Hnífsdalur is a small village between Ísafjörður and Bolungarvík. Two hiking destinations, the former Óshlíð road and a viewpoint overlooking Djúp Fjord are the main features to consider when planning a trip here. This offers several ways to get to know the place: you can choose a hiking route with a named destination, explore Óshlíð on foot or by bicycle, or focus on cultural history. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Hnífsdalur, you can start by considering which of these themes matter to you during your stay.
Hiking to specific destinations
A popular hiking route leads from Hnífsdalur over Þjófaskarð to Skutulsfjörður. A second popular route runs from Hnífsdalur over Heiðarskarð to Bolungarvík. The routes can be distinguished by their named destinations and passes: when planning, you can first choose your destination and then consider the corresponding route. This way, the focus is not on hiking in general, but on the specific connection that interests you. Check trail conditions locally before setting out on a route.
Óshlíð: a former road, now a recreation area
Óshlíð is the old road between Bolungarvík and Hnífsdalur. Since 2010, it has no longer been used by cars because of the new Bolungarvík Tunnel; since then, Óshlíð has been used as an outdoor leisure and recreation area. The paved road offers excellent conditions for cyclists and runners to get close to nature. Check the surface conditions locally if you plan to use the route. The landscape also defines this place: massive cliffs rise approximately 300 to 400 metres above Óshlíð. The former road connection, its present-day recreational use and its striking surroundings make Óshlíð a distinct point of interest alongside the hiking routes.
Skarfasker: views and orientation
Skarfasker is a viewpoint on the route to Óshlíð and a suitable starting point for exploring Óshlíð on foot or by bicycle. There is a car park there. From Skarfasker, you can enjoy a beautiful view across Djúp Fjord towards Snæfjallaströnd and beyond. A local place-name map helps visitors understand the area’s landscape and local geography. It adds an orientation aid to the viewpoint: the view across the fjord and coast can thus be connected with the names and local features.
Fishing history and Hnífsdalskapella
Like other villages in the Westfjords, Hnífsdalur developed around fishing and fish processing. This maritime history offers a cultural way to learn about the place, alongside the hikes and the landscape of Óshlíð. Another specific point of interest is Hnífsdalskapella: it was consecrated on Good Friday in 1955. Its furnishings include a figure of Christ, a crucifix, a chalice and a silver paten. The consecration places the chapel in a specific period; the objects listed offer a glimpse of its furnishings.
Getting there and finding a holiday apartment
Hnífsdalur can be reached from Ísafjörður by several bus services on every weekday. Check the timetable before travelling so you can take the listed service into account when planning. The village lies between Ísafjörður and Bolungarvík; this geographical location is a useful starting point for understanding the hiking destinations mentioned and the activities around Óshlíð. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Hnífsdalur, you can plan your accommodation around the activities that interest you most: the hiking trails, exploring Óshlíð or the village’s cultural heritage.
Discover more destinations: Garpsdalur, Tálknafjörður, Thingeyri, Prestbakki, Látur, Hólmavík, Saurbær, Reykhólar.
Go to the main travel overview: Westfjords.
