Höfn

Written by Elsa Holm, Julien Lambert
02/09/2025
Stunning snow-covered mountains and reflections in Höfn, Iceland.
Piotr Kowalonek, Pexels

Höfn is a charming fishing town in Southeast Iceland, celebrated for its fresh langoustine and its role as a gateway to the majestic Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Vestrahorn Mountain.

Opportunities to socialise are found in local restaurants, at the annual Lobster Festival, and within shared facilities at hostels. The town's swimming pool is also a place where locals and visitors can interact.

Top 5 Things to do in Höfn

The activities primarily involve exploring iconic natural landmarks, engaging in glacier-related adventures, and experiencing local culinary traditions and relaxation.

1. Explore Vestrahorn (Stokksnes) and the Viking Village

Just a short drive from Höfn, Vestrahorn offers a truly unique landscape where jagged mountains rise from a striking black sand beach. It's a photographer's dream, especially with the reflections in the tidal flats. Visitors can also explore a replica Viking Village, a movie set that adds a historical and cultural layer to the visit. Walking along the beach and discovering the various viewpoints is a calming yet visually spectacular experience. Allow approximately 2 hours for this visit.

Cost: An entrance fee of approximately 1000-1100 ISK per person is paid at the Viking Café, which provides access to the Stokksnes Peninsula, including the mountain, beach, and Viking Village.

Transport: Vestrahorn is about a 15-minute drive (15 km) east of Höfn. Access is via an unmarked gravel road off the main Ring Road (Route 1). A rental car is essential as public transport is not available for this route. Taxi services would be costly due to the distance and the gravel road.

2. Discover Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

A visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offers a mesmerizing experience amidst floating icebergs of various sizes and colors. Seals are often seen swimming in the lagoon or resting on the ice. Directly across the road is Diamond Beach, where ice chunks from the lagoon wash ashore, glistening like diamonds on the black volcanic sand. For a closer look at the icebergs, I recommend taking a boat tour on the lagoon.

Cost: There is no entrance fee for Diamond Beach itself, but a parking fee of approximately 1000 ISK per vehicle applies to both Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach. Amphibian boat tours at Jökulsárlón cost around 6900 ISK for adults (children 6-12 are 3500 ISK), while Zodiac boat tours are approximately 130 USD (about 17,500 ISK).

Transport: Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach are located about an hour's drive (80 km) west of Höfn along the Ring Road (Route 1). Self-driving is the most common way to get there. Organized tours from the Jökulsárlón area often include transport for the boat tours.

3. Embark on a Glacier Hike or Ice Cave Tour

For those seeking adventure, exploring the Vatnajökull glacier, Europe's largest glacier, is an unforgettable experience. Guided glacier hikes allow you to walk across the ice formations, witnessing crevasses and the unique blue ice. During winter (typically October to April), specific tours offer access to natural ice caves, revealing stunning iridescent blue ice chambers. These tours require specialized equipment and expert guides, ensuring safety and an informative experience.

Cost: Prices for glacier hikes and ice cave tours vary significantly based on duration and specific activities, generally ranging from 163 USD to 236 USD (approximately 22,000-32,000 ISK).

Transport: Meeting points for these tours are typically at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or the Skaftafell Visitor Center, both about an hour's drive from Höfn. Visitors need to arrange their own transport to these meeting points. Tour operators then provide specially modified vehicles, such as super jeeps, to reach the glacier.

4. Savour Local Langoustine at Höfn's Restaurants

Höfn is renowned as the 'Lobster Capital of Iceland,' and indulging in the local langoustine is a highlight of any visit. Numerous restaurants in town specialize in fresh seafood, offering delicious preparations of this delicate crustacean. It's a chance to taste the freshest catch directly from the harbor. I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the focus on local ingredients in Höfn's eateries.

Cost: A main course featuring langoustine can cost around 9500 ISK per person at popular restaurants like Pakkhús or Humarhöfnin.

Transport: Restaurants are centrally located within Höfn, making them easily accessible by walking from most accommodations in the town.

5. Relax at the Höfn Swimming Pool

The local swimming pool in Höfn offers a glimpse into Icelandic bathing culture. It features a 25-meter outdoor pool, several hot tubs with varying temperatures, a children's pool, an ice bath, and a steam bath. It is a family-friendly facility and a great place to unwind after a day of exploring, or to simply enjoy a relaxing soak while observing local life.

Cost: Admission for adults is approximately 1400 ISK per single entry. Children aged 0-17 years old with legal residence in the municipality get free admission, while other children may have a small fee. Towel or swimsuit rental is available for around 1000 ISK.

Transport: The swimming pool is located at Víkurbraut 9, in the center of Höfn, easily reachable on foot from most parts of the town.

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