Djúpivogur: Art, history and routes in the surrounding area

Those considering Djúpivogur as a travel destination will find historical points of interest, art, and opportunities for exercise and good food in the town. The surrounding area also offers places to walk and hike, as well as opportunities to observe nature. The town’s trading tradition dates back to 1589; Langabúð, Eggin í Gleðivík and Tankurinn each show a different side of the town. The swimming pool and sports centre, along with local dining options, also provide practical ideas for planning your day. If you are looking for a hotel in Djúpivogur, these themes can help you decide whether to focus your trip more on local history, art, or the routes and landscapes in the surrounding area.

Langabúð and the history of trade

Langabúð is the oldest house in Djúpivogur. The building houses a museum dedicated to sculptor and woodcarver Ríkarður Jónsson, a memorial room for politician Eysteinn Jónsson and his wife Sólveig Eyjólfsdóttir, and a local history museum in the attic. The spaces have different focuses: here you can encounter sculpture and woodcut, learn about two public figures, and explore local history. Djúpivogur’s trading tradition dates back to 1589. This historical background adds a longer history of the town to the story told by the individual rooms.

Art in Gleðivík and at the old tank

Eggin í Gleðivík is an outdoor artwork by Sigurður Guðmundsson. Its 34 replicas depict the eggs of bird species that nest in the area around Djúpivogur. The work thus combines an artistic perspective with the diversity of local birdlife. Tankurinn has a different starting point: the old fish-oil tank in Gleðivík was converted into an exhibition space. Artists display their own work there throughout the year; individual installations may change.

Beside Langabúð stands FRELSI, a monument by the same artist. It is dedicated to international ideals according to which a person’s rights should not depend on skin colour. Eggin í Gleðivík, Tankurinn and FRELSI therefore differ not only in form but also in subject: bird eggs and their real-life counterparts, art exhibitions, and a dedication to human rights.

Walks and nearby destinations

A straightforward, one-kilometre walking path leads from Tankurinn to Æðarsteinsviti lighthouse. Just outside Djúpivogur is Búlandsnes, which is suitable for hiking. Hálsaskógur, a short distance west of town, has footpaths for easy walks. At Fýluvogur, birdwatching huts make it easier to observe the varied and active birdlife.

The other destinations also vary in location and character. The small, uninhabited island of Papey off Djúpivogur is associated with puffin watching. Nearby Teigarhorn is a nature reserve; part of it is designated a natural monument. Bóndavarða stands on a ridge east of town. It offers panoramic views, and an orientation dial shows local place names. Walking and hiking trails are also among Djúpivogur’s recreational options; conditions may vary by season.

Facilities and local offerings

Djúpivogur’s swimming pool has an indoor pool with hot tubs, as well as a small children’s pool. The swimming pool and sports centre also includes a gym and a sauna. A 9-hole golf course is among the listed recreational options; check before your trip whether you can use it. Alongside the walking routes and art venues, sports and swimming facilities offer different ways to spend time in town.

Café Langabúð offers homemade soups, bread with salmon and smoked lamb, and cakes; the menu may change. Lefever Sauce makes chilli-based food products in Djúpivogur. According to the company, it is behind Iceland’s first hot sauce. Its sauces are described as Icelandic culinary craftsmanship made with fresh ingredients. Djúpivogur is also part of the Cittaslow network. Its focus areas include authentic products, Slow Food values, local craft traditions and environmental protection. These points can help you distinguish local offerings from nearby nature and walking destinations when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations: Hoffell, Eskifjorður, Hof, Breiðdalsvík, Bjarnanes, Reydarfjördur, Laugarfell, Brunnholl.

See the main travel overview: Austurland.