóhanns ehf, Austurmörk 13, tel. 483-4299.
• Gh. Frumskógar, Frumskógar 3, tel. 896-2780 • Bíl-X ehf, Austurmörk 11, tel. 483-4665.
gisting@frumskogar.is, www.frumskogar.is. • Shell, Austurmörk 22, tel. 483-4221.
• Gh. Frost og Funi, Hverahamar, tel. 483-4959. • N1, Breiðamörk 1, tel. 483-4242.
• Varmi, Varmahlíð 15, tel. 699-5858/483-4065. Bank:
• Fagvís, Breiðamörk 13, tel. 483-5900/892-9330. • Arion Bank, Breiðamörk 20, tel. 480-4500, ATM.
Camping Site: By Reykjamörk, tel. 857-9903. • Sunnumörk, ATM.
224
Post Office: In the Shopping Center at Sunnumörk, tel. 483-4601.
Alcohol Store: Vínbúð, Sunnumörk 2-4, tel. 481-3932.
WESTMAN ISLANDS
Local Handicrafts: The Westman Islands are a group of 15-18 islands, depending on how
• Gallerí Smiðja, Kambahraun 57, tel. 483-4420, ceramics. they are classified, and about 30 skerries and rock pillars, located off the
• Kiano, sewing shop. mainland’s south coast. The islands were formed by submarine and
• Handverkgallerí, Sunnumörk 2- 4, tel. 862-4949, handverkgalleri.is. subglacial volcanic eruptions along a 30 km-long fissure that runs
• Hverablóm, Sunnumörk 2-4, flowers, souvenirs, gifts and more, southwest to northeast. The largest and only inhabited island is Heimaey,
tel. 483-3300. 13.4 km2. Most of the islands have steep sea cliffs and are well vegetat-
Shop: Fagvís, Breiðamörk 13, tel. 483-5900/892-9330. ed. Bird hunting and egg collecting are traditional to the islanders’ cul-
Gallery: Listasafn Árnesinga, Austurmörk 21, art gallery, tel. 483-1727. ture. A weather station and lighthouse stand at Stórhöfði headland on
Heimey, which is the southernmost inhabited point in Iceland.
• The Hot Spring Park, Hveramörk 13, fieldtrip to geothermal field, The Westman Islands play an important part in Icelandic Settlement His-
information about the geothermal field and geothermal biology. tory. Founder Ingólfur Arnarson found his half-brother, Hjörleifur, dead at
Open in summer, by appointment in winter, tel. 483-4601. Hjörleifshöfði. His slaves, who escaped to the Westman Islands, mur-
• Earthquake of 2008, Sunnumörk 2-4, earthquake demonstration, dered him. Ingólfur followed them and killed them all. Since then the
information about the earthquake fissure and an earthquake islands have been associated with the slaves, as they were called Vest-
simulator, tel. 483-4601/660-3905. menn (Irish and ‘from the west’). The most tragic event in the island’s
Transportation: history occurred when Algerian pirates raided the island in 1627, killing
• Strætó, Shell Kiosk, scheduled bus service daily to Reykjavík. and torturing the people and taking 242 into captivity, eventually selling
• Sterna - Bílar og fólk ehf., tel. 551-1166, scheduled coach service them into slavery.
in South Iceland.
A church was built at Hörgaeyri, near Heimaklettur, in the year 1000
Events: shortly before Iceland adopted Christianity. The present-day Landakirkja
• April 23: The First Day of Summer. Open House at
church is the third-oldest stone church in Iceland, completed in 1778. In
• The Agricultural School at Reykir.
2000 a Norse timber church, a gift from the Norwegians to commemo-
• June 24 – 26: Blóm í bæ, Garden and Flower Exhibition.
rate 1000 years since Christianity was accepted in Iceland, was conse-
• Aug. 12 – 14: Blooming days, a local Family Festival.
crated on Heimaey. It is the only church of its kind in Iceland and is lo-
cated in the Skanssvæði area where a stonewall, built after the Algerian
kidnapping in 1627 occurred, has been rebuilt.
Fly from Reykjavík Airport – 20 min.
Ferry from Landeyjahöfn – 30 min.
Vestmannaeyjar tourist information

Tel. +354 488-2555
225
Established in 1963, Iceland’s oldest aquarium and natural history mu- Accommodation:
seum is located on Heimaey. For a long time, this was the only place in • Hótel Vestmannaeyjar, Vestmannabraut 28, tel. 481-2900,
the country that maintained and exhibited live fish. Today, the museum hotelvestmannaeyjar@simnet.is, www.hotelvestmannaeyjar.is.
is called Sæheimar and is extremely popular among travelers, especially • Aska Hostel, Bárustígur 11, tel. 555-1166,
since it took into its care flightless fledgling puffins that were not able to info@askahostel.is, www.askahostel.is.
migrate after the end of nesting season. • Guesthouse Hamar, Herjólfsgata 4, tel. 481-3400,
infohamar@gmail.com, www.guesthousehamar.is.
Sagnheimar, the Westman Islands Folk Museum, was completely reno- • Hótel Eyjar, Bárustígur 2, tel. 481-3636/895-8350.
vated and given a stylish makeover in 2011. The museum boasts pains- • Gh. Heimir, Heiðarvegur 1, tel. 846-6500.
taking installations, antique displays, and entertaining narratives about • Gh. Hreiðrið, Faxastígur 33, tel. 481-1045.
life in the Westman Islands. The museum’s work has also been charac- • Gh. Guðrúnar, Hólagata 42, tel. 846-9648.
terized by dynamic collaborations with various local associations that • Guesthouse Dalhamar, Áshamar 10, tel. 899-2563,
place particular focus on educating tourists and the general public. dalhamar@hotmail.com.
• GM gisting, Heiðarvegur 20, tel. 695-1019/481-3017.
On 23 January 1973 an eruption began on Heimaey that dramatically • Guesthouse Eyjaból, Sóleyjargata 12, tel. 481-1442,
affected the lives of the inhabitants. Almost all residents were evacuated ollae@internet.is.
to the mainland during the night. The eruption ended in June, after which • B and B, Jóhanna Finnboga, Vestmannabraut 13a,
many people began returning home. Since then the Westman Islands tel. 698-2962/481-2962.
have been a popular tourist destination. Of particular interest to visitors • Scouts Youth Hostel, Faxastígur 38, tel. 692-6952.
will be the recently-opened Eldheimar, a volcanic museum tracing the • Dalabú Farmers Guest House, on Dalvegur,
history of the disastrous eruption in 1973 and the creation of the island tel. 897-9616/694-2598.
of Surtsey from 1963-1967. Surtsey is on the UNESCO World Heritage • Guesthouse Sunnuhöll, Vestmannabraut 26, tel. 481-2900,
List. On January 1, 2016, the population of the Westmans was 4,282. hotelvestmannaeyjar@simnet.is, www.hotelvestmannaeyjar.is.
• RB Gisting, Kirkjuvegur 10a, tel. 481-1569.
Police: Faxastígur 42, tel. 444-2090. • Smáhýsi, Ofanleitisvegur 2, tel. 481-1109/695-2309.
• Skátaheimilið - Youth Hostel, Faxastígur 38, tel. 692-6952.
Tourist Information Center: Tourist Information, tel. 488-2555,
• Bændagisting Dalabú, on Dalvegur, tel. 897-9616/694-2598.
info@visitvestmannaeyjar.is, www.visitvestmannaeyjar.is.
226
Camping Site: In Herjólfsdalur and by Þórsheimili, tel. 864-4998.
• 900 Grill House, Vestmannabraut 23, tel. 482-1000.
H hótel vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannabraut 28 - 900 Vestmannaeyjar -  481-2900
• Canton, Strandvegur 49, tel. 481-1940. Fax 481 1696 - booking@hotelvestmannaeyjar.is
• Einsi kaldi, Vestmannabraut 28, tel. 481-1415/698-2572.
• GOTT, Bárustígur 11, tel. 481-3060.
• Slippurinn, Strandvegur 76, tel. 481-1515.
• Tanginn, Básaskersbryggja 8, tel. 414-4420.
• Vöruhúsið, Skólavegi 1, tel. 481-3160.
• Fiskibarinn, Bárastígur 1, tel. 481-3883.
• Joy, Vesturvegur 5, tel. 481-3883.
• Klettur, Strandvegur 44, tel. 481-1599/863-0525.
• Kráin / Hlöllabátar, Boðaslóð 12 tel. 481-3939.
• Lundinn, Kirkjuvegur 21, pub, groups, tel. 481-3412/ 896-3426.
• Prófasturinn, Heiðarvegur 3, groups, tel. 481-3700/896-3426.
• Vulcano Café, Strandvegur 66, tel. 481-2101.
• Tvisturinn, Faxastíg 36, tel. 481-3141/897-6665.
• Skýlið við Friðarhöfn, tel. 481-1445.
86 43 43
• Subway, Bárustígur 1, tel. 571-5277.
• Háaloftið, Concert hall and community center, Strembugata 13, tel.
896-6818. 1,5
Bakeries and Cafés:

