Dalvik is a postcard-perfect fishing village perched on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula. It’s a launchpad for Icelandic adventures, with everything from ice climbing and heliskiing to sea kayaking and sailing on offer. Rugged mountains frame the village and immerse you in the raw natural beauty Iceland is famous for.
Things to do in Dalvík
Set sail on a whale-watching tour and spot multiple species, including playful humpbacks and magnificent blues. Whales flock to the sheltered fjord to feed on enormous schools of krill and plankton. Boats take you onto the picturesque Eyjafjorour Fjord, where you can also see white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises.
Ride the ferry to Grimsey, a tiny island perched just above the Arctic Circle. Jagged cliffs surround the remote island, which is home to local fishing families. Visit between April and August for the chance to see adorable puffins nesting in the cliffs.
Local tour operators will satisfy your appetite for adventure. Access powder-dusted slopes on a heliskiing tour and test your nerves with guided ice climbing experiences. Summer hiking trails wind through the mountains and showcase the incredible alpine landscapes.
Fish is a specialty in Dalvik and is caught fresh every morning. Enjoy signature dishes like “fiskisupa” Icelandic fish soup, “plokkfiskur” fish stew and Icelandic langoustines sautéed in butter and garlic. Work off your lunch with a stroll along Dalvik Beach and enjoy beautiful views across the fjord. The jet-black sand reveals the region’s volcanic past, while seabirds can be found flitting in the grass-covered dunes.
The enormous taxidermy polar bear steals the show at Byggðasafnið Hvoll, the village’s family-friendly folk museum. Learn about how Icelandic wool is spun, see antique blacksmithing tools and don’t miss the exhibit on local legend Johan Petursson, one of the tallest men in the world.
Getting around Dalvík
Dalvik is compact and easy to get around on foot. The village is a five-hour drive from Reykjavik. A rental car offers the freedom to visit Dalvik and explore the Northeastern Region at your own pace. Akureyri Airport is a 45-minute drive away.