Region
Westfjords
230 km from Reykjavik
Holmavik, Strandir
Gateway to the remote Strandir coast and home to one of Iceland's most unusual museums, the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft.
Population
~375
Westfjords • Strandir gateway
Holmavik is the gateway to the Strandir coast, one of Iceland's most remote regions. The town is best known for its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, which covers the 17th century witch trials, necropants included. Beyond the museum, Holmavik gives access to natural hot springs and long stretches of isolated coastline.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Holmavik is the most accessible Westfjords town from Reykjavik. Check museum hours before visiting.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Official sources to check
Population
~375
Strandir coast hub
Known for
Witchcraft Museum
Dark Icelandic folklore
Top Attractions in Holmavik
Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft
Dark folklore and necropants exhibit
Drangsnes Hot Pots
Free oceanside natural hot springs
Strandir Coast
Remote coastline with natural hot springs
Holmavik Swimming Pool
Geothermal pool in town
Grimsey Island
Bird-watching trips from Drangsnes
Arctic Fox Center (partner site)
Branch in Sudavik, worth combining
How to Get to Holmavik
From Reykjavik: 3 hours drive via Route 68, the shortest route to the Westfjords and fully paved.
From Isafjordur: About 3 hours drive via Route 61 through the mountains.
Day trip option: Holmavik is feasible as a day trip from Reykjavik, though staying overnight leaves time for the Strandir coast.
Best Time to Visit Holmavik
Summer (June-August): All roads open, museum open daily, best for Strandir coast exploration.
Winter: Northern Lights and quiet museum visits, but check hours. The hot pots at Drangsnes are at their best in snow.
Planning help
Holmavik FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.