What is the population of Drangsnes?

Drangsnes has approximately 60 residents and is one of the smallest villages on the Strandir coast in the Westfjords.

What does Drangsnes mean?

Drangsnes means 'Rock Pillar Point' in Icelandic, referring to the distinctive rock formation near the village.

Are there hot pots in Drangsnes?

Yes, Drangsnes is known for its three free geothermal hot pots right by the sea, where you can soak looking out over the ocean.

What is the witch sorcery monument?

Drangsnes has a monument to the region's 17th-century witch trials and sorcery persecutions.

How far is Drangsnes from Reykjavik?

Drangsnes is about 280 km from Reykjavik, approximately 4 hours driving via Route 1 and Route 68.

What is the Strandir coast?

Strandir is one of Iceland's most remote and least-visited regions, known for its rugged coastline, isolation, and sorcery folklore.

What services are available in Drangsnes?

Drangsnes has very limited services. There's a small shop and the hot pots. Larger services are in Holmavik, 20 km away.

Can I visit Grimsey from Drangsnes?

Yes, Grimsey island (different from the Arctic Circle Grimsey) is visible from Drangsnes and can be visited by boat in summer.

Drangsnes on the Strandir Coast

Name: Drangsnes, Iceland
Address: IS

A tiny village on Iceland's remote Strandir coast, known for free seaside hot pots and its links to Iceland's witch trial history.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Population

~60

Westfjords • Strandir coast

Drangsnes sits on the eastern edge of the Westfjords, overlooking Steingrimsfjordur bay. The main reason to stop in this tiny fishing village is simple: free geothermal hot pots by the shore, where you can soak under the midnight sun or the northern lights.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

Drangsnes is remote but accessible year-round. Check road conditions before traveling.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Region

Westfjords

Strandir coast, 280 km from Reykjavik

Population

~60

One of Iceland's smallest villages

Known for

Seaside hot pots

Free geothermal bathing by the ocean

Top Attractions in Drangsnes

Seaside Hot Pots

Three free geothermal pools by the ocean

Witch Sorcery Monument

Memorial to 17th century persecution history

Grimsey Island Views

Island visible from the village, boat trips in summer

Strandir Coast Drives

Remote routes along the eastern Westfjords

Steingrimsfjordur Bay

Fjord scenery and wildlife

Local Fishing Heritage

Small working fishing harbor

How to Get to Drangsnes

By car: About 4 hours from Reykjavik via Route 1 north and Route 68. The most practical option.

Via Holmavik: Holmavik is 20 km south and has more services. Consider it as your base.

Road conditions: Roads are paved but can be difficult in winter. Always check road.is before traveling.

Best Time to Visit Drangsnes

Summer (June-August): Midnight sun hot pot soaks, best weather, all roads open.

Winter: Northern lights from the hot pots, but check road conditions carefully.

Planning help

Drangsnes FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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