When you think of Iceland, images of icy glaciers, erupting geysers, and steaming lagoons likely come to mind. But venture north to Akureyri, the “Capital of the North,” and you’ll discover another side of Iceland—one that blends rugged coastal beauty, charming fishing villages, and handcrafted local brews into an unforgettable experience. This is where TPO.Travel’s Arctic Coastline and Craft Brews: Microbrewery Tour steps in—an intimate, small-group journey through the Troll Peninsula, offering a rich taste of culture, nature, and flavor.
A Journey Through Eyjafjörður & Tröllaskagi
Departing from Akureyri, this full-day tour takes you along Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord, framed by majestic peaks and colorful fishing hamlets. It’s the kind of landscape that feels pulled from an ancient Norse saga—wild, remote, and humbling. The journey continues around Tröllaskagi (Troll Peninsula), a region steeped in folklore and famed for its craggy mountains and traditional communities.
Unlike the typical Golden Circle route packed with crowds, this tour is a quiet, local immersion, crafted for travelers seeking authenticity and off-the-beaten-path magic.
Village Stops & Local Culture
The soul of the tour lies in its village encounters. These aren’t just places you drive through—they’re communities with stories, characters, and a deep connection to Iceland’s fishing heritage.
Hjalteyri
Our first stop is Hjalteyri, a tiny herring village with colorful houses and sweeping views of the fjord. Once one of Iceland’s busiest herring stations, it now whispers of a bygone era. Here, your local guide shares tales of the herring boom and bust, giving voice to the history that shaped the nation.
Dalvík
Next, we head to Dalvík, a lively port town and popular whale-watching hub. It’s also a favorite spot for photographers—with snow-draped mountains and bobbing fishing boats, it offers the perfect blend of Arctic serenity and seafaring grit.
Ólafsfjörður
Continuing the journey, we pass through mountain tunnels to reach Ólafsfjörður, known for its black sand beaches and peaceful vibe. This is a fantastic stop to stretch your legs, feel the salty wind on your face, and snap dramatic photos of sea meeting snow-covered peaks.
Siglufjörður – Iceland’s Herring Capital
Our final village is the gem of the tour—Siglufjörður, Iceland’s northernmost town. Once the herring capital of the world, Siglufjörður is now known for its picturesque harbor, colorful buildings, and as the filming location of the popular Icelandic TV series Trapped. With its friendly locals and fascinating history, this town feels like stepping into a postcard.
Raise a Glass: Microbrewery Experience
But this tour isn’t just about landscapes—it’s also about Iceland’s craft beer revolution. At one of the local microbreweries, you’ll sample small-batch brews inspired by Iceland’s pure water and ancient brewing traditions.
From citrusy pale ales and smoky porters to stouts infused with Arctic herbs, the tasting session showcases Icelandic creativity in a glass. You’ll learn about:
- The challenges of brewing beer in Arctic conditions
- The evolution of beer in Iceland after the beer ban lifted in 1989
- How local brewers incorporate native ingredients like wild thyme, berries, or even seaweed
Not a beer lover? No problem. Many breweries also offer Icelandic schnapps, sodas, or warm drinks for non-beer drinkers.
Travel in Comfort with TPO.Travel
As with all TPO.Travel experiences, comfort and quality come first. Your small group travels in a modern, Wi-Fi-enabled minibus, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide who offers real-time stories, humor, and insider tips. Every stop is carefully timed to allow relaxed exploration, and every route is chosen to avoid heavy traffic and mainstream crowds.
TPO.Travel also provides hotel bookings, airport transfers, and add-on adventures so that you can customize your stay in North Iceland with ease. Want to add whale watching from Dalvik? An extra day at the Myvatn Nature Baths? They’ll handle it.
Itinerary Snapshot
Departure: Akureyri
Stops: Hjalteyri, Dalvik, Ólafsfjörður, Siglufjörður
Activities:
- Cultural sightseeing
- Local storytelling
- Brewery visit with craft beer tasting
- Scenic photo stops
- Optional local shopping
Duration: Full day (6–8 hours)
Group Size: Small groups (max 15 guests) for a personalized experience
What Travelers Say
“The Arctic coastline was breathtaking, but what really stood out was how connected the guide was with the locals. It felt like visiting friends—not just sights.”
— Lena T., Netherlands
“This was our favorite day in Iceland. We loved the blend of nature, culture, and beer. And Siglufjörður? A hidden treasure!”
— Amit R., India
“TPO.Travel organized everything for us. We did the Arctic Beer tour, a whale tour, and stayed at a lovely guesthouse they recommended. Would book again in a heartbeat.”
— James & Lydia, UK
Why Choose This Tour?
- Authentic, immersive Iceland experience
- Taste real craft beers and meet local brewers
- Discover hidden villages most travelers never see
- Learn Icelandic history and folklore from passionate guides
- Capture epic photography moments in lesser-known spots
This is a tour for curious travelers, for those who want to sip their way through Iceland’s north while learning about the people who’ve thrived here for centuries. With TPO.Travel as your guide, every pint and every panorama is part of a greater story.
Ready to Toast to the Troll Coast?
Whether you’re beginning your North Iceland journey or adding this to a custom TPO.Travel itinerary, the Arctic Coastline and Craft Brews Tour from Akureyri is a unique blend of nature, culture, and flavor.
Book your adventure now with TPO.Travel and experience the Arctic like a true local—with a story in every village and a beer in every hand.