Stykkishólmur is a picturesque fishing town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland, renowned for its vibrant, well-preserved old houses and a bustling harbor that serves as a gateway to Breiðafjörður Bay and the Westfjords. It offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere to explore local culture, admire stunning natural views, and engage in outdoor activities like boat tours, kayaking, and hiking amidst diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
While Stykkishólmur fosters a friendly, tight-knit community, it does not feature distinct areas or districts specifically designed for tourists or backpackers to socialize in a lively, spontaneous manner. Social interactions are more likely to occur within guided tours or local establishments like restaurants and cafes, reflecting a quieter travel experience.
Top 6 Things to do in Stykkishólmur
Visitors to Stykkishólmur can enjoy a mix of cultural exploration, scenic walks, and active marine adventures within Breiðafjörður Bay.
1. Walk to Súgandisey Island Lighthouse
A gentle ascent to the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse offers panoramic views across the town, its colorful harbor, and the expansive Breiðafjörður Bay. This red, squat lighthouse, once located in Seltjarnarnes, provides a serene vantage point and a prime opportunity for photography, especially during sunset. The island itself, connected to the mainland, acts as a natural shelter for the town.
Cost: Free.
Transport: This activity is within easy walking distance from the town center and harbor.
2. Sea Kayaking in Breiðafjörður Bay
Embarking on a sea kayaking tour allows for an intimate encounter with the diverse marine life and remote islands of Breiðafjörður Bay. Paddling through calm waters, one might spot puffins, seals, and even the rare white-tailed eagle. The experience often includes navigating past mysterious shipwrecks like the Thorgeir, offering a unique perspective of the rugged coastline and surrounding natural beauty.
Cost: Approximately £77 - £82 per person for a 2-hour tour, including all necessary kayaking gear and warm refreshments.
Transport: Tours typically commence from a designated kayak base situated within the village center or near the harbor. Transport from the base to the launching point at the harbor is generally included.
3. Boat Tour and 'Viking Sushi' Tasting
A boat tour of Breiðafjörður Bay provides an opportunity to observe abundant seabird colonies, including puffins nesting on cliffs, along with seals, and potentially whales or dolphins. Many tours enhance the experience with 'Viking Sushi,' where fresh scallops and sea urchins are caught directly from the bay and prepared for tasting onboard, offering a unique culinary and cultural immersion.
Cost: Tour prices vary; booking in advance is recommended. While specific costs for the 'Viking Sushi' tour are not readily available, boat tours generally incur a fee.
Transport: All boat tours depart from Stykkishólmur harbor.
4. Visit the Library of Water
The Library of Water is an art installation by Roni Horn, housed in a former library building perched on a hill. It features 24 glass columns, each containing water collected from different Icelandic glaciers, including some now extinct. The floor is inscribed with weather-related words in both Icelandic and English, inviting quiet contemplation. The space also offers expansive views of the ocean and the town, providing a unique blend of art, nature, and reflection.
Cost: There is an entry fee. A combined ticket offering access to other local museums may be available.
Transport: The Library of Water is located on a hill overlooking the town and is easily accessible by foot.
5. Explore The Norwegian House (Norska Húsið)
Stepping into The Norwegian House is a journey into Stykkishólmur's past. This meticulously preserved two-story wooden house, built in 1832 from timber imported from Norway, now serves as the regional museum for the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It showcases historical artifacts, recreates 19th-century living arrangements, and hosts rotating exhibitions, alongside a shop offering local handicrafts.
Cost: An entry fee is required. Consider inquiring about a combined ticket with other local museums.
Transport: Situated directly across from the harbor, The Norwegian House is conveniently located within the town center and is accessible by walking.
6. Hike Helgafell Mountain
Embark on a hike up Helgafell, a small, sacred mountain steeped in Icelandic history and mythology. The relatively easy ascent offers rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the vast Breiðafjörður Bay. According to legend, those who ascend Helgafell for the first time without looking back and making a wish in silence at the top will have their wish granted.
Cost: Free.
Transport: Helgafell is located approximately 6.8 kilometers from Stykkishólmur. Access requires a car or taxi.
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