Discover Ólafsvík

Ólafsvík offers a range of experiences: the protected Pakkhúsið is a landmark of historic architecture, trails wind through a forest plantation and between Ólafsvík and Rif, and whale-watching tours depart from the harbour. The town also has a 9-hole golf course. When planning a trip, you can therefore choose from a variety of themes, including culture, trails, golf and wildlife watching.

Pakkhúsið and the history of technology

Pakkhúsið in Ólafsvík was built in 1844 and is a protected building. It is a two-storey wooden house with a gabled roof, measuring 12.73 m long and 8.38 m wide. Its year of construction, protected status and distinctive architectural form make the house a notable cultural landmark in the town. Anyone interested in historic buildings will find a clearly defined subject here alongside outdoor activities.

The museum in the old packhouse exhibits technological achievements from earlier times. This adds a distinct focus on the history of technology to the architecture. Pakkhúsið and the museum therefore appeal to different interests, so visitors interested in culture are not limited to just one perspective. For a trip where history matters alongside activities, Ólafsvík brings these two themes together in one tangible example.

Trails, forest plantation and golf

A hiking trail through Ólafsvík’s forest plantation leads into the town. If you would like to include a trail with this route in your trip, you can distinguish it from another trail: Frístundastígur runs between Ólafsvík and Rif. The section described there was created in 2014. One trail description therefore leads into the town, while the other concerns the section between the two place names.

These different routes give you a concrete basis for making your own choice: Would you like a hiking trail that leads into Ólafsvík, or are you interested in Frístundastígur between Ólafsvík and Rif? No trail length or walking time is provided; the key distinction here is the route described for each one.

Another activity available in Ólafsvík is a 9-hole golf course. Golf enthusiasts can consider it as a separate focus alongside the trails and the town’s cultural attractions. This gives you a choice of different interests when planning your trip without needing to combine them into a single itinerary.

Whale watching from Ólafsvík

Whale-watching tours depart from Ólafsvík harbour. Orcas and humpback whales are regularly spotted on these tours. Ólafsvík is internationally regarded as one of Iceland’s leading whale-watching destinations. For travellers with a particular interest in whales, this is a compelling reason to consider the tours when choosing where to stay on holiday.

The whale-watching tour lasts three hours and is accompanied by a live English-speaking guide. The duration and language are useful details for planning: you can decide whether a three-hour tour with commentary in English suits your travel plans. The regular sightings of orcas and humpback whales also give whale watching a clear focus, without promising a sighting on every trip.

If you’re looking for a holiday apartment in Ólafsvík, your preferred travel focus may play a role in choosing where to stay.

Explore more destinations: Leirá, Borgarnes, Brimilsvellir, Miklholt, Akrar, Akranes, Budhir and Hjarðarholt.

For the regional travel overview: Vesturland.