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Hafnarfjörður - Town - The Greater Reykjavik Area Iceland

WebSite: Hafnarfjörður Local Web Page

Region: The Greater Reykjavik Area

About: (Description)
Hafnarfjörður, its name simply means 'harbour fjord' and refers to the excellent natural harbour, which has Iceland's longest history of continuous port trade - since the 1300s. Hafnarfjörður is Iceland's third-largest town, with just over 24,000 residents. And yet that number is open to debate, since legend has it that some of Iceland's elves and hidden people live in Hafnarfjörður 's lava cliffs and rocks, in peaceful coexistence with the town's human residents. In fact, it is possible to tour the elf lands, and those with second sight may even be lucky enough to spot one or two! Naturally the town also offers plenty of more conventional outdoor activities, from golf and swimming to horse riding and scenic walking routes.

Museums and galleries turn the spotlight on history, music and visual arts. Free admision in museums. And every summer hordes of Norsemen invade the town for the annual Viking Festival, held this year from 8-16 June. So relax and enjoy your favourite activity.

The staff of the Tourist Information Centre is always ready to welcome you and is happy to provide any advice or information you may need during your stay. Hafnarfjörður nestles comfortably among the lava, and the splendour of the great outdoors is everywhere. One need go no further than the beautiful Hellisgerði park, which has been ingeniously landscaped amongst the lava. Founded in 1922, the park has recently been given the addition of about 150 miniature bonsai trees - the northernmost bonsai collection in the world.

Birdwatchers are sure to enjoy the Ástjörn nature reserve, and for walkers there are many lovely routes in andaround the town. For those who wish to venture a little further afield, many places of outstanding natural beauty may be found within an easy distance of Hafnarfjörður, although a car is required for visitors planning their own itinerary.

Inland from Mt. Ásfjall is a lovely area with lava and mountain scenery containing various walking routes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Hvaleyrarvatn lake, or climb Mt. Helgafell (338m) for stunning panoramic views.

Hafnarfjörður is famous for having one of Iceland's largest settlements of elves, dwarves and other mystical beings, which (translating from the Icelandic) are collectively called 'Hidden Folk.' Centuries-old folklore has it that whole clans of such beings reside in the rocks that make up part of the town's centre. We do not doubt this at all.

How to get there:
From Keflavík Airport take road no. 41 direct to Hafnarfjörður about 41 km.

source Iceland Road Atlas

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