Stykkishólmur Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, local foods, and safety measures of Stykkishólmur in West Iceland with our comprehensive travel guide.


A Complete Travel Guide to Stykkishólmur, West Iceland

Stykkishólmur, a charming fishing town in West Iceland, is a mesmerizing destination for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. The town is an enticing blend of Nordic heritage, rugged coastlines, and friendly locals, making it an ideal place to dive into Iceland’s natural wonders and rich culture. In this travel guide to Stykkishólmur, we’ll take a closer look at the must-see sights, activities, local foods, and safety measures to make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is a small town with a big personality, boasting a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that cater to all types of tourists. Here are some of the must-visit places in Stykkishólmur:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Stykkishólmur is rich in Norse mythology and Viking history, and there are plenty of places to explore the town’s cultural legacy.

  • Norwegian House: This is the oldest house in Stykkishólmur, which perfectly preserves the historic architecture of the town. The house now serves as a folk museum where visitors can learn about the town’s history and culture.
  • Volcano Museum: This museum features exhibitions that display the geological and volcanic history of Iceland, along with a vast collection of related specimens and artifacts.
  • Library of Water: Housed in a former library, this museum showcases a unique art exhibit featuring sculptures and installations that celebrate Iceland’s relationship with water.

Natural Attractions of Stykkishólmur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Stykkishólmur is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is worth exploring. Here are some of the best natural attractions and outdoor adventures in the area:

  • Snaefellsjokull Glacier National Park: This is Iceland’s first national park, which covers vast stretches of glaciers, lava fields, and stunning landscapes.
  • Stykkishólmur’s four harbors: Cover a mix of boats including working fishing trawlers, old wooden sailing vessels, and harboured yachts all dotted throughout the peninsula and along the fjord. The view of the mountains and sea is a particularly spectacular one, and the walk along the harbour is the perfect opportunity to take it all in.
  • Breiðafjörður Bay: A splendid natural hotspot famous for the islands and coves, located near Stykkishólmur.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is a hiker’s haven, with many trails and bike routes that take visitors through the town’s stunning natural landscapes. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in Stykkishólmur include:

  • Eldborg Crater: It’s an hour’s hike south from Snorrastaðir to this enchanting, perfectly formed tuff cone crater about 60m high, rising out of an undulating lava field.
  • Heidarvatn Lake: It’s a well-known destination for hikers, who can hike around the lake, spotting the vantage points of mountains in the distance woven between the island.
  • The Lighthouse Route: The lighthouse route takes riders on a beautiful scenic hike that allows them to see picturesque lighthouse views of Stykkishólmur’s stunning coastline.

Best Things to Do in Stykkishólmur: Activities and Tours

When it comes to sightseeing and activities, Stykkishólmur has lots to offer. Here are some of the best things to do while in town:

  • Boat Tour of Breiðafjörður Bay: This is one of the most sought-after experiences in Stykkishólmur, as visitors can admire the beautiful islands and coves in the Bay.
  • Watch a show at the cinema: It’s an intimate and cozy renovated cinema, premiering classic movies and documentaries with English subtitles.
  • Whale Watching Tour: This is the perfect opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close and in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stykkishólmur

Here is a recommended week-long itinerary for exploring Stykkishólmur and its surrounds:

Day 1-2: Stykkishólmur town and Museums

Spend your first two days exploring the town and its cultural attractions, such as the Norwegian House, Volcano Museum, and Library of Water.

Day 3-4: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Head south for two days to explore Snæfellsnes Peninsula, where you can experience the stunning landscapes of Snaefellsjokull Glacier National Park.

Day 5-6: Breiðafjörður Bay

Spend the next two days exploring the beautiful Breiðafjörður Bay, whether it’s spotting wildlife on a boat tour or hiking around the stunning lake Heidarvatn.

Day 7: Traditional Icelandic Food Tour

Finish off your trip with a traditional Icelandic food tour, giving you the chance to taste exquisite local delicacies.

Food and Drink Scene of Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is renowned for its culinary delights, and there are plenty of local foods to indulge in while in town:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Soup: This signature soup is a creamy, flavorful mix of lobster and veggies.
  • Skyr: A traditional Icelandic snack made from yogurt, Skyr is a delicious and healthy treat.
  • Lamb: The lamb in Iceland is a must-try for foodies. It’s locally sourced and cooked to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Bjork: This alcoholic beverage is made from barley, Icelandic herbs, and birch syrup.
  • Brennivín: This is a famous Icelandic schnapps made from potatoes and flavored with caraway seeds.

