Welcome to Vestrahorn, one of Iceland’s most captivating natural wonders! Located in the south-eastern part of Iceland, Vestrahorn is by far one of the most picturesque locations, ideal for photography enthusiasts and all lovers of nature. This magnificent mountain, characterized by its steep spurs and black sand coastline, is a sight that evokes unparalleled tranquillity and admiration.
Vestrahorn is widely recognized for its beautiful sceneries and fascinating rock formations. The mountain stands tall on the coast and offers a great backdrop for sunrise and sunset photography.
As you continue reading, you will learn about the geography of Vestrahorn, how to get there, history, and useful tips for travellers. We will also discuss the various services and activities offered in the area to guarantee you memorable and happy moments.
The journey to Vestrahorn is an adventure in and of itself, as it is situated in one of Iceland’s most picturesque regions. Here are the most efficient ways to get to this wondrous place.
The best way to get to Vestrahorn is by driving, particularly if you are traveling around Iceland’s Ring Road. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
From Reykjavík: Vestrahorn is roughly 6 hours away by car from Reykjavík. Head on Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road), east passing through beautiful towns and landscapes. Approximately 450 km down the road, there is the turn-off for Route 99 (Hafnavegur) to Höfn. Carry along Route 1 for about 7 km past Höfn, then look out for the sign for the road to Vestrahorn, which is to the south. Continue on this gravel road to the Viking Cafe, where you will find Vestrahorn.
From Höfn: Vestrahorn is only 18 minutes away if you start from Höfn. Drive on Route 1 eastwards for approximately 7 km, then turn right onto the gravel road leading to Vestrahorn.
Vestrahorn is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary depending on the season:
Summer (June to August): Experience lots of daylight, comfortable climate, and beautiful greenery. This is the peak time to visit.
Winter (November to February): Experience the magic of Vestrahorn under a blanket of snow and the chance to see the Northern Lights. Expect the weather to be colder and the days to be relatively shorter.
Road Conditions: The gravel road to Vestrahorn can be narrow and bumpy, we do our best to maintain it. However, we advise you to drive carefully and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Entrance Fee: Note that we charge an entrance fee (1.000 kr. per person) for access and parking at Vestrahorn.
Photography: Bring your camera! The reflections in the surrounding waters and the dramatic mountain backdrop make for stunning photos.
Vestrahorn, located on the Stokknes Peninsula in south-eastern Iceland, is a geologic wonder that can only be described by the word beautiful, even amid the stunning sceneries of Iceland. Standing at an impressive altitude of 454 meters (1,490 feet), this mountain is largely made from gabbro, a black and rocky material that forms steep and rough cliffs.
While most of the Icelandic mountains are formed of basalt, Vestrahorn is formed by gabbro rock containing iron and magnesium. This composition also plays an important role in giving the formation its striking appearance and also its rough and pointy shape. The mountain is part of a chain that includes Brunnhorn and Eystrahorn, all of which date back 8 to 11 million years.
The weather around Vestrahorn can be quite variable, which is typical for the coastal areas of Iceland. Summers are rather mild, and the days are longer, which is perfect for taking photos and going out to explore. Winters, on the other hand, can be harsh with misty spells and plenty of rain. However, winters offer perfect conditions to witness the northern lights while they paint the sky over the mountains.
Many animals inhabit the area around Vestrahorn. Seals are often seen lounging on the rocky coastline, the region also serves as an ideal location for bird enthusiasts, as numerous species nest here. There is a scarcity of plant life, but the few present are resilient grasses, mosses, and a few wildflowers that add a touch of green to the otherwise stark landscape.
Vestrahorn is not only a natural wonder but also a place with historical and cultural value. This section looks at the background information on Vestrahorn, including historical facts, folklore, and cultural significance of the area.
Vestrahorn has been a notable landmark for centuries, helping sailors and fishermen navigate the waters. Due to the mountain’s distinctive shape, it could be conveniently identified along the south-eastern coast of Iceland. Throughout history, the area around Vestrahorn has been sparsely populated, with small settlements relying on fishing and farming.
Vestrahorn is situated on the Stokksnes Peninsula, and during World War II it played a strategic role. The British and later the American military established a radar station on the peninsula to monitor the North Atlantic airspace and waters. Some of the structures of this military facility are still visible today, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the area.
Vestrahorn has many legends and folklore that are still told by the locals, which add to its mystique. One popular legend tells of Kolbeinn, an Icelandic outlaw that sheltered in a cave in the area that was later named Kolbein’s cave. Kolbeinn was later killed by his fellow shipmates, Kolbeinn haunted the area so much that his body had to be moved to another graveyard.
