Laufás Turf Farm in Eyjafjörður
Historic Clerical Estate in Eyjafjörður
Laufás Turf Farm in Eyjafjörður is one of Iceland’s most important former clerical estates and has been lived in since Christianity was adopted. Visitors can see how daily life developed over the centuries and how the homestead and community were closely connected. The oldest part of the farmstead dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries. A walk through its preserved rooms gives visitors a clear sense of days gone by.
The Turf Farm and Church
The farm at Laufás in Eyjafjörður is a large turf house, typical of 19th-century Icelandic architecture. Unlike many other farms, it could house twenty to thirty people, thanks to its rich natural resources and active farming. Inside, the farm is furnished with household items and tools used around 1900, giving visitors a close look at life in the past. The church on the site was built in 1865 and holds a pulpit from 1698. Just to the east of the church, you’ll find one of Iceland’s oldest rowan trees, planted in 1855.
Visitor Centre and Interpretation
The old rectory is now the Laufás Visitor Centre, where guests are welcomed and can learn about the site’s history, nature, and local area. They can also enjoy coffee and snacks, take in the views, or read books and magazines in the reading corner. The shop also sells crafts and souvenirs made by local artists and craftspeople.
Cultural Heritage and Preservation
The historic turf farm at Laufás in Eyjafjörður is part of the National Museum of Iceland’s building collection, and the Akureyri Museum manages its daily operations. The museum focuses on preserving this cultural heritage and making it accessible to visitors of all ages. As a result, the site lets visitors explore Icelandic architecture, church history, and how people lived in past centuries, all in a genuine, interesting setting.
An Experience in Beautiful Surroundings
Laufás Turf Farm in Eyjafjörður sits in a quiet, fertile spot beside the fjord, surrounded by nature. Visitors can enjoy the calm, take a walk, and see how the land and settlement have shaped people’s lives over the years. In this setting, a visit to Laufás feels like stepping back in time and offers a deeper understanding of Icelandic culture and history.
Ten Ideas for Things to Do in Eyjafjörður and the Surrounding Area
- Discover a wide range of inspiring artwork at Akureyri Museum. From there, continue to other attractions in the area to make the most of your visit.
- Akureyri Swimming Pool is a water paradise for the whole family, with two 25-metre pools, three water slides and Iceland’s longest waterslide.
- Stroll through the colourful Akureyri Botanical Garden in summer and enjoy its impressive plant collection.
- Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking or other water sports at Akureyri Harbour for an active day out.
- Drive into Eyjafjarðarsveit to visit the Christmas House, the Museum of Things, local churches, and other countryside attractions. Along the way, you can enjoy the changing scenery and discover more of the area’s character.
- Relax at the Forest Lagoon near Akureyri or visit the Beer Spa at Árskógssandur for a unique bathing experience.
- Visit in winter and enjoy the ski resorts of Akureyri, Ólafsfjörður, Dalvík, and Siglufjörður. Helicopter skiing tours are also available from Svarfaðardalur.
- Join a whale-watching tour from Akureyri, Hauganes or Árskógssandur and enjoy the spectacular scenery of Eyjafjörður along the way.
- Experience the tranquillity of Hrísey Island, visit The House of Shark Jörundur and learn about Greenland shark fishing. Enjoy a swim in the island pool before exploring the island, known for its rich birdlife and lush vegetation.
- Visit the mountain town of Siglufjörður, home to the Herring Era Museum and excellent restaurants, for a memorable mix of culture and cuisine. It is a fitting final stop after exploring the surrounding area.
Find more information at Visit Akureyri.
Aðalstræti 58, 600 Akureyri 
minjasafnid@minjasafnid.is 
www.minjasafnid.is 
(+354) 462 4162
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