Nickname
The Alps
The mountains here are sharper and higher than much of the Westfjords.
Westfjords
Dýrafjörður: Saga Country in the Westfjords Alps
Known as the Animal Fjord, Dyrafjordur is a narrow fjord flanked by the Westfjords Alps, including Kaldbakur, the region's highest peak. Thingeyri village sits on its shore, with the Simbahollin cafe, Viking saga history, and good hiking trails.
Main Village
Þingeyri
Gateway to the mountain road (Kjaran's Avenue) for 4x4s.
Quick Answer
Known as the 'Viking Fjord,' Dýrafjörður is narrow, steep, and historic. It sits in the shadow of the Westfjords' highest mountains, the Kaldbakur range, which give it an alpine feel. This is saga country, the setting for the story of the outlaw Gisli Súrsson.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Standard paved roads reach the village, but nearby mountain tracks require 4x4 vehicles and experience.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
History
Viking Saga
Walk in the footsteps of Gísli Súrsson, Iceland's famous outlaw.
Activity
Hiking & Horses
Great trails and horse riding tours are available from Þingeyri.
Café
Simbahöllin
Waffle house in Þingeyri, a regular stop for travelers in the Westfjords.
Summit
Kaldbakur
At 998m, the Westfjords' highest peak is a challenging hike with wide views from the top.
Drive
Scenic Coast
The narrow fjord road runs beneath steep mountains that drop into the sea.
What to Expect
- The Westfjords Alps mountain range with Kaldbakur peak reaching 998 meters
- Viking saga history at Gísla Saga sites scattered around the fjord
- Simbahöllin café in Þingeyri serving Belgian waffles with rhubarb jam
- Horse riding tours departing from Þingeyri into the surrounding mountains
- Narrow fjord with steep sides that cast long shadows through the day
- Kjaran's Avenue mountain road for experienced 4x4 drivers in summer
How to Get to Dýrafjörður
Driving from Ísafjörður
Dýrafjörður is about 30km (30 minutes) from Ísafjörður via Route 60. Drive south through the Vestfjarðagöng tunnel, then continue on Route 60 as it winds along the coastline to reach Þingeyri.
Road Conditions
Route 60 through Dýrafjörður is fully paved as part of the Westfjords Way. The road is maintained year-round but can be icy in winter. Mountain roads like Kjaran's Avenue require 4x4 and are summer-only. Always check road.is.
Best Time to Visit Dýrafjörður
Summer (June-August)
Best for hiking in the 'Westfjords Alps.' Midnight sun provides 24-hour daylight, Simbahöllin café is busy, and all mountain trails are accessible. Weather is mildest (8-15°C).
Shoulder Season (May, Sept)
Good for hiking lower trails. Some services may have reduced hours. Northern lights visible in September. Mountain peaks may still have snow. Expect 4-10°C temperatures.
Winter (Oct-April)
Snow-covered mountains but limited hiking. Only 4-5 hours of daylight in December. Village remains accessible but quieter. Great for photography and northern lights.
Nearby Attractions
Simbahöllin Café
Waffle house in Þingeyri that has served Belgian waffles with rhubarb jam and cream since 2007.
Gísla Saga Sites
Walk in the footsteps of Viking outlaw Gísli Súrsson at historical locations around the fjord.
Westfjords Alps
Sharp mountain range including Kaldbakur (998m), with challenging hikes and long views.
Ísafjörður
The Westfjords capital is just 30 minutes away, with restaurants, museums, and cultural events.
Dynjandi Waterfall
The tiered waterfall is about an hour south along the Route 60 coastal road.
Route 622 needs its own decision
The regional Svalvogar guide describes a 49 km circuit from Þingeyri around the exposed headland and back by Kaldbakur. Its coastal track is not suitable for small cars and must not be attempted at high tide. This is a separate outing from a normal road visit to Þingeyri.
Do not interpret a rental marked 4×4 as a blanket go-ahead. Check the exact road, tide and conditions with local advice before choosing it; the coastal route is not a shortcut to add casually at the end of a long drive.
Planning help
Dýrafjörður FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How do you pronounce Dýrafjörður?
It's pronounced 'DEE-ra-fyur-thur.' Fjörður means fjord.
Where is Dýrafjörður?
Dýrafjörður is the Westfjords inlet beside Þingeyri, between Arnarfjörður and Önundarfjörður.
Is Dýrafjörður worth visiting?
Yes, especially for hikers and Viking saga fans. The 'Westfjords Alps' have good trails, Þingeyri is a pleasant village, and the narrow, steep-sided fjord is a sight in itself.
How long should I spend at Dýrafjörður?
Plan half a day to a full day. This allows time to look around Þingeyri village, stop for waffles at Simbahöllin, and perhaps hike one of the shorter trails in the mountains.
Can you drive around Dýrafjörður?
Route 60 runs along the fjord connecting Þingeyri to the main road. The Svalvogar circuit is a separate rough coastal route with tidal constraints, not a normal fjord road loop.
What is Dýrafjörður famous for?
It's famous for the 'Westfjords Alps' mountain range including Kaldbakur (the region's highest peak), Viking saga history (Gísla Saga), Þingeyri village, and the Simbahöllin café.
What Viking saga is connected to Dýrafjörður?
Dýrafjörður is the setting for Gísla Saga Súrssonar, one of the best-known outlaw sagas. You can visit sites linked to the story around Þingeyri and learn about the outlaw Gísli's life.
Can I hike Kaldbakur from Dýrafjörður?
Yes, Kaldbakur (998m) is the highest peak in the Westfjords and can be hiked from the area. It's a challenging full-day hike requiring good weather and proper equipment.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.