Several stories are of dramatic and tragic shipwrecks on the beach where locals had to rescue and shelter the survivors for many months.
There is uncertainty as to who exactly the first settlers of Hornafjörður were, but it is certain that one of the first was the Viking Hrolllaugur Rögnvaldsson, who settled in the Vestrahorn region.
Hikers, painters, photographers, and filmmakers have also been drawn to the mountain and its vicinity. Vestrahorn, with its jagged cliffs, has been used in movies, documentaries, and photos exhibitions. One of the most recent film appearances is in the Netflix series "The Witcher: Blood Origin". Its unique beauty and historical significance make it a source of inspiration and a symbol of Iceland’s natural and cultural heritage.
Vestrahorn is a remarkable destination, and with a few handy tips, you can make the most of your trip. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, these insights will help you enjoy everything this stunning location has to offer.
Golden Hours: Golden hours are the best time to capture photos, these are the times just after the sun has risen and before the sun sets. The light in the early morning and late evening is relatively soft, and enhances the dramatic landscape and can create beautiful reflections in the water.
Weather Conditions: Keep an eye on the weather forecast. Cloudy skies can add moodiness to your photos, while clear skies are perfect for capturing the mountain’s sharp peaks.
Equipment: It is recommended to bring a good tripod for the long exposure shots, especially if you’re aiming to capture the Northern Lights. A wide-angle lens is also great for encompassing the vast landscape.
Weather Preparedness: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in many layers and bring waterproof clothing in case the weather changes.
Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots that have good grip, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially on the wet rocky cliffs near the unforgiving Atlantic ocean.
Respect Nature: Stick to our official hiking paths and avoid disturbing the natural environment. This helps preserve the beauty of Vestrahorn for future visitors.
Viking Village: When visiting the Viking Village, one should be aware that the houses are not made for visitors. Hence, you are requested not to step into any of the houses in the village and to abide by the rules.
Take your time: Avoid visiting Vestrahorn in a hurry and make sure you take your time to truly experience the beauty and wonder of the area. Grab a coffee at the Cafe, visit the Viking village, go for a hike, look for seals on the shore, or even play hopscotch on the beach, Vestrahorn truly is your oyster.
Quiet Times: To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the evening. This also gives you the best light for photography.
Points of interests: Make use of our interactive map to see many of the points of interest in the area.
Vestrahorn is not only a beautiful area to look at but also filled with various things to do and places to visit to enjoy your time the most. From comfortable accommodations to exciting outdoor adventures, here’s what you can expect in the Vestrahorn area.
Guesthouse: Our guesthouse offers a variety of rooms suitable for solo travellers or large groups.
Breakfast is included and also free admission to the Vestrahorn beach and the Viking village.
Campsite: Our campsite is a great choice for those traveling in camper vans, it also includes free admission to the Vestrahorn beach and the Viking village. At the campsite you have access to cold and hot water, WC, electricity (for 1.000 kr.), cooking facilities, dishwashing facilities and showers.
Our Cafe: At our Cafe you can enjoy comfortable atmosphere and amazing views. You can get freshly brewed coffee, Icelandic waffles, hot soup, grilled panini, cakes and pastries.
Hiking: The area around Vestrahorn has some nice hiking paths with different levels of difficulty. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk along the beach or a more challenging hike around the mountain, there’s something for everyone.
Viking Village: Our Viking Village is a unique attraction. It is actually a filmset of a Viking Village for a movie that was never shot. You can wander around the houses that are made of wood and have roofs made of grass, admire the carvings and sculptures, and feel like you stepped back in time and found yourself in the Viking times.
Photography: This mountain is among the most photographed in Iceland, and rightly so. Vestrahorn offers various opportunities for composition, whether it is the mirror-like reflection in the lagoon or the northern light dancing behind the mountain peaks. Learn more about photography at Vestrahorn here.
Wildlife Watching: The Vestrahorn area is a home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, reindeer, arctic foxes and numerous bird species. Bring your binoculars and enjoy some wildlife watching. Learn more about the wildlife at Vestrahorn here.
Souvenir Shop: Pick up a memento of your visit at our souvenir shop at Viking cafe. You’ll find a range of items, from sweaters that are hand knitted by the locals to our handmade coasters, made from the pebbles found at Vestrahorn beach.
Vestrahorn is a place with awe-inspiring landscapes, rich history and unforgettable experiences. Vestrahorn has something for everyone, whether you are a photographer, a historian, or a nature lover. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of this incredible Icelandic gem.
Stay at our guesthouse and experience the tranquility of nature. Or send us a message and we will get back to you as soon as we can.