Höfn: A Gateway to Iceland’s Glaciers and Natural Wonders

Located in southeast Iceland, Höfn is a charming coastal town with a population of around 2,100 residents. While small in size, Höfn has grown into one of the country’s most beloved destinations, particularly due to its proximity to the spectacular Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe's largest glacier. The town offers visitors not only breathtaking natural landscapes but also a rich cultural experience. From its thriving fishing industry to its scenic coastal views, Höfn serves as a perfect base for exploring Iceland’s southeast, including nearby national parks, waterfalls, and glaciers.

In this guide, we’ll explore the wonders of Höfn, uncover its history and culture, and provide tips on what to see, do, and eat in this scenic town.

The History of Höfn

Höfn’s name literally translates to “harbor,” reflecting its historical importance as a fishing village. For centuries, the town has relied on fishing as its primary source of income, particularly lobster, which has helped put Höfn on the map. Fishing remains a central aspect of life here, with many locals working in the fishing industry, either on boats or in processing plants. Every summer, Höfn celebrates its maritime heritage with the Lobster Festival, which draws in both locals and visitors alike.

The development of Höfn as a town was relatively slow until the mid-20th century when the construction of bridges and better road systems connected the town to other parts of Iceland. Today, Höfn is an important service hub for southeast Iceland, offering hotels, restaurants, and shops to cater to both locals and the increasing number of tourists.

How to Get to Höfn

Höfn is located approximately 450 kilometers from Reykjavík, and driving from the capital city to Höfn takes about 5 to 6 hours along Route 1, also known as the Ring Road. The drive offers stunning views of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, including mountains, waterfalls, and lava fields. For those who prefer to fly, Höfn also has a small domestic airport with regular flights from Reykjavík.

Best Time to Visit Höfn

The best time to visit Höfn largely depends on what you want to experience. The summer months, from June to August, offer the warmest weather and the famous Midnight Sun, allowing for nearly 24 hours of daylight. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, glacier tours, and boat trips. However, summer is also the busiest season, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May or September.

Winter in Höfn, from November to March, brings long nights and the magical Northern Lights. Although colder and snowier, winter is a fantastic time to visit if you’re interested in ice caving, glacier hiking, and viewing the Aurora Borealis. Just be prepared for shorter daylight hours and occasional road closures due to weather conditions.

Exploring Vatnajökull Glacier

Höfn is often referred to as the “gateway to Vatnajökull,” as it’s located just a short drive away from Vatnajökull National Park. This park is home to the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull, which covers about 8% of Iceland’s total landmass. The glacier and its surrounding landscapes offer visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore ice caves, hike on glaciers, and witness incredible natural formations.

• Glacier Hiking: Several companies in Höfn offer guided glacier hikes, ranging from beginner-friendly walks to more challenging climbs. Hiking on the glacier allows you to experience the beauty of the ice formations up close, with expert guides ensuring your safety while providing insight into the geology and history of the area.
• Ice Caving: Winter is the best time to explore Vatnajökull’s stunning ice caves, as the colder temperatures solidify the caves and create spectacular blue ice formations. Tours from Höfn provide all the necessary equipment, including crampons and helmets, allowing you to safely explore these otherworldly spaces.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: About an hour’s drive from Höfn, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders. The lagoon is filled with large icebergs that have calved from the nearby glacier and drift out to sea. Boat tours allow visitors to navigate between the icebergs, offering up-close views of these massive chunks of ice and the resident seals that frequently swim in the waters.

Höfn’s Natural Wonders

While Vatnajökull is undoubtedly the main attraction, Höfn is surrounded by other natural wonders worth exploring.

• Vestrahorn Mountain: Just a short drive from Höfn, Vestrahorn is a stunning mountain that towers over the black sand beaches of Stokksnes. This dramatic, jagged peak is a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts, offering picturesque views in every season. During the winter months, the Northern Lights frequently illuminate the sky above the mountain, creating a surreal scene.
• Lónsöræfi Nature Reserve: For those interested in hiking and wilderness exploration, the Lónsöræfi Nature Reserve, located to the east of Höfn, offers an untouched landscape of mountains, rivers, and valleys. The area is known for its challenging hikes and diverse wildlife, including reindeer. It’s a great place for experienced hikers looking to get off the beaten path.
• Hoffellsjökull Glacier: Another glacier near Höfn, Hoffellsjökull offers less crowded, but equally beautiful, glacier tours. The glacier is surrounded by geothermal hot springs, providing a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.

Activities in Höfn

• Fishing and Boat Tours: Höfn’s coastal location means that there are plenty of opportunities to take part in fishing excursions or boat tours. During the summer, local companies offer sea angling trips where you can try your hand at catching Icelandic cod or haddock.
• Lobster Festival: Held every summer, Höfn’s Lobster Festival celebrates the town’s most famous export—langoustine. The festival features concerts, food tastings, and family-friendly activities. It's the perfect way to experience the town’s vibrant community spirit and enjoy some delicious seafood.
• Aurora Watching: From September to April, the Northern Lights can frequently be seen dancing in the skies above Höfn. Due to the town’s low levels of light pollution, it’s an excellent place for aurora viewing. Simply find a dark spot, preferably away from the town center, and gaze at the night sky for a chance to witness this natural phenomenon.

Where to Eat in Höfn

Höfn is famous for its seafood, particularly its lobster, which is often referred to as the best in Iceland. Here are some of the best places to eat in Höfn:

• Pakkhús: Located in an old warehouse by the harbor, Pakkhús offers a range of fresh seafood dishes, including the town’s famous langoustine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is popular with both locals and tourists.
• Humarhöfnin: Specializing in langoustine, Humarhöfnin is one of the best-known restaurants in town. The menu features a variety of lobster dishes, from lobster soup to grilled langoustine tails, all made with local ingredients.
• Ósinn: This casual eatery offers a mix of Icelandic and international dishes, including fish and chips, burgers, and pizzas. It’s a great spot for families or those looking for a more budget-friendly option.

Accommodations in Höfn

While Höfn is a small town, it offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from guesthouses to hotels.

• Hotel Höfn: A comfortable, mid-range hotel located in the center of town, Hotel Höfn offers modern rooms with stunning views of Vatnajökull and the surrounding mountains. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving Icelandic cuisine.
• Guesthouse Nýpugarðar: For a more intimate experience, Guesthouse Nýpugarðar is located just outside of town and offers cozy rooms with panoramic views of the glacier. The guesthouse also serves a traditional Icelandic breakfast.
• Milk Factory: This boutique guesthouse is housed in a former dairy factory, offering stylish accommodations with modern amenities. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for something unique.