You’re now in elf country! Nestled in a fantastic lava field just outside of Reykjavík, the colourful harbour town of Hafnarfjörður offers both traditional and offbeat experiences.
Icelanders consider Hafnarfjörður the country’s unofficial “elf capital”. Folktales tell of “hidden people,” mysterious elves and trolls who roam and live in the town’s lava formations. When visiting, we recommend that you pick up a map at the local tourist office and discover the locations where these mysterious beings might live.
Hafnarfjörður has also become the ‘Viking Centre” of Iceland. It is home to a unique Viking-themed restaurant, which hosts a Viking Village and Festival during two lively weekends in June.
The Viking Festival
Hafnarfjörður turns into a Viking town during the annual Viking Festival. Local and foreign artists join this festival to celebrate our beloved ancestors. You can discover all kinds of aspects from the Viking era: ships. cuisine. handicrafts and even battle demonstrations. The Viking Festival one of the town’s biggest highlights of the year, therefore one not to be missed if you’re around at the time!
What to do in Hafnarfjörður
In the downtown area, you’ll find the lovely Hellisgerði public park with volcanic boulders, small caves, and the world’s northernmost bonsai garden .
The elegant Hafnarborg Arts Centre on the waterfront is a local treasure tbat offers a full programme of art shows and musical events. The Hafnarfjörður Museum offers a walk through the town’s history as a thriving fishing port.
The seaside suburb is also home to good restaurants, whale watching tours, and horseback riding in the Búrfell lava fields.
