Alda’s guidebook
City/town information
The most remarkable physical characteristics of Hafnarfjörður are the wildly shaped lava formations. Enormous, rough black rocks jut from the earth into craters, crevices and caves the cover the town. Yet here, carefully carved out among these seemingly immobile masses of rock, is a charming and tranquil. Homes peek out from behind boulders, shops sit beside lava flows, and parks are filled with moss-covered crags. In Hafnarfjörður, life exists in concert with the 7,000- year-old rolling lava.
Most people in Hafnarfjörður live on the 18-square kilometer (7-square mile) lava field named Búrfellshraun. This lava originally spewed out of the crater Búrfell, which is located about 7 km (4.3 miles) east of Hafnarfjörður and is part of the Krýsuvík volcano. From the Búrfell eruption, lava flowed into two main streams transforming into remarkable formations when it passed by and around a lake. Some of these lava fromations are now sites designated for preservation. At the Litluborgir site, beside Helgafell Mountain, the lava formed into pseudocraters and other unusual gnarled shapes. At Kaldárhraun and Gjárnar sites sharply upheaved lava rests among a large expanse of undisturbed, ropy pahoehoe lava.
Did you know...
...in the early fifteenth century, Hafnarfjörður was an „English town”.
...towards the close of the fifteenth century, the English and Germans were battling for power over the town, a struggle eventually won by the Germans. During the late fifteenth century and throughout the sixteenth century, Hafnarfjörður was a “German town”.
...in the seventeenth century, King Christian IV of Denmark issued an edict forbidding all but his Danish subjects to trade in Iceland. This marked the end of German influence in Hafnarfjörður and the start of the 200-years Danish monopoly.
...in the 1920s, Hafnarfjörður became the cradle of handball. To this day, the town remains a bastion of this hugely popular sport in Iceland.
...Hafnarfjörður's population is presently just over 26,000 and growing at an annual rate of 4%, not counting the “hidden people” and elves.
...Hafnarfjörður is part of the Greater Reykjavík Area.
...the Krýsuvík area, which is partly owned by Hafnarfjörður, has sizzling hot springs and is adorned in a unique array of colours.
The elves
Population figures for Hafnarfjörður are tricky, as every rock and cave in the town is home to elves and hidden people that not everyone is gifted enough to see.
The darkness
During the darkest winter days, it's light for only four hours a day. However, the same part of the year is brightened up by elaborate and extravagant Christmas lights, which keep on shining until March.
The colours
The Old Town brims with colourful houses clad with corrugated iron. In fact, Hafnarfjörður holds the Icelandic record for the largest continuous conurbation of timber houses covered with corrugated iron.
The town's character
Despite its close proximity to the capital city, Hafnarfjörður has a friendly, village-like atmosphere resembling that of rural seaside villages.
The port
Hafnarfjörður has an excellent natural harbour, which made it Iceland's main port for years.
Anniversary
Hafnarfjörður is one of Iceland's oldest townships, despite being a spring chicken compared with many towns in neighbouring countries. The township's 100th anniversary was celebrated in 2008.
Nature at your doorstep
Despite Hafnarfjörður being an ever-growing town, pristine nature is always close by in the town's environs.
Museum of Hafnarfjörður
The Hafnarfjörður Museum exhibits cultural artefacts and photographs of the town and its surrounding region. Housed in a number of buildings and outposts around Hafnarfjörður, the museum's collection offers extraordinary insight into the region's rich heritage.
Pakkhúsið
Three exhibits run concurrently at this tastefully restored, charming blue building that was formerly used as a warehouse. On display are two permanent exhibitions, one on the history of Hafnarfjörður and the other featuring classic toys and children's goods. A third, temporary exhibition on various themes rotates throughout the year.
The Sívertsen´s House
Sívertsen's House (Vesturgata 6) is the oldest house in Hafnarfjörður. Built from 1803-1805 by the great entrepreneur and fishing merchant Bjarni Sívertsen, it has since been restored to its original state. The house depicts how an upper-class family in Hafnarfjörður lived at the beginning of the 19th century. Open daily from 11-17 in June, July and August.
The Bookless Bungalow
Bookless Bungalow (Vesturgata 32) was built in 1918 by Scottish brothers who ran a large fisheries plant. For many years, they were the largest employer in town. Today, the restored house contains an exhibition describing foreign fishing enterprises in Hafnarfjörður at the start of the 20th century. Open daily from 11–17 in June, July and August.
Siggubær
Built in 1902, Siggubær has been preserved as an example of the home of a labourer and a seaman in Hafnarfjörður at the beginning of the 20th century. Here you can experience how the common people lived at the time. Open on Sat. – Sun. from 11-17 in June, July and August.
Beggubúð
The Museum of Commerce, Beggubúð (Vesturgata 8), was built in 1906 and stood for many years on the main shopping street. The building has been moved and restored and is now situated at Museum Square which is behind Pakkhúsið at Vesturgata 8. The house is open daily from 11-17 in June, July and August.
Gúttó (Suðurgata 7)
The Good Templars Hall
When the Good Templars Hall was built in 1886 it was considered an extraordinarily large building—it could accommodate 300 people and the town's population was only 400. As Hafnarfjördur's first public hall, it was the centre of cultural and social activity. In addition to being used for gatherings of the Good Templars' Order, the venue was the site of the first town council. Today, an exhibit here depicts the development of sports and community in Hafnarfjördur. Open on Sat. – Sun