Eyrarbakki is a fishing village of around 570 inhabitants that sits on the Great Thjorsa Lava. For centuries, Eyrarbakki was the main port in South Iceland.
Eyrarbakki was once the trading center for the whole of the southern region. However, after Icelanders built a bridge over the Olfusa River in 1925, the importance of Eyrarbakki diminished. Eyrarbakki contains many preserved houses from 1890-1920. When you visit here you may feel as though you are going 100 years back in time
Eyarbakki and Iceland’s oldest wood house
In fact, the oldest preserved timber house in Iceland is in Eyrarbakki. It is called “Husid” (the House). It now houses the Arnesinga Folk Museum. The church in the village dates back to 1890. It is world-famous for the altarpiece that Queen Louise of Denmark painted. The small village also houses the oldest school in the country, the primary school (1852).
Eyrarbakki also has a nice campsite, hostel, guesthouses and restaurants. On the rocky shoreline you can experience an amazing view of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as watching the surf break. It is an ideal spot for hiking and bird watching. The Floi Bird Reserve lies northwest of Eyrabakki. It is an important nesting area, especially for wetland birds and is listed in The Bird Life International Association.
The Municipality of Arborg was established in 1998. It consists of Selfoss, Eyrarbakki, Stokkseyri and Sandvik, The area is perfect for visitors wanting to get closer to nature and to explore lava fields and black sand beaches.
