Eskifjörður is a charming seaside village centrally located in Iceland’s East Fjords, named after the adjacent fjord. With a culture and industry deeply influenced by the sea, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the village, exploring its history at the Maritime Museum and other historic sites. One notable site is Randulff’s Seahouse, a spacious fishing shed dating back to 1890, where visitors can learn about traditional fishing methods and even taste shark and dried fish still produced there.
The town boasts a geothermal swimming pool opened in 2006, a cultural center, supermarket, boat rental services, a café, and other attractions. Nestled among scenic fjords and valleys, Eskifjörður and the surrounding East Iceland region are rich in culture and history.
The East Fjords are renowned for their diverse nature and are the only part of Iceland inhabited by reindeer. The region also offers opportunities to observe a variety of bird species, glaciers, majestic mountains, tranquil fjords, wooded valleys, and stunning waterfalls, all of which attract nature enthusiasts.
Geologically, the East is one of the oldest parts of Iceland, featuring colorful rock formations and semi-precious stones, making it a paradise for both specialists and casual visitors. The region is known for its fog banks that can drift in from the sea, creating a mystical atmosphere as they hover along the coastline or rest against the slopes before suddenly vanishing.
Attractions
There are many enjoyable walking trails in and around Eskifjörður, one of the oldest towns in Iceland.
To connect you with the history of the town, stop by at a place like the Maritime Museum or the old fishing shed Randulff´s Seahouse.
On the second floor there is an old fisherman´s hut that has been left untouched since the 1940s.
You will find information on organised Village Walks on meetthelocals.
is.
Explore the East
Close to Eskifjordur there is one of the greatest outdoor activity areas in Iceland, Gerpissvæðið.
There are organised tours out into the stunning wilderness and to deserted inlets.
Swimming between Mountains
The outdoor swimming pool in Eskifjörður is one of a few in the East using geothermal water.
The pool has an incredible view of the mountains.
Vök Baths
Experience the age-old Icelandic tradition of bathing in a natural geothermal pool.
Vök Baths is located on the bank of Urriðavatn lake, only a few minutes from the town of Egilsstaðir.
At Vök Baths you will find, floating geothermal pools with infinity view, two on shore hot pools, a sauna, cold water spray tunnel, tea bar, an in-water pool bar, and the on-site restaurant, Vök Bistro.
Vök Baths is a geothermal destination on the beautiful Lake Urriðavatn in East Iceland.
Located in only a 38-minute drive from Eskifjörður.
Vök Baths is an essential stop on any visit to this part of the country.
Eskifjörður Naturally
Icelandic nature is literally all encompassing, with a lovely hiking trail to the mountain above the town, beautiful waterfalls and an exquisite view.
Rowing out on the fjord is an adventure, or why not stop by at the cultural centre that specialises in unique and original concerts.
There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the noteworthy peace and quiet of the East.
For those craving a great selfie opp, check out the city signpost in Mjóeyri.
- Popular tours
- Treasures of the Eastern Fjords
- Wartime in Reyðarfjörður (WW2)
- Five Fabulous Fjords
- The French Town Fáskrúðsfjörður
- Vök Baths
General information | |
Pilot | Yes, available compulsory for vessels over 100 m in length |
Tidal movement | 1.7 m |
Maximum ship dimensions | |
Length | 220 m |
Draft | 9.5 m (though alongside part of the dock lies 8.0 m) |
Air draft | No restrictions |
Beam | No restrictions |
Anchorage | |
Available | Yes |
Pontoons | Yes |
Tugboats | Yes |
Type of bottom | Sand / Gravel |
Minimum depth | 25 m |
Distance from anchorage to tender pier | 0.26 nautical miles |
Port services | |
Bunkers | Yes |
Supplies | No |
Waste handling | Yes |
Fresh water | Yes |
Pilot channel | 12 |
Emergency channel | 16 |
Medical emergency | 112 |
ISPS approved | Yes |
Ship tenders | No |
Crew facilities | No |
Transportation | |
Shuttle services | No |
Excursion buses | Yes |
Taxis | Yes |
Public transportation | yes |
Rental cars | Yes, if ordered in advance |
Passenger facilities | |
Terminal building for passengers | No |
Tourist information | Yes |
Shopping | Yes |
Restrooms | Yes |
Local currency | ISK |
Currency exchange | Yes |
ATM | Yes |
Internet access | Yes |
Guide service | Yes |
City maps | Yes |
Public telephones | No |
Mailboxes | Yes |
Distances | |
City centre | 0.9 km |
Airport | 49 km Egilsstaðir airport (Domestic/International) |
Contact info | |
Visiting address | Hafnargata 7, 735 Fjarðabyggð |
Contact person | Jóna Árný Þórðardóttir, Harbour Master |
Mobile | T1: +354-4709000 T2:+354-4761199 |
Website | www.portofeskifjordur.is |
E1: hafnarstjori@fjardabyggd.is E2: info@portofeskifjordur.is |