Nestled on the water’s edge in the Westfjords, Patreksfjörður is a picturesque Icelandic village named after a Hebridean bishop. It was originally settled by Örlygur Hrappson and by the early 20th century, it had grown into an important trawler fishing port. Today, Patreksfjörður serves as a gateway for discovering the natural wonders of north-west Iceland.
Things to do in Patreksfjordur
Directly across the water from Patreksfjörður is the Hnjótur Museum, which details the fishing and farming industries that have played an important role in the history of the area. Browse the artefacts collected by Egill Olafsson and learn about the rescue of the “Dhoon” British trawler, which became stranded on the nearby cliffs in 1947. Also on display is the wreck of a Russian airplane that has been in Iceland since 1993.
On the other side of Patreksfjörður is the Pollurinn Hot Pool, a collection of four concrete pools on the edge of Talknafjordur. Each pool is a different size and depth, with the water temperatures ranging from 36 to 46 degrees Celsius. The mineral-rich waters are ideal for soothing your muscles after a day of trekking in the Westfjords.
One of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the Westfjords is at Örlygshöfn Cove, which has been nicknamed “Iceland’s Golden Beach”. It is particularly majestic on sunny days when the golden colour of the sand is juxtaposed with the royal blue of the water. Spectacular views across the fjord can also be enjoyed from the greens and fairways of the Patreksfjörður Golf Club.
Getting around Patreksfjordur
Patreksfjörður is around 35 minutes’ drive from Bíldudalur Airport, which has regular flights to Reykjavik. By road, the Icelandic capital is five hours away. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to Patreksfjörður and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.