The common manifestation of a settlement in Iceland is a village. With the exception of a few, most settlements have a dock on the shore, with fishing and associated industries making up the majority of their local economy. This kind of community is deeply ingrained in Icelanders’ national identity, and innumerable books, films, and TV shows, as well as countless poems and songs, have been written about them.
Given that Iceland is home to so many lovely villages, the assignment to select the top five is a little confusing. I believe that the history of the villages, ports, churches, and home styles are all crucial factors in this selection.
Then there is the sensation you get when you first enter the village and the sensations that develop as you take in the spirit of the place. It’s difficult to explain, but I believe you understand what I mean. It is challenging to narrow down the five most endearing communities in Iceland, but I’ll try. Photos of each village are below.
- Hofsós
A little village in Skagafjörður’s eastern region named Hofsós is the one I list first. When I was a little lad, I vividly recall traveling through Hofsós on the route from Siglufjörður or Sauðárkrókur. The Icelandic Emigration Center, an exhibition, was constructed in Hofsós recently. The exhibition explores the emigration of Icelanders to North America in the latter half of the nineteenth century. The fact that between 20 and 25 percent of the whole Icelandic population is thought to have gone to Canada and the United States via the west coast shows the significance of these migrations. One of Iceland’s most stunning swimming pools is located at Hofsós. This is a true infinity pool where you can unwind and take in the breathtaking Skagafjörður fjord. - Suðureyri
By Súgandafjörður, Suðureyri comes in second. This is a tiny fishing community located in a magnificent fjord. In a good way, you get the impression that Suðureyri is predominantly a fishing village when you come. There is a lovely harbor and jetty where you can observe this lovely village, the church, and take in the fresh sea and fish atmosphere all at once. Verbúðin, one of the most well-known television shows ever produced in Iceland, was primarily shot in Suðureyri. - Hjalteyri
Another community from Iceland’s north comes in third. This settlement, Hjalteyri, has an extremely low population density. It is located near to Akureyri on the west side of Eyjafjörður. The settlement bears the imprint of an old herring smelter. It’s very special to pause at the old gray herring buildings and reflect on the great life and adventure that have been there in the midst of the herring adventure. You can also breathe in the atmosphere of this small village, admire the scenery, peruse the handicrafts, and experience the sea’s enticing aroma all around you. It’s also lovely to take in the view in Eyjafjörður on a beautiful day. There is a distinct calm and tranquility at Hjalteyri, which is something we like. - Stöðvarfjörður
Fourth on my list is a village in the Eastfjords that bears the name Stöðvarfjörður and is situated on the north side of the fjord. Stöðvarfjörður is a small but incredibly beautiful fjord, and you can view virtually the entire fjord from the village. Stöðvarfjörður is a special place just because it is home to one of Iceland’s most important rock collections. Petra, a lady, was the one who collected the stones, and the museum is situated in and around her house. - Flateyri
A village that has experienced both good and bad times is ranked fifth. The Westfjords village of Flateyri is located in Önundarfjörður. The village has continued to be inhabited and has maintained its image despite being caught in an extremely huge and tragic avalanche in 1995. Despite the major catastrophe that occurred on an autumn day in 1995, the residents made a lot of effort to repair their homes and keep the community alive. There is, among other things, one of the oldest bookstores in the country, a fantastic restaurant, and a recently established community college that has drawn young people looking for adventure. Overlooking the settlement, a huge avalanche barrier stands as a security precaution and a stark reminder of past tragedies.
What is your favorite Icelandic village?
Click on any photo to view full-screen slideshow.
