Skagafjörður, a fjord in North Iceland, is home to a population of around 4,200 and has played a crucial role in Icelandic history since the time of settlement.

This region is steeped in saga heritage, featuring many key historical sites where significant events took place during the early years of Icelandic settlement. These events greatly influenced the development of Icelandic society and politics.

For centuries, Skagafjörður was a stronghold of ecclesiastical power, housing monasteries and an episcopal seat, making it the second most powerful center of authority in Iceland. This ecclesiastical influence has left a lasting impact on the culture of Skagafjörður.

Skagafjörður is a true land of adventure, offering a wide array of activities amidst its stunning surroundings. Visitors can enjoy whitewater rafting on glacial rivers, horse riding in a unique landscape, or sailing to the majestic island of Drangey. The region also invites exploration of its rich saga history, relaxation in natural hot springs, and the enchanting northern lights during winter. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in excellent food made from local produce, while those seeking relaxation can simply unwind and enjoy their stay.

Skagafjörður is not only charming in summer but also offers endless winter adventures. Visitors can ski, hike, snowmobile in the mountains, or relax in a hot natural pool.

In Skagafjörður, there is something for everyone to enjoy, making it a perfect destination year-round.

Glaumbær Folk Museum
is the most engaging of Iceland’s many turf-roofed farmsteads.
These farmsteads are reminders of how dramatically Icelandic life has changed within a single lifespan.
The island of Drangey
is a pearl of nature in the middle of the fjord.
The island is a sheer-sided palagonite rock approximately 180 m high and provides a wonderful view over the whole fjord.
The bird life on the island is diverse, although the most predominant varieties are puffins and guillemots.
In the famous Grettis Saga, the outlaw Grettir swims from Drangey to the western shore of Skagafjörður, where he bathes in a geothermal spring and then fetches some glowing embers to bring back to the island.
962 years later, in 1992, Grettislaug was rebuilt in open surroundings at Grettir’s legendary bathing spot.
River rafting
The rivers feeding Skagafjörður provide the best river-rafting in Iceland.
The Austari Jökulsá is ranked more difficult, while the Vestari Jökulsá is classed as easier.
Horse riding
Skagafjörður is the home of the Icelandic horse.
There are a number of operators in Skagafjörður offering horse riding tours of various lengths for every level of expertise.
You can also visit the breeders and see riding demonstrations.
The tradition of driving livestock, such as sheep and horses, to uninhabited areas where they roam free all summer is still a common practice in Skagafjörður.
The annual horse and sheep round up is in September, truly a unique national event.
Hot springs and swimming pools
Natural hot water flows widely through the fjord, and as a result Skagafjörður boasts a large number of natural hot springs and swimming pools.
The Hofsós swimming pool is fast becoming one of the most well known pools in Iceland, as well as the most popular tourist attraction in Skagafjörður.
It’s located on the cliff top at Hofsós, with super views of the fjord.
Whilst swimming, you feel like you could swim directly to Drangey island in the fjord.
This is a swimming pool that should not be missed.