Djúpivogur, Iceland - Cruise Port
Djúpivogur, a charming town in Eastern Iceland known for its fantastic hiking, mineral wealth, and relaxed pace of life. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a low-key day, Djúpivogur offers plenty to explore. If you're not on a tour, don't worry—you can definitely make a day of it on your own! Let's dive into the port basics and things to do around town.
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Djúpivogur is a small town nestled along the edge of the Berufjordur, located in Eastern Iceland. This quaint town is notable for being Iceland’s first and only Cittaslow town. Cittaslow is an international movement focused on promoting slower growth and improving the quality of life in small towns. Djúpivogur, with a population under 1000, certainly embodies this ethos. The town has a limited infrastructure, so you have two main options: take an organized tour to explore waterfalls, glaciers, and fishing villages, or set out on foot for a self-guided adventure, which can easily turn into a full day of hiking and exploration.
Arriving in Djúpivogur: Tender Port and First Impressions
Djúpivogur is a tender port, meaning you'll take a short 10-minute tender ride from your ship to the marina. Upon arrival, you’ll find a lovely mural welcoming you to town. Just outside the marina is a tourist info booth where they hand out maps, though don’t expect the usual riot of brochures you often find at other ports of call. There’s a sense of calm here that’s quite refreshing.
Tour buses typically meet further up the hill from the dock or at a nearby park. At this park, you’ll also find the town’s only souvenir shop and a local food truck offering their own take on the salmon roll (no, not that salmon roll, but it’s still worth trying!).
Exploring the Town on Foot
The marina is essentially the center of town, where you’ll find a hotel, a few restaurants, and even a general grocery store about a 5-10 minute walk away. As you stroll around, you’ll notice the town is small and peaceful, with smooth sidewalks—though be prepared for the occasional bump as you get closer to Vikurland, which has gravel paths by the water.
While exploring, take note of the town’s public restrooms. They’re not just functional, but also have some character. One behind Faktor Brewery Djúpivogur has a welcoming message, a donation box (though the bathroom is free to use), and even a QR code offering local music selections. Another recently opened restroom is at the top of the hill, near the souvenir shop and tour bus stop. It’s very clean, with warm hand dryers and easy access to good quality Icelandic water—perfect for refilling your bottles.
What to See and Do in Djúpivogur
If you enjoy hiking, you’re in luck—Djúpivogur is a hiker’s paradise. But even if hiking isn’t your thing, there are two must-see attractions in town.
1. Langabúð: The Oldest Commercial Building in Iceland
Located right at the marina, Langabúð is a stately red house dating back to 1790. It’s the oldest commercial building in Iceland, and today it serves as both a café and a community heritage center.
Even if you don’t stop for a meal at the café (which offers a variety of items), take a moment to explore the heritage center inside. It features sculptures and crafts by local artist Rikardur Jonsson, as well as a memorial to a prominent local politician. The beauty of the work and the history behind this building offer an excellent glimpse into local life.
2. Auðunn’s Stone & Mineral Collection
A short 2-3 minute walk uphill will bring you to another gem in Djúpivogur: Auðunn’s Stone & Mineral Collection. This small but fascinating museum is a labor of love by Auðunn Baldursson, who began collecting rocks and minerals 35 years ago.
The collection is filled with beautiful specimens, and for a small admission fee (around $5 USD), you can speak with Auðunn himself. His enthusiasm for geology is contagious, and he’ll share his extensive knowledge with you, making this an engaging stop. You can even purchase some of the rocks to take home as a unique souvenir.
Hiking in Djúpivogur: A Peaceful and Scenic Escape
For me, the highlight of Djúpivogur was the hike to the orange lighthouse along the coast. This easy-to-moderate hike offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. It took me about 2 hours round-trip from the marina, and it’s the perfect way to start your day in town.
To begin, walk uphill from the marina towards Vikurland street, then turn left. Follow the water, passing charming old storefronts and houses, until you reach the “Eggs of Merry Bay.” These 34 sculptures, created by Sigurour Guomundsson, represent bird eggs from the local area and symbolize the town’s strong connection to nature. It’s practically a requirement to snap a selfie here!
From there, backtrack towards the corner and turn right, where you’ll pass an industrial plant and some tanks. Stop at the first tank, called Tankurinn, which has been repurposed as an exhibition space for art and music. It’s open all the time, so take a moment to step inside and enjoy the cool reverb. Continue up the rise, and in just a short distance, you’ll reach the lighthouse.
The path to the lighthouse is mostly flat, though it can get a little muddy and uneven, with tufts of grass that can make it tricky to walk at times. Take your time and enjoy the journey. Once you reach the lighthouse, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for skipping stones or simply soaking in the serenity of the surroundings.
More Hiking Options: Low Hills and Open Paths
For more hiking, consider taking a rough path just south of the marina. Walk past the park and climb a small hill to begin a trek over low, undulating hills. The views from the top are spectacular, and the paths seem to go on forever. If you're feeling adventurous, you can shortcut the hike by walking along Hammersminni, a route that takes you around a small bay. This can easily turn into a full-day hike if you choose, offering a completely different landscape from the lighthouse trail.
Final Thoughts: Djúpivogur’s Quiet Charms
Djúpivogur is the perfect destination for those who love nature, hiking, and a slower pace of life. If you enjoy being active, there’s plenty to explore, from the lighthouse hike to the more challenging trails around town. Even if you’re not up for a long walk, the town’s attractions—like the egg sculptures, Langabúð, and Auðunn’s mineral collection—offer a laid-back way to experience the beauty and history of this peaceful Icelandic town.
Whether you’re hiking, visiting the local museum, or simply taking in the views, Djúpivogur is a charming place to spend a few hours or an entire day. It’s a lovely port to add to your Iceland itinerary if you enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and quiet cultural experiences.