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Iceland boasts a number of picturesque towns and villages, and Grundafjordur is probably one of the most beautiful. With breathtaking views across the fjord, the Icelandic landscape, and mountains, Grundafjordur is much more than just a picturesque quaint little town with less than 900 people residing there permanently.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this special town and why it should be added to your Iceland trip itinerary, along with a few other interesting things to do and see in the area.
Where is Grundafjordur in Iceland?
Grundafjordur can be found nestled on the shores of the Breidafjördur Fjord on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, which is known for its breathtaking and extraordinary landscapes in the western region of Iceland. The capital city of Reykjavík is just 177 kilometers away, which makes a day outing when there are sufficient daylight hours possible, but we still recommend that you simply add Grundafjordur as a stop along your road trip of the country.
How to Get to Grundafjordur in Iceland
The following are the most popular ways of visiting Grundafjordur:
Via a Tour
Since Grundafjordur is not one of our main attractions here on the island, you will struggle to find an existing tour that offers the little town as a stop, but there are plenty of experienced guides whom you can arrange a private tour with. The majority of these are most likely to depart from Reykjavik.
Via a Self-drive
This will always be our preferred method of exploring the island since it means that you are not dependent on any third parties, and will stay in full control of your time and schedule. Reaching Grundafjordur with your own transport is very easy. Simply get on the Ring Road and drive north if you’re coming from the direction of Reykjavík.
You will cross Mt. Esja, and drive through Hvalfjardargong till you reach Borgarnes. Here you will turn onto Road 54 at the last roundabout in the direction of Snæfellsnes. Continue on till you follow the signs and turn left to Grundarfjordur. The trip should take you about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
The History of Grundafjordur
Grundafjordur is a significant part of Icelandic history, since the town played a major role in the 15th century as the center for trade in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. In 1786, it was officially certified as one of Iceland’s six designated marketplaces. With so many historical sites and ruins around the area, it’s generally believed that despite Grundafjordur’s official history, the region was probably inhabited all the way back to the Viking era.
Things to See & Do in Grundafjordur
These are some of the things to see and do whilst in the village:
- Thunderstorm the Orca sculpture
- The Grundarfjordur Information Center
- Liston Art Gallery
- The Grundarfjordur Swimming Pool
- The Grundarfjordur Harbor
- The Saga Center
- Grundarfjordur Church
Other Things to Do Near Grundafjordur
There are quite a few other sights and attractions to look forward to in the area. These include:
- Mount Kirkjufell
- Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall
- Grundarfjordur Boat Tours
- Grundarfoss Waterfall
- Various hiking trails in the surroundings
Where to Stay Near Grundafjordur
If you want to take advantage of everything the area has to offer, why not stay over for a couple of nights? You can choose from a myriad of accommodation options, such as:
Make Grundafjordur a Road Trip Stop
If you want to go on the Icelandic adventure of a lifetime, rent a campervan in Iceland and make Grundafjordur a stop on your Ring Road trip. To extend your stay at Grundafjordur in the most affordable way whilst living in comfort and style, book your spot at the campsite and camp out in your campervan. But whatever you do, don’t miss out on one of the most beautiful villages in Iceland.
