Hellissandur: From medieval fisheries to modern arts

Hellissandur is a small historic fishing village that nestles on the northwest point of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, at the foot of the imposing Snæfellsjökull volcano and National Park. The town, home to a population of 450, primarily sustains on fisheries and tourism. However, in recent years, it has seen an influx of artists drawn to its unique ambiance. Hellissandur's artistic flair is noticeable, with three artist residencies and galleries, and murals adding color to the town - no wonder it's been coined "The Street Art Capital of Iceland".

Tracing Iceland's History on Foot: Coastal Hiking and The Maritime Legacy

The enchanting ruins of the old harbor in Krossavík in Hellissandur

Hellissandur is one of Iceland's oldest towns and dates to medieval times when Iceland was first settled. The town rests on the southern edge of the abundant Breiðafjörður bay (meaning Broad-bay), which is one of Iceland's richest fishing grounds and an important habitat for diverse birds species and marine mammals that can often be spotted from the coastline.

An hour-long hike along the coast from Keflavík bay brings you through the town, between old boat landings and to the remains of Krossavík's old harbor.  Monuments and signs along the way, tell the story of fishing in Iceland from open rowing boats to engine boats.  A perfect end of the stroll is to visit the Sjómannagarðurinn maritime museum in Hellissandur which represents the history of fisher's culture in Iceland and the way of life in earlier days. A visit to Sjómannagarðurinn maritime museum, housing Iceland's oldest preserved rowing boat, Bliki (circa 1826), and the reconstructed Þorvaldarbúð sod house perfectly concludes this historic stroll.

From the campsite, another trail leads you through the moss-laden lava fields encircling the town.

The Sjómannagarðurinn maritime museum in Hellissandur

Artistic Exploration: Galleries, Sculptures, Murals, and a Cultural Hub

3 Veggir and Saltport Hvítahús .

Hellissandur is a hive of artistic activity, with three galleries and residencies regularly hosting exhibitions from both local and international artists. Galleries such as 3 Veggir and Saltport are centrally located, while Hvítahús situates itself near the historical Krossavík harbor, 1 km west of the town. 

Stroll around the town, and you'll find the town’s buildings canvassed with vibrant murals that stand as a testament to the Street Art Festival of 2018 that attracted artists from around the globe. You'll also discover four prominent outdoor sculptures by renowned artists:

• Skipið (The Ship) a creation of Jón Gunnar Árnason, stands on the central street of Klettsbúð. You might discern a similarity with Árnason's more famous work, The Sun Voyager, an iconic landmark in Reykjavík.
• Beðið í von (Waiting in Hope) a striking piece by Grímur Marinó stands above the main old boat landing on Hellisbraut street.
• Jöklarar (The Glacier People) by Ragnar Kjartansson graces the garden of the Sjómannagarðurinn maritime museum. 
• Frelsisviti (The Lighthouse of Freedom) resides on the shoreline behind the Saltport art residency. This captivating piece was installed in 2022 by Jo Kley.

In the neighboring town of Rif, a short 3 km away, The Freezer Hostel and Culture Center regularly offers concerts, theatre shows, and yet another artist residency in the area, focusing on performing arts. A paved hiking path lies between the towns.

Enjoy Hellissandur's Culinary Delights and Facilities

Summer brings with it an array of food and drink options, with establishments like the highly rated Gilbakki café, Viðvík restaurant, and Sjómannagarðurinn café opening their doors. However, the N1 gas station grocery store offers year-round service, providing sandwiches, soups, hot dogs, and a surprising range of groceries.

Nestled in a stunning setting, the well-equipped Campsite in Hellissandur offers shelter beneath a dramatic lava wall, complemented by ocean views.

Just 10 km east of Hellissandur, the town of Ólafsvík presents additional dining options and a well-stocked grocery store, along with a cozy swimming pool equipped with hot tubs and a sauna.

The striking coastline of Snæfellsjökull National Park featuring the Lóndrangar seastacks and Þúfubjarg bird cliff, remnants of an ancient crater sculpted by the persistent forces of the sea.

Experience the Wilderness at Snæfellsjökull National Park

With Snæfellsjökull National Park right at its doorstep, Hellissandur offers breathtaking landscapes that include the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier and volcano, immortalized in Jules Verne's 'Journey to the Center of the Earth'

Further information

The town of Hellissandur is a part of the Snæfellsbær municipality and here you can check out recommendations from the Visit-Snæfellsbær and West-Iceland websites.