Where to Stay in Stykkishólmur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Stykkishólmur offers plenty of accommodation options for all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay in town:

  • Fosshotel Stykkishólmur: A 3-star hotel with ensuite rooms, is perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable and luxurious stay.
  • Bed and Breakfast Kast Guesthouse: A budget-friendly option, which provides comfortable rooms and an excellent breakfast.

What to Buy in Stykkishólmur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Stykkishólmur is a great place to pick up unique and diverse souvenirs, including:

  • Merino Wool: This is a locally sourced wool that is used to make a range of clothing and accessories.
  • Books: Stykkishólmur is famous for its literary scene, and visitors can pick up some great Icelandic literature from local bookstores.
  • Handmade Jewelry: There are plenty of talented jewellers in Stykkishólmur, creating handmade pieces that make a perfect souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Stykkishólmur

Iceland is a country rich in culture and tradition, and Stykkishólmur is no exception. Here are some local customs that visitors should be aware of when in town:

  • Tipping: Tipping is not a common practice in Iceland, as service charges are usually included in bills.
  • Respecting the Environment: Icelanders have great respect for the environment, and it’s important to follow eco-friendly practices while exploring the natural landscapes of Stykkishólmur.

Best Time to Visit Stykkishólmur

The best time to visit Stykkishólmur is from late spring to early autumn, from May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and pleasant, and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and explore the natural beauty of the town.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stykkishólmur

Do:

  • Respect the Nature: Visitors should follow eco-friendly practices while exploring the natural landscapes of Stykkishólmur.
  • Engage with the locals: Icelandic people are friendly and welcoming, so it’s a great opportunity to learn about the local culture by getting to know them.

Don’t:

  • Littering: Icelanders have great respect for the environment, so visitors should avoid littering and follow eco-friendly practices while exploring the natural landscapes of Stykkishólmur.
  • Disrespect Tradition: Visitors should respect the local culture and not engage in practices that are offensive or disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is a safe and welcoming town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Visitors should, however, be aware of the following safety tips:

  • Weather Conditions: The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, so visitors should check weather forecasts and prepare for the weather conditions when exploring the town.
  • Driving Conditions: Visitors should be cautious when driving, especially during winter when road conditions can be dangerous.

Health in Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur has a good health care system, and visitors can access healthcare services in case of any emergency. It’s always advisable to carry a valid travel insurance policy, especially when engaging in adventurous activities.

Getting to Stykkishólmur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Stykkishólmur is well connected to other parts of Iceland, with several transportation options available to visitors. Here are some of the best ways to get to Stykkishólmur:

Airports Near Stykkishólmur

The closest airport to Stykkishólmur is Reykjavik Domestic Airport, which has regular flights to and from Stykkishólmur.

Bus Stations Near Stykkishólmur

Various bus services by route 57 are available throughout the day from Reykjavik Bus Station to Stykkishólmur town. A one-way journey takes approximately three hours.

Other Options

Visitors can reach Stykkishólmur using rental cars, which can be picked up at the airport or in Reykjavik.

How to Get Around in Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the town’s bike-friendly trails.

Where to Go Next from Stykkishólmur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Stykkishólmur is located in West Iceland, which is known for its scenic coastal drives and picturesque towns. Some of the nearest destinations and excursions from Stykkishólmur include:

  • Reykjavik: Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is just a three-hour drive away from Stykkishólmur, which has a wealth of historical and cultural attractions to offer visitors.
  • Akureyri: A charming town in North Iceland, Akureyri is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Iceland’s northern culture and natural landscapes.

Conclusion

Stykkishólmur is a captivating destination that combines natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and friendly vibes into an unforgettable travel experience. By following this travel guide, visitors can discover the best places to visit, things to do, local food to try, and safety measures to take while exploring Stykkishólmur.

Seatours (Saeferdir ehf) passenger ferry, ''Baldur'', leaving the ferry dock at Brjánslækur, Westfjords Iceland on the evening return trip to Stykkisholmúr, Seatours (Saeferdir ehf) passenger ferry, ''Baldur'', leaving the ferry dock at Brjánslækur, Westfjords Iceland on the evening return trip to Stykkisholmúr,