Höfn

Höfn (pronounced something like "herpn", commonly called Höfn í Hornafirði, is based in East Iceland, at the south-eastern corner of the nation. Höfn sits by the lagoon (or fjord) Hornafjörður which is also the name of the large municipality of which the town is the centre and which covers the entire area of the county Austur-Skaftafellssýsla. This guide covers the town and the surrounding municipality, excluding the westernmost part which forms one of the main gateways to Vatnajökull National Park. For tourism purposes and the area calls itself the Vatnajökull Region: nowhere else is quite as dominated by Europe's largest glacier, nowhere else have people learned to live in such close quarters with the huge sheet of ice.

Höfn Halal Travel Guide

Iceland Höfn - Fishing boats in the harbor of Höfn

In spite of substantial territory and the population of the Hornafjörður area is only around 2400. Höfn is by far the largest settlement with around 2000 inhabitants. The rest of the population is spread along the very narrow patch of arable land between Vatnajökull and the Atlantic Ocean. Höfn's economic activities mainly revolve around fisheries, and the town is especially known for lobster which can be found in abundant quantities in the fishing areas surrounding the southeastern coast.

Despite its name which indicates a fjord, Hornafjörður is a very large lagoon with a blend of fresh and glacial water. The 40 km² lagoon is formed by interactions of the Atlantic Ocean and the Vatnajökull glacier, which by its constant movement produces clay and sand, carried by the glacier rivers and ending up as sediment in the lagoon. The lagoon is shallow, but nevertheless navigable by large ships and the town of Höfn (the name means harbor) is located at the first natural harbor on the south coast after Þorlákshöfn hundreds of kilometers to the West.

The area is dominated by large mountains, wide rivers, and the ever-present Vatnajökull glacier. All of this has combined to make the area one of the most remote in Iceland until the last few decades of the 20th century when roads were significantly improved.

Travel to Höfn

64.255|-15.206

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Höfn

• Hornafjörður Airport IATA Flight Code: HFN 64.295556, -15.227222 - Hornafjörður Airport Eagle Air flies from Reykjavík (IATA Flight Code: RKV) most days. The airport is some distance outside Höfn, though, and the only way into town is by driving. The airport does have one [https://,budget_car_hire_in_hofn_in_hornafjordur Budget Car Hire (book in advance as it's a small rental station).

Travel on a Bus in Höfn

The bus stop in Höfn is the N1 gas station GPS 64.259187,-15.206275 = just off the primary street leading into town.

From Reykjavík and there are two daily /uploads/files/R-51-pdf-a0a855a272.pdf buses to Höfn. Buses leave from the Mjódd bus terminal in the south of the city and the ride takes 8-9 hours and may entail a transfer in Hvolsvöllur.

Getting in by bus from Egilsstaðir (or Seyðisfjörður, where ferries from Denmark arrive) in the east of the nation is doable but requires transfers in Reyðarfjörður and Breiðdalsvík and possibly an overnight stay in the latter. For schedules, see /en/timatoflur/9/75 bus routes in East Iceland on the Strætó site].

By car

The Route 1-Ring Road|Ring Road is the primary street (and in places and the only road) through the entire Hornafjörður area, but Höfn is a few kilometers off the Ring Road and is connected to it by road nr. 99. Höfn is a little over 450 kilometers from Reykjavík and between 200 and 250 kilometers from Egilsstaðir, depending on which route is taken.

Get Around

By car

If you have a car, it's easy enough to get around and quite difficult to get lost.

By public transportation

The only means of public transportation is a single taxi which can be ordered by calling [☎+3548654353 +354 865 4353 – however the town is easily small enough to walk around.

What to See

In Höfn

Höfn can hardly be praised for architectural beauty, but a walk around the harbour can be nice and there is a bird reserve south of the harbor with good walkways. Most of the sights in the area are in fact in the nature outside Höfn. Nevertheless and the town has a few museums that can be of interest:

• Gamlabúð Folk Museum Víkurbraut 64.25037, -15.20375 by the primary street leading into town A In an old, white timber building on the outskirts of town, this museum focuses on the lives of local people during the period between 1850 and 1950. (The building and the museum have been moved to the harbor area.)

• Hornafjörður Art Museum - Hafnarbraut 27 64.25316, -15.21174 A A small gallery which hosts exhibitions of the municipal art collection and contemporary local artists.

