This calm coastal village in East Iceland is known for its unique granite egg sculpture, historic cultural center, and commitment to slow living as Iceland's only Cittaslow town.
Djúpivogur, a small coastal village in East Iceland with fewer than 400 residents, is known for its art, nature, and calm atmosphere. This fishing town is home to unique attractions like the Eggin í Gleðivík sculpture, featuring 34 large granite eggs, and the historic Langabúð cultural center, housed in a building from 1790. The pyramid-shaped Búlandstindur mountain towers over the town, while nearby wetlands and islands offer opportunities for birdwatching and exploration.
Location and Geography
Djúpivogur sits on the Búlandsnes peninsula in East Iceland, between the fjords of Hamarsfjörður and Berufjörður. The town's surroundings include black sand beaches, wetlands, and numerous islands and skerries. These varied habitats support many bird species, attracting birdwatchers to the area.
The Eggs of Merry Bay
Along the waterfront, just 900 meters from the town center, you'll find the outdoor art installation known as Eggin í Gleðivík or "The Eggs of Merry Bay." Created by Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson in 2009, this sculpture consists of 34 large granite eggs, each representing a different bird species that nests in the area.
Langabúð Cultural Center
Langabúð, the oldest building in Djúpivogur dating back to 1790, now serves as the town's cultural center. Inside, you'll find the Heritage Museum, which presents Djúpivogur's long history as a trading post. The center also displays sculptures by local artist Ríkarður Jónsson. After exploring the exhibits, you can relax at the on-site café and enjoy homemade cakes.
Búlandstindur Mountain
The landscape around Djúpivogur is dominated by Búlandstindur, a pyramid-shaped mountain reaching 1,069 meters in height. According to local folklore, the mountain can grant wishes during the summer solstice. You can hike to the summit for expansive views of the surrounding fjords and coastline.
Birdwatching and Nature
The Búlandsnes Bird Sanctuary, located near the town, is home to many bird species. In spring and autumn, you can observe numerous migratory birds in the area. The nearby wetlands and coastal areas allow you to spot both common and rare bird species.
Papey Island
From Djúpivogur, you can take a boat tour to Papey, the largest island off the east coast of Iceland. Once inhabited but now deserted, Papey has Iceland's oldest wooden church, built in 1807. The island also hosts a large colony of Atlantic Puffins during the summer months, making it an interesting spot for wildlife viewing.
Cittaslow Movement
Djúpivogur is Iceland's only Cittaslow town, following a philosophy that promotes a slower pace of life and focuses on environmental conservation and cultural heritage. This commitment to sustainable living is reflected in the town's emphasis on local food production, preservation of traditions, and environmental quality. You can take walks along the coast or enjoy locally sourced meals at the town's restaurants to experience this relaxed lifestyle.
How to Get There
Djúpivogur is located approximately 458 km east of Reykjavík along Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1). If you're driving from the capital, the journey takes about 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can fly to Egilsstaðir Airport and drive about 2 hours south to reach Djúpivogur. The town is a convenient stop on a self-drive tour of Iceland's eastern coast.
