Hólmavík on Steingrímsfjörður

Hólmavík is a small fishing village on the large Steingrímsfjörður. Cultural history, hiking opportunities, and activities on the water give the village several different sides. The geographical distinction is also useful when planning your trip: the museum, church, and swimming pool are in Hólmavík, while the cross-country skiing area is in Selárdal in the associated municipality of Strandabyggð.

Cultural history and village character

The Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft explores the lives, lifestyles, and beliefs of people in Strandir in the 17th century. Its main exhibition is in Hólmavík and offers a thematic introduction to the region and period. Hólmavík’s church stands on Brennuhóll in the middle of the village, on Steingrímsfjörður. The museum and church offer different perspectives: one focuses on the history of Strandir, while the other is a distinctive landmark in the village.

Hiking above Hólmavík

The mountains around Hólmavík offer opportunities for hiking. One specific option is the short, easy hike to Kálfanesborgir above the village; it starts at the campsite. The trail leads to the Háborgarvarða cairn. From there, you can look out over Steingrímsfjörður and toward the island of Grímsey. This route combines a named viewpoint with a manageable outing. If you are interested in the surrounding area, the mountains around Hólmavík also offer a reason to include hiking in your trip plans.

Whale watching and other tours

Láki Tours offers responsible whale watching from Hólmavík; humpback whales are the most common whales in the fjord. The tour lasts two hours, so you can set aside a dedicated block of time for it. The seasonal offering is listed as running from May 25 to September 15; availability may vary. Check current tour dates before your trip. Other tours offered in Hólmavík include sailing trips, as well as horseback rides and riding tours. Their availability may also vary by season.

Leisure and practical information

The Skeljavíkurvöllur golf course near Hólmavík has nine holes. The village swimming pool includes hot tubs, a sauna, a fitness room, and a sports hall. As operating details can change, it is a good idea to check the latest swimming pool information before your visit. This helps distinguish leisure activities in Hólmavík from outings in the surrounding area: golf and the swimming pool are available in the village, while the mountains offer opportunities for hiking.

A cross-country skiing area in the municipality of Strandabyggð is located in Selárdal on Steingrímsfjörður. It is in the associated municipality, not in Hólmavík itself. Cross-country skiing competitions recognized by the International Ski Federation (FIS) may also be held there. If cross-country skiing is important to your trip, be sure to associate this offering with Selárdal.

Hólmavík has a campsite, various accommodation options, and restaurants. Which of these appeals most to you depends on whether you are planning to focus on culture, outdoor activities on land, or a tour on the fjord.

Discover more destinations: Kirkjuból, Holt, Sæból, Reykhólar, Patreksfjördur, Breiðavík, Garpsdalur, Árnes

For the regional travel overview: Westfjords.