• Café Varmó, Strandvegur 5, tel. 481-1674 / 866-6286.
• The Museum House in Vestmannaeyjar, Ráðhúströð, library, art and
• Arnór bakari, Baldurshagi at Bárustígur, tel. 481-2424.
photo gallery. tel. 488-2040, www.vestmannaeyjar.is/safnahus.is.
• Vilberg kökuhús, Bárustígur 7, tel. 481-2664.
• Volcanic Film Show, at the Community Center at Heiðarvegur, open
Leisure and Sport: daily in summer and by appointment in winter,
• Swimming pool and Sport Center, tel. 488-2400. tel. 481-1045/694-8945.
• Hressó gym, Strandvegur 65, tel. 481-1482. • Skanssvæðið area: Stafkirkjan, replica of an old Norwegian church,
• Golf, Herjólfsdalur, 18 holes, open almost all year, tel. 481-2363. tel. 481-1149.
• A variety of easy hiking trails.
Sightseeing/Hiking:
Hospital: • Eyjatours, Básaskersbryggja, tel. 852 6939, www.eyjatours.com,
• Heilbrigðisstofnun Suðurlands, Sólhlíð 10, tel. 432-2500. bus tours.
• Dentist, Heimir Hallgrímsson, Hólagata 40, tel. 481- 2772. • Rib Safari, tel. 661-1810, www.ribsafari.is, boat tours.
• Dentist, Hrannar, Kirkjuvegur 10a, tel. 481-3800. • Viking tours, daily boat and bus tours, tel. 488-4884/896-8986.
• Dentist, Hartmann Ásgrímsson, Sólhlíð 6, tel. 481-2646. www.vikingtours.is.
Pharmacy: Apótekarinn, Vesturvegur 5, tel. 481-3900. Transportation:
For Motorists: • Herjólfur, car and passenger ferry, scheduled ferry service daily
• Filling station, garage and tire repair. Skildingavegur 10, between Landeyjahöfn and Westman Islands, tel. 481-2800,
tel. 481-3131. herjolfur@eyjar.is, www.herjolfur.is.
• Esso, Friðarhöfn, tel. 481-1445/897-1155. • Flugfélagið Ernir, daily scheduled air service between Westman
• Hjólbarðastofan, tire repair, Hásteinsvegur 23, tel. 481-1523. Islands and Reykjavík, tel. 562-2640, www.ernir.is.
• Olís, Strandvegur 44, tel. 481-1599/863-0525. • Atlantsflug ehf., Bakkaflugvöllur, tel. 478-2424. Sightseeing tours.
• Shell, Faxastígur 36, tel. 481-3141/897-6665. Events:
Car Rentals: Flugtaxi, Akureyri Car Rental, tel. 840-6072. • First weekend in July: End of eruption in the Westman Islands
remembered in Skvísusund.
Banks: • Aug. 1 – 3: National holiday festival (bank holiday).
• Íslandsbanki, Kirkjuvegur 23, tel. 440-3000, ATM. • Golf tournaments all summer. Golf adventure for kids.
• Landsbanki Íslands, Bárustígur 15, tel. 481-4185, ATM. • First weekend in Oct.: Museum weekend.
Post Office: Strandvegur 52, tel. 580-1200.
Alcohol Store: Vesturvegur 10, tel. 481-1301.
Local Handicrafts:
• Gallery Steina, Vestmannabraut 36, tel. 481-3208.
• Gallery Tyrkja-Gudda, Bárustígur 11, tel. 481-1569. P O L I C E
Museums/ Exhibitions:
F I R E
• Eldheimar, Austurgerði/Gerðisbraut, tel. 846-6497,
eldheimar@eldheimar.is, www.eldheimar.is. M E D I C A L
• Sæheimar Aquarium, Heiðarvegur 12, tel. 863-8228,
www.saeheimar.is. D O C T O R S
ONE ONE TWO
• Sagnheimar, folk museum, tel. 488-2045, www.sagnheimar.is. R E S C U E S Q U A D
227
the interior
highlands
Travelers driving into the uninhabited highland interior must bear in mind that it calls for a different type of prepa-
ration than travelling in inhabited regions, as services and assistance are not nearby if mishaps occur. There is no
reason to fear the interior, but motorists must travel in well-equipped vehicles. People are discouraged from
driving low vehicles, such as standard cars.
Please respect the official spring closures of highland roads. Driving on closed roads can cause irreparable dam-
age to the environment. Never leave marked roads or tracks - tire marks can take decades to disappear.
SEVERAL THINGS TO HAVE IN MIND

1. The highland roads are closed until spring and are opened gradual- 4. Always cross unbridged rivers and streams with the utmost caution.
ly, depending on the weather and local conditions (especially thaw- Glacial rivers require particular care, since the currents and depth
ing), which are monitored by the Public Roads Administration. at fording places may change sharply and very quickly. Motorists
Some roads remain closed until well into the middle of summer. travelling by themselves are advised to wait until other travellers
Weekly maps are issued at Tourist Information Centers, showing are present before they cross glacial rivers, in case the need for
which interior roads are open for traffic. Up-to-date information is help should arise. The water level is always lowest early in the day,
available from the Icelandic Road and Coastal Information website: before the sun causes any melting on the glaciers.
www.vegagerd.is/english 5. Because of the enormous increase in highland traffic in recent
2. Travellers should always consult books and maps before setting off years, travelers can no longer be certain of finding unoccupied
to acquaint themselves with the areas they will be driving through mountain huts and shelters.
and the possible dangers en route. 6. It is always a good idea to consult the long-term weather forecast
3. Filling stations are few and far between, so motorists should make provided by the Meteorological Office. Special forecasts are now
sure they have adequate fuel for their journey. issued for weather in the interior. For information see:
www.vedur.is.
228
HIKING IN THE HIGHLANDS
General safety rules for Laugarvegurinn
The most popular hiking trail in Iceland is Laugarvegurinn, which runs be-
hikers traveling in Iceland:
tween Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugur. This route is 55 kilometers long
Hiking in the Icelandic highlands is steadily increasing in popularity and and travels through incredibly diverse landscapes featuring high mountains,
slowly but surely, so is the availability of marked trails. This means that colorful rhyolite, geothermal areas with erupting geysers, ice caves, sprawl-
highland hiking has become accessible for nearly all travelers, or at least ing deserts, magnificent canyons, and, at the very end, verdant birch for-
those who are relatively experienced hikers. ests. And of course, it would be remiss not to mention the hot pots at Land-
mannalaugur among these other wonders.
The weather in Iceland changes from one year to the next and as such,
there are many things that hikers must keep in mind when they begin a hike Laugarvegurinn can be divided into four unique segments to be hiked a day
Your
Your first
first destination
break overnight
should
should
in the Icelandic highlands, even during the summer. The majority of the
always
at a time. It’s most popular to start the hike at Landmannalaugur and then
destination always
at the mountain huts
highlands lies more than 600-800 meters above sea level. So although the at Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn, Emstrur,
be www.safetravel.is
be www.safetravel.is
and Þórsmörk. There are trail wardens at each of these huts and each has
calendar may say that it’s summertime, travelers should be prepared to
excellent facilities for hikers. The route is well-marked and should be safe
encounter practically winter-like weather conditions. It can snow during any
month of the year in the Icelandic highlands. In fact, it would hardly be a for everyone, though the highest part of the trail around Hrafntinnusker is
summer without at least a little snow somewhere in the highlands—even in about 1,000 meters above sea level. During this stretch of the trail, one can
 In
In Iceland
Iceland the
the weather
weather can
can change
change fast.
fast.
July, the warmest month of the year. This means that in some years, high- expect winter weather conditions—even during the height of summer—
land routs may open as much as two to three weeks later than usual, which and thus, it is the most dangerous part of the route, with an increased risk
Check
can easily disrupt prior travel plans. the weather at http://en.vedur.is
Check the weather at http://en.vedur.is of getting lost in the fog or snow.
As much as possible, travelers should pay close attention to weather fore- On the other hand, Hrafntinnusker is also the most colorful part of the trail,
casts and should consult the staff at mountain huts and trail wardens and and so it pays to delay your departure from Landmannalaugur and wait for
 Always
Always leave
leave your
your travel
travel plan plan with
manage their travel plans according to this guidance. Although the tem- with
good weather if needed. As ever, you should always consult the trail war-
dens, who are very familiar with the area and trail conditions, before begin-
someone
someone who can react if needed or
who can react
perature may only drop 2-3 degrees Celsius, such a change can create
if needed
life-threatening conditions in the highlands if followed by precipitation. Hy- or
ning a hike in hazardous weather.
0-4 degrees Celsius.

