Hvalnes offers an unspoiled slice of Icelandic nature that is both rugged and serene. Its combination of lighthouse elegance, volcanic beaches, and scenic mountain views. It’s a fantastic spot to experience Iceland’s diverse landscape and for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the golden light hits the rugged coast.
Close to interesting attractions, such as Skútafoss (LINK HERE) and Vestrahorn (LINK HERE), we recommend adding this stop to your itinerary.
Hvalnes Farm
Hvalnes farm is located at the foot of Mt. Eystrahorn. While agriculture was practiced there in the past, much of the land’s occupation varied from sheep farming, fishing, seal hunting, to harvesting eiderdown and eggs.
During the fishing season, the population grew, as many people from Northern Iceland traveled to the area to earn their living and provide food for families back home. In fact, many fishing outfits used to be situated near Hvalnes due to accessible fishing grounds. Archaeological finds in the area suggest ancient settlements dating back to the Viking Age, citing evidence of maritime activity and local hunting traditions.
Notable stories of the area include records that the Turks landed briefly in 1627. When they came to shore, they did not find any locals, who must have been away working in Selir in Hvaldalur where neither the town or Hvalneskrókur is visible. Taking advantage of the vacated land, the raiders made ruins of houses and stole what they considered valuable.
Land owners are well documented from the year of 1654, when Bishop Brynjólfur sold it to the then-occupier, Ólafur Ketilsson, for land that Ólafur owned in East Iceland. While there have certainly been many changes since the first settlement in the area, notable improvements occurred in 1935, when a small light station was installed to illuminate the farm, as well as a water mill for grinding grain. Both were in use for many years.
Hvalnes Lighthouse
Across the road from Hvalnes farm, on Hvalneskrókur, stands the Hvalnes Lighthouse, a symbol of Iceland’s long-standing relationship with the sea. Built in 1954, the 11,5 meter high lighthouse has been guiding sailors safely along the often unpredictable North Atlantic waters for decades. The area’s rugged coastline, and prominent features like Eystrahorn, made it a natural navigational landmark for generations of Icelandic fishermen and explorers. The lighthouse used gas lighting up until 1982 when it was electrified. Today, it still operates with two white flashes emitted every 20 seconds with the help of a metal focal plane tower beside it. Hvalneskrókur became an authorized trading post in 1912.
Hvalnes Beach
Surrounding the lighthouse is the stunning Hvalnes Beach. The beach has been a vital part of local life for centuries, serving as a point of access for fishing, transportation, and exploration. Characterized by black volcanic sands and striking basalt formations, the area is a haven for seabirds, with Puffins, Kittiwakes, and Arctic Terns frequently spotted nesting in the cliffs nearby. The waters teem with marine life, and during certain times of the year, visitors can see seals lounging on the rocks or going for a swim. A quiet haven for beachcombers and birdwatchers alike, Hvalnes is a peaceful place to enjoy serenity amidst Iceland’s raw natural beauty.
Mt. Eystrahorn
Rising dramatically near the coastline, the Eystrahorn mountain is a highlight for nature enthusiasts. It’s a precipitous, high gabbro and granophyre mountain. Its screens are devoid of vegetation and some gold, silver, mercury, and other metals were discovered there. The mountain’s unique shape and rugged terrain make it a favorite for photographers.
