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Þórsafjörður Ruins

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The ruins of Þórsafjörður (often referred to as Þorskafjörður) in Iceland's Westfjords are an impressive testament to the settlement era and early colonial history. This area is closely linked to Gull-Þóris saga, which recounts the adventures and wealth of the early settler Hallsteinn Þórólfsson. Hallsteinn is said to have established a significant farm here, the remains of which are still visible today as grass-grown ruins. A unique feature of the site was historical salt production, where seawater was evaporated in large pans over peat fires, one of Iceland's earliest industrial efforts. The fjord's landscape is characterized by wide plains and rugged mountains, providing early inhabitants with both shelter and resources. The ruins offer archaeologists valuable insights into Viking construction techniques and daily life in the 10th century. For visitors, Þórsafjörður is a place of contemplation where legends of gold discoveries and the harsh reality of early settlement converge.

Location: Iceland
Nearby: Vigur (38 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	0	0	1	3	6	8	8	6	4	2	1
Rain mm	134	111	110	94	75	47	71	84	110	137	121	145

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Þórsafjörður ruins are located in a remote region of the Westfjords and are freely accessible. It is an open-air archaeological site with no facilities.

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Typical hours

Since there is no guarding, there are no opening hours. The site is accessible during daylight, with short winter daylight hours to consider.

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Photography

Photography is allowed without restrictions. The remote surroundings and ruins offer unique, wild landscape subjects.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for viewing the ruins. However, the journey itself takes the majority of the time.

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Combine with

The ruins are near the Westfjords route - combine with other remote spots like Dynjandi waterfalls. The village of Patreksfjörður is also not far.

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Getting there

Access is by car on unpaved roads - a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. The exact location requires a good map or GPS.

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Insider tip

Fill up your tank before entering the Westfjords and bring supplies, as there are no gas stations or shops nearby. Weatherproof clothing is essential.

Geography

Coordinates

66.30000, -22.30000

Facts

Hallsteinn Þórólfsson was among the first to settle here in the 10th century.
The area serves as the primary setting for the medieval Gull-Þóris saga.
One of Iceland's earliest salt-making operations was conducted along this fjord.
Archaeological remains confirm the presence of Viking-age longhouses on site.
The name is derived from the Norse god Þór (Thor), deity of thunder.
Peat harvesting was essential for fueling the local salt evaporation pans.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Hrafnsfjörður Archaeology12 km · NExplore →

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve13 km · NWExplore →

Hornbjarg14 km · NWExplore →

Drangajökull17 km · SExplore →

Vigur Island Eider Ducks36 km · SWExplore →

Vigur38 km · SWExplore →

Ísafjörður45 km · SWExplore →

Skjaldfönn Ruins48 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Þórsafjörður Ruins (1)

Bolungarvík📍 landmark

A remote bay on the northwest coast of Iceland near Hornstrandir.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is known about the ruins in Þórsafjörður?

They are remains of abandoned farms that often have a long history in the Westfjords.

Why was the area abandoned?

Isolation and difficult living conditions led to the abandonment of many farms in the 20th century.

How do you get to Þórsafjörður?

It is located in the remote Westfjords and is only accessible via gravel roads.

Are there marked hiking trails there?

No, the area is very wild; hiking requires good map skills and experience.

Can you camp nearby?

Official camping is only allowed at designated sites in the surrounding villages.

Þórsafjörður Ruins: where is it located?

Þórsafjörður Ruins is located in Iceland.

Þórsafjörður Ruins: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Þórsafjörður Ruins: why is it worth visiting?

The ruins of Þórsafjörður (often referred to as Þorskafjörður) in Iceland's Westfjords are an impressive testament to the settlement era and early colonial history.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →