In the pretty village of Seydisfjordur the multi-colored wooden houses are sheltered by a jaw-dropping backdrop of snow capped mountains and tumbling waterfalls. The friendly community draws artists, musicians and craftspeople from all over the country.
Seydisfjordur started out in 1848 as a trading center for foreign merchants, fishermen and whalers. Its wealth, however, came from herring fishing. The long, sheltered fjord gave it an advantage over other fishing villages.
The picturesque 19th-century timber buildings throughout the village were imported in kit-form from Norway. Unquestionably, the most prominent of these buildings is the pretty Blue Church. It is home to a popular series of jazz, classical and folk music concerts offered in mid-summer. Additionally, the town also hosts several art workshops through the year. Without a doubt, shopping in the area for local handicrafts is a rewarding treat.
Things to do
Hiking opportunities abound in the lush green hills that tower over the town. One trail takes hikers to an intriguing sound sculpture known as Tvisongur. Additionally, you can also enjoy mountain biking, camping and sea kayaking.
Just east of Seydisfjordur is the remote farm of Skalanes. This wonderful private nature reserve showcases incredible flora, fauna, and settlement history.
Go birding in Seydisfjordur
For bird lovers, the stunningly beautiful coastal cliffs are home to a mind-boggling array of seabirds, including eider ducks and Iceland’s famous puffins.
Where to find Seydisfjordur?
Seydisfjordur is in East Iceland. The road leading over Fjardarheidi heath from Egilsstadir town will bring you to Seydisfjordur.
GPS: 65.259849 N, -14.010116 W
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Seyðisfjörður is situated at the innermost point of a fjord with the same name. The village began as a trading centre in the mid 19th century. Norwegians and Danes travelled to Iceland to fish herring, with many settling in Seyðisjörður. In 1906 Seyðisfjörður was chosen as the entry point for Iceland’s first undersea telegraph lint to the outside world.
By many Seyðisfjörður is regarded as Iceland’s most picturesque town and likened to a pearl in its shell. Nowhere in Iceland has a community of old colourful wooden houses from the 19th century been preserved so well. The ferry “Norræna” from Europe arrives in Seyðisfjörður on weekly basis.