• Huldusteinn Hafnarbraut 11 64.25101, -15.20647 ☎ +354 866 2820 Opening Hours: 14:00-21:00 A Collecting rocks is a popular hobby in East Iceland. This private collection of rocks has been opened in Höfn's old swimming pool. Rather odd, but definitely interesting for geology enthusiasts.

Around Höfn

Iceland (9997968413) - Early morning over Jökulsárlón

Organized tours with some of the many tour companies based in Höfn may be the easiest way to get around the area, and the safest way to explore the glaciers.

The area surrounding Höfn has some of the most stunning nature in Iceland. The lowland area a narrow band of floodplains between the sea and the glacier-topped mountains, where large glacial rivers are still relatively untamed. These floodplains are of a sort called sandur - the word is Icelandic for sand but has been adopted as the international scientific name for the sandy floodplains of glacial rivers found almost exclusively in Iceland and Svalbard. The largest such sandur is GPS 63.9842, -16.9598 Skeiðarársandur, which wasn't bridged until the 1970s.

The mountains are among the highest in Iceland. GPS 63.999, -16.650 Öræfajökull is a sub-glacier of Vatnajökull which contains Iceland's tallest mountain, Hvannadalshnjúkur. In the valleys between the mountains, Vatnajökull has a number of icefalls which are accessible by gravel tracks and for the independent traveller with a good vehicle it's a good idea to search out some of the less popular ones to visit for a private date with nature. Some of the icefalls end in glacial lagoons. The most famous is GPS 64.072, -16.219 Jökulsárlón which is next to the ring road, 100 kilometers west of Höfn. It's an incredible place where large icebergs break off from the glacier and find their way to the sea.

Finally, although the vast majority of the population in the area is found in Höfn, Þórbergur Þórðarson (one of Iceland's most famous writers) came from the farm Hali. Today a museum in his honor, GPS 64.12965, -16.01737 Þórbergssetur and is located by Hali which is about 75 kilometers west of Höfn.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Höfn

Halftrack glacier crawler - Vehicle for visiting the glaciers

In Höfn

• Swimming swimmingpool - Sundlaug | Víkurbraut 9 64.25405, -15.20847 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 06:45-21:00, Saturday Sunday 10:00-19:00 The town offers few activities, although the swimming swimmingpool is impressive for a town of this size.

During a few days in late June or early July every year the lobster festival /Humarhatid Humarhátíð] is celebrated in Höfn. The celebrations include concerts and other performances, competitions, a fun fair, general merrymaking and of course different foods made with lobster.

Outside Höfn

Many great hiking locations are in the area, most mountains other than the very highest can be safely hiked in good weather. Northeast of Höfn is Lónsöræfi, a wilderness which is one of Iceland's great hiking areas perfect for day-long hikes. Lónsöræfi is a part of Vatnajökull National Park, but not easily accessible from any other part of the park.

Most activities in the area are related to Vatnajökull and its many icefalls. Information about licensed guides can be obtained from the local tourist information by calling +354 470 8084. Tour companies include:

• Vatnajokull Travel - Bugðuleiru 3, Höfn farm ☎ +354 894 1616 - Transportation and travel packages in the region of Vatnajökull Glacier, all year round.

• From Coast to Mountain - Öræfaferðir - Hofsnes farm ☎ +354 894 0894 - A number of different tours including ice climbing, kayaking and bird watching.

• Glacierjeeps - ☎ +354 894 3133 - Jeep tours on to Vatnajökull from a base at Skálfellsjökull icefall.

• Jökulsárlón | ☎ +354 478 2122 - Boat tours are available on the glacier lagoon, lasting 30-40 minutes.

Shopping

The arts and crafts scene is very active in Höfn and some good souvenir shopping is feasible if you keep your eyes open. A few artists have workshops and galleries in Mikligarður, an old building by the harbor. For day-to-day needs, head to the Miðbær GPS 64.252622,-15.212376 = mini-mall in the center of town by Hafnarbraut.

• Handraðinn | Víkurbraut 64.25562, -15.20936 by the N1 gas station Opening Hours: 1 May-3 Sept: daily 09:00-18:00; rest of the year: Friday 11:00-18:00, Saturday 13:00-17:00 A local crafts center.

Halal Food & Restaurants in Höfn

Höfn is one of the most important harbors for lobster fishing in Iceland and many of the town's eating options include lobster dishes as the local specialty. The only supermarket is Nettó, in the Miðbær mini-mall in the center of town, which is also the location of the local alcohol store.

• Hafnarbúðin | Ránarslóð 2 64.24986, -15.20698 ☎ +354 478 1095 - A fast food joint with Burgers and subs. It also functions as a drive-through, though given that Höfn is less than a kilometer across the popularity of this is intriguing.

• Humarhöfnin - Hafnarbraut 4 GPS 64.25069, -15.20506 Next to the harbor, and the youth hostel ☎ +354 478 1200 - Specializing in lobster (humar in Icelandic), this slightly up-scale restaurant serves absolutely delicious food in a historic building close to the harbor. Officially only open in summer, but do phone in low season and they may open the restaurant just for you with no extra fees.

• Kaffi Hornið | Hafnarbraut 42 64.2546, -15.2088 ☎ +354 478 2600 Opening Hours: 11:30-22:00 A cozy restaurant/café/pub with rather typical soups, sandwiches, Pastas dishes, etc., at fair prices.

• Ósinn | Víkurbraut 24 64.25733, -15.21285 ☎ +354 478 2200 - Restaurant located the same building as Hótel Höfn, specialising in local food at rather high prices.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Höfn

Höfn - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Höfn, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Höfn. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Höfn and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Höfn. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Höfn. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Höfn: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Höfn.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Höfn: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Höfn, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Höfn.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Höfn, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Höfn, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Höfn and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Höfn, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Höfn, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Höfn without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Höfn is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Höfn.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Höfn is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Höfn, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Höfn Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Höfn

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At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Höfn ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Höfn. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Höfn, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

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Muslim Friendly Hotels

Sunrise at Höfn harbor - The sun is rising over the harbor

In Höfn

• Guesthouse Hvammur - Ránarslóð 2 64.24997, -15.20641 ☎ +354 478 1503 8,000 kr A The main building of the guesthouse is by the harbour with functional rooms (a bed and a wardrobe) and a shared bathroom. A more upmarket set of rooms uptown (right by the N1 gas station where the coaches stop) offer quirky furniture and rather good art and ensuite bathrooms - however you will still need to trek down to the main guesthouse to get breakfast.

• Hótel Höfn - Víkurbraut 64.25750, -15.21261 ☎ +354478 1240 +354 4781996 17,000-20,000 kr. October - Apr; 29,000-37,000 kr. May-Sept A A 1960s-style hotel with a great view.

• Höfn Hostel - Hvannabraut 3-5 64.26231, -15.21225 15 min walk Northwest of town center ☎ +354 478-1736 Check-in: 16:00 - 21:00 / Check-out: 10:00 4000 kr. (dorms) Open all year

• Hotel Edda | Ranarslod 3 64.249621, -15.207595 ☎ +354 444 4850 €165 A Modern rooms, breakfast included.

Around Höfn

Many farms in the area offer lodging, and there are a few rural hotels. Accommodation is usually indicated by signs by the road with a picture of a bed.

• Brunnhóll - 64.2920, -15.4376 ☎ +354 478 1079 16,000-23,000 kr. A small guesthouse at a working farm 30 kilometers west of Höfn.

• Guesthouse Hali - 64.1296, -16.0185 13 kilometers east of Jökulsárlón ☎ +354 478 1073 12,000 kr. double room; 3,500 kr. sleeping bag lodging A guesthouse at the farm where Þórbergur Þórðarson, one of the largest names in Icelandic literature, grew up.

• Hótel Smyrlabjörg - 64.2175, -15.7169 ☎ +354 478 1074 A A country hotel midway between Höfn and Jökulsárlón, open all year.

Travel Next

Höfn and the Hornafjörður area are right on the southeastern corner of Iceland. The area has traditionally been one of the most isolated in Iceland, and despite improved road connections distances remain great. To the north is the rest of East Iceland, starting with Höfn's nearest neighbour Djúpivogur (100 kilometers by the Ring Road) and continuing to the East Fjords and Egilsstaðir. To the west is the South Iceland|south coast and the closest town to the West is Kirkjubæjarklaustur (200 kilometers from Höfn by the Ring Road). The very adventurous (and well-prepared) can cross Vatnajökull, into either East Iceland or the Interior (Iceland) | Interior but this is understandably a dangerous route.

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