Stykkishólmur: Where Iceland’s Past Meets a Light and Living Present

A Town Where Stories Live on Every Corner

A walk through Stykkishólmur feels like stepping into a fairytale. Colorful corrugated-iron houses, narrow streets leading down to the sea, and a tangible sense of history waiting around every corner.

The town is built on a relationship between land and sea, past and future, locals and visitors. It’s no wonder Stykkishólmur is often described as the gateway to Breiðafjörður, where thousands of small islands are scattered across the bay like a path leading toward adventure.

Take the time to climb the rock on Súgandisey, within easy walking distance from the harbor. From the top, the view stretches across mountains, sea, and endless sky — the kind of view that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

Experiences in Stykkishólmur

1. Visit the Norwegian House (Norska Húsið)
The oldest two-story house in Stykkishólmur now hosts a cozy local museum, bringing the town’s maritime and trading history to life.

2. Boat Tour on Breiðafjörður
Sail among the bay’s countless islands, often with the opportunity to taste freshly harvested scallops straight from the sea.

3. Stykkishólmur Church
This striking modern church is worth visiting for its architecture and panoramic views — even if you’re not particularly religious.

4. The Swimming Pool
Like most Icelandic towns, Stykkishólmur has its own public pool. There’s nothing quite like relaxing in warm geothermal water while a cool sea breeze drifts by.

5. Cafés and Restaurants
Whether it’s homemade cake at a harbor café or fresh local fish, the town’s food scene is simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.

When Simplicity Becomes a Luxury

There is a special kind of luxury in Stykkishólmur — one you won’t find in five-star hotels or elaborate spas. It’s the luxury of quiet streets. Of breathing in crisp sea air. Of chatting with people who grew up in the town where they now pour your coffee. Of having space — real, rare space — to simply be.

An Easy Base for Exploring

Stykkishólmur is an ideal base for exploring Snæfellsnes — its black beaches, volcanoes, glaciers, and dramatic sea cliffs. It’s also a perfect starting point for ferry trips to Flatey and the Westfjords for those feeling especially adventurous.

After a long drive, it wouldn’t be surprising if the greatest pleasure is simply wandering through town, enjoying a pastry, sitting by the harbor, and watching fishing boats gently rock with the waves.

Travel Slower. Stay Longer.

At Key to Iceland, we believe places like Stykkishólmur are reminders of what travel is really about. Not rushing to see as much as possible, but arriving — even if only for an afternoon — and allowing a place to leave its mark on you.

Whether you’re looking for a base to explore the natural wonders of Snæfellsnes or simply a beautiful seaside town to catch your breath, Stykkishólmur offers both.

And once you arrive, chances are you’ll wish you could stay a little longer.