Region
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
190 km from Reykjavik
Olafsvik Iceland: Gateway to Snaefellsjokull Glacier Guide
One of Iceland's oldest trading towns—a historic fishing port at the foot of the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~1,000
Snaefellsnes • Fishing port
Olafsvik is a historic fishing town with roots dating back to 1687 when it received one of Iceland's first trading licenses. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Snaefellsjokull glacier—the famous mountain from Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth"—the town offers both maritime heritage and easy access to the national park.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Olafsvik is the main service hub for western Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Sources to check
Population
~1,000
Historic trading post since 1687
Known for
Fishing heritage
Gateway to Snaefellsjokull
Top Attractions near Olafsvik
Snaefellsjokull Glacier
Mystical glacier from Jules Verne's novel
Snaefellsjokull National Park
Lava fields, craters, and coastal cliffs
Olafsvik Church
Distinctive modernist triangular architecture
Fishing Harbor
Active port with centuries of history
Raudfeldsgja Gorge
Dramatic narrow canyon nearby
Londrangar Cliffs
Volcanic basalt pinnacles on the coast
How to Get to Olafsvik
From Reykjavik: 2.5-3 hours via Route 1 to Borgarnes, then Route 54 around Snaefellsnes.
From Grundarfjordur: 20 minutes west along Route 54.
Peninsula circuit: Olafsvik is a natural stop when driving the full Snaefellsnes loop.
Best Time to Visit Olafsvik
Summer: Best weather for glacier hiking and coastal exploration. Longer days for photography.
Winter: Atmospheric conditions, Northern Lights, quieter experience. Check road conditions before travel.
Planning help
Olafsvik FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.