The Official Tourist Guide - East Iceland

Fáskrúðsfjörður www.fjardabyggd.is
www.east.is
Fáskrúðsfjörður is in the centre of the eastern Fjords, in between
Vattarnes and Hafnarnes. At the bottom of the fjord is a grassy valley
with lovely arctic woodlands. The route from Reyðarfjörður along
the coast is very scenic and should not be missed. It offers great
views to the hollow cliff island of Skrúður with its colourful birdlife,
the unique wonder the ‘Puffin Cave’ a home to thousands of puffins
and a great colony of Gannets that can be seen shooting like arrows
into the water.
The town at the bottom of the fjord is named Búðir, but everyone
calls it by the name of the fjord; Fáskrúðsfjörður. The town became
a trading post in 1880. From the
later part of the 19th century up
until 1935, it was the main station
for French fishermen in the East
of Iceland. The town is famous
for its French heritage and has a
strong connection to its sister town
Gravelines in France. It is well worth
it to visit the French Museum and
learn more about these historical
connections. There was a French consul, a French hospital and a
French chapel. It is also believed that France played a part in the fact
that the district doctor was located in Búðir. The village road signs
are also in French. Don’t forget to visit the local Café which is known
for great cakes and refreshments in cosy surroundings, with a great
view. A nice place to stay is the farm Tunguholt.
A bit outside the town is a graveyard, the burial place of 49 known
French sailors. On the way from
Fáskrúðsfjörður there is a French
‘Ghost’ hospital that stands
deserted in dramatic area where
100 people used to live. It is well
worth for the view and history.
Things to do:
The French museum and Café
The French Graveyard.
Kaffi Sumarlína
Angling in Dalsá river
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