12 Best Things To Do in Seydisfjordur Iceland
If you enjoy mountains, art, and wild rivers and fjords, then Seydisfjordur Iceland does not disappoint!
The town is small and not on everyone’s Icelandic excursion, meaning that you will get a particularly unique and off-the-beaten road experience.
So, if you are planning to go to Seydisfjordur or drive through or near it, the following places are definitely worth a quick stop.
The best things to do in Seydisfjordur Iceland
Visit the Gufu Waterfall
Gufu is a striking waterfall, given the contrast between the white, crisp water and the dark, sharp, rocky backdrop.
Although it is perhaps not the most unique of all the dynamic Icelandic waterfalls, The Gufu waterfall remains quite stunning and appealing for onlookers.
Additionally, the drive to the waterfalls may be equally if not more appealing, as it presents visitors with gorgeous views of the mountains.
Go Hiking in the Summer
There are many amazing hikes to partake in throughout the summer in and around Seydisfjordur Iceland.
You can take a short, easy hike up to the Búðaráfoss waterfall for a wonderful view of the town or take a pleasant treat by the Austdalsa river to the Skalanesbjarg bird cliffs.
If you want more of a challenge or have more time, check out the 3.5 hour Mountain Lady hike or strive to climb all seven peaks to earn the “Seyðisfjörður Mountain Viking” title!
Regardless of which hiking trail you choose, please remember to stay on the marked path to prevent disturbing the natural surroundings.
Visit Seyðisfjarðarkirkja
Some may find it a bit challenging to pronounce, but this little town called Seyðisfjarðarkirkja is a worthwhile stop for many tourists for the chance to capture a long rainbow road headed towards a sky blue Lutheran church.
Besides the rainbow road and charming church, the town is visually appealing due to the snow-capped mountains that it’s surrounded by. Driving into the town, you’ll get to see many waterfalls and scenic landscapes.
There is not much to do within this picturesque town besides taking pictures, but it’s not a bad idea to stop for the day or stay a night to walk around the town and eat at some of the small restaurants.
Capture Incredible Views at the Monument to Þorbjörn Arnoddsson
The Monument to Þorbjörn Arnoddsson is a historical landmark that overlooks a beautiful fjord, the valley, the passing river, and the town of Seydisfjordur Iceland.
Getting access to the best views in the area is the number one reason tourists visit this moment, and the views certainly do not disappoint.
Stop by the “How Are Things?” Phone Booth
If you’re looking for a unique sighting, stop by a small, rusty, and seemingly out-of-place phone booth.
It’s located on a grassy hill off the road slightly north of the town. More specifically, you can spot it on the right side of the road, and if you pass the Nord Marina Guesthouse, you’ve gone too far.
It’s not a phone booth to actually use, but a sculpture created in 2006 by the Icelandic artist Guðjón Ketilsson.
Check out Tvísöngur Sound Sculptures
Another unique sculpture in Seydisfjordur Iceland, consists of concrete domes positioned on a bluff. The name of these domes is Tvísöngur.
This historically-inspired sculpture was created by a Berlin artist named Lukas Kuhne and released to the public on September 5th, 2012.
It combines the elements of nature, sound, and concrete, resulting in a collection of five cement bubble-shaped sculptures.
The cement bubbles are six to twelve feet tall, and visitors can go inside them to discover each bubble’s specific harmonies that the wind blowing through them creates.
All of this would be astonishing in itself, but what makes this sculpture even more interesting is what it pays tribute to — an Icelandic musical tradition called quintal harmony.
Eat at Nordic Restaurant
Nordic Restaurant opened in 2013 and serves dishes made with the best seasonal and local produce.
This restaurant prides itself on using fresh, raw, and tasty ingredients to create French, Danish, and Italian-inspired cuisine.
They have a small menu that often changes, as they wish to base their items on what’s available and fresh instead of what’s convenient to make.
Shop at Blóðberg
Blóðberg is a unique specialty shop that offers one-of-a-kind goods from Iceland.
And if you don’t feel like shopping, the building alone is worth a stop.
Not only is it 100 years old, but it is located on the picturesque rainbow street mentioned above and has an intriguing Black and white design itself.
Visit Gallery Vigdisar
Vigdis is a self-taught artist who works with various materials, including paint, clay, wood, and glass, to create unique art.
This is why a visit to his gallery, Gallery Vigdisar, is worth it, especially for art-loving tourists.
It is closed on Sundays, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Explore the Local Crafts Market
If you’d like the idea of unique, multi-material art and want to explore beyond a single artist, plan to visit the local Crafts Market. It’s easy to spot this red building on the rainbow road.
Here, you will find work from both self-taught and professional artists, as well as a variety of materials in their art.
You’ll find arts and crafts made with clay, wood, and glass, as well as wool, metal, and even reindeer bones.
Many items that you’ll find are handmade, making them all the more special and unique. These will make for great travel gifts for your friends and family back home.
Go Golfing
If you are a golf fan, you will likely enjoy a visit to the 9-hole Hagavöllur Golf Course.
You can rent your golf equipment while there if you do not bring your club with you. So even if you don’t come prepared, you can still enjoy golfing while surrounded by the stunning mountain views.
Go Skiing in the Winter
Last but not least, the Stafdalur Ski Area is 9km from the town and is a wonderful way to enjoy the Icelandic wintertime.
You can choose between downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling — or do all three!
Conclusion – Seydisfjordur Iceland
If Iceland is on your list of travel destinations, Seydisfjordur is a beautiful town with plenty of things to do – especially if you love the outdoors and learning about local culture. We think it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re close by!
