Hornstrandir Nature Reserve

The Hornstrandir Nature Reserve is situated at the remote northernmost tip of the Westfjords in Iceland, encompassing a wild area of 580 square kilometers. It has been under strict environmental protection since 1975 and has no permanent human residents, as the last subsistence farms were abandoned in the 1950s due to extreme isolation. The landscape is dominated by sheer, dramatic cliffs that rise up to 534 meters above the North Atlantic, particularly at the famous Hornbjarg. Hornstrandir serves as a vital sanctuary for the Arctic fox, which exhibits little fear of humans here due to a decades-long hunting ban. The flora is remarkably diverse for a subarctic climate, with over 260 recorded species of vascular plants thriving in the area. With no roads leading into the reserve, accessibility is strictly limited to boats, making it a premier destination for self-sufficient backpackers. During summer, the cliffs host millions of nesting seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills.

Nearby cities

Reykjavík

Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.

Kópavogur

Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.

Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.

Hafnarfjörður

A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.

Akureyri

Akureyri is the largest urban area outside the Reykjavík region, often called the 'Capital of the North'.

Keflavík

Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.

Mosfellsbær

Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.

Garðabær

Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.

Akranes

Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.

Seltjarnarnes

Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.

Húsavík

Húsavík is a town on the shores of Skjálfandi bay in North Iceland.

Ísafjörður

The largest town in the Westfjords, known for its dramatic mountain setting and fishing heritage.

Ísafjörður

Ísafjörður is the economic and cultural hub of the Westfjords region.

Sauðárkrókur

The largest town in Northwest Iceland, located in Skagafjörður, known for its horses and fishing industry.

Sauðárkrókur

Sauðárkrókur is the largest town in Northwest Iceland, located on the Skagafjörður fjord.

History & landmarks

Reykjavík City Hall

Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.