Kalfshamarsvik – Lovely Rocks in the Far North

Kálfshamarsvík is a cove with beautifully shaped cliffs and 2 million years old basalt rocks. According to many tourists, it is precisely these basalt rocks that are the most amazing on the whole island.

History of Kálfshamarsvík

Around 1900 the village of Kálfshamarsvík (its name comes from the name of the cove) was a busy and a vibrant fishing place. The local factory produced salted cod to sell in the Mediterranean market. Later, a school was built here, followed by a cultural center and small shops. Local people bred cows, sheep and even goats here.

Sadly, as a result of the Great Depression of 1930-1940 the village suffered greatly. Due to problems with exports, unemployment soared and the economy weakened. By 1940 the village was nearly deserted (the last inhabitant left in 1961). Another reason that led to the collapse of this place was a rival port that was built near the village Skagaströnd. You will still find ruins of many households in the area.

Kálfshamarsvík offers a spectacular view of the bizarrely shaped rocks and cliffs on the ocean shore. Today, this place is especially appealing for photographers as its basalt columns form a multitude of angles, shapes and all that comes with a picturesque backdrop. If you want to take photos, remember that the landscape of Kálfhamarsvík is ruled by the tides and any change in water levels will drastically affect the mood of your pictures.

Kálfshamarsvík — practical tips

Kálfshamarsvík is a small cove on the northwest coast of the Skagi peninsula, in the northern part of Iceland.
You can get here on road 745, which is part of a scenic route Nordurstrandarleid. From road number 1 turn north in Blonduos. From there it is about 40 km and 40 minutes drive (one way).

There is an interesting lighthouse in Kálfshamarsvík, built in 940 that started operating 2 years later. One has to admit, it presents really striking and unique on this fragment of coast.