Eskifjorður combines maritime history with nature and recreational activities: the East Iceland Maritime Museum is housed in the old trading house Gamla búð, and Helgustaðanáma is one of the world’s best-known Iceland spar localities. Nearby, hiking trails and waterfalls add to the range of things to do. When planning your visit, it is worth distinguishing these destinations from the facilities right in town.
Maritime history at Gamla búð
The East Iceland Maritime Museum opened to the public on 4 June 1983 and is housed in the old trading house Gamla búð, built in 1816. The two dates refer to different things: 1816 to the building, and 1983 to the museum’s opening. The collection includes objects related to seafaring and the processing of catches from the sea. It also features trade memorabilia and objects from earlier industries and medicine. Its themes therefore extend beyond maritime exhibits, giving the museum a broader cultural and historical focus.
Nature, minerals and trails
Helgustaðanáma has been protected as a natural monument since 1975 and is one of the world’s best-known Iceland spar localities. In contrast to the maritime collection, this site offers a different focus: a protected place and its geological significance take centre stage. It is a distinct point of interest for travellers who want to include nature and geology in their plans alongside cultural attractions.
The 985-metre-high Hólmatindur stands on the east side of the fjord, opposite the town. A challenging hiking trail leads to the summit, where hikers can sign the summit guestbook. Conditions and access may vary, so check both before setting out. In Hólmanes Nature Reserve, in the area between Eskifjörður and Reyðarfjörður, trails wind among rock formations. These trails offer a different experience from the challenging summit route.
Bleiksárfoss is the highest waterfall in the series along the Bleiksá and catches the eye as you turn off the main road to Eskifjörður. The waterfall is illuminated and makes an impressive sight on dark winter evenings, when it flows down the slope or is covered in ice. Outside the village of Eskifjörður, Mjóeyri has a lighthouse and a beach. Waterfalls, mountain trails and coastal scenery are therefore distinct nature themes in the area around town.
Swimming pool, golf and practical information
Eskifjörður Swimming Pool is heated by a geothermal spring. Facilities include two hot tubs, a sauna, three water slides and a children’s pool. The nine-hole Byggðarholtsvöllur golf course has been open since 1979. Together with the hiking trails, these offer different types of activities: bathing and warm-water facilities in town, golf on a nine-hole course, and challenging hiking on Hólmatindur.
Eskifjörður Campsite is in a small wood by the Bleiksá River, right at the entrance to town. A tourist information centre, hiking trails, a swimming pool and a hot tub are nearby. Facilities may change, so check before your trip which of the amenities important to you are currently available. The location details help you distinguish the campsite from the facilities nearby.
East of Eskifjörður, the rough road 954 leads to Vöðlavík; a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required for the journey. Check road conditions before setting off. This helps distinguish the route from the facilities in town and the other nearby destinations when planning your excursions.
Discover more destinations: Brunnholl, Höfn Í Hornafirði, Eiðar, Vopnafjörður, Hof, Egilsstadhir, Hoffell, Berunes.
For the broader travel overview: Austurland.
