War and Peace Museum
The Story of the Allied Occupation in Hvalfjörður
The War and Peace Museum in Hvalfjörður tells the remarkable story of the Allied forces stationed in Iceland during the Second World War, with exhibitions showcasing original artefacts from the period. The museum opened in 2012 and has since become a popular destination for both Icelandic and international visitors.
The exhibition traces how the arrival of Allied troops transformed this peaceful rural fjord into an important strategic location. The years of occupation played a crucial role in securing victory in the Second World War, and the museum displays a wide range of artefacts connected to these dramatic and defining events.
Convoys and Wartime Heritage
The exhibitions highlight the naval convoys that departed from Hvalfjörður on long and challenging journeys across the North Atlantic. Visitors gain insight into the history and heritage that shaped both Iceland and the wider international community during the war.
Main Exhibition Themes
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Russia
- Iceland
- Children and Toys
- Nursing and Medical Care
- General Store
- Icelandic Coast Guard (1926–45)
- Security and Defence
- Barbershop
Services on Site
A cosy café offers homemade cakes, and a small gift shop sells local souvenirs. A well‑equipped campsite is open from June to August, providing a comfortable stay in this unique historical setting.
The War and Peace Museum in Hvalfjörður is a one‑of‑a‑kind heritage attraction that brings together the story of the Allied occupation, naval convoys, and wartime artefacts in a single immersive experience.
To book a visit to the War and Peace Museum in Hvalfjörður, please click here:
Booking Page
Ten ideas for recreation in the area:
- Relax in Guðlaug, a natural pool by Langisandur shore in Akranes.
- Visit the Akranes Museum in Garðar and learn about the history of the place over the centuries.
- Hike up Mt Akrafjall – the view from the top will not disappoint.
- Visit Akranes Lighthouse a symbol of West Iceland standing at the western tip of Akranes.
- Take a tour to Botnsdalur in Hvalfjörður and hike up to
Glymur, Iceland’s highest waterfall (198 m). - Visit Hvammsvík Hot Springs on the south side of Hvalfjörður.
- Visit the Agricultural Museum of Iceland in Hvanneyri and the Ullarselið Wool Centre.
- Get to know the Icelandic goat at the Háafell Goat Farm in Borgarfjörður.
- Visit The Settlement Center in Borgarnes and learn about the settlement of Iceland and Egill Skallagrímsson.
- Soak in Krauma Spa by Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe.
For further information and ideas, visit Visit West Iceland
Hlöðum , 301 Akranes 
gaui@gauilitli.is 
(+354) 433 8877
Opening hours: