History
French Heritage
A long connection to French sailors; note the bilingual signs.
East Iceland
Fáskrúðsfjörður: East Iceland's French Town
East Iceland's French Town, where bilingual street signs recall centuries of French fishing heritage. Visit the restored French Hospital museum and hotel, and hike the trail to Gilsarfoss waterfall.
Theme
French History
Don't miss the French Museum (Franski spítalinn).
A fjord with a French accent. Fáskrúðsfjörður honors its heritage as a base for the French sailors who fished these waters centuries ago. The bilingual street signs and restored hospital set it apart, against classic Eastfjords scenery.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Access is easy year-round thanks to the tunnel from Reyðarfjörður and the coastal road from Breiðdalsvík.
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Official sources to check
Museum
Must Visit
The French Hospital museum is the town's centerpiece.
Drive
Scenic Loop
Part of a great ring drive through the Eastfjords.
Nature
Gilsárfoss
Waterfall reached by a short hike from the village outskirts.
Culture
Bilingual Signs
Street signs in both French and Icelandic honor the town's Franco-Icelandic heritage.
Stay
Hotel & Museum
The restored French Hospital doubles as a boutique hotel with museum exhibits.
What to Expect
- Bilingual French-Icelandic street signs that recall centuries of French fishing heritage
- Restored 1903 French Hospital now run as a museum and boutique hotel
- Gilsárfoss waterfall accessible via a short hike from the village outskirts
- Tunnel connection to neighboring Reyðarfjörður and the rest of the Eastfjords
- Quiet harbor atmosphere with colorful fishing boats and mountain reflections
- Annual French Days festival in honor of the Franco-Icelandic connection
How to Get to Fáskrúðsfjörður
Driving from Egilsstaðir
Fáskrúðsfjörður is 75km (1 hour) from Egilsstaðir. The easiest route is via Route 92 through Reyðarfjörður, then through the Fáskrúðsfjarðargöng tunnel. You can also approach via the scenic coastal Route 96 from Breiðdalsvík.
Road Conditions
Access is excellent year-round thanks to the modern tunnel from Reyðarfjörður. The coastal road from Breiðdalsvík is scenic but includes some gravel sections. Winter driving is generally manageable. Check road.is for current conditions.
Best Time to Visit Fáskrúðsfjörður
Summer (June-August)
Best time to visit. French Hospital museum at full operation, all services open. Midnight sun provides long exploring hours. French Days festival sometimes held. Weather mildest (8-15°C).
Shoulder Season (May, Sept)
Museum still open but may have reduced hours. Fewer tourists. Northern lights visible in September. Good for Gilsárfoss waterfall hikes. Expect 4-10°C temperatures.
Winter (Oct-April)
Town accessible year-round via tunnel. Museum may have limited winter hours. Only 4-5 hours daylight in December. Excellent for northern lights. Low light pollution across the fjord.
Nearby Attractions
French Hospital Museum
Restored 1903 hospital that tells the story of French fishermen in Icelandic waters.
Reyðarfjörður
Neighboring fjord town accessible by tunnel, with an excellent WWII museum and regional services.
Stöðvarfjörður & Petra's Stones
Nearby village with a private mineral collection of thousands of colorful rocks and crystals.
Breiðdalsvík
Scenic coastal town to the south, gateway to Breiðdalur valley and outdoor activities.
Egilsstaðir
East Iceland's main hub, 75km away, with shops, the Wilderness Center, and Lagarfljót lake.
Planning help
Fáskrúðsfjörður FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.