HÖFN

Höfn was the furthest point we reached during our Iceland adventure—and definitely worth the drive! Nestled on the southeastern coast, this charming fishing town is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, with the mighty Vatnajökull glacier looming in the distance.

HIGHLIGHTS HÖFN

1. Stoksness

Just outside Höfn lies one of Iceland’s most dramatic and photogenic landscapes: Stokksnes. This windswept peninsula is home to the iconic Vestrahorn mountain, a jagged peak that rises sharply from the black sand dunes and seems to pierce the sky. The contrast between the dark volcanic sand, the crashing Atlantic waves, and the towering mountains creates a surreal, almost cinematic atmosphere.

On calm days, the wet sand acts like a mirror, reflecting Vestrahorn in stunning detail—making it a dream location for photographers. There’s also a quirky Viking village film set nearby, originally built for a movie that was never completed, but still fun to explore.

Before or after your visit, be sure to stop by the Viking Café, located right at the entrance. It’s more than just a ticket booth—it’s a warm and welcoming spot to relax, grab a hot drink, and enjoy the view. With its rustic décor, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to recharge after braving the elements.

2. Skaftafell S2 Trail

One of the most rewarding short hikes in Vatnajökull National Park is the S2 trail in Skaftafell, leading to the stunning Svartifoss waterfall. This well-marked path begins at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre and winds through lush birch forests and gentle hills, offering beautiful views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.

The trail is about 1.5 km one way (3 km round trip) and takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. It’s rated easy to moderate, with a steady incline that’s manageable for most hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass smaller waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.

At the end of the trail, you’ll reach Svartifoss, known as the “Black Falls” for its dramatic backdrop of dark basalt columns that resemble organ pipes. The contrast between the white cascade and the geometric rock formations makes it one of Iceland’s most iconic and photogenic waterfalls.

3. Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

One of the most magical stops along Iceland’s south coast is the pairing of Diamond Beach and the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, located just off Route 1. This surreal landscape combines black volcanic sand, floating icebergs, and glacial waters—creating a scene that feels like it belongs on another planet.

At Diamond Beach, countless ice chunks wash ashore from the lagoon, glistening like diamonds against the dark sand. Some are crystal-clear, others massive and sculpted by nature. It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful place to wander among nature’s frozen artwork. Tip: If you're visiting on a sunny day, go earlier in the morning—many of the ice blocks melt as the day warms up, and by late afternoon, the beach may look far less dramatic.

Just across the road lies Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float serenely in the icy blue water. Seals often swim among the ice, and boat tours are available if you want to get up close to the towering icebergs. The lagoon is constantly changing, making each visit unique.

4. Fjallsárlón

Just a short drive west of Jökulsárlón lies Fjallsárlón, a lesser-known but equally stunning glacier lagoon nestled at the foot of Fjallsjökull, an outlet of the mighty Vatnajökull glacier. Compared to its famous neighbor, Fjallsárlón is quieter, more intimate, and offers a peaceful atmosphere to soak in Iceland’s icy beauty.

Here, massive icebergs drift silently across the lagoon, breaking off from the glacier and floating toward the shore. The views are breathtaking—especially with the glacier looming in the background and the still water reflecting the icy landscape.

HOTEL AND RESTO TIPS

Our hotel stay

During our stay near the glacier lagoons, we spent the night at Dima Studio’s—a straightforward but practical accommodation. The room was simple and clean, perfect for a restful night after a day of exploring.

One of the biggest perks? The private kitchen. It gave us the chance to cook our own meal, which is a nice change after eating out for several days. Whether you’re prepping a quick breakfast or making a cozy dinner, it’s a great option for travelers who like a bit of independence.

Tried and tasted: Restaurant tips

When it comes to food recommendations, I like to keep things real. The restaurants listed below aren’t just random picks—they’re places we actually visited and genuinely enjoyed. Each one offered something special, whether it was the atmosphere, the flavors, or the warm hospitality.

So if you’re looking for spots that are truly worth your time (and appetite), these are our personal favorites—and absolute must-tries.

Kaffi Hornið: try something with langoustine!