at www.safetravel.is/en/Bl/TravelPlan.
pothermia can be fatal and in the summer, it can typically set in at around
at www.safetravel.is/en/Bl/TravelPlan.
When you arrive at Álftavatn lake after the first two days’ hike, the trail ele-
vation decreases significantly, therefore reducing the danger of bad weath-
Travelers should stick to designated and marked hiking trails. There are er. There are several rivers that must be forded along the trail. Two of these
 Gather
Gather information
information about the area you
many such trails to choose from, the most popular of which include: the
Laugavegurinn trail between Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk, the Fim-
are sourced by mountain lakes: the Brátthálskvísl river adjoining Álftavatn
lake and Bláfjallakvísl, right next to Hvanngil canyon. These two rivers in-
are
are travelling
travelling to.
to.
mvörðuháls trail, various routes beginning within the Lónsöræfi nature re-
serve, the route from Herðubreiðarlindir through the Askja caldera and the
crease dramatically after heavy rainfall and can become treacherous.
Right before you reach Þórsmörk, you’ll need to ford the Þröngá river. This
the Dyngjafjöll mountains to the inhabited area in Bárðardalur valley, the
glacial river increases during periods of warm weather and can become
route from Sveinstindur mountain around Hólaskjól and Eldgjá and then
 Remember
Remember to to bring
bring the right equipment
further into Hvanngil canyon, and last but not least, the Kjalvegur trail from
impassable, although this is extremely rare. Consult the trail wardens and
We care
do not attempt to cross the river under hazardous conditions. It can be
Hveravellir to Hvítarnes, which has lately enjoyed increased traffic.
for
for the kind of travel
the kind of
All of these trails feature mountain huts where hikers can stay along the way
travel you are planning.
worthwhile to wait by the river for other hikers and then help each other
make the crossing together.
and there are trail wardens working along most of them during the high
about you so much

Many people choose to divide the route into more or fewer days, depending
season. Before you set off, it’s important register your itinerary and lodging
on their interests and abilities. It’s common for hikers to spend a day walk-
plans at the mountain hut you set off from and safetravel.is. Then you
ing around Álftavatn lake and those who are sleeping in tents have more
should stick to the route and schedule you set once you start out. These
choices for overnight stays than those who are sleeping in mountain huts.
that we want you

precautions go a long way to ensuring your safety on your journey and also
It’s also possible to begin the hike in the south at Þórsmörk and end north
reduce the likeliness that a search party will be dispatched to find you un-
at Landmannalaugur, as regular shuttle service is available to and from both
necessarily.
locations.
to visit our website.

We
We want
want you
you out
out of
of here
here ––alive!
www.safetravel.is
229
map of the interior
230
symbols
428 Accommodation
428 Camping
428 Swimming pool
231
Fimmvörðuháls Kjalvegur is well-marked with posts and cairns all along the way to Hverav-
Fimmvörðuháls is a mountain pass that connects the Mýrdalsjökull and ellir, where you’ll find diverse services, hot natural baths, and many other
Eyjafjallajökull glaciers. A popular trail runs through it between Þórsmörk travelers to welcome you on your arrival.
and the village of Skógar, which is located at the base of the Eyjafjöll moun-
tains. The trail is 26 kilometers in length, over the course of which it rises Kerlingarfjöll
1,100 meters in elevation. It’s most popular to start the trail from Skógar, Kerlingarfjöll is a picturesque mountain range on the Kjölur plateau that
following the Skógá river up gentle slopes and marveling at the many wa- merits a separate visit of its own. Hikers in this area will encounter beautiful
terfalls that you find along the way. Those who don’t want to hike along the and colorful mountains, a diverse geothermal area, and rare natural won-
river can follow the driving track the long way up the ridge. The trail is ders. There are good facilities for hikers in operation there and it’s also
marked with posts but these can get lost in the snow and early in the possible to reach Kerlingarfjöll via public transportation in the summertime.
summer, it can be easy to lose your way in the fog on the snowy plain at the It’s a great idea for hikers to use the mountain hut as their base in the
top of the ridge. At around 900 meters up the south side of the ridge, you’ll mountains for a few days so that they can get to know the diverse land-
find Baldvínsskál, a mountain hut owned by the Iceland Touring Association. scape via numerous marked trails.
At the very top of the pass, there’s a cosy hut owned by the Útivist travel
association. Most people stay the night at this hut and then continue on-
wards the next day, although it’s not uncommon for people to travel the Landmannahellir
whole route in one leg, particularly if they are not carrying a heavy pack. Not far from Landmannalaugur is the Landmannahellir tourist center. There
is a good campground and mountain hut accommodation here and over the
The trail leading from the Fimmvörðuháls hut down to Þórsmörk is shorter last few years, the site supervisors have done a good job of marking hiking
but very steep, so chains have been erected at Heljarkambur in order to paths in the area. It’s possible to follow marked trails from Rjúpnavellir í
help hikers keep their balance aid those with a fear of heights in making Landsveit and Áfangagil in the south of Iceland up to Landmannahellir. From
their descent. There is then a clear path leading down to Þórsmörk and it’s there, the trail continues on to Landmannalaugur along lesser-traveled
easy to find your way down, even in overcast conditions. The last phase of paths, but there are also marked trails leading up to Hrafntinnusker along
the hike, around Kattarhryggur and the Strákagil canyon and down to the magnificent Klukkugil canyon and from there, around less popular trails
Þórsmörk is particularly memorable. that run parallel to the busier Laugavegur.
This is a magnificent trail which, in good weather, is one of the most beau-
tiful in the country. In bad weather, however, there’s very little reason to take Strútsstígur
it, so if the conditions aren’t right, it’s worthwhile to delay your hike for 1-2 In recent years, the hiking association Útivist created a hiking trail called
days—just be sure to let someone know about the change in your travel Strútsstígur. This trail runs from the Hólaskjól lodge next to the Eldgjá volca-
plans. nic canyon, around the Álfavatnskrókur dell, and north towards the Svar-
tahnúksfjöll mountain ridge and the Strútsskáli hut, which stands under the
The ancient Kjalvegur trail eponymous Strútsfjall mountain. From there, the hike continues to Hvanngil
This track over the Kjölur plateau between Skagafjörður in the north of Ice- canyon, where it ends. Interested hikers can extend this route by beginning
land and Uppsveita Árnessýslu in the south has existed since the time of at Sveinstindur mountain north of Eldgjá and continuing around Skælingar
Iceland’s settlement. It’s an extremely long trail—180 kilometers between at Hólaskjól.
Blöndudalur and Gullfoss. Sheltered by the Langjökull and Hofsjökull gla- Strútsstígur attracts fewer hikers, although it traverses incredibly colorful
ciers, the Hveravellir Nature Reserve—which boasts fantastic geysers, regions, rushing glacial rivers, jagged lava fields, hot pools, hidden valleys
geothermal vents, and hot baths—is located right in the middle of the route with thundering, unnamed waterfalls, and majestic mountains. You can find
and also offers many interesting and well-marked hiking trails around its a little bit of everything along Strútsstígur.
area.
It’s popular to hike the portion of this ancient trail that runs between Hvítár-
vatn lake and Hveravellir, beginning the trip at the lake and then walking
north. From there, it’s about 40 kilometers to Hveravellir. The entire trail is
DRIVING IN
400-500 meters above sea level and it’s generally accessible for hikers at
all ability levels. On the way, it’s possible to stay overnight at the Þverbrek-
THE HIGHLANDS:
knamúli and Þjófadalir mountain huts, although many people choose to di-
vide the journey into fewer stages, in accordance with their own hiking Uxahryggjavegur (52)
abilities. It’s also possible to break your hike at Hvítárnes at the oldest rest
house in Iceland, which is still in use and which some people say is haunted. Kaldadalsvegur (52)
From there, the trail runs along the Fúlukvísl river on ancient, grassy riding The Uxahryggur road lies north of Þingvellir and enters Borgarfjöður at
trails, following the same cairns that have lead travelers on their way for Lundarreykjadalur. At Brunnar, Kaldadalsvegur road continues to Húsafell,
1,000 years. the farthest inland settlement of Borgarfjörður south of the Hvítá River. This
road can be taken by standard car, but it is a slow and rough drive. In olden
There are footbridges across Fúlukvísl at two places near Þverbrekknamúli. times, one of the main routes from the north to the Alþingi at Þingvellir ran
The route is extremely well-vegetated and well-trafficked, with rich birdlife across this district. The route runs between Ok shield volcano (1198 m) and
(at Hvítárnes especially) and grazing sheep, and given the steady flow of Þórisjökull (1350 m) glacier. Between Þórisjökull and the Geitlandsjökull
hikers and riders, the trail is never empty for long. Jutting out from the side tongue of the large Langjökull glacier lies Þórisdalur valley, where the hero
of the Langjökull glacier just next to the mountain hut at Þverbrekknamúli, of the Saga of Grettir the Strong is said to have stayed with a giant called
you’ll see the Hrútafell ice cap. Towering above the trail, Hrútafell has tempt- Þórir. Geitland is the area west of Geitlandsjökull, east of the Geitá River and
ed many travelers, but this ascent is only suitable for the most skilled and north of the banks of the Hvítá River, which was inhabited from the 10th
experienced of hikers. century until 1600. The ruined outlines of farms and old fields can be seen
232
The eruption in holuhraun.
in two places. Geitland has been officially protected since 1988. The highest ably in recent years with the creation of two large reservoirs, Krókslón for
part of Kaldidalur (Cold Valley) is known as Langihryggur (727 m), and just the Sigalda station and Hrauneyjalón for the Hrauneyjarfoss station.
north of it lies the rough and rocky dolerite lava field Skúlaskeið (Skúli´s
course). Folk tales, as well as a popular ballad by 19th century poet Grímur A bridge over the Tungnaá River at the Hald ferry station opened on June 1,
Thomsen, describe a criminal named Skúli who was sentenced to execution 2003. Tourists now have new opportunities to drive up to Búðarháls to see
at the Alþing, but escaped on his fleet-footed steed, Sörli. On completing the one of the most magnificent views in Iceland, including six glaciers on a
“course” Sörli dropped dead, and is said to be buried in the field at Húsafell. clear day. A center for highland travelers has been built at Hrauneyjar, by
the road to Landmannalaugar. A side road from the main Sprengisandur
route, over the bridge at the Vatnsfellsskurð canal from Lake Þórisvatn to
Sprengisandsleið (F-26) Krókslón, leads to Veiðivötn, a cluster of lakes 5 km wide and 20 km long
The Sprengisandur road (Sprengisandsleið) links the Sigalda hydro station north of the Tungnaá River. Veiðivötn is a popular destination for trout fish-
in the southern uplands with the northern uplands at Bárðardalur. In past ing. The area is heavily marked by volcanic activity and reached its present
centuries, Sprengisandur was a much-traveled path; people from east Ice- appearance after an eruption around 1480. The side road is 37 km in all,
land crossed it on their way to the Alþing, and bishops from the Episcopal and forms a circle round the lakes. The Sprengisandur road continues west
see at Skálholt often followed it on their visitations to the east. The route of Lake Þórisvatn, which today serves as a reservoir for the Tungnaá and
was abandoned in the 17th century, but people began using it again at the Þjórsá hydropower stations. Originally the lake measured 70 km2 in area,
end of the 18th century. Sprengisandur was first crossed by motor vehicle but since the Kaldakvísl diversion was channeled into it in 1971 its highest
in 1933, and the old route was moved when the Tungnaá River was bridged water level it can now cover up to 83 km2.
in connection with the Sigalda hydro project. With its unbridged rivers,
Sprengisandur is only safe for well-equipped 4WD vehicles. North of Nýida- Þjórsárver, the area south of Hofsjökull on either side of the Þjórsá River,
lur, there are options for routes to the north and east of Iceland: Skagafjörður, measures 150 km2 and is comprised of wetlands with patches of marsh-
Eyjafjörður or Bárðardalur for the three main districts of the north, or the land where numerous ruins remain. Þjórsárver is a protected area and the
Eastern Iceland route Austurleið. (F-910). location of the largest breeding ground of the pink-footed goose found any-
where in the world. Accommodation for travellers is available at Versalir,
Sprengisandur is reached from the south through either Landsveit or near Illugaver. The route passes through the Nýidalur Valley (the mouth of
Þjórsárdalur. Búrfell power station, built in 1970 on the south side of the Jökuldalur valley, 800 m), where there is a Touring Club mountain hut. Mt.
Sámsstaðamúli bluff, harnesses water diverted from the Þjórsá River, which Fjórðungsalda, northwest of Tungnafellsjökull glacier, is probably the closest
is Iceland’s longest river at 210 km. The water enters Bjarnalón reservoir (1 mountain to the exact geographical center of Iceland. It also marks the
km2) and is then taken by tunnel through the bluff to a 115 m headrace highland “crossroads” where Austurleið (F-910) branches northeast to Ösk-
towards six turbines, with a total capacity of 210 MW. The Tungnaá River juvatn and Skagafjarðarleið (F-752) northwest to Skagafjörður or Ey-
originates beneath the western edge of Vatnajökull glacier. Some 129 km jafjörður. The main Sprengisandur route continues due north, passing the
long, the Tungnaá River was bridged at Sigalda in 1968. Before then it was Aldeyjarfoss waterfall, with its peculiar columnar basalt formations and rock
a major obstacle to travelers and farmers driving sheep to the mountains or bowls hollowed out by water, and on to Mýri in Bárðardalur. From Kiðagils-
going to fish in Veiðivötn lakes, which is why the old route north lay west of drög there is a route known as Dragaleið, which leads to Mt. Laugafell.
the Þjórsá River. The river and landscape around it have changed consider-
233
Kjalvegur (35) with lodgings, a camping site, a restaurant and a gas station. There are
Kjalvegur lies between the major Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers and is bridges over all the rivers on the way to Kerlingarfjöll and the road is open
the route from Gullfoss in the south to the Blöndudalur settlements in the to all vehicles during the summer.
north. Rivers and waterfalls along the way have now been bridged, so the
route is navigable by all vehicles, although it is a slow journey. Ever since the Skagafjarðarleið (F-752)
settlement of Iceland, Kjalvegur has been an important route between the
north and south. The entry point in the south is 10 km beyond Gullfoss Eyjafjarðarleið (F-821)
waterfall, just north of the Sandá River, where a track leads to a small moun-
tain hut owned by the Touring Club of Iceland, near Lake Hagavatn.
Dragaleið (F-881)
The Skagafjörður route (Skagafjarðarleið) branches off from the Sprengisan-
Some way north, the road skirts the east side of Hvítárvatn, a lake measur- dur route at Lake Fjórðungsvatn, then heads toward Mt. Laugafell. There are
ing almost 30 km2 in area. Langjökull glacier used to calve on either side of 40-50°C hot geothermal pools northwest of Laugafell where Akureyri Tour-
Mt. Skriðufell, filling the lake with icebergs, but the southern tongue has ing Club has set up a hut and small swimming pool. Laugafell can also be
retreated considerably in recent years. A short way past the bridge over the reached by driving across from Kiðagilsdrög on the Sprengisandur route. A
Hvítá River, which drains from the lake, is a track to the Touring Club hut at track from Laugafell leads down to the deserted interior farmstead called
Hvítárnes. Langjökull (1355 m) stands out to the west, the second largest Þorljótsstaðir in Vesturdalur. Two unbridged rivers need to be crossed, which
glacier in Iceland at 950 km2. To the east stands the Kerlingarfjöll mountain calls for considerable caution. A side road from Mt. Reyðarfell leads to In-
cluster, whose highest peaks are Snækollur (1482 m) and Skarðloðmundur gólfsskáli, a hut maintained by the Skagafjörður Touring Club at Lambah-
(1429 m). A skiing school has been operational at Kerlingarfjöll since 1961, raun, near the Vestari-Jökulsá River. Another track from Laugafell crosses
and a variety of travel services are also available there. To the northeast is the Geldingsárdrög hills to the north of Eyjafjarðardalur, passing Nýibær,
Hofsjökull glacier (1765 m), Iceland’s third largest glacier at 923 km2, with which hosted a weather observation station for a time. The route to the
many glacial tongues creeping from its western side. In 1983 scientists bottom of the valley is very steep and needs to be approached with the ut-
studied the landscape beneath Hofsjökull using an Icelandic-designed so- most caution.
nar device, which revealed that the glacier covers one of the largest calde-
ras in the country, some 700 m deep.
Austurleið (F-910)
Beinahóll (Bone Hill) is located at the northeast foot of Mt. Kjalfell and is the The eastern route, called Austurleið, branches off from the Sprengisandur
site where some brothers from Reynistaður in Skagafjörður perished in route at Tómasarhagi within the boundaries of the Vatnajökull National Park,
1780. They were in a party of five returning from a trip to buy sheep in the and re-emerges from the interior at Brú in Jökuldalur. From there it crosses
south in late October, with 16 horses and 180 sheep. Only one horse and a Hrafnkelsdalur valley and Fljótsdalsheiði heath to Fljótsdalur valley. Given
few sheep managed to cross all the way back to the north. A road continues the many side roads leading off of the eastern route, a good map is vital
to Hveravellir geothermal field (650 m), a protected area where the Touring when traveling. After crossing the bridge over the Skjálfandafljót River, the
Club has set up accommodation facilities and a hot bathing pool. At Hverav- road leads to Trölladyngja in the Vatnajökull National Park, one of the largest
ellir you can still see ruins of the hideout where the 18th century outlaw shield volcanoes in Iceland. It continues north of Mt. Þríhyrningur to
Fjalla-Eyvindur (Eyvindur of the Mountains) stayed. The road to the north Fjallsendi, which is the southernmost part of the outer ring of the Dyngjufjöll
crosses the Seyðisá River, which has now been bridged, and Auðkúluheiði, mountains, and on towards Dreki in Drekagil (Dragon Gully).
the heath that spans out between the Blanda River to the east and Grím-
A side road just east of the Skjálfandafljót bridge follows the Gæsavatnaleið
stunguheiði heath to the west. Much of the heath is now submerged under
route to the Gæsavötn lakes, Dyngjuháls ridge and the eastern route at
the 40 km2 reservoir created for the Blanda hydropower project. The source
Kattbekingur. It opens later in the summer than most other interior roads, is
of the Blanda River, which measures 125 km in length, is the west side of
only navigable by 4WD and should only be driven in convoy. From Dreki, the
Hofsjökull glacier. The hydro project led to the rerouting of the old trail over
eastern route crosses the bridge over the Jökulsá á Fjöllum River just south
the heath, including laying a road over Mt. Áfangafell, where there is a
of Mt. Upptyppingar, then descends Kverkfjallarani ridge and crosses anoth-
panoramic view of the whole reservoir area.
er bridge over the Kreppa River.
Kerlingarfjöll Mountains At the crossroads near Arnardalur, the road leading straight ahead follows
the side of Lake Þríhyrningsvatn towards Brú in Jökuldalur, then continues
Kerlingarfjöll are among the most varied natural treasures in Iceland. The
from Hrafnkelsdalur to the foot of Mt. Snæfell and down into Fljótsdalur. Two
landscape is amazingly colorful; the geology is diverse, exciting and full of
side roads from the eastern route lie around Kverkfjallarani: Kverkfjallaleið
contrasts; the glaciers coincide with geothermal activity; and there is rich
(F-902) and Hvannalindavegur (F-903); they reunite near Kverkhnjúkaskarð
flora along with deserts.
en route to Sigurdarskáli, which is just north of Mt. Kverkfjöll and at the west
For many years a ski school operated in Kerlingarfjöll, but in later years foot of Mt. Virkisfell. Kverkfjöll is a big massif on the northern edge of Vatna-
more emphasis has been put on other outdoor activities, such as mountain jökull glacier, lodged between two tongues from the main cap: Dyngjujökull
hikes. There are numerous hiking paths, both marked and unmarked, in the and Brúarjökull. Here on the rim of the ice is one of the greatest geothermal
area and everyone should be able to find a path to suit their ability. In the fields in Iceland.
summer of 2010 a new three-day hiking path around Kerlingarfjöll was
The road travels close to Hvannalindir, an “oasis” of vegetation alongside
formally opened and there are sleeping facilities available in lodges along
springs and streams, near the center of Krepputunga and at an altitude of
the way.
630 m. The ruins at this spot are likely remnants of the outlaw Eyvindur of
From Snækollur, the highest point of the mountains, it is possible to see over the Mountains. Hvannalindir was first discovered in 1834, but the ruins
the whole country if there is good visibility. were not found in 1880. They are protected national relics overseen by the
Vatnajökull National Park and the spring area is also a protected natural site.
Kerlingarfjöll has one of the largest geothermal areas in Iceland and acces- A park warden resides there in the summer. Facing Arnardalur is a side road
sibility to the area is excellent. A service center is operated in Kerlingarfjöll from the east route, Möðrudalsleið (F-905), which extends north towards
234
the town of Möðrudalur á Fjöllum. It is possible to drive into Hafrahvömmum
ÞÓRSMÖRK &
from Fiskidalsheiði, above the Brú á Jökuldal, then over to Kárahnúkur. From
there a paved road leads down into the Fljótsdalur valley.
Snæfellsleið (F-909) LANDMANNALAUGAR

MITNear
DER
DAGLEGAR HOCHLAND
FERÐIR
Mt. Laugarfell, FRÁ 15.
the Snæfellsleið
BUSJÚNÍ
(F-909) side road from the eastern
WITH THE HIGHLAND BUS
TIL 15. SEPTEMBER 2016
route leads to the East Iceland Touring Club’s hut at the foot of Mt. Snæfell
TÄGLICHE ABFAHRTEN VON
(1833 m), which is the highest mountain in Iceland outside the central gla- DAILY DEPARTURES FROM
ciers. Snæfell and the area between Eyjabakkar and Hálslón are now within
15. JUNI BISof15.
the boundaries SEPTEMBER
the Vatnajökull National Park. Snæfell is an ancient cone JUNE 15TH TO SEPTEMBER 15TH
whose last eruption cannot be dated with any certainty. East of it, Eyjabak-
kajökull glacier leads down to the grassy wetlands of Eyjabakki (700 m). The
area around Mt. Snæfell is one of the main summer grazing grounds for
reindeer in East Iceland.
Öskjuleið (F-88)
The route to the Askja volcano, called Öskjuleið, turns from the Ring Road
(Route no. 1) between Mývatnssveit and Grímsstaðir, just west of the
Jökulsá á Fjöllum River. It skirts the river to Herðubreiðarlindir, another “oa-
sis” with much vegetation cover, which lies northeast of Mt. Herðubreið.
Numerous springs originate from the Lindahraun lava field and form the
Lindaá River, which subsequently drains into the Jökulsá River. Akureyri
Touring Club has set up huts and a campsite there. Approximately 100 m If your are looking for travel
northwest of the hut is Eyvindarkofi (Eyvindurís Hut), where “Eyvindur of the experiences in Iceland TREX has
Mountain” is thought to have spent one winter. The hut is on the edge of the
lava field and a spring runs right through it. During the summer, park war- the bus for you! We have 70
dens are on duty in Herðubreiðarlindir, which is a protected area in the modern vehicles with 14 - 70
custody of the Vatnajökull National Park, along with Grafarlönd. seats, equipped with your
From the springs there is a view of Mt. Herðubreið (1682 m), a wonderfully comfort in mind.
symmetrical table mountain that is often cited as a classic example of this
type of volcanic formation. Loose rocks make Herðubreið difficult and dan-
gerous to climb; the first confirmed ascent was in 1908. Herðubreið was In
boo fo &
k
nominated as the national mountain of Iceland in a survey conducted in trex ings:
autumn 2002. The road to Askja continues southward, skirting the Jökulsá .is
River and through Drekagil, then up Öskjuop to Vikraborgir, rock formations
created during an eruption in 1961. Akureyri Touring Club has set up huts
and a campsite at Drekagil, and park wardens are on duty there during the Tel: +354-587 6000 - info@trex.is
summer. Askja is a caldera in the Dyngjufjöll Mountains, a central volcano
that has been piling up above Ódáðahraun lava field for thousands of years
and now covers an area of about 250 km2. Approximately 50 km2 of this
area has sunk to form a caldera at Askja, whose bottom is at an altitude of
about 1150 m. During an 1875 eruption, the southeastern side of Askja
KERLINGARFJÖLL – the centre of outdoor activity in the Kjalvegur region

The Kerlingafjöll area has an amazing
array of marked and unmarked hiking
paths. Hveradalir is one of the largest
and most impressive geothermal areas
in Iceland, with bubbling hot springs
at every step. Something for everyone.
The view from the vistas is among the
best in Iceland.
Welcome to Kerlingarfjöll F u r t h e r i n fo r m at i o n o n w w w. k e r l i n g a r f j o l l . i s
235
caved in to form Lake Öskjuvatn, an area of 11 km2 and the deepest lake in bursts, which spread ice all over the Mýrdalssandur sands to the south.
Iceland, as well as a crater to the north, called Víti (Hell). Askja is a protected West of Brytalækir is a southbound road to Háalda, known as Öldufellsleið.
area in the custody of the Vatnajökull National Park. Driving west of the Hólmsá River leads to Hrífunesvegur (F-209), while the
eastbound road offers a choice of routes: Álftakróksleið on the North Fjalla-
bak road, south of the Eldgjá River, is a rough track which involves crossing
Lakavegur (F-206) the unbridged and often difficult Syðri-Ófæra River; and the southeast route,
In South Iceland, just west of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, there is a track to the more commonly taken by travellers, which joins Snæbýlisleið and leads to
Lakagígar crater series, whose 1783 eruption was likely the deadliest to the Snæbýli farm in Skaftártunga.
occur in earth’s history. The crater row stretches for 25 km, intersected near
its center by the palagonite tuff Mt. Laki. An estimated 100 craters of vari-
ous forms and shapes make up the series, the largest ones reaching 100 m
high. They are mainly composed of black and red scoria, but most are cov- HIKING IN ICELAND
ered with grey moss today. Great caution should be shown when exploring
this area, which was put under a protection order in 1971 and is now a part
of the Vatnajökull National Park. The lava flow produced by the 1783 erup-
GENERAL RULES OF CAUTION
tion followed two main courses before spreading out in the lowlands, pri- FOR HIKERS IN ICELAND
marily along the beds of the Skaftá and Hverfisfljót Rivers. A park warden is
Hikes through the Icelandic highlands are becoming increasingly popular.
on duty in Blágil during the summer.
The number of marked hiking routes is growing steadily, gradually making
this popular activity accessible to all.
Fjallabaksleið nyrðri A number of things must be kept in mind, however, when embarking on
- (North Fjalalbak road, F-208) hikes through the Icelandic highlands in summer.
This road leads from the Sprengisandur road at Sigalda through Landman-
Most of Iceland’s highlands are 600 – 800 m above sea level. Even if it is
nalaugar and the Eldgjá River to join the Ring Road at Skaftártunga. The
summer according to the calendar, travelers must be prepared for wintry
road from Sigalda to Landmannalaugar lies just west of the Tungnaá River.
conditions. Snow can be expected year-round in the highlands, and hardly
Just after entering the Friðland at Fjallabaki nature reserve, the road reach-
a summer goes by when it does not snow somewhere, even in July, which
es the bank of Bjallavað, an old fording spot formerly used by farmers from
is the warmest month in Iceland.
the south on their trout fishing trips to Veiðivötn. About 5 km upstream is
Hófsvaðið ford, first crossed by motor vehicle in 1950 and used until the Travelers should make a point of keeping up with weather reports by con-
Tungnaá River was bridged at Sigalda in 1968. In 1979, an area of 470 km2 sulting with wardens in the various mountain huts or nature reserves. Tours
around Landmannalaugar was officially designated as Friðland að Fjallabaki should be planned in accordance with those weather reports. Even if tem-
(Fjallabak Reserve). Spectacularly colored rhyolite mountains surround peratures drop to 2 or 3°C, life-threatening conditions may occur if there is
Landmannalaugar. Many interesting hiking trails can be found in this area precipitation. Hypothermia can lead to death, and during summer this can
and its warm streams are popular bathing spots. The Touring Club of Iceland happen in temperatures from 0 to 4°C.
has set up several huts and a campsite. A hiking trail from Laugar to
Þórsmörk, known as “Laugavegurinn,” draws many visitors every year, even Hikers should stick to clearly designated paths. The most popular hiking
though the hike takes at least 3-4 days with overnight stays in huts along routes are: between the areas of Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk; across
the way. North Fjallabak road travels via Jökuldalir and Kýlingar to Eldgjá, a Fimmvörðuháls; in Lónsöræfi, from Herðubreiðarlindir through the Askja and
40 km fissure in the Skaftártunguafréttur highlands that is up to 200 m Dyngjufjöll areas to the inhabited area in Bárðardalur; and a path from
deep and 600 m wide. The Nyrðri-Ófæra River enters the fissure on its Sveinstindur through Hólaskjól and Eldgjá, and from there to Hvanngil.
western side in two waterfalls.
Along all those paths there are mountains huts, most of which are super-
vised by wardens during high season. It is essential for hikers to leave be-
Fjallabaksleið syðri hind a travel itinerary and details of places where overnight stays are
planned, and to stick to it. This provides hikers with some degree of safety.
- (South Fjallabak road, F-210) It is best to leave the itinerary where the hike begins and it is vital to stick to
South Fjallabak road loops from Keldur in Rangárvellir around the northern it in order to avoid the launching of necessary searches.
side of Mýrdalsjökull glacier and back to the inhabited area of Skaftártunga.
It is suitable only for jeeps and preferably in convoy. Many side roads branch
off from it, some if which are very rough. Centuries ago, Icelanders from the Laugavegurinn
southeast traveled along South Fjallabak when going to the trading post at The most popular hiking route in Iceland is known as “Laugavegurinn,” and
Eyrarbakki. Today, the track runs north of Tindfjallajökull glacier, past the it links the areas of Þórsmörk and Landmannalaugar. It is 55 km long and
Skyggnishlíðar slopes, across the unbridged Markarfljót River and to the passes through extremely diverse landscapes: tall mountains, multi-colored
Touring Club hut east of Lake Álftavatn. Some 8 km south of the hut, at rhyolite areas, geothermal regions with erupting geysers, ice caves, sprawl-
Hvanngil, the road forks on the other side of the Kaldaklofskvísl River. To the ing sands, magnificent canyons and finally vibrant birch forests. And least of
west it leads to the Emstrur highlands, then over a bridge across the Mark- all, the hot pools in Landmannalaugar.
arfljót River to return to the lowlands at Fljótshlíð. The eastern branch leads
The route is divided into four days of hiking. Setting off from Landmanna-
to the Mælifellssandur sands, about 600 m above sea level. The sands are
laugar is most popular, with overnight stays at Hrafntinnusker, Álftavatn,
reasonably navigable by vehicle, apart from patches of wet sand, which can
Emstrur and Þórsmörk. All those locations have wardens and facilities for
occur where there are streams. To the south is Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland’s
hikers. The route is well marked and should be safe for everyone. Its highest
fourth largest glacier at 700 km2. Katla, one of Iceland’s most active volca-
point is Hrafntinnusker, at just over 1,000 m above sea level. Winter condi-
noes, lies under the southeast part of the ice. Since the settlement of Ice-
tions may occur there, even in mid-summer, and there is a high risk of
land it has erupted at intervals of 40 – 80 years, most recently in 1918.
getting lost if it is snowy. Hrafntinnusker is the most colorful part of the
Sub-glacial eruptions in Katla melt the ice and cause catastrophic glacier
236
Mælifellssandur.
journey and is best appreciated in favorable weather conditions. Hikers wind. Be careful and check the weather forecast, as visibility can be limited
should not set off in poor conditions, or at least not without consulting war- with a lot of dust particles in the air.
dens who are familiar with the area.
The route from the Fimmvörðuskáli mountain hut down to Þórsmörk is
The altitude drops considerably near Álftavatn Lake, after the first two days, shorter, but very steep in places. Chains have been put up in the Heljarkam-
and there is less chance of adverse weather. Several rivers must be waded bur area for the benefit of those with a fear of heights. A clear path leads
en route. Two are freshwater rivers: the Bratthálskvísl River near Álftavatn down into Þórsmörk, which is easy to follow, even in overcast conditions.
and the Bláfjallakvísl River near Hvanngil. Extra caution is required when The trek through Kattahryggir and Strákagil, during the last section of the
crossing these rivers in rainy conditions, as they expand considerably. hike down into Þórsmörk, is particularly memorable.
The Þröngá River, near Þórsmörk, must also be waded. It is a glacial river This is a magnificent hiking route and is one of the most stunning in Iceland.
that may become impassable after warm spells, due to increased volume, However, this is only true if the weather is good, so it may be advisable for
but this is very rare. Ask wardens for advice and never attempt to cross hikers to delay their trip for 1 – 2 days for the sake of good conditions. Just
rivers when conditions appear uncertain. Under some circumstances it may remember to let someone know of your travel plans.
be advisable to wait for other hikers at the banks of the river, for safety’s
sake.
The ancient route of Kjalvegur
Kjalvegur has been a commonly used travel route since the settlement of
Fimmvörðuháls Iceland and it crosses the area known as Kjölur, between Skagafjörður and
Fimmvörðuháls is a mountain pass connecting the Mýrdalsjökull and Ey- the upper regions of Árnessýsla district. It is a lengthy route, spanning 180
jafjallajökull glaciers. The route across it, between Þórsmörk and Skógar km from Blöndudalur valley to Gullfoss waterfall. The Hveravellir area, at the
and beneath the Eyjafjöll Mountains, is popular for hiking. The route is 26 halfway point, has magnificent hot springs, hot pools and view of the gla-
km in length and reaches an elevation of 1,100 m. The most popular hike ciers. Many travelers take advantage of the various well-marked hiking
begins at Skógar and follows the Skógá River up sloping hillsides. Tire trails in the area. One popular hike runs along a section of this ancient route,
tracks may be followed the majority of the way up the pass. The route is between Hvítárvatn Lake and Hveravellir. The route begins at Hvítárvatn and
designated with markers, but they can be lost in foggy or snowy conditions, travels north approximately 40 km to Hveravellir.
the latter of which are possible even in early summer. A comfortable moun-
En route it is possible to stay overnight at Þverbrekknamúli and Þjófadalir,
tain hut, operated by the Útivist travel association, is situated at the highest
although many travellers choose to divide the route into shorter distances
point of the pass and is a popular place to spend the night. Many people like
according to their own abilities. The entire route is 400 – 500 m above sea
to hike the entire distance in one day, however, particularly if they are not
level and is generally easily traversed and within the capabilities of most
carrying heavy provisions.
travelers. From Hvítárnes, where you spend the night in one of Iceland’s
In spring 2010 a volcanic eruption began at Fimmvörduháls, shortly before oldest mountain huts and is reportedly haunted, the route runs along the
the better-known eruption in Eyjafjallajökull. A hiking trail has been marked Fúlukvísl River through ancient, overgrown riding paths. The path is navigat-
out over the new lava field and craters that were created. This route is open ed by using the same cairns (piles of stones) that have guided travellers for
to everyone and it is a unique experience to walk over lava that is still warm. more than 1,000 years.
A thick layer of ash still covers the whole area and is easily blown around by
237
• 842. Þórsmörk, tel. 568-2533/854-1191, fi@fi.is.
G hrauneyjar highland center • 842. Básar, Þórsmörk, tel. 854-2910.

• 842. Húsadalur, Þórsmörk, tel. 545-1717,
851 Hrauneyjar -  487-7782 thorsmork@thorsmork.is, www.thorsmork.is.
hrauneyjar@hrauneyjar.is - www.hrauneyjar.is • 910. Emstrur, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 911. Hvanngil, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 912. Álftavatn, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is .
• 913. Hrafntinnusker, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 914. Landmannalaugar, tel. 568-2533/854-1192, fi@fi.is.
• 915. Gangnamannahúsið, Landmannahelli,
• tel. 487-6598/893-8407.
• 915a. Áfangagil, tel. 845-9500, info@afangagil.org,
www.afangagil.org.
• 916. Hotel Highland, tel. 487-7782, hrauneyjar@hrauneyjar.is.
• 916. Hálendismiðstöðin á Hrauneyjum, tel. 487-7782,
hrauneyjar@hrauneyjar.is.
• 917. Hlöðuvellir, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 918. Hagavatn, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
90 60 • 919. Hvítárnes, tel. 68-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 920. Árborg við Kjalveg, tel. 486-8810.
• 921. Kerlingarfjöll, tel. 852-4223/894-2132.
• 922. Þverbrekknamúli, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 923. Þjófadalir, tel. 568-2533, fi@fi.is.
The Fúlukvísl River has footbridges in two separate places at Þverbrek- • 924. Hveravellir, tel. 854-1193/894-1293,
knamúli. This is a good place for an overnight stop. There is ample vegeta- hveravellir@hveravellir.is.
tion along the route and Hvítárnes has diverse birdlife and numerous sheep. • 925. Jökuldalur - Nýidalur, tel. 568-2533/854-1194, fi@fi.is.
This route is popular with both riders and hikers and therefore is rarely Camping Sites:
empty. Langjökull glacier is nearby and Mt. Hrútfell, which rises out of the • 467. Norðurfjörður, tel. 568-2533/451-4017, fi@fi.is.
glacier by the hut in Þverbrekknamúli, attracts many hikers. However, it • 555. Áfangi, Auðkúluheiði, in Kjalveg, tel. 848-0334.
should only be attempted by rock climbers and experienced hikers. • 627. Laugafell, tel. 462-2720.
• 685. Grímsstaðir á Fjöllum, tel. 462-2720.
This route is well designated with markers and cairns all the way to Hverav-
• 690. Herðubreiðarlindir, tel. 854-9301.
ellir, where hikers will find a variety of services, such as a hot bath, and are
• 720. Breiðavík, tel. 471-2000.
sure to be welcomed by fellow travelers.
• 721. Húsavík, tel. 471-2000.
• 728. Vöðlavík, Karlsstöðum, tel. 894-5477.
Accommodation:
• 780. Lónsöræfi, tel. 478-1717.
• 467. Norðurfjörður, tel. 451-4017/568-2533, fi@fi.is.
• 785. Snæfell, tel. 853-9098.
• 531. Tröllabotnar, tel. 453-5900.
• 787. Kverkfjöll, tel. 853-6236.
• 555. Áfangi, Auðkúluheiði, in Kjalveg, tel. 848-0334.
• 811. Hólaskjól, tel. 487-4840.
• 556. Þúfnavellir í Víðidalur, tel. 453-5900.
• 842. Þórsmörk, tel. 854-1191.
• 608. Baugasel í Barkárdal, tel. 462-6792.
• 910. Emstrur, tel. 568-2533.
• 598. Hildarsel í Austurdal, tel. 453-5900.
• 911. Hvanngil, tel. 568-2533.
• 599. Lambahraun, Ingólfsskáli, tel. 453-5900, dogum@isholf.is.
• 912. Álftavatn, tel. 568-2533.
• 609. Glerárdalur, tel. 462-2720.
• 913. Hrafntinnusker, tel. 568-2533.
• 627. Laugafell, tel. 462-2720.
• 914. Landmannalaugar, tel. 854-1192.
• 643. Kiðagil, tel. 464-3290.
• 919. Hvítárnes, tel. 568-2533.
• 645. Suðurárbotnar, tel. 462-2720.
• 921. Kerlingarfjöll, tel. 852-4223.
• 690. Herðubreiðarlindir, tel. 462-2720.
• 924. Hveravellir, tel. 854-1193.
• 691. Ódáðahraun, Bræðrafell, tel. 462-2720.
• 925. Jökuldalur - Nýidalur, tel. 854-1194.
• 692. Dyngjufjöll, tel. 462-2720.
• 692. Dyngjufjöll, tel. 462-2720.
• 693. Dyngjufjalladalur, tel. 462-2720.
• 720. Breiðavík, tel. 471-2000.
• 721. Húsavík, tel. 471-2000. Hrauneyjar: Highland Center by Hrauneyjar at the F26 and F208
• 728. Karlsstaðir í Vöðlavík, tel. 894-5477. crossroads. tel. 487-7782/487-7750, hrauneyjar@hrauneyjar.is
• 780. Lónsöræfi, tel. 478-1398/1731, ffaskaft@eldhorn.is. • Catering/Petrol/Hiking Information/Fishing Permits: Þórisvatn,
• 781. Kollumúlavatn, tel. 853-9098. Kaldakvísl, Kvíslaveitur and Fellsendavatn.
• 782. Múladalur, re@bakkar.is. • Marked hiking trails near Hrauneyjar, .
• 783. Geldingafell, tel. 863-5813. Kerlingarfjöll: info@kerlingarfjoll.is. tel. 852-4223,
• 785. Snæfell, tel. 853-9098. • Catering/Petrol/Bath/shower facilities/Hikes.
• 787. Sigurðarskáli, Kverkfjöll, tel. 853-6236. • Hiking routes in the area of Kerlingarfjöll.
• 810. Fjallakofar í Skaftárhreppi, tel. 487-4840.
• 811. Hólaskjól, tel. 487-4840.
• 833. Fimmvörðuskáli, tel. 855-1126.
238
INDEX OF PLACES
Akranes ......................................... 62 Hallmundarhraun ..............................70 Raufarhöfn ......................................154
Akureyri ......................................... 135 Hallormsstaður ...............................163 Reyðarfjörður ..................................173
Arnarstapi ...................................... 76 Hallormstaðaskógur........................163 Reykholt, Biskupstungur ................209
Arnarvatnsheiði .............................. 70 Hekla ..............................................206 Reykholt, Borgarfjörður.....................73
Árborg ............................................ 214 Helgafell ............................................80 Reykhólasveit ...................................88
Árnes ............................................. 208 Hella .............................................2061 Reykir, Reykjaströnd .......................118
Bergþórshvoll ................................ 201 Hellisandur og Rif .............................76 Reykjanesbær ...................................36
Bíldudalur....................................... 93 Hellnar ..............................................75 Reykjavík ..........................................46
Blönduós ....................................... 114 Hengifoss .......................................164 Sandgerði .........................................40
Bolungarvík................................... 100 Hnjótur ..............................................90 Sauðárkrókur ..................................123
Borðeyri........................................ 109 Hofsós ............................................125 Selárdalur .........................................90
Borgarfjörður ................................. 64 Hornafjörður ...................................186 Selfoss ............................................214
Borgarfjörður eystri ........................ 166 Hólar í Hjaltadal ..............................124 Seljalandsfoss ................................201
Borgarnes ....................................... 65 Hólmavík......................................... 103 Seyðisfjörður ..................................168
Borgarvirki ......................................108 Hrafnagil .........................................142 Siglufjörður .....................................128
Bóla ................................................118 Hrísey .............................................134 Skaftafell .........................................194
Breiðdalsvík ....................................178 Húsafell .............................................70 Skagaströnd ...................................116
Búðarhraun .......................................74 Húsavík ...........................................149 Skálholt ...........................................209
Búðardalur ........................................83 Hvalfjarðasveit ..................................60 Skógar ............................................201
Dalir ..................................................83 Hvammstangi .................................112 Skriðuklaustur .................................164
Dalvíkurbyggð ............................... 130 Hvanneyri .........................................72 Snæfellsbær .....................................74
Djúpalónssandur ............................. 75 Hveragerði ......................................222 Snæfellsjökull ...................................74
Djúpavík .........................................104 Hvítserkur, V-Hún. ...........................108 Sprengisandur ................................223
Djúpivogur .....................................180 Hvítserkur, eystri .............................167 Stokkseyri....................................... 216
Drangey ..........................................118 Hvolsvöllur ......................................202 Stykkishólmur ...................................80
Drangsnes ......................................103 Ísafjarðarbær ....................................94 Stöðvafjörður ..................................178
Dritvík ...............................................75 Ísafjörður ..........................................97 Suðureyri ..........................................96
Dyrhólaey .......................................197 Jökulsá á Breiðamerkursandi .........190 Súðavík ...........................................101
Egilsstaðir .......................................164 Jökulsá á Fjöllum ............................152 Svalbarðsströnd .............................154
Eiríksstaðir ........................................83 Jökulsárgljúfur ................................152 Tálknafjörður .....................................92
Eskifjörður ......................................174 Keflavík .............................................37 Varmahlíð ........................................121
Eyjafjallajökull .................................199 Kerlingarfjöll ....................................234 Vatndalshólar ..................................112
Eyjafjöll ...........................................199 Kirkjubæjarklaustur .........................196 Vatnsdalur .........................................90
Eyrarbakki .......................................219 Kjalvegur .........................................234 Vestmannaeyjar ..............................225
Fáskrúðsfjörður ..............................177 Kjós ..................................................60 Vestrahorn ......................................190
Fellabær ..........................................163 Kópasker ........................................153 Vesturbyggð .....................................90
Fjallabak .........................................236 Kópavogur ........................................53 Vigur .................................................99
Fjallabyggð .....................................128 Lakavegur........................................236 Vík í Mýrdal .....................................197
Fjarðabyggð ...................................172 Laugar í Reykjadal ..........................144 Vogar ................................................42
Flatey ................................................90 Laugarás .........................................209 Vopnafjörður ...................................157
Flateyri ..............................................96 Laugarvatn ......................................210 Þingeyri .............................................94
Fljótshlíð .........................................201 Látraströnd .....................................144 Þingvellir .........................................212
Flúðir ...............................................208 Lónsöræfi .......................................189 Þorlákshöfn ....................................221
Garður ..............................................42 Mýrdalsjökull ..................................197 Þjórsá .............................................207
Geysir .............................................209 Mývatnssveit ..................................146 Þjórsárdalur.................................... 208
Gljúfurárfoss ...................................201 Mjóifjörður ......................................172 Þórshöfn......................................... 155
Glymur ..............................................60 Mosfellsbær ......................................56 Þórsmörk ........................................201
Goðafoss ........................................144 Njarðvík ............................................37 Ölfus ...............................................220
Grenivík ..........................................144 Norðfjörður .....................................176 Öræfajökull .....................................191
Grindavík ..........................................43 Norðurþing .....................................149 Öræfi ...............................................191
Grímsey ..........................................137 Ólafsfjörður .....................................128 Öskjuleið..........................................235
Grundafjarðabær ..............................78 Ólafsvík .............................................78
Gullfoss.......................................... 209 Patreksfjörður ...................................91
Hafnafjörður .....................................54 Rauðisandur .....................................90
239
ROAD DISTANCES IN KM
Vík Selfoss Reykjavík Borgarnes Ísafjörður Akureyri Egilsstaðir Seyðisfjörður Höfn
Akranes 219 90 49 38 419 352 616 643 491
Akureyri 558 429 388 314 558 264 291 510
Bakkafjörður 679 699 658 584 828 270 169 196 415
Bakkagerði 581 710 723 649 893 335 71 93 317
Bíldudalur 554 425 384 310 145 503 767 794 826
Bjarkalundur 385 256 215 141 240 334 598 626 657
Blönduós 414 285 244 170 414 144 408 436 654
Bolungarvík 638 509 468 394 13 571 835 863 910
Borgarnes 244 115 74 381 314 578 606 516
Breiðdalsvík 429 558 614 660 905 346 82 110 165
Búðardalur 323 194 153 80 302 272 536 564 595
Dalvík 582 453 412 338 582 44 307 335 554
Djúpivogur 367 496 553 611 968 410 146 173 104
Egilsstaðir 510 639 652 578 822 264 28 246
Eskifjörður 507 636 692 627 871 313 49 74 243
Eyrarbakki 142 13 59 117 498 431 652 679 414
Fagurhólsmýri 161 290 347 405 787 612 349 376 111
Fáskrúðsfjörður 475 604 660 628 872 314 50 75 211
Flateyri 617 488 447 374 22 566 830 858 889
Flókalundur 509 380 339 265 116 458 722 749 781
Grenivík 597 468 426 353 597 38 262 290 509
Grindavík 228 99 50 119 500 433 697 724 500
Grundarfjörður 347 218 177 103 408 374 637 665 619
Gullfoss 176 71 124 182 563 496 681 709 443
Hallormsstaður 514 643 678 604 848 290 26 54 250
Hella 93 36 93 151 532 465 603 630 365
Hellissandur 374 245 204 130 443 409 672 700 646
Herðubreiðarlindir 701 620 579 505 749 191 191 219 438
Hofsós 497 368 327 253 497 132 396 424 642
Hólmavík 403 274 233 159 225 336 600 627 675
Húsafell 302 173 132 62 404 337 601 628 574
Húsavík 649 520 479 405 650 91 219 247 465
Hvammstangi 367 238 197 123 367 203 466 494 639
Hveravellir 266 161 215 272 522 204 468 495 534
Hvolsvöllur 80 49 106 164 545 478 590 618 352
Höfn í Hornafirði 272 401 458 516 897 510 246 274
Ísafjörður 625 496 455 381 558 822 850 897
Keflavík 224 95 46 115 496 429 693 720 496
Kirkjubæjarklaustur 73 202 258 316 698 631 439 467 201
Kópasker 728 617 576 502 746 188 218 246 464
Króksfjarðarnes 369 240 199 125 258 318 582 610 641
Landmannalaugar 122 138 195 253 634 567 537 565 300
Laugarvatn 167 39 92 150 532 465 675 702 437
Mýri í Bárðardal 645 516 475 401 645 87 252 280 499
Neskaupstaður 530 659 715 650 894 336 72 97 266
Norðurfjörður á Ströndum 506 377 336 263 307 439 703 731 778
Ólafsfjörður 573 444 403 329 573 61 325 352 571
Ólafsvík 365 236 194 121 434 399 663 691 637
Patreksfjörður 570 441 400 326 173 519 783 811 842
Raufarhöfn 762 651 610 536 780 222 252 279 498
Reyðarfjörður 491 620 677 611 856 297 33 59 228
Reykholt í Borgarfirði 278 149 108 39 385 318 581 609 550
Reykjahlíð við Mývatn 657 528 487 413 657 99 165 192 411
Reykjavík 186 57 74 455 388 652 679 458
Sandgerði 232 103 54 123 504 437 701 729 504
Sauðárkrókur 461 332 291 217 461 120 384 411 630
Selfoss 129 57 115 496 429 639 666 401
Seyðisfjörður 537 666 679 606 850 291 28 274
Siglufjörður 556 427 386 312 556 77 341 369 587
Sigöldustöð 145 111 167 225 607 239 455 482 322
Skaftafell 140 269 326 384 766 637 373 401 136
Skagaströnd 437 308 266 193 437 163 427 455 673
Staðarskáli 333 204 163 89 334 225 489 517 605
Stykkishólmur 342 213 172 98 388 354 618 645 614
Stöðvarfjörður 447 576 633 651 895 337 73 99 183
Suðureyri í Súgandafirði 632 503 462 388 23 575 839 866 904
Tálknafjörður 571 442 401 327 162 520 784 811 843
Varmahlíð 464 335 294 220 464 94 358 385 604
Vegamót í Miklaholtshr. 309 180 139 65 390 356 620 647 581
Vík í Mýrdal 129 186 244 625 558 510 537 272
Vopnafjörður 644 665 623 550 794 235 134 162 380
Þingeyri 578 449 408 334 49 527 791 819 850
Þingvellir, þjónustumiðst.
174 45 50 91 472 405 669 696 446
Þorlákshöfn 157 28 51 110 491 424 667 694 429
Þórshöfn 714 679 638 564 808 250 204 231 450
Pre-booking is required. Book online at bluelagoon.com
GLACIER WALKS & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
MAKE SURE IT’S MOUNTAIN GUIDES
SUPER
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FROM
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Sunrise and sunset in the year 2016

32 stores around Iceland

Monday-Thursday 11:00 - 18:30

Friday 10:00 - 19:30

P O L I C E Swimming is by far the most popular outdoor activity in Iceland.

At selected N1 service stations

One of the best ways to experience the wonders of

Iceland - It’s all here for you.

jökull Hvítárnes Reyðarfjörður

Scheduled Buses Scheduled Ferries

SVAUST Bus System of the Eastfjords To Hornstrandir Area & Vigur

Askja & Herðubreiðarlindir

Domestic Flights Ísafjörður

BLUE LAGOON TRANSFERS KEFLAVIK AIRPORT TRANSFERS

2 Day Tours, Super Jeep Gentle Giants Whale Watching

Snowmobile – ATV – Glacier walk

3 Whale Mjóeyri Travel 8

TLF. 464 3999

C Landmælingar Íslands, leyfi nr. L05010008

Flight Information: tel. 425-0777/505-0500, www.kefairport.is.

• Nord, tel. 421-5800.

H HÓTEL KEILIR H Diamond Suites

￼ The Icelandic Museum of

Hjallavegur 2 • 260 Reykjanesbær

SPORTS CENTER CAMPING

GARÐUR Places of Interest/Hiking:

75 36 0,2 5,8 16 0,5

Tourist Information: Community Offices, Iðndal 2, tel. 440-6200,

THE CAPITAL AREA

Kópavogur and Seltjarnarnes expanded rapidly. The Garðahreppur

The Icelandic Museum of