Northern Lights in Stykkisholmur, Iceland

Stykkisholmur is a picturesque town of about 1,200 people on the northern coast of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The town's harbor sits on a small peninsula overlooking Breidafjordur bay, which is dotted with thousands of tiny islands. The town center features some of Iceland's best-preserved old wooden houses, painted in vibrant colors that create a charming contrast with the rugged landscape.

The town gained international exposure through Ben Stiller's The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, parts of which were filmed here. The distinctive architecture and dramatic coastal setting make Stykkisholmur both photogenic and atmospheric.

At 65.08°N, the area needs a KP index of 3 for aurora viewing. The town's modest size means light pollution is low, and the bay provides open northern views ideal for aurora observation. As the gateway to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula's aurora highlights, Stykkisholmur makes an excellent base. Check the aurora forecast during your stay.

Sugandisey Island: This small island connected to the town by a causeway offers the town's best viewpoint. The lighthouse and rocky coastline provide foreground elements, and the elevated position gives panoramic views across Breidafjordur bay. Minimal light interference from the town below.

Harbor and Old Town: The colorful buildings and harbor boats create a charming foreground for aurora photography. Moderate light pollution in the immediate harbor area means this works best during stronger displays.

Helgafell (Holy Mountain): A small conical hill about 5 minutes south of town, steeped in saga history. The climb takes just 10 minutes and offers 360-degree views, including across Breidafjordur to the Westfjords. Aurora from the summit is panoramic and powerful.

Coast Road East: Driving east from Stykkisholmur toward Kirkjufell (about 45 minutes), the coastline offers numerous pull-offs with dark skies and mountain-backed sea views.

The aurora season runs from September through March:

September-October: Pleasant autumn weather with dark nights returning. The harbor remains active with local fishing boats. Aurora viewing from Sugandisey in the crisp autumn air is delightful.

November-January: Deep winter quietness settles over the town. The Baldur ferry to the Westfjords may reduce service. Dark nights provide maximum aurora hours, and the island-studded bay takes on a stark winter beauty.

February-March: The preferred period for many visitors, combining improving weather with aurora activity. Daylight hours allow exploration of the peninsula's attractions. See the best time to see aurora for planning help.

Getting There: Drive from Reykjavik (about 2 hours via Route 54). No airport. The Baldur ferry connects Stykkisholmur to Brjanslaekur in the Westfjords via the scenic Flatey Island.

Accommodation: Fosshotel Stykkisholmur is the main hotel with harbor views. Hotel Egilsen is a charming boutique option in a restored timber house. Several guesthouses and Airbnb options round out the choices. As the largest settlement on Snaefellsnes, Stykkisholmur has the most accommodation options on the peninsula.

Flatey Island: The Baldur ferry stops at Flatey, a tiny island in Breidafjordur with beautifully restored old houses and a magical atmosphere. In summer it's a popular day trip; in winter, it's nearly deserted but offers an extraordinary isolation for those who arrange accommodation.

Norwegian House Museum: The oldest two-story building in western Iceland houses this museum of regional history. A good rainy-day activity while waiting for clear aurora skies.