On Hornstrandir, the sea and sky blend together in dramatic beauty. At Hornbjarg stands the historic Hornbjargsviti, offering unique accommodation with views over the Arctic Ocean. The nature reserve is home to diverse wildlife, sheer cliffs, and a variety of hiking routes. With the sound of waves and seabirds as your companions, Hornbjargsviti promises an adventure unlike any other.
Examples of hiking routes in the area:
- Hornbjarg to Kálfatindar, out and back: The hike is about 11 km and takes 4–6 hours. The route heads north from Hornbjargsviti through Almenningsskarð, following the slopes of Skófnaberg and Eilífstindur. At Kálfatindar, you can either climb the peaks or enjoy the scenery at their base.
- Hornbjarg loop: This route is about 18 km and takes 7–8 hours. You walk north from Hornbjargsviti through Almenningsskarð and descend into Hornvík. From there, continue out to Horn and onward into Ystadalur, then out to Núp, the outermost point of Hornbjarg. The route then crosses Miðfell, passes Miðdalsvatn, reaches Kálfatindar, and returns to the lighthouse.
- Hornvík loop: About 12 km, taking 4–6 hours. As often, the route begins north through Almenningsskarð and descends into Hornvík. Continue inland to Kýrá and follow it until turning toward Kýrskarð. From the pass, descend back to Hornbjargsviti.
- Hrolllaugsvík and Drífandi: About 12 km, taking 4–6 hours. The route heads south from Hornbjargsviti over Axarfjall to Hrolllaugsvík. From there, continue to Bjarnanes and onward to the waterfall Drífandi. Return along the same path.
The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is connected by a network of hiking trails that can be combined as you wish. More routes and maps of the area can be found on the website of the Icelandic Environment Agency.
Getting here
Travel within the nature reserve is permitted only on foot, so access is either by sea or by hiking.
- By ferry: Boats travel to Látravík from Norðurfjörður. It is also possible to sail to Hornvík and hike about 7 km to Hornbjargsviti
- On foot: The shortest overland route to Hornbjargsviti is from Ófeigsfjörður in Strandir.
Safety Tips for Hikers
- Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you start your hike. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain, wind and cold temperatures.
- Weather Conditions: Be prepared for extreme weather, weather can change quickly.
- Bring Proper Gear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots and bring a waterproof jacket and trousers. Pack enough food, water, and snacks for the entire stay in Horstrandir.
- Leave No Trace: Respect nature by carrying out all your trash and minimizing your impact on the environment.
- Navigation in Hornstrandir: Most routes are not marked, but in many places the paths are still easy to follow. Some routes have cairns that can be used for guidance. Because the area is often foggy, it is essential to carry proper navigation equipment — that is, a map, a compass, and a GPS device.
- Emergency Preparedness: Carry a GPS device and a fully charged phone with a power bank. Inform someone about your hiking plans and expected return time. Download the Safe Travel app and submit a travel plan.
- Limits on group size in the nature reserve: Restrictions are placed on the size of hiking groups traveling within the reserve. In the western part of the area, groups may not exceed 30 people, and in the eastern part, no more than 15. You can view the specific rules on travel and stay within the reserve here.
Accommodation at Hornbjargsviti
Hornbjargsviti is a historic lighthouse located in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. It offers accommodation for up to 40 people in a spacious house with seven rooms. The lighthouse has a kitchen, dining room, and facilities for drying wet clothes and shoes. In a typical year, Hornbjargsviti is open from mid‑June until early August.
There is also a campsite outside the lighthouse where guests may stay in tents.
Click here to see more information about accommodation at Hornbjargsviti.
Accommodation at Hornbjargsviti
