Djúpivogur: Eggs of the East

Nestled on the shores of Berufjörður fjord in Iceland's remote Eastfjords, Djúpivogur stands as one of the country's most enchanting yet overlooked coastal settlements. This picturesque fishing village of just 450 residents has become synonymous with an extraordinary outdoor art installation that has captured imaginations worldwide: the Eggin í Gleðivík, or Eggs of Merry Bay. But beyond its famous sculptural eggs, Djúpivogur offers visitors a compelling blend of maritime heritage, dramatic landscapes, and authentic Icelandic village life that epitomises the understated charm of the Eastfjords.

The Famous Eggs of Merry Bay

The town's most celebrated attraction sits along the shoreline at Gleðivík bay, where 34 enormous stone eggs stand sentinel against the North Atlantic. Created by Icelandic artist Sigurður Guðmundsson and unveiled in 2009, these granite sculptures represent the 34 bird species that nest in the surrounding region. Each egg is carved to the exact proportions of its corresponding bird's egg, scaled up to monumental size.

The largest egg, representing the whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus), measures 1.2 metres in height, whilst the diminutive wren's egg stands at just 14 centimetres. The installation spans 150 metres of coastline, creating an otherworldly landscape that shifts dramatically with Iceland's mercurial weather and light conditions. During summer's endless twilight, the eggs glow warmly against the midnight sun, whilst winter storms transform them into stark, elemental forms emerging from snow and sea spray.

Each egg bears the name of its bird species in both Icelandic and Latin, turning a stroll amongst them into an impromptu ornithology lesson. The installation cost approximately 30 million ISK (€200,000) to complete and has since become one of East Iceland's most photographed landmarks.

Maritime Heritage and Village Life

Djúpivogur's history stretches back to 1589, when it received its trading charter, making it one of Iceland's oldest commercial ports. The village's name translates to "deep bay," reflecting its excellent natural harbour that has sustained generations of fishermen. The town reached its commercial zenith in the late 19th century under the management of Danish merchant Bernhard Petersen, whose legacy lives on in several well-preserved buildings from that era.

The town centre clusters around the harbour, where working fishing boats bob alongside pleasure craft. Langabúð, a striking red-painted warehouse dating from 1790, now houses the town's cultural centre and museum. This beautifully restored building showcases local maritime history, folk art, and changing exhibitions that illuminate life in the Eastfjords. The museum charges 1,000 ISK (€7) for adults, with children admitted free.

Adjacent to Langabúð stands the town's distinctive white church, built in 1934 and notable for its simple, elegant design that mirrors the architectural restraint characteristic of Icelandic ecclesiastical buildings.

Natural Setting and Surroundings

Djúpivogur occupies a spectacular position on the Búlandshöfði peninsula, surrounded by towering peaks and deep fjords. The conical summit of Búlandstindur mountain (1,069 metres) dominates the western horizon, its pyramid-like profile earning it comparisons to Japan's Mount Fuji. This distinctive peak, visible from throughout the village, has become an unofficial symbol of the region.

The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Eastfjords region. The drive north to Egilsstaðir covers 137 kilometres of sublime coastal and mountain scenery, passing through the villages of Breiðdalsvík and Reyðarfjörður. Southward, the journey to Höfn spans 96 kilometres along Route 1, offering glimpses of Vatnajökull glacier on clear days.

Papey Island, lying 10 kilometres offshore, provides one of the region's most rewarding excursions. This uninhabited island, measuring just 2 square kilometres, hosts one of Iceland's largest Atlantic puffin colonies during summer months. The name Papey derives from the Irish monks (papar) who likely inhabited the island before Norse settlement. Summer boat trips from Djúpivogur harbour operate from June through August, costing 8,500 ISK (€60) for adults.

Practical Information

Djúpivogur lies 470 kilometres from Reykjavík via the Ring Road, a journey of approximately six hours. The village has no scheduled air service, making road travel the only practical option. Petrol and basic supplies are available in the village, though the selection is limited compared to larger towns.

Accommodation options include the comfortable Hotel Framtíð, occupying a renovated early 20th-century building in the town centre. Rooms start at 18,000 ISK (€125) per night during summer months. The hotel's restaurant serves excellent local seafood, including langoustine caught in nearby waters.

For self-catering visitors, the Guesthouse Berunes, situated 15 kilometres south of town, offers apartment-style accommodation from 12,000 ISK (€85) per night. This working farm provides an authentic rural experience with spectacular mountain views.

The village's two restaurants, Café Langabúð and Hotel Framtíð's dining room, serve fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic fare. Expect main courses ranging from 2,800-4,500 ISK (€20-32).

When to Visit

Summer months from June through August offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, with temperatures averaging 12-15°C. This period coincides with optimal conditions for boat trips to Papey Island and hiking in the surrounding mountains. However, summer also brings the highest tourist numbers and accommodation prices.

Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide excellent compromise periods, with fewer crowds and still-reasonable weather for outdoor activities. Winter visits offer the possibility of northern lights viewing, though daylight hours are severely limited and weather conditions can be challenging.

Djúpivogur rewards visitors seeking authentic Icelandic village life away from the tourist crowds. Whether drawn by the famous eggs, the remarkable natural setting, or simply the pleasure of experiencing one of Iceland's most atmospheric coastal communities, this eastern outpost delivers experiences that linger long after departure.

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