Black Peter

Akranes is not on most tourist itineraries, which is exactly what makes a visit to Black Peter interesting. This small-town pub serves as the social hub of a fishing community that goes about its business without much concern for what the rest of the world thinks, and drinking here offers a window into Icelandic life that no Reykjavik bar can provide.

The Town

Akranes sits on a peninsula on the western coast, facing Faxafloi bay and the mountains of the Snaefellsnes peninsula in the distance. It is a working town -- fishing, cement manufacturing, and sport (Akranes has a proud football tradition) are the pillars of local life. The town is connected to Reykjavik by the Hvalfjordur tunnel, making it accessible for a day trip, though few tourists bother.

The Pub

Black Peter makes no concessions to tourism. The interior is functional, with a bar, a pool table, and seating that has seen better days but remains perfectly comfortable. This is a place where locals come to drink, catch up, and occasionally watch football on the television above the bar. The atmosphere is welcoming without being performative -- you are a visitor in someone's local, and if you approach it with the right attitude, you will have a good time.

The Drinks

The beer selection is standard rather than extensive -- Icelandic lagers, a couple of craft options, and the usual spirits. Prices are slightly lower than Reykjavik, which in Iceland qualifies as a notable selling point. The bartenders are friendly and will happily chat if the bar is not too busy.

Live Music

On occasional weekends, Black Peter hosts live music -- typically local bands playing rock, blues, or Icelandic pop. These evenings are the pub at its best, with the small room full of energy and the kind of communal spirit that small towns do well. Check social media for listings, as events are not always widely advertised.

Should You Go?

Black Peter is not a destination pub. You would not drive to Akranes specifically for a drink here. But if you are exploring the west coast, visiting the Akranes lighthouse, or staying overnight in the area, an evening at Black Peter offers something genuinely authentic. It is the Iceland that exists beyond the tourist trail, and it is worth experiencing.