About Bakkastofa
A home, a history and music in Eyrarbakki – welcoming guests in every season.
The story
Bakkastofa is described as one of the oldest houses in Iceland and the “mother” of the houses of Eyrarbakki, each of which has its own history and character.
Bakkastofa and the nearby Læknishúsið (the doctor's house) are two stone houses built in 1916 by the same builder.
Today Bakkastofa is a culture centre where history and music meet. Ásta Kristrún and Valgeir Guðjónsson receive guests in summer, winter, spring and autumn.
The people behind Bakkastofa
Ásta Kristrún
A storyteller whose tales are of Old Eyrarbakki in the 19th century and of her ancestors. She is the author of the book “Those who have dwelt in silence”.
Valgeir Guðjónsson
A musician, lyricist and composer with a large body of songs and lyrics. He performs his own songs and poems at concerts and song evenings in Bakkastofa and is behind Saga Musica.
Eyrarbakki
Eyrarbakki is a small seaside village on Iceland's South Coast, with old, small houses and a relaxed atmosphere. Nearby are Gamla torgið, Rauða húsið, Eyrarbakkakirkja and the Árnes Regional Museum.
Local artists and craftspeople work in the village, and horseback riding and kayaking are available nearby.
How we welcome guests
Personal encounters
Programmes are flexible and made for travellers who want a personal connection with Icelandic people and culture.
Cultural heritage
Stories, poems and music that connect guests with the past and the community of Eyrarbakki.
Warmth & hospitality
A homely setting where every group gets a programme that suits it.
Programmes & experiences
- Concerts and song evenings
- Saga Musica – Iceland's saga legacy in songs and lyrics
- Bird concerts
- Christmas and Advent evenings
- Ásta Kristrún's stories in the house
- Tailor-made programmes for groups
Groups & bookings
Larger groups are hosted at the Old Fish Freezing Factory (Saga Musica Hall), while up to 20 guests can visit Bakkastofa itself, just across the street.
Bookings are by pre-booking only. Email bakkastofa@gmail.com with the subject line “Information and booking”.