Guide de Voyage : Seydisfjordur Church

Seydisfjordur Church, known as Seyðisfjarðarkirkja in Icelandic, is a bright blue church located in the enchanting town of Seydisfjordur in East Iceland.

Characterized by its distinctive soft blue exterior, the Seydisfjordur Church stands as a picturesque example of traditional Icelandic architecture, creating a striking contrast against the backdrop of a rugged mountain.

The charming wooden structure adds to the serene atmosphere of the fjord, while still functioning as a place of worship and community center.

You can visit the Seydisfjordur Church on one of the tours that start from Seydisfjordur, such as this unique seven-hour nature and culture tour of Eastfjords or the beautiful 10-hour East Iceland and Highlands sightseeing tour.

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Photo above from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Saifunny. No edits made.

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Where is Seydisfjordur Church located?

The Seydisfjordur Church is situated in the enchanting town of Seydisfjordur, nestled within the East Fjords of Iceland. Perched near the edge of the fjord, the church enjoys a prime location with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. 

The street, Ranagata, leading up to the Seydisfjordur Church, is a unique highlight, as it is painted with the colors of the rainbow. This bright street adds to the quaint charm of the town and speaks to the cheerful, artistic culture.

Seydisfjordur itself is a gem hidden within the dramatic landscapes of the East Fjords, adding to the allure of this remote destination.

Why is Seydisfjordur Church so special?

Seydisfjordur Church holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors due to its unique combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural importance. Its distinct design sets it apart as a landmark within Seydisfjordur.

One of the church's standout features is its role as a cultural hub for the town. Beyond its religious functions, Seydisfjordur Church has become a symbol of Seydisfjordur's artistic community. The church hosts various cultural events, including concerts and art exhibitions, reflecting the town's commitment to fostering creativity and expression.

Photo from Flickr, by Smudge 9000. No edits made.

The church's historical roots date back to its consecration in 1922. As a witness to the town's growth and transformation, Seydisfjordur Church represents the collective memories and stories of generations of Seydisfjordur residents. 

How Can I Get to Seydisfjordur Church? 

Reaching Seydisfjordur Church requires you to travel to the remote region of East Iceland. If you're starting from the capital of East Iceland, Egilsstadir, follow the scenic Route 93 eastward. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, covering a distance of around 17 miles (27 kilometers). 

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Saifunny. No edits made.

From the capital city of Reykjavik, the journey is longer, spanning approximately 416 miles (670 kilometers) along the Ring Road. The drive from straight from Reykjavik takes over eight hours, but most guests visit it as part of a multiday adventure around the whole country.

Alternatively, you can opt for domestic flights from Reykjavik Airport to Egilsstadir Airport, which is the nearest airport to Seydisfjordur. 

Is There Anything Near Seydisfjordur Church?

Seydisfjordur, besides being home to the captivating Seydisfjordur Church, offers a range of attractions and activities to explore in its vicinity. Nature enthusiasts can indulge in hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, providing panoramas of the fjord and surrounding mountains.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, photo by Saifunny. No edits made.

Additionally, Seydisfjordur is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, boasting colorful buildings, street art, and local galleries that showcase the town's creative spirit.

Around 2,297 feet (700 meters) away, art enthusiasts could visit the Skaftfell Art Center, a cultural center and gallery that showcases contemporary visual art. Explore exhibitions, attend events, and engage with the vibrant community.

Approximately 1.1 miles (1.7 kilometers) from Seydisfjordur Church, you’ll find Tvisongur Sound Sculpture. Comprising interconnected domes, visitors can experience the unique sound reflections of Tvisongur while enjoying panoramic views of the fjord.

Sundholl Seydisfjardar, known as the Seydisfjordur swimming pool, is also nearby. The attraction has a pool, two hot tubs, and a sauna, all of which are indoors, providing a cozy and inviting environment for visitors to unwind.

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons by Sheikh Izham No edits made.

The beautiful Gufufoss, the largest waterfall in Seydisfjordur, is about 2.2 miles (3.6 kilometers) from the church. It is famous for its similarity with another popular waterfall in Iceland, Skogafoss, as both are tall, powerful, and dramatic.

For those interested in history and culture, the East Iceland Heritage Museum is a mere 16.5 miles (26.5 kilometers) away. Also known as Minjasafn Austurlands, this museum in Egilsstadir showcases the culture and society of East Iceland from the past to the present.

Egilsstadir is also home to the Vok Baths, the largest geothermal spa in East Iceland. Book admission to the Vok Baths to go hot spring bathing surrounded by lakes and mountains.

The nearby Skalanes Nature Reserve, around 11 miles  (17.5 kilometers) from Seydisfjordur, is gem for nature lovers. This reserve offers hiking trails amidst unspoiled landscapes, allowing visitors to connect with Iceland's raw and untouched beauty.

Where To Stay Near Seydisfjordur Church?

Photo from Flickr, by Jaisril. No edits made.

When planning your stay, you have a variety of accommodation options in Seydisfjordur to choose from, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience. The town itself offers cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels with unique charm. Staying in Seydisfjordur allows you to be in close proximity to the Seydisfjordur Church and the vibrant atmosphere of the town.

Seydisfjordur Guesthouse is a beautiful choice of accommodation with a range of rooms overlooking the fjord of Seydisfjordur in East Iceland. It is beautifully decorated in Scandanavian style and boasts beautiful views from many windows over the fjord.

Seydisfjordur Apartment is an excellent base for exploring some of the most spectacular natural sights in the Eastfjords and beyond. Located close to the Icelandic Ring Road and the eastern coast, it is within a short walk of the shops, bars, and restaurants in the town of Seydisfjordur.

Vid Lonid Guesthouse, with its charismatic wooden design and thoughtful amenities, is located in the center of Seydisfjordur and overlooks the popular rainbow street. It is only a few steps away from the Seydisfjordur Church.

Hotel Aldan offers a range of rooms and apartments and has a restaurant of the same name. Travelers, whether solo, couples, or families alike, will find suitable deluxe rooms with rich furnishings in one of Hotel Aldan’s three diverse buildings.