Region
North Iceland
35 km north of Akureyri
Árskógssandur: Beer Spa Village on Eyjafjörður
A small fjord village known for its Beer Spa and the ferry to Hrísey Island.
Population
~200
North Iceland • Beer Spa destination
Árskógssandur is a small coastal village on the western shore of Eyjafjörður, best known for its Beer Spa (Bjórböðin). It is also the ferry port for Hrísey Island, with views across Eyjafjörður.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Confirm current spa operation and booking availability with Bjórböðin before making a dedicated trip.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Population
~200
Peaceful fjord community
Known for
Beer Spa
Beer baths with fjord views
Top Attractions near Árskógssandur
Bjórböðin Beer Spa
Confirm current operation and treatment availability
Hrísey Island
Iceland's second largest island, ferry from village
Kaldi Brewery
Local craft brewery tours and tastings
Whale Watching
Tours from nearby Dalvík and Hauganes
Eyjafjörður Views
Views across Eyjafjörður
Dalvík
Nearby fishing village, 8 km away
How to Get to Árskógssandur
From Akureyri: 30 minutes via Route 82 along the west side of Eyjafjörður. The Beer Spa is clearly signposted from the road.
Best Time to Visit Árskógssandur
If the spa is the reason for your trip, first obtain current availability from Bjórböðin. For a Hrísey visit, work from the ferry timetable for your date. These are separate plans: being able to reach the village does not confirm a spa appointment or an island crossing.
Planning help
Árskógssandur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What is the population of Árskógssandur?
Árskógssandur has approximately 200 residents.
What is the Beer Spa?
Bjórböðin is the village’s beer-bath spa. Confirm that it is open and accepting bookings for your date before traveling specifically for a treatment; an older destination listing is not confirmation of current operation.
How far is Árskógssandur from Akureyri?
Árskógssandur is about 35 km from Akureyri, approximately 30 minutes by car via Route 82.
How do I get to Hrísey Island?
The Sævar ferry departs from Árskógssandur to Hrísey Island every couple of hours, with a 15-minute crossing. Check the schedule in advance.
Is whale watching available nearby?
Yes, whale watching tours depart from Dalvík and Hauganes, both within 20 km of Árskógssandur. Humpback whales are commonly seen.
What activities are available?
Besides the Beer Spa, options include the Hrísey Island ferry, whale watching, fishing, hiking, and walks along the Eyjafjörður coastline.
Is there accommodation in Árskógssandur?
Limited accommodation is available locally, with more options in nearby Dalvík (8 km) or Akureyri (35 km).
Can I visit the Kaldi brewery?
Kaldi Brewery in Árskógssandur produces craft beer. Tours and tastings can be arranged, and the Beer Spa uses their beer.
For national population totals and trends to put local figures in context, see our Iceland statistics.