Stays in Fáskrúðsfjörður
Fáskrúðsfjörður is a fishing village in the Eastfjords that was the main base of the French fishermen working off East Iceland until 1935, and the reason to sleep here is that history, still standing. Street signs are written in French and Icelandic, and the French government built a hospital here in 1903, one of three it built in Iceland for its fleet. That hospital is now Fosshotel Eastfjords, spread over four historic buildings from 1898 to 1907, whose restoration won a Europa Nostra heritage award in 2016; it is scored 8.7 out of 10 over 535 guest reviews. The French Museum sits in the same complex, in the Doctor's House and the hospital, joined by an underground passage, and opens daily in summer, from May to the end of August. The other stay we list, Family Home, scored 8.6 over 520 reviews, is a guesthouse with sea, lake or mountain views, a lounge and on-site parking. A road tunnel of about 6 km links the village to Reyðarfjörður, so Egilsstaðir and its airport are within easy reach, while the coast road continues south through the fjords towards Breiðdalsvík and Djúpivogur. I would give the village one night as an East stage, ideally in summer when the museum is open, rather than use it as a base for the whole region. In winter, check umferdin.is before driving between fjords: the coast road is slow, and weather can close mountain passes for hours.
Fáskrúðsfjörður, nestled in the dramatic Eastfjords, provides a serene setting for travelers seeking an authentic Icelandic experience. This village, once a French fishing outpost, offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors will find a range of accommodations, from design hotels to cozy guesthouses, many offering views of the fjord or surrounding mountains. It's a prime location for those exploring the Route 1 ring road, offering a peaceful stopover with access to hiking trails and local museums. The village is well-suited for couples and solo travelers looking for quiet contemplation amidst stunning landscapes, far from the more crowded tourist hubs.
Fáskrúðsfjörður in numbers
CouplesFosshotel Eastfjords
Design hotel with a floating pier restaurant in the Eastfjords
Why guests love itFosshotel Eastfjords is a three-star design hotel in the village of Fáskrúðsfjörður, 20 minutes from Reyðarfjörður. Rooms are tastefully decorated, with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi, and parking is free. A restaurant on a floating pier and a bar are on site, and pets are accepted. The listing is light on family-specific facilities, so ask about family rooms when booking. Guests rate it 8.7 across 535 reviews.
FamilyFamily Home
Comfortable rooms with scenic views and a friendly host in Fáskrúðsfjörður
Why guests love itFamily Home is a guesthouse in Fáskrúðsfjörður for families who want simple rooms with a view. Rooms look onto the sea, a lake or the mountains, and each has a work desk, a walk-in shower and complimentary toiletries. A lounge, a dining area and outdoor seating share the space, free Wi-Fi covers public areas, and private parking is on site. A concierge service and an 8.6 rating from 520 reviews add reassurance.
What to expect
- Explore the unique French history at the Fáskrúðsfjörður Museum.
- Enjoy tranquil fjord views and coastal walks.
- Access hiking trails directly from the village.
- Experience the peaceful atmosphere of a remote Eastfjords community.
Local tips
- Drive carefully on the winding East Fjords roads, especially in winter.
- Visit the local museum to learn about the village's French fishing history.
- Plan to cook if travelling off season, when dining options can be limited.
- Pick a stay with a fjord view, many places here look straight over the water.
Where to stay
Frequently asked questions
Which areas are best for staying in Fáskrúðsfjörður?
Most accommodation in Fáskrúðsfjörður is grouped around the harbour and along the main road. A room with a fjord view makes the most of the setting, and since the village is small, everything is within easy walking distance of wherever you stay.
What types of accommodation are there in Fáskrúðsfjörður?
Fáskrúðsfjörður mainly offers design hotels and comfortable guesthouses. These often have well-equipped rooms with views of the sea, the lake or the mountains, along with free Wi-Fi and on-site parking, which suits a stop on a drive through the East Fjords.
When is the best time to visit Fáskrúðsfjörður?
Summer, from June to August, is the best time for long days and hiking. Spring and autumn bring quieter roads and changing colours, while winter is the season for northern lights, although road conditions in the East Fjords can then be difficult.
Where should you stay to explore the East Fjords from Fáskrúðsfjörður?
Fáskrúðsfjörður is a well-placed base for the East Fjords. The village is about 20 minutes by road from Reyðarfjörður and around 50 km from Egilsstaðir, which makes day trips across the region easy to plan from a single place.