Exploring Djúpavík: A Self-Drive Guide to Iceland’s Remote Westfjords

The Westfjords region of Iceland offers a journey back in time, to a place where nature remains profoundly untamed and human settlement is sparse and resilient. Deep within this remote landscape, nestled at the head of a small fjord, lies Djúpavík. This tiny, historic village, with its hauntingly beautiful abandoned herring factory, provides one of the most unique and atmospheric experiences in the country.

A trip to Djúpavík is not just about the destination; it is about the journey itself. A self-drive tour is the only way to navigate the rugged Strandir Coast and immerse yourself in its dramatic scenery. This guide provides all the essential information for planning your trip, including driving instructions, vehicle recommendations, and what to see and do. With a dependable rental car from Höldur, you can confidently explore this secluded and unforgettable part of Iceland.

The Story of Djúpavík: Boom and Bust

Djúpavík’s story is a powerful tale of ambition and decline. In the 1930s, it became the site of one of the most technologically advanced herring salting factories in the world. For a brief period, this remote fjord buzzed with activity as the "silver of the sea" brought immense prosperity. However, the herring stocks mysteriously vanished in the late 1940s, and by 1954, the factory was abandoned. The entire enterprise lasted less than two decades.

Today, the colossal, decaying concrete factory still dominates the landscape. It stands as a silent monument to a bygone era, its rusting machinery and empty halls a photographer's dream. The village itself has only a handful of year-round residents, and its isolation is a core part of its charm. A visit here is a step into a living museum, a place of profound tranquility and history.

Planning Your Self-Drive Trip to Djúpavík

Renting a car in Iceland is an absolute necessity for reaching Djúpavík. The journey is an integral part of the adventure, taking you along one of Iceland's most scenic and isolated coastlines.

Getting There

Djúpavík is located on the Strandir Coast in the eastern part of the Westfjords. The nearest small town is Hólmavík.

• From Reykjavik: The drive to Hólmavík takes approximately 3 hours (about 230 km or 143 miles) north along the Ring Road (Route 1) and then onto Route 61.
• From Hólmavík: This is where the true adventure begins. Take Route 643 north from Hólmavík. The drive to Djúpavík is about 70 km (43 miles) and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

Road Conditions and Vehicle Recommendations

The road to Djúpavík, Route 643, is a winding coastal road that is largely unpaved. It is narrow in places and hugs the shoreline, offering spectacular but challenging driving conditions.

• Vehicle Choice (Summer): While a 2WD vehicle can handle the road in good summer conditions (June-August), a 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended. A 4x4 provides superior traction, clearance, and stability on the rough gravel surfaces, ensuring a much safer and more comfortable journey. It is the responsible choice for anyone planning a Westfjords road trip.
• Vehicle Choice (Shoulder/Winter Seasons): Travel to Djúpavík is not advised from October to May. The road is not regularly maintained in winter and becomes impassable due to snow and ice.

Begin your adventure with peace of mind by renting a suitable vehicle from Höldur. Our convenient branches at Keflavik International Airport and in Reykjavik can equip you with a reliable 4x4, perfect for tackling the demands of the Strandir Coast.

What to See and Do in and Around Djúpavík

Despite its isolation, Djúpavík and its surroundings offer several unique experiences.

Hótel Djúpavík and the Herring Factory Tour

The heart of the village is Hótel Djúpavík, a family-run hotel that offers accommodation, meals, and guided tours of the old herring factory. The tour is a must-do. It provides a fascinating look into the history of the industry and allows you to safely explore the cavernous, atmospheric interior of the factory. The building has also been used as a concert venue and a filming location, adding to its mystique.

The Strandir Coast Drive

The drive on Route 643 is an attraction in itself. You will pass by dramatic sea cliffs, spot colonies of seals lounging on the rocks, and see countless waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides. Drive slowly, take your time, and use the pull-outs to stop and absorb the incredible scenery.

Krossneslaug Geothermal Pool

If you are feeling adventurous, continue north from Djúpavík for another 20 km (12 miles) on Route 643 to its very end. There you will find Krossneslaug, a rustic geothermal swimming pool and hot pot located right on the edge of the Arctic Ocean. Soaking in the warm water while watching the waves crash on the shore is a truly unforgettable Icelandic experience.

The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft

Located back in Hólmavík, this quirky and fascinating museum delves into the mystical history of the Strandir region, which was known for its practitioners of magic in the 17th century. It is an excellent stop either on your way to or from Djúpavík.

Best Time to Visit

The window for visiting Djúpavík is relatively narrow. The best and safest time to make the journey is during the summer months, from June to early September. During this period, the roads are most likely to be clear of snow, and the long daylight hours give you ample time for driving and exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are there services in Djúpavík?

Services are extremely limited. Hótel Djúpavík offers meals and accommodation (book well in advance). There is no gas station or grocery store in Djúpavík. You must fuel up and buy any necessary supplies in Hólmavík before heading north.

How long should I plan for a trip to Djúpavík?

A trip to Djúpavík is not something to be rushed. It is best enjoyed as an overnight trip. Plan for one day to drive from Hólmavík, explore Djúpavík, and stay the night. The next day can be used to visit Krossneslaug and make the scenic drive back.

Is the drive to Djúpavík dangerous?

The drive requires your full attention. The road is unpaved, narrow, and has blind corners and steep drop-offs. Drive slowly, be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic, and never stop in the middle of the road to take photos. A 4x4 vehicle significantly enhances safety on this route.

Why is renting a car in Iceland essential for visiting Djúpavík?

There is no public transportation to Djúpavík. A self-drive journey in a reliable vehicle is the only way to access this remote village and the surrounding Strandir Coast, giving you the freedom to explore one of Iceland’s most secluded and beautiful regions.

 

A journey to Djúpavík is a rewarding pilgrimage for the adventurous traveler. It is a place where history, nature, and profound silence converge, leaving a lasting impression on all who make the effort to visit. With careful planning and the right vehicle, you can unlock the magic of this hidden gem in the Westfjords.

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