Region
Westfjords
230 km from Reykjavik
Holmavik Iceland: Sorcery & Witchcraft Museum Guide
Gateway to the mystical Strandir coast and home to Iceland's most unusual museum—the Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Population
~375
Westfjords • Strandir gateway
Holmavik is the gateway to the Strandir coast—Iceland's most remote and mystical region. The town is best known for its Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft, which explores the dark history of 17th century witch trials with unsettling exhibits including the infamous necropants. Beyond the museum, Holmavik offers access to hidden hot springs and some of Iceland's most isolated landscapes.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Holmavik is the most accessible Westfjords town from Reykjavik. Check museum hours before visiting.
Sources to check
Population
~375
Strandir coast hub
Known for
Witchcraft Museum
Dark Icelandic folklore
Top Attractions in Holmavik
Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft
Dark folklore and necropants exhibit
Drangsnes Hot Pots
Free oceanside natural hot springs
Strandir Coast
Remote coastline with hidden hot springs
Holmavik Swimming Pool
Geothermal pool in town
Grimsey Island
Bird-watching trips from Drangsnes
Arctic Fox Center (partner site)
Branch in Sudavik, worth combining
How to Get to Holmavik
From Reykjavik: 3 hours drive via Route 68—the shortest route to the Westfjords and fully paved.
From Isafjordur: About 3 hours drive via Route 61 through the mountains.
Day trip option: Holmavik is feasible as a day trip from Reykjavik, though staying overnight allows exploration of the Strandir coast.
Best Time to Visit Holmavik
Summer (June-August): All roads open, museum open daily, best for Strandir coast exploration.
Winter: Northern Lights, atmospheric museum visits, but check hours. The hot pots at Drangsnes are magical in snow.
Planning help
Holmavik FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.