Nickname
The Alps
The mountains here are sharper and higher than much of the Westfjords.
Westfjords
Dyrafjordur (Dýrafjörður) Fjord Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
Known as the Animal Fjord, Dyrafjordur is a dramatic narrow fjord flanked by the Westfjords Alps including Kaldbakur, the region's highest peak. Home to charming Thingeyri village with its famous Simbahollin cafe, Viking saga history, and excellent hiking trails.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Main Village
Þingeyri
Gateway to the exhilarating mountain road (Kjaran's Avenue) for 4x4s.
Known as the 'Viking Fjord,' Dýrafjörður is narrow, steep, and historic. It sits in the shadow of the Westfjords' highest mountains, the Kaldbakur range, giving it an alpine feel. This is saga country, where the landscape matches the dramatic events of the outlaw Gisli Súrsson.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Standard paved roads reach the village, but nearby mountain tracks require 4x4 vehicles and experience.
Sources to check
History
Viking Saga
Walk in the footsteps of Gísli Súrsson, Iceland's famous outlaw.
Activity
Hiking & Horses
Great trails and horse riding tours are available from Þingeyri.
Café
Simbahöllin
Famous waffle house in Þingeyri, a beloved stop for travelers in the Westfjords.
Summit
Kaldbakur
At 998m, the Westfjords' highest peak offers challenging hikes with panoramic views.
Drive
Scenic Coast
The narrow fjord road offers dramatic views of steep-sided mountains dropping into the sea.
What to Expect
- The Westfjords Alps mountain range with Kaldbakur peak reaching 998 meters
- Viking saga history at Gísla Saga sites scattered around the fjord
- Famous Simbahöllin café in Þingeyri serving Belgian waffles with rhubarb jam
- Horse riding tours departing from Þingeyri into the surrounding mountains
- Narrow fjord with steep sides creating dramatic shadow patterns throughout the day
- Kjaran's Avenue mountain road offering thrilling 4x4 driving in summer
How to Get to Dýrafjörður
Driving from Ísafjörður
Dýrafjörður is about 30km (30 minutes) from Ísafjörður via Route 60. Drive south through the Vestfjarðagöng tunnel, then continue on Route 60 as it winds along the dramatic coastline to reach Þingeyri.
Road Conditions
Route 60 through Dýrafjörður is fully paved as part of the Westfjords Way. The road is maintained year-round but can be icy in winter. Mountain roads like Kjaran's Avenue require 4x4 and are summer-only. Always check road.is.
Best Time to Visit Dýrafjörður
Summer (June-August)
Best for hiking in the 'Westfjords Alps.' Midnight sun provides 24-hour daylight, Simbahöllin café is busy, and all mountain trails are accessible. Weather is mildest (8-15°C).
Shoulder Season (May, Sept)
Good for hiking lower trails. Some services may have reduced hours. Northern lights visible in September. Mountain peaks may still have snow. Expect 4-10°C temperatures.
Winter (Oct-April)
Dramatic snow-covered mountains but limited hiking. Only 4-5 hours of daylight in December. Village remains accessible but quieter. Great for photography and northern lights.
Nearby Attractions
Simbahöllin Café
Famous waffle house in Þingeyri serving Belgian waffles with rhubarb jam and cream since 2007.
Gísla Saga Sites
Walk in the footsteps of Viking outlaw Gísli Súrsson at historical locations around the fjord.
Westfjords Alps
Sharp mountain range including Kaldbakur (998m), offering challenging hikes with rewarding views.
Ísafjörður
The Westfjords capital is just 30 minutes away, offering restaurants, museums, and cultural events.
Dynjandi Waterfall
The iconic tiered waterfall is about an hour south along the scenic Route 60 coastal road.
Planning help
Dýrafjörður FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.