Dalvik
Dalvik, Dalvíkurbyggð, 620
The small settlement of Dalvik, tucked between one of Iceland’s longest and most stunning fjords and the rolling hills of Svarfaðardalur, serves as the jumping-off point for ferries to Grimsey Island. It’s also a destination in its own right for outdoor adventures like hiking, whale watching, golfing, and bird watching.
The basics
Thanks to this literally breathtaking landscape, Dalvik has become a hotspot for outdoor adventure in Northern Iceland. There are plenty of well-marked hiking trails around the village providing exceptional views of the fjord. In winter, Dalvik is also popular with alpine skiers, largely due to the famous Böggvisstaðafjall ski area. A spectacular 9-hole golf course sits just outside town.
Things to know before you go
- Dalvik makes an excellent base for outdoors enthusiasts.
- Remember to pack sturdy, waterproof shoes and plenty of warm layers, even in summer.
- Dalvik has a couple of hotels and a public swimming pool.
How to get there
Dalvik is 28 miles (45 kilometers) northwest of Akureyri. Buses along Route 79 between Akureyri and Siglufjörður typically stop in Dalvik. The easiest way to get there is by driving along Route 82.
When to get there
The best time to visit Dalvik depends on what types of activities you’re planning to enjoy. It’s a popular winter escape for its alpine skiing, but it’s generally easy to reach by car during the summer months, which are also better for hiking. June, July, and August are the best months for whale watching.
Grimsey, Iceland’s Northernmost Community
Many visitors to Dalvik come to catch the Sæfari ferry to the island of Grimsey. Besides being the northernmost community in Iceland, the island is also the only place in the country above the Arctic Circle. It’s said that birds outnumber people on the island by about 10,000 to one.
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