Guide to Suðureyri and its surroundings
The drive from Ísafjörður, the single-lane tunnel, two maps and ten photographs. All on your phone, and it works without internet. Free, in English, Icelandic and Polish.
Introduction
A precise map begins with years spent getting to know the terrain.
Why did I mainly encounter sheep in the mountains?
For the past seven years, Suðureyri has been my home, and the surrounding mountains have been part of my daily walks. I have walked the local trails, ridges and valleys, but I still lacked a truly accurate topographic map. That is why I began creating a map of Suðureyri based on direct knowledge of the terrain.
The aim of this project is to create accurate, clear topographic maps and guides for Suðureyri and, later, for the Westfjords.
These resources are intended to support thoughtful exploration, responsible tourism and the long-term care of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Introduction
A precise map begins with years spent getting to know the terrain.
Why did I mainly encounter sheep in the mountains?
For the past seven years, Suðureyri has been my home, and the surrounding mountains have been part of my daily walks. I have walked the local trails, ridges and valleys, but I still lacked a truly accurate topographic map. That is why I began creating a map of Suðureyri based on direct knowledge of the terrain.
The aim of this project is to create accurate, clear topographic maps and guides for Suðureyri and, later, for the Westfjords.
These resources are intended to support thoughtful exploration, responsible tourism and the long-term care of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
The Problem
Current maps and guides do not describe the valley accurately or in enough detail.
01
Inaccurate existing maps
Available maps of Suðureyri contain errors, including inaccurate topography, missing place names and other inconsistencies. This makes it harder for residents and visitors to understand the region fully.
02
Limited official trails
Only two official trails are available, so large areas remain little known and rarely visited. This limits opportunities to explore the area around Suðureyri responsibly.
03
Insufficient trail guides
Existing trail guides do not meet the needs of today’s hikers. They are too general or lack the detail needed to travel through the terrain safely and with a clear understanding of the route.
04
Underutilized tourism potential
Suðureyri and the wider Westfjords are still not widely known as destinations for nature-based tourism. One barrier is the lack of accurate, accessible and detailed maps and guides.
Project Goals
The work begins locally and grows through culture, community and care for the landscape.
Promoting Local Culture and History
Showing the character of the region through its local culture and history.
Community Engagement
Supporting local pride and responsible tourism through the project’s resources.
Environmental and Local Resource Care
Promoting responsible practices that protect the environment and local natural resources.
Project Expansion
Gradually extending the project to new areas until it covers the whole of the Westfjords.
Future Goal
The Team
Local knowledge, research, cartography and design shape the project together.
Szymon Sulima
Founder and project coordinator with a strong interest in mountains, hiking, cartography and nature.
Robert Pałdyna
Oversees map development and advises on analysis and the acquisition of geological data.
Joanna Trzaskawka
Historian and researcher, responsible for historical accuracy and source verification.
Gísli Brynjólfsson
Local expert on regional names and cultural nuances, video creator, and translator.
Joanna Sulima
English-language specialist who helps make the guide accessible to an international audience.
Marcin Głowacki
Designer responsible for the project’s creative direction and visual identity.
Where the project can use help
Funding, partnerships and local knowledge can help move the map from fieldwork into practical use.
The project aims to support responsible tourism, first in Suðureyri and later across the Westfjords. Responsible mapping and tourism practices can help protect the environment and strengthen the region’s cultural heritage.
01
Funding
We are seeking funding for map production, guidebook development and project promotion.
02
Partnerships
Collaboration with local businesses, tourism boards, and environmental groups.
03
Community Support
We invite the local community to share feedback and help promote the project.
04
Local knowledge
Place names, routes, corrections and old photographs from the people who know this area best.
