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Iceland

Iceland travel destinations and it Golden Circle highlights this geological magnum opus of our Mother Earth. This geothermal epicenter is where the Eurasian and North American plates meet. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I visit many incredible destinations. Iceland’s “Golden Circle” is one I visited in the summer of 2017. Its name is only a modern, tourism term, not based on history. This route takes a 190-mile loop in southern Iceland. Starting in Recjevik, it loops into the southern uplands and back. This article outlines 3 highlights: Pingvellir National Park, Haukadalur Geothermal Field and Gulfoss or “Golden Falls.”

First, we leave Reykjavik with crystal, clear skies and temperatures that reach almost 70 degrees F, considered a heat wave in Iceland. Our first stop was Pingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the national parliament of Iceland established in 930 A.D. with sessions held there until 1798. It served as a good assembly sit, because of the cliffs forming an amphitheater. However, few ruins still exist as a vestige to this heritage.

    Seydisfjordur Waterfall, Iceland
    Iceland

    Scenic Seydisfjordur, Iceland Highlights – Blue Church, Waterfalls, Fjords & Wildflowers

    by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac
    written by Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac


    Nestled in its own fjord of the same name, Seydisfjordur is off the beaten path in eastern Iceland.    It’s considered one of the most picturesque towns in Iceland.  Also, it’s unique as an artistic community surrounded by incredible natural beauty.  Spending a day here is a delight with lots to see and do either in the great outdoors or culturally.  As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent a day here and love sharing my Seydisfjordur Iceland highlights.  So, read on to learn about how to make the most out of your day here.

    Seydisfjordur
    Seydisfjordur

    About Seydisfjordur

    At the innermost point of the fjord, the charming village, Seydisfjordur, with about 700 people sits between Mt Bjolfur (1,085 m) to the west and Mt Srandartindur (1,010 m) to the east.  The Fjardara River goes through town and has 25 waterfalls.  Transformed from the overfishing of the herring, the city has become a very artistic community.  The well-known Swiss artist, Dieter Roth had his art studio here and created the reputable Skaftfell Gallery and Bistro.  Every July is the LungA Art Festival. 

    Seydisfjordur is known for its well-preserved colorful, wooden buildings.   The village has the Tjaldstaedi Campground and numerous motels for an extended stay.  Also, the famous Smyril line car ferry connects Seydisfjordur with Denmark, Norway and Faroe Islands.   Being so picturesque, the town has also been the setting for movies, such as, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and the Icelandic series, Trapped.

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    Seydisfjordur Iceland Attractions

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    Gufufoss

    Hiking Trail along east bank of Fjardara River– From town center, the hiking trail goes along the east riverbank.  It’s also goes through a small, forested area and rock belt.  Continuing on upstream, the trail takes you to the waterfalls mentioned below in about 3 km.  In August, there are swaths of blueberries, bilberries and cranberries along the trail.

    Waterfalls Galore– About 3 km from town on Highway 93 is Gufufoss with Upper and Lower Spray Falls nearby.  These are also accessible along the hiking trail mentioned above on the east bank of the Fjardara River.  Gufufoss plunges 63 feet from a canyon wall with paths for great views.  Additionally, following the river downstream the Upper and Lower Spray Falls are a 5-minute walk away.  It’s spectacular to experience 3 powerful waterfalls so close together.  Also, there is an amazing waterfall close to port in town called Buðarárfoss.

    blue church
    Blaa Kirkjan Church

    Seydisfjordur is known for its well-preserved colorful, wooden buildings – Seydisfjordur Iceland Highlights

    Blaa Kirkjan Church – This blue wooden church is a distinct landmark of Seydisfjordur.  The church has been moved and rebuilt from fire, but today still remains open for visitors in summer.  There is a rainbow brick path leading to the blue church, creating a colorful photo.

    Kiosk 108 – This innovative kiosk is on the water near the town center.  It was created by a local artist named Monika, by an upcycled captain’s room (bridge) from a ship.  She has seating in and outside, welcoming all fellow travelers there to meet and enjoy conversation and views.  She remarkably unloaded the bridge with a crane here for renovation into this creative and very unique setting.  The second time I visited, a spectacular musician performed on the rooftop.

    kiosk
    Kiosk 108

    Skaftfell Gallery and Bistro – This incredible visual art center includes a gallery, bistro and bookstore.   It features contemporary art from eastern Iceland.  It aims to make art accessible and inspiring, plus be a meeting place for artists.  When I visited, there was the Arctic Creatures Exhibit. This features artwork made out of garbage, such as, the display below where I sit with the scepter.

    Skalenes Nature and Heritage Center– Just 17 km east of town at the mouth of the fjord, this private reserve showcases the flora, fauna and ecosystems of the region.  It also has a family-owned guesthouse.  There’s a 4.5 km hiking trail from Autdalsa River parking lot that goes to Skalanesbjarg bird cliffs.  It displays the 677 m cliffs with more than 40 different species of birds.

    Getting there & Places to Eat:

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    Scaftfell Gallery & Bistro

    Being off the beaten path in eastern Iceland, getting here is surprisingly convenient.  I, of course, arrived by cruise ship.  The nearest airport is Egilsstadir, about 30 miles away.   Route 93 is the only road leading to the town, just a 30-minute drive from the Ring Road.  Also, there are several busses that go to Seydisfjordur.  Also, there is the famous Smyril line car ferry connecting Seydisfjordur with Denmark, Norway and Faroe Islands. 

    Top places to eat are all within walking distance and you can go see for yourself.  I was highly recommended to eat at Bistro Scaftfell, however it was closed, and they recommended the Food Coop nearby at the filling station.  It was fantastic and fresh with organic juices, soups, sandwiches and desserts.   Other restaurants to choose from include Nordic Restaurant with Sushi Bar, Kaffi Lara and Studio 23 Restaurant. 

    Enjoy Seydisfjordur!

    There is so much to see and do in scenic Seydisfjordur. Even if you only have a short time, just walking the Old Town is a concentrated area to experience the colorful architecture and natural beauty.

    Leave comments below if your travels take you to Seydisfjordur. Let us know any tips or ideas on how best to experience this charming and remote village!

    Read More!

    Incredible Grundarfjordur Highlights – Iceland’s Most Photographed Area
    Iceland’s Geothermal Reykjanes Peninsula – Top Hotspots to See

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