Region
East Iceland
Extreme northeast location
Bakkafjordur: Fishing Village and Digranesviti Walk
A small fishing village with a coastal walk to Digranesviti lighthouse.
Population
~100
East Iceland • Remote village
Quick Answer
Bakkafjordur is a small fishing village by Bakkafloi. A 7-kilometer return walk leads past the abandoned Steintun farm to Digranesviti lighthouse.
Bakkafjordur is a tiny fishing settlement on Iceland's remote eastern coastline. The harbor and the Digranesviti walk give visitors two distinct reasons to stop.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Confirm local services and road conditions before visiting, and prepare separately for the lighthouse walk.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Population
~100
Small coastal community
Known for
Digranesviti Walk
7 km return coastal walk
Top Attractions near Bakkafjordur
Untouched Coastline
Cliffs and beaches with no crowds
Fishing Harbor
Traditional working harbor with local boats
Digranesviti Lighthouse
Track via Steintun, 3.5 km each way
Seabird Colonies
Coastal birds in undisturbed habitat
Seal Watching
Harbor seals in the fjord waters
Steintun
Abandoned farm passed on the lighthouse route
How to Get to Bakkafjordur
By car: Check current driving directions and road conditions from Thorshofn or Vopnafjordur before departure.
Preparation: Check fuel availability along your route before setting out; current station opening and payment details were not confirmed here.
Supplies: Carry what you need for the walk and confirm meals and accommodation for your travel date.
Best Time to Visit Bakkafjordur
Summer: Longer days offer more time for the lighthouse walk. Check weather and the track conditions before setting out.
Winter: Snow, wind and limited daylight can change the suitability of the coastal walk; check conditions before making it the purpose of your trip.
The lighthouse is a walk, not a roadside viewpoint
The municipal route description gives Digranesviti as 3.5 kilometers each way, a 7-kilometer return walk. It suggests starting at the gate just outside the village, passing the abandoned Steintun farm and continuing along the vehicle track. A track on the map should not be read as permission or a recommendation to drive to the lighthouse.
The final approach crosses a rocky section that the municipality specifically asks walkers to negotiate carefully. Decide whether the whole return distance and that terrain suit your group before leaving the village. You can keep the stop to the harbor if you do not have the time or conditions for the walk.
Planning help
Bakkafjordur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What is the population of Bakkafjordur?
Bakkafjordur is a small fishing community. The previous estimate of about 100 residents has not been confirmed against a current population series.
How remote is Bakkafjordur?
Bakkafjordur is a coastal village in northeast Iceland. Check the route and current road conditions, and confirm the services you intend to use.
What nature can I experience in Bakkafjordur?
The area has coastal cliffs, quiet fjord waters, and highland landscapes that few tourists visit.
How far is Bakkafjordur from Thorshofn?
Use current driving directions from Thorshofn and allow time for road conditions and stops.
Is Bakkafjordur a fishing village?
Yes, fishing has sustained Bakkafjordur for generations, and the small harbor is still active.
What services are available in Bakkafjordur?
Confirm your accommodation and meal plans before traveling, and carry food and water for the Digranesviti walk.
What wildlife can I see near Bakkafjordur?
The area is home to seabirds, seals, and occasional whales in the fjord. Arctic foxes and ptarmigan can be spotted in the surrounding wilderness.
What is the appeal of visiting Bakkafjordur?
Bakkafjordur suits travelers who want isolation: no crowds, little noise, and the daily routine of a tiny fishing community.
For national population totals and trends to put local figures in context, see our Iceland statistics.