May 31, 2022 - Patreksfjordur, Iceland (a peaceful Westfjord Village)

We all (Bob, Anni, Mary Beth and Bob) happened to be scheduled for the same walking tour in Patreksfjordur. We heard the anchor going down this morning in the harbor of this quaint fishing village of 700 inhabitants.

This peaceful village is one of the largest on the south-part of the Westfjords. The first settler, Orlygur Hrappsson, named the village and the fjord after their spiritual guide, St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

The walking tour starts out with Misty rain with a relatively dull explanation of the homes in a partially socialized fishing area. Our guide, however, is excellent and provides wonderful background history. Her husband owns a successful fishing operation and distributes fish all over the world. He provided insights into the fishing industry and the importance of Cod. In the past, there was a war/conflict which eventually led to an agreement that Iceland would have exclusive rights to sustainable fishing for a 200 mile offshore area.

Then, we go off to a tasting of trout on a cracker and some of the local delicacies before entering a small pub where our guide’s daughter plays the guitar and sings local Icelandic folk songs. Turns out to be a pretty good experience. Tonight, is formal night and Bob (Casey) hopes that he can tie his tie on his own. 😊