Kolkuós is the shortened name of the trading post Kolbeinsárós, which is situated at the mouth of the rivers Kolka and Hjaltadalsá. It was the main trading harbour for the area at the time of Iceland’s settlement. The nearby bishopric of Hólar used Kolkuós for the import and export of goods until after the Reformation in the 16th century. Thus Kolkuós became a gateway for relations between the bishopric and foreign lands. Just prior to the Reformation a log church or chapel is believed to have been raised by merchants in Kolkuós, the only one of its kind in Iceland. Kolkuos-01By the turn of the 17th century, Hofsós had replaced Kolkuós as a main trading port. Trading was revived at Kolkuós in 1881, when it became a registered trading harbour. By the turn of the 19th century there were four general shops in Kolkuós, all owned by merchants from nearby Sauðárkrókur who had opened outlets on the site.

Kolkuós is well situated in the centre of north Iceland. It is an excellent base for exploring the northern part of the country, from Mývatn in the east, to the Húnavatnssýsla district in the west. The town of Sauðárkrókur, with its shops and services, is a mere 20-minute drive away. The historic bishopric of Hólar is only 15 minutes away, as is the town of Hofsós, with its eternity pool that is one of the most popular pools in Iceland. Hofsós is also home to the restaurant Sólvík and the Icelandic Emigration Center. Various leisure activities are offered in the area, including horse rental, sea angling, bird watching, seal spotting, hiking and nature tours. Nature and surroundings The natural surroundings at Kolkuós are exceptionally beautiful. The residential building is sheltered by a high gravel bank to the south, and has the trout fishing river Kolka on its northern side. There is a stunning view of the mountains, and of Drangey island and Þórðarhöfði promontory. A small islet, Elínarhólmi, is located just offshore at the mouth of the Kolka river, and is home to nesting eider ducks.