Siglufjördur

Siglufjördur (population 1800), which may well be Iceland's loveliest town, enjoys a dramatic setting beside a small fjord at the northern tip of Tröllaskagi. It's the sort of town that in any other country would probably develop into a trendy seaside art colony. The historic architecture, the colorful rooftops of upper town, the harbor and the inspiring backdrop are all delightful, and may call to mind an idyllic Hollywood fishing village.The modern sculpture near the shore - a rubber boat confronting monster waves - provides a feel for Siglufjördur's rugged past.

Around Siglufjörður there are a number of hiking trails, eg. the popular hike over the passes of Hólsskarð and Hestsskarð to the beautiful deserted fjord of Héðinsfjörður. For those who prefer shorter walks there is a trail up to the basin of Hvanneyraskál just above the town. There is a 15 km mountain pass to Siglufjörður which is 630 m above sea level an din the summer this road is passable for jeeps and a trip over the pass is a special experience.

Siglufjörður used to be called Þórmóðseyri after Þórmóður Rammi (the strong) who was the first settler.

Siglufjörður was once one of the world’s leading herring centers, from 1900 until the Norwegian-Icelandic herring stock disappeared in 1970. In good herring seasons the town normal population of 3.000 increased to over 10.000 and hundreds of fishing vessels from many nations often crowded its harbour.