The Arctic Fox Centre
A research centre dedicated to Iceland’s only native land mammal
The Arctic Fox Centre in Súðavík is a research and educational centre devoted to the Icelandic arctic fox, known locally as melrakki or tófa. It is Iceland’s only original land mammal. The centre is housed in the old Eyrardalur building and opened in 2010. It aims to gather knowledge, materials and objects related to the Arctic fox, past and present.
Exhibitions on nature, history and research
The Arctic Fox Centre features an educational exhibition about the fox’s life in Icelandic nature. It covers behaviour, habitat and the species’ role in the ecosystem. Visitors can view live footage, taxidermy specimens and modern educational displays.
The exhibition also explores the history of fox farming and fox hunting in Iceland. It includes tools, equipment and stories that show how people and the arctic fox have interacted through the centuries.
The Arctic Fox Centre takes part in research on the biology of the species and supports sustainable wildlife tourism. It works to increase understanding of the arctic fox both in Iceland and abroad, sharing knowledge through text, images and guided interpretation.
Visiting the Arctic Fox Centre
The Arctic Fox Centre is located in the Eyrardalur building in Súðavík, between the old and new parts of the village. The house also includes a café and a small shop where visitors can enjoy refreshments and buy souvenirs.
The Arctic Fox Centre is a lively educational venue where nature, history and science meet. It offers visitors a close and informative introduction to one of Iceland’s most remarkable animals.
Activities and experiences in the northern Westfjords
The northern Westfjords offer unique nature, history and coastal communities. Here are ten ideas for activities that pair well with a visit to the Arctic Fox Centre and travel around the Westfjords.
- Visit Litlibær in Skötufjörður, explore its remarkable stonework and enjoy a traditional cream waffle.
- Explore the Westfjord Heritage Museum in Neðstikaupstaður, Ísafjörður, and learn about the region’s history.
- Join a guided walking tour of old Ísafjörður and discover the stories of its houses and residents.
- Try sea angling and cook your catch in the beautiful surroundings of the Westfjords.
- Enjoy the view from the viewing platform on Bolafjall—if you dare to step out on the edge.
- Meet a “vermann” from old fishing days at the Maritime Museum in Ósvör, near Bolungarvík.
- Sail to Hornstrandir or to the island Vigur in Ísafjarðardjúp and experience rich birdlife and seals.
- Visit the old blacksmith’s workshop in Þingeyri, built in 1913, where original machines and tools are still on display.
- Walk through the historic garden Skrúður in Dýrafjörður, the garden that gave Icelandic ornamental gardens their name.
- Set off on a sea‑kayaking trip past historic shores, seals and seabirds in a calm fjord.
More information and ideas can be found at westfjords.is.
Eyrardalur 4, 420 Súðavík 
melrakki@melrakki.is 
(+354) 456 4922
Opening hours: