Ísafjörður Life & Culture

by bus & on foot

This experience offers a comprehensive insight into local life and culture in the Westfjords, highlighting the human struggle to survive in the beautiful yet unforgiving landscape of this remote region.

Your journey begins with a drive to Bolungarvík, the northernmost village in the Westfjords, where you will visit the Ósvör Maritime Museum — a fascinating reconstruction of a historic fishing outpost. The museum consists of traditional turf-and-stone fishing huts, and you may even be welcomed by the curator dressed in typical fisherman’s attire. Inside, the museum explains the history of the area and the traditional methods used for salting fish. The huts are filled with intriguing artefacts to explore, including ölver, a type of boat once used for fishing.

Nearby stands the local church, Hólskirkja — ‘the church on the hill’ — built in 1908 and home to several noteworthy features. Among these are two impressive church bells dating from 1620 and 1775, which were believed to ward off ghosts said to inhabit the surrounding heath.

On your return to Ísafjörður, you will stop in the Tungudalur Valley to admire a small yet perfectly formed waterfall cascading down the hillside. After a photo stop, you will continue back to Ísafjörður.

The town of Ísafjörður is the largest settlement in the Westfjords and has long been a centre of trade and culture in the region. Its historic buildings reflect the town’s importance as one of Iceland’s key trading hubs.

Your final stop is a visit to the Maritime Museum, housed in some of the oldest buildings in Iceland. The museum showcases the history of the fishing industry through the centuries. While browsing the exhibits, you will have the opportunity to sample traditional Icelandic refreshments, such as schnapps and the uniquely tasting dried fish or shark.

Following your visit, you may choose to stroll back to the ship or rejoin your coach for the short transfer.