Top Djupivogur Day Trips: Explore Iceland’s Hidden Gems

So, you find yourself in Djupivogur, that charming little fishing village in East Iceland. Now what? Well, that is, beyond enjoying the super chill vibe and those breathtaking harbor views, actually there’s a treasure trove of cool day trips just waiting to be explored. That is, from dramatic coastlines to serene fjords and quirky art installations, prepare to get your adventure on! This guide shines a spotlight on the top 5 day trips that promise to make your time near Djupivogur truly unforgettable.

1. Petra’s Stone Collection: A Labor of Love

That is, only a short drive from Djupivogur you’ll find Petra’s Stone Collection. In other words, imagine this: one woman’s passion project turned into a geological wonderland. Petra Sveinsdóttir, that is, over decades gathered an mind-blowing collection of local stones and minerals and it’s really something. A little heads up, Petra’s Stone Collection is really just about 5 km away, approximately an 8 min drive.

Visiting this collection feels, arguably like stepping into another universe, honestly it is. Stones, I mean they are every color imaginable, honestly gleam under the Icelandic light, really adding to the experience. I mean that, even if geology isn’t usually your thing, there is just something about the sheer scale of Petra’s devotion that’s absolutely heartwarming. I think. The gardens surrounding the collection, basically they’re a burst of color, often they’re brimming with flowers and quirky decorations and it adds to that dreamy atmosphere.

As a matter of fact, keep an eye out for some of those guided tours run by Petra’s family members who provide all kinds of extra background, well about the collection. More or less. You get some truly great stories along with cool insights. By the way this, in fact is the place for those quirky photo ops and a unique glimpse at one person’s dedication to, well to her craft. This collection stands as, almost, a remarkable reminder that beauty comes in unexpected forms, very much so.

Read our full review: Petra’s Stone Collection Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (TripAdvisor)

2. Hengifoss Waterfall: Nature’s Striking Display

Get this, Hengifoss waterfall has this reputation. Often regarded, so to speak as one of East Iceland’s most impressive sights and honestly there’s a reason why. I mean this isn’t your average waterfall, no. As a matter of fact surrounded by basalt columns, that, honestly there’s streaks of red clay between the layers of rock that provide, well, an outstanding and unforgettable contrast.

That hike to Hengifoss, yes it is a bit challenging but it really pays off. Well along the way, naturally you pass Litlanesfoss, quite a waterfall and it features these unusual basalt columns, totally forming a natural frame all the way around. When you make it to Hengifoss itself, often the views? Unbelievable. Watching the water cascade down those cliffs, more or less framed by the multicolored rock layers, that alone is worth the hike. It’s almost like witnessing art from nature, almost literally!

Basically, be ready to dedicate at least a few hours for this excursion so plan for about 2 to 3 hours both ways. Arguably make sure, seriously you wear sturdy hiking boots too and potentially bring some layers. Even on brighter days, that’s true, mountain weather in Iceland is almost unpredictable. As I was saying, pack plenty of water and snacks, I guess! Having these things make the trip infinitely better.

Read our full review: Hengifoss Waterfall Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (GetYourGuide)

3. Seydisfjordur: Artistic Flair Meets Natural Beauty

If you’re looking for an adventure then you need to get this. Seriously, drive to Seydisfjordur; just picture this: a charming town, so to speak cradled by mountains with a thriving art scene and all. That is. If you love those scenic routes then you have a chance of scoring this and it comes totally free because the drive itself to get there is a visual masterpiece, really.

Seydisfjordur just feels different from some of those other Icelandic towns. You know? Possibly it’s those brightly colored wooden buildings reflecting off the still waters of the fjord and this could very well contribute to that feeling of being in an actual dream. As a matter of fact explore the town, basically check out the local art galleries and do see that iconic blue church with that rainbow path, honestly those spots provide some stunning photo opportunities.

The area really shines to many other parts of the world especially with its artistic community. More or less. There’s that LungA Art Festival, that, it has its time usually in summer, truly transforms the town into this bubbling hub of creativity, seriously a plus for art enthusiasts. So, even outside the festival dates, Seydisfjordur arguably retains this creative pulse. That alone is an attractive spot for artists and sightseers alike!

Read our full review: Seydisfjordur Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Booking.com)

4. Stokksnes Peninsula and Vestrahorn Mountain: A Photographer’s Paradise

Alright, If you are serious about capturing the dramatic Icelandic scenery, I think visiting Stokksnes Peninsula really has to be on your radar, arguably! Very! This location gives one of the country’s most famous shots with Vestrahorn Mountain acting so to speak as one picturesque backdrop for your creative photos.

The drive there is actually relatively straightforward, that’s if that’s how you want to define it, potentially. Seriously. This means just that the scenery really unfolds and is ready and accessible. You know? That said, prepare yourself for some serious photographic magic. I mean the black sand dunes, that’s that. Often. They have these stunning mountain vistas that basically create some unbelievable compositions, and for sure you’ll never get this opportunity elsewhere.

Don’t just get fixated on those mountain views, though, very! Take in time checking out the old Viking village so to speak set against that wild coastline which adds yet another element to explore here, seriously cool, that, or so to speak maybe creepy but it still boils down to cool! So pack some of that warm gear and potentially just let the scene inspire some memories.

Read our full review: Stokksnes Peninsula Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Viator)

5. The French Miner’s Museum in Reydarfjordur: A Step Back in Time

Fancy something historical? The French Miner’s Museum has what it needs to stand out. In Reydarfjordur it shines just as any other. At this historical museum you can just browse back in time, even if briefly, possibly and discover about the French miners from centuries back, it may be great or dull but depends. Basically.

That alone is enough reason. Still. Learning of miners’ origins is pretty impressive. Alright it really does, just because you learn of all their original roots or possibly where they even gathered the material they dug up to. Usually you will see great exhibits. Honestly. Possibly though, as they say the guides may lead or mislead. It is a risk nonetheless!

At the end of the museum day it feels surreal and not dull and so is all this traveling for. Anyway, you may just like it at any instance or instance, that just does or does not make you like travel more either way!. Really! Also get yourself something Icelandic-unique.

Read our full review: French Miner’s Museum Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Local Website)