Höfn

A coastal fishing town marking the eastern gateway to the south coast, known for its fresh seafood and location near Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull. It provides excellent accommodation and dining options for travelers exploring the glacier region.

Things to do

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon — Visit the stunning glacial lake filled with icebergs calving from Vatnajökull, located about 75km east of Höfn, accessible as a day trip or guided tour.
• Diamond Beach — Walk along the black sand beach adjacent to Jökulsárlón where icebergs wash ashore, creating a dramatic landscape of ice fragments against dark volcanic sand.
• Vatnajökull National Park Exploration — Explore Europe's largest ice cap with options for glacier hiking, snowmobiling, and ice cave visits directly from Höfn.
• Höfn Harbor and Seafront Walk — Stroll along the working fishing harbor to observe local maritime activity and enjoy views of the town's colorful buildings and surrounding mountains.
• Hornsafnið Museum — Learn about the region's Viking heritage, local fishing history, and the formation of Jökulsárlón at this small community museum in central Höfn.
• Öræfi Region Scenic Drives — Drive the scenic routes around Höfn to witness dramatic landscapes of glacial rivers, waterfalls, and coastal views unique to Southeast Iceland.

Food to try

• Arctic Char — Fresh locally-caught arctic char prepared simply grilled or smoked, showcasing the pristine waters surrounding Höfn.
• Langoustine (Nephrops) — Succulent local langoustines served fresh, either boiled with butter or featured in traditional Icelandic seafood stews at local restaurants.
• Fish Soup (Yfirlit) — A warming traditional soup made with fresh local fish, potatoes, and cream, reflecting the fishing town's culinary heritage.
• Lobster (Humari) — Premium Icelandic lobster from the cold Atlantic waters, often grilled or served in creamy preparations at Höfn's seafood restaurants.
• Lamb from Vatnajökull Region — Locally-raised lamb with distinctive flavor from the highland pastures, prepared as traditional Icelandic roasts or stews.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Fishing Heritage — Höfn's economy and identity center on fishing; acknowledge this heritage by dining at family-run seafood restaurants and respecting harbor areas during active fishing operations.
• Winter Road Conditions — The South Coast experiences rapid weather changes; check road conditions daily and allow extra travel time, as routes to Jökulsárlón can close without warning in winter.
• Small Town Hours — Shops and services close early in this town of roughly 1,600 people; plan grocery shopping and fuel stops by mid-afternoon, especially on weekends.
• Glacier Safety First — Never approach glaciers, ice caves, or Jökulsárlón independently; always use certified local guides who understand avalanche risks and ice stability.