In Iceland’s remote fjords, tiny villages nestle between towering mountains and the wild North Atlantic, offering visitors a chance to experience the country’s raw beauty
away from the tourist-heavy south coast. These communities, many dating back to Viking times, provide authentic glimpses into Icelandic life where age-old traditions persist, and nature’s rhythms still dictate daily routines.
Seyðisfjörður
This colorful village in the East Fjords centers around its famous blue church and rainbow street. Artists have transformed the historic fishing town into a cultural hub while surrounding waterfalls cascade down mountain slopes right into the village center.
Siglufjörður
Once the herring capital of the world, this northern village preserves its fishing heritage through fascinating museums. The award-winning Herring Era Museum brings history alive, while winter visitors often catch the Northern Lights dancing above the fjord.
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Eskifjörður
Nestled beneath Mt. Hólmatindur, this traditional fishing village showcases Iceland’s maritime culture. The historic fish storage house Randulfssjóbúð serves as both a museum and restaurant, while local boats offer fishing trips into the pristine fjord.
Neskaupstaður
Iceland’s easternmost village sits surrounded by avalanche barriers that tell tales of nature’s power. The local medical museum occupies Iceland’s oldest hospital building, while hiking trails lead to hidden waterfalls visible only from the fjord.
Flateyri
This tiny village in the Westfjords preserves its charm through local initiatives like the bookstore in an old merchant’s house. The surrounding mountains offer backcountry skiing in winter, while summer brings midnight sun kayaking in the calm fjord waters.
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Djúpavík
An abandoned herring factory turned art space anchors this remote hamlet of just 20 year-round residents. The hotel serves locally-sourced meals in the old factory canteen, while hiking trails lead to the massive waterfall Djúpavíkurfoss.
Borgarfjörður Eystri
Known for its puffin colony and hiking trails, this eastern village embodies tranquility. Local folklore marks this as the queen of elves’ residence, while the surrounding mountains offer some of Iceland’s best day hikes.
Fáskrúðsfjörður
French fishing heritage lives on in this eastern village where street signs appear in both Icelandic and French. The beautifully restored French Hospital now serves as a hotel, while local restaurants honor the French connection with fusion cuisine.
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Reyðarfjörður
The longest fjord in the East Fjords shelters this village rich in World War II history. The excellent war museum tells stories of occupation and alliance, while forest walks offer rare tree cover in usually treeless Iceland.
Bíldudalur
This Westfjords village claims a connection to Iceland’s sea monster folklore. The Icelandic Sea Monster Museum shares local tales, while the surrounding mountains create perfect conditions for Arctic char farming in the fjord.
Stöðvarfjörður
Famous for Petra’s Stone Collection, this tiny village celebrates creativity and natural wonders. Local artists work in converted fish factories, while beach walks reveal collections of East Iceland’s unique minerals.
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Hólmavík
The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft tells dark tales of the region’s past. Traditional cafes serve local specialties like hot mountain lamb soup, while summer brings midnight sun viewing from the peaceful harbor.
Þingeyri
The oldest trading post in the Westfjords maintains its historic charm through preserved buildings. The local pool offers hot pot soaking with mountain views, while the nearby Skrúður botanical garden surprises visitors with its unlikely location.
Vopnafjörður
This northeastern village preserves strong ties to its fishing heritage while embracing sustainable tourism. Local guides share stories of the Icelandic sagas, while summer brings excellent salmon fishing in nearby rivers.
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Mjóifjörður
Home to just 20 year-round residents, this fjord offers perhaps Iceland’s most peaceful escape. The single unpaved road closes in winter, while summer visitors discover numerous waterfalls, including the stunning Klifbrekkufossar.
Drangsnes
Famous for its seaside hot pots, this tiny fishing village invites visitors to soak while watching for seals. Local folklore speaks of a troll woman turned to stone, while the summer midnight sun creates magical evening light.
Súðavík
Split between old and new villages after a tragic avalanche, this community shows Icelandic resilience. The Arctic Fox Center educates visitors about Iceland’s only native mammal while surrounding hills offer excellent hiking.
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Breiðdalsvík
This quiet eastern village sits beneath dramatic rhyolite mountains streaked with color. The old co-op building houses a geological center, while local hiking trails lead to hidden hot springs.
Bakkafjörður
One of Iceland’s smallest fishing villages offers authenticity in spades. The local swimming pool provides mountain views from its hot pots, while summer brings opportunities for puffin watching on nearby cliffs.
Norðurfjörður
Iceland’s northernmost fjord shelters this remote village, accessible only by mountain road. The natural hot spring Krossneslaug sits right by the ocean, while summer brings opportunities for arctic fox spotting in the surrounding hills.
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Experience Iceland at its Finest
These remote villages offer more than just an escape from modern life – they provide genuine connections with Iceland’s cultural heritage and natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking midnight sun adventures, winter aurora viewing, or simply peace and quiet surrounded by dramatic landscapes, these communities welcome visitors ready to slow down and experience Iceland at its most authentic.
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