Hólmavík is a fishing village in the Strandir region of Iceland's Westfjords, located beside Steingrímsfjörður.

Approximately 233 km from Reykjavík, it is an appealing destination for travelers seeking coastal scenery, photography and a quieter Icelandic experience.

One or two nights provide time to explore the village and nearby settlements.

Best Time to Visit

October and November bring a distinctive late-autumn atmosphere, with cool temperatures, shorter daylight hours and beautiful light across the fjord. Plan outdoor activities around midday and bring warm layers, waterproof clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

How to Get There (Transport)

By Rental Car

Driving from Reykjavík takes approximately three hours and covers 233 km in favorable conditions. The usual route follows Route 1 before connecting with Routes 60 and 61 toward Strandir.

Budget approximately $75–$130 per day for a rental vehicle and $75–$100 for return-journey fuel. Choose a vehicle with suitable seasonal tires and check road conditions before departure.

By Bus

Route 59 connects Borgarnes with Hólmavík. Travelers from Reykjavík need to arrange connecting transportation and check departure schedules in advance. Allow approximately $60–$95 per person for preliminary one-way transport budgeting, subject to current fares.

Accommodation in Hólmavík

Guesthouses and small hotels provide convenient overnight options, particularly near the village center. A private double room may cost approximately $160–$280 per night, depending on facilities, availability and travel dates. Booking ahead is recommended.

Local Food and Dining

Local dining features fresh fish, seafood, warming soups, freshly baked bread and café meals.

For budgeting, allow approximately $20–$35 per person for lunch, $35–$60 for dinner and $15–$25 for breakfast. Grocery shopping is another practical option, with basic daily purchases estimated at $15–$25 per person.

Top Things to Do in Hólmavík

Explore the Harbor

Visit the harbor to see fishing boats, colorful buildings and views across Steingrímsfjörður. The waterfront is also an excellent place for photography.

Enjoy the Swimming Pool

Hólmavík's public swimming facility features a 25-meter pool, hot tubs, a children's pool and a steam bath. It offers a relaxing break during cooler weather. Allow approximately $10 for admission as a preliminary estimate and check current prices and opening hours.

Visit Drangsnes and Its Geothermal Pools

Located approximately 30 km from Hólmavík, Drangsnes is an excellent coastal excursion, with a driving time of around 30 minutes in favorable conditions.

Its geothermal shoreline pools offer warm-water bathing overlooking Steingrímsfjörður. Bring swimwear and a towel, and check local access arrangements before visiting.

Explore the Wider Strandir Region

With additional time, consider exploring two distinctive coastal settlements:

Djúpavík

Known for its historic industrial buildings, steep mountain surroundings and impressive fjord scenery.

Norðurfjörður

A scenic settlement offering views of the mountains and open coastline.

Check road conditions and available daylight before planning these longer excursions.

Practical Travel Tips

- Clothing: Pack warm layers and waterproof outerwear.

- Driving: Check weather forecasts and road conditions.

- Fuel: Refuel before visiting distant settlements.

- Accommodation: Confirm availability in advance.

- Daylight: Plan sightseeing around the brightest hours.

Hólmavík is a rewarding destination for discovering Iceland's Westfjords. Its scenic harbor, convenient location and proximity to Drangsnes make it suitable for a short coastal getaway. Whether enjoying the waterfront, relaxing in geothermal pools or exploring Strandir, visitors can experience a distinctive side of Iceland at a comfortable pace.