Discover Raufarhöfn

Raufarhöfn combines a small boat harbor with a distinctive stone church, the Arctic Henge, and opportunities to experience the landscape and birdlife. To plan your trip, you can explore the area through specific interests: local history, coastal walks, or wildlife watching at the pond and along a stretch of coastline. The lighthouse and harbor also give Raufarhöfn a maritime character.

Harbor, church, and maritime orientation

At the northern end of the village, Raufarhafnarkirkja stands beside the working area of the small boat harbor. The stone church was built in 1928 and is located at the end of the harbor, where the village’s first settlement was established. Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse stands on Höfðinn and supports maritime navigation. Höfðinn is also a natural attraction: you can walk in the surrounding area and take in the landscape and sea. The church and lighthouse thus represent different aspects of the village’s character—its early settlement history and maritime orientation.

Information around the village

There are three information towers in Raufarhöfn. Each has four panels about plant life, history, and buildings. The topics are spread across several points of interest and range from nature to the built environment. If you would like to explore these topics during your stay, the panels offer different perspectives on Raufarhöfn rather than focusing on just one aspect.

Pond, coast, and birdlife

Kottjörn is a pond in the heart of Raufarhöfn. Its small island is home to a diverse range of birdlife. The coastal stretch of the circular walking route to the Ásinn ridge offers a different setting, where birdlife is often particularly diverse. The pond island and coastal route provide different contexts for birdwatching. You can also go for walks and fish in the quiet village surroundings.

Arctic Henge and views

Near Raufarhöfn is the Arctic Henge (Heimskautsgerðið), a unique monument inspired by Norse mythology, astronomy, and the dramatic light of the Arctic. It is situated on a hill overlooking Raufarhöfn. From there, you can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding landscape and the Arctic Ocean. You can reach the Arctic Henge from the village by car or on a short walk. Seasonal road conditions can vary; check them before setting out.

The circular walking route to the Ásinn ridge

The circular walking route begins at the swimming pool or the campsite. From there, it follows the coast through the older part of the village to the harbor quay, then climbs to the Ásinn ridge and returns to the starting point. The route therefore includes a stretch of coastline, the older part of the village, and the climb to the ridge. You can include the route in your plans without assuming a walking time or difficulty level: neither is specified for this loop. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Campsite and practical planning

Tjaldsvæðið Raufarhöfn campsite is in a quiet location by a pond and just a few minutes’ walk from the village’s services. It has toilets, a washbasin, tables and benches, and electrical hookups for caravans and motorhomes. As facilities may change, check them before your visit. A sports center is located beside the campsite. Guests can use its swimming pool, hot tub, steam bath, and fitness area; operating conditions may vary seasonally. If you plan to use these facilities, check the conditions before your visit.

For orientation, Raufarhöfn offers several points of interest: the church by the harbor, the lighthouse on Höfðinn, the pond and its birdlife, and the coastal route. There is also the Arctic Henge with its expansive views, as well as opportunities for walking, fishing, and birdwatching. Which of these appeals to you for your trip depends on what you would like to focus on during your stay.

Discover more destinations: Sauðárkrókur, Hauganes, Einarsstaðir, Kópasker, Ólafsfjördur, Myvatn, Svalbarðseyri, Akureyri.

For the broader travel overview: Nordurland Eystra.