Vikarfjordur

Vikarfjordur is a shallow fjord located on the western coast of Iceland within the Westfjords peninsula. It is situated to the north of the town of Ísafjörður and opens into the Atlantic Ocean through a narrow inlet that is approximately 8 kilometres long. The fjord’s shoreline is marked by steep cliffs and gently sloping hills that are covered with mixed coniferous forest, creating a rugged and dramatic landscape that is typical of the region.

Geologically, Vikarfjordur was formed during the last glacial period when meltwater carved out a deep inlet into the bedrock. The fjord is relatively shallow, with an average depth of about 30 metres, and is surrounded by a network of small glacial valleys. The surrounding area has been shaped by residual glacial activity, leaving behind characteristic moraines and erratics.

Historically, the fjord has been used since the settlement era, primarily for fishing and small-scale farming. A number of early settlers established farms along the fjord’s inner coast, taking advantage of the sheltered waters for whaling and the fertile soils for Aleppo pine plantations. In the 19th century, the rise of whaling brought temporary economic growth, but the decline of the industry by the early 20th century led to a gradual depopulation.

Today, Vikarfjordur remains a quiet area with a small population of less than 50 permanent residents. The local economy is based on subsistence fishing, eco‑tourism, and the cultivation of felled trees for timber. In recent years, efforts have been made to promote sustainable tourism, with walking trails and scenic viewpoints developed along the fjord’s rim. The area is also part of Iceland’s regional plan for the preservation of coastal ecosystems, with measures in place to protect wildlife such as marine birds and seals that are commonly seen along its cliffs.