Kópasker is a fishing village on the eastern shore of Öxarfjörður. Two hiking trails explore different themes: one combines geology and birdlife, while the other ends at the lighthouse on the headland of Grímshöfn. The area also offers the history of the 1976 earthquake and a folk museum just outside the village. You can plan your trip around nature, local history, or both.

Hiking trails through birdlife and geology

The “A walk through geology and birdlife” trail starts at the campsite and is approximately 5 km long. Along the route, ponds and wetlands provide habitat for numerous nesting bird species. The trail also passes Kópaskersmisgengi, geological formations that developed along tectonic plate boundaries. This route brings habitats and geological features into focus together.

The “Kópasker - Lighthouse Hiking trail” offers a different focus. It is considered scenic and easy, and leads to the Kópasker lighthouse on the headland of Grímshöfn. The trail starts at a birdwatching shelter by the seashore, leads to a sandy beach, and then continues to the lighthouse. The sandy bay along the way is rich in birdlife. Seals can occasionally be spotted on an easy stroll to the lighthouse. As access along the shore can vary with the tides and weather, check local conditions before setting out.

Earthquake history and culture

The Skjálftasetið is located in Kópasker’s schoolhouse. Texts and images provide information about the powerful earthquakes of 1975 and 1976, culminating in the major Kópasker earthquake of January 13, 1976. They explain the causes and the effects on buildings, the landscape, and community life. If you plan to visit the center, check visiting information in advance.

Just outside Kópasker, in Snartarstaðir, there is a folk museum with a diverse collection of cultural and historical objects. Craftsmanship and the beauty of everyday things are its focus. The museum complements the earthquake center with a different cultural perspective, highlighting objects and aspects of craftsmanship.

Lighthouse, landscape, and seasonal events

The lighthouse stands north of Kópasker. It was built in 1945 and first put into operation in 1951. Hestfall, north of Kópasker, is also considered a particularly scenic natural attraction. The Sólstöðuhátíð summer solstice festival takes place in Kópasker every June. If you want to plan your trip around it, check that year’s program.

Accommodation and planning locally

Kópasker has a campsite and guesthouses. Operators and availability may change, so check current options before booking. The village also has a shop, a car repair shop, a health center, and a bank. Individual services may also change.

Discover more destinations: Einarsstaðir, Draflastadhir, Bakki, Svalbard, Hrisey, Ólafsfjördur, Akureyri, Sauðárkrókur

For the broader travel overview: Nordurland Eystra.