Canonical URL: https://www.iceland.org/cities/vopnafjordur Content updated: 2026-09-10 This is the Markdown representation of the page. Interactive tools and forms are available on the [HTML page](). Source-check and review dates retain the meanings stated in the article. --- # Vopnafjordur: Historic Trading Post in the Northeast A historic trading post in remote northeast Iceland, home to the Bustarfell turf museum. Updated September 10, 2026 · [Published by Iceland.org]() · [Writing & review]() Population ~600 East Iceland • Trading post ## Quick Answer Vopnafjordur, a town of about 600 in northeast Iceland, has been a trading post since the 18th century; the Bustarfell turf farm museum preserves rural life. Vopnafjordur is a coastal town with a long history as a trading center for northeast Iceland. It sits at the head of the fjord of the same name, surrounded by mountains, and the nearby Bustarfell turf farm museum preserves a detailed record of Iceland's rural past. Sources and page update Updated: 2026-09-10 Vopnafjordur preserves Iceland's trading heritage and is a base for the remote northeast. For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy. Official sources to check - [East Iceland]() - [Visit Iceland]() - [Road.is]() - [Icelandic Meteorological Office]() Region East Iceland Remote northeast location Population ~600 Historic trading community Known for Bustarfell Museum Best-preserved turf farm ## Top Attractions near Vopnafjordur ### Bustarfell Turf Museum One of Iceland's best-preserved turf farms ### Salmon Rivers Fishing rivers that draw anglers from abroad ### Selardalslaug Pool Historic outdoor geothermal pool ### Hiking Trails Mountain and coastal walking routes ### Birdwatching Coastal and wetland bird species ### Local Heritage Trading post history and culture ## How to Get to Vopnafjordur **By car:** Check the chosen route from Egilsstadir against current road information; do not treat the Route 917 mountain crossing as an interchangeable year-round alternative. **By air:** Norlandair lists flights from Akureyri to Vopnafjordur. Check the flight for your travel date and arrange transport from the airport. **By bus:** Limited bus service available from Egilsstadir during summer months. Check schedules in advance. ## Best Time to Visit Vopnafjordur **Summer:** Best for salmon fishing, museum visits, and hiking. Long summer days provide extended daylight. **Winter:** Quiet season with Northern Lights opportunities. Roads may be difficult, so check conditions. ## The riverside pool is outside town [Selarlaug]() stands beside the Sela river in a shallow gorge, 12 kilometers from Vopnafjordur and 3.5 kilometers off Route 85 toward Bakkafjordur. The municipality lists a hot tub, children’s pool and picnic facilities. It is a separate stop to plan into the drive, rather than a town-center pool you will necessarily pass on foot. The [municipal timetable](), checked September 10, 2026, gives September–May weekdays 14:00–19:00 and weekends 12:00–18:00. June–August hours are weekdays 10:00–22:00 and weekends 10:00–18:00. That later winter weekday start matters if you hope to swim before continuing your journey. For an air connection, [Norlandair]() publishes an Akureyri–Vopnafjordur–Thorshofn–Akureyri circuit under its February–September 2026 schedule. It provides another option to investigate alongside the drive from Egilsstadir. Confirm dates beyond September directly; an airport listing is not a guarantee of a flight every day. Planning help ## Vopnafjordur FAQs Quick answers with safety notes where it matters. **What is the population of Vopnafjordur?** Vopnafjordur has approximately 600 residents. It is a small but historically significant town in northeast Iceland. **What is the history of Vopnafjordur?** Vopnafjordur has been an important trading post since the 18th century, supplying the remote northeast region with essential goods and services. **What is Bustarfell?** Bustarfell is one of Iceland's best-preserved turf farm museums, dating back centuries. It shows how rural Icelanders traditionally lived. **How far is Vopnafjordur from Egilsstadir?** Vopnafjordur is about 100 km from Egilsstadir (approximately 1.5 hours driving) via Route 85 and Route 917. **What activities are available in Vopnafjordur?** Visitors can explore the Bustarfell museum, go hiking, and fish in local rivers, far from the tourist crowds. **What is the weather like in Vopnafjordur?** Vopnafjordur has a subarctic climate with cool summers and cold winters. Weather can be unpredictable, so visitors should prepare for all conditions. **What services are available in Vopnafjordur?** The town has groceries, fuel and accommodation. Selarlaug swimming pool is a separate drive, about 12 km from town according to the municipality. **Is Vopnafjordur good for salmon fishing?** Yes, the rivers around Vopnafjordur are well known for salmon fishing and draw anglers from around the world in summer. 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