Faskrudsfjordur Iceland: French Heritage & Bilingual Signs Guide

Iceland's French town—with bilingual street signs, a fascinating museum, and the legacy of thousands of French fishermen who called this fjord home.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~700
Eastfjords • French heritage
Faskrudsfjordur stands out in Iceland with its unique French connection—bilingual street signs in Icelandic and French honor the thousands of French fishermen who used this fjord as their base from 1880-1914. Today, the French Museum tells their story, and the former French hospital operates as a charming hotel.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01

The French cemetery and former hospital (now hotel) are poignant reminders of the French fishermen who lived and died here.

Region
Eastfjords

660 km from Reykjavik

Population
~700

French-Icelandic heritage

Known for
Bilingual signs

Icelandic and French street names

Top Attractions in Faskrudsfjordur

French Museum

History of French fishermen in Iceland

Bilingual Street Signs

Unique Icelandic-French signage

French Cemetery

Memorial to fishermen who died here

Fosshotel Eastfjords

Former French hospital, now hotel

Swimming Pool

Geothermal pool with fjord views

Coastal Hiking

Trails along the scenic fjord

How to Get to Faskrudsfjordur

From Egilsstadir: 50 km (45 minutes) via Route 92 and the tunnel from Reydarfjordur.

From Reykjavik: Fly to Egilsstadir (1 hour), then drive. Or 7.5-8 hours by car via Route 1.

Tunnel access: The 5.9 km Faskrudsfjardargong tunnel provides year-round access from Reydarfjordur.

Best Time to Visit Faskrudsfjordur

Summer: Best weather, French Museum fully open, ideal for exploring the heritage sites.

Winter: Quieter, hotel remains open. The tunnel ensures year-round access. Northern Lights visible.

Planning help

Faskrudsfjordur FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.