Ólafsvík village

Basic Information

Floral richness is what we know Iceland for. Vast green grounds, ancient monuments, and magnificent waterfalls surround Iceland from all sides. Icelandic sceneries are magnificent. Among many such marvels, Ólafsvík is one. The contrast of huge green and brown fields and clear blue sky at Ólafsvík will truly have you indulged in its peaceful aura. This place is amongst the favorite spots for tourists and locals alike.

What to Expect from Ólafsvík

Situated on the northern side of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, Ólafsvík town has fishing as its primary profession. With a population of just over 1000 people, Olafsvik has a good natural harbor for people to thrive on. A regional museum and a center for culture and art called The Pakkhus is located at Olafsvik. For those who are interested in the history of Iceland, The Pakkhus is a great place to explore some ancient anecdotes about not just Ólafsvík but many other places. The museum also serves as an information center for travelers. The building of the museum is situated in an old trading store, constructed in 1844. The first floor has a handicraft store and a coffee shop. While on the upper floor the visitors can get to experience a model of a 19th century home and the life of seafarers and farmers in ancient times. Located by the harbor, the town also hosts visitors to a small maritime museum. This is a really nice place for children to see. Don’t forget to visit Bæjarfoss waterfall that is situated right behind the town of Ólafsvík. There is a parking lot located close to the waterfall and from there you will find a trail that will lead you up to the fall. You can get fairly close to it, especially during the summer time.

Explore around Ólafsvík

There are many locations worth exploring around Ólafsvík such as Gufuskalar radio mast. It is the highest structure in Iceland, standing at a height of 412 meters. Adventurers can have a lot of fun engaging in activities like fishing. There are multiple species to spot around the harbor of Ólafsvík. Do carry your camera as you will stumble upon a lot of chances to click pictures here. You can carry a book and immerse yourself in a long reading session amidst green fields. Right next to Ólafsvík town is situated Snaefellsjokull National Park.

Snaefellsnes peninsula, which is 90 km long, has multiple hiking trails and trekking routes that you can explore. Snæfellsnes is often called ‘Iceland in miniature’. Bird watching is specifically something that you cannot miss out on in Snaefellsnes Peninsula. There are various unique species that you can spot from binoculars and if you are lucky some of the flying friends might pose for your camera too.

Best Season to Visit Ólafsvík

Ólafsvík village is great in all seasons. The small village is beautiful during the long summer days and the waterfall in the middle of the village will take your breath away as you walk from the center of the village to it in just a couple of minutes. During the winter, you can enjoy ice-capped mountains and fresh snow amidst which Iceland looks stunning. Though, some precautions are to be taken during cold weather. When traveling during the winter, pack a warm jacket and sturdy boots with an excellent grip that would keep you warm and help in covering long stretches on uneven grounds. Remember to check out the full winter packing list for a trip to Iceland. Keep snacks that are high on vitamin D as sunlight is low in winters. Winters in Iceland can be harsh as there are frequent snowstorms that can take you by surprise. Make sure that you consistently follow weather forecasts.

Places to Lodge near Ólafsvík

There are ample options to stay in and around Ólafsvík town. Ólafsvík Camping Ground has all facilities including hot and cold running water, facility to empty waste tanks, cooking facilities, and electricity connection. It is located at a distance of a 10-minute walk to the town. There are dormitories and rooms available on a sharing basis too. Though there are camping grounds available, staying outdoors in camps is not a good option during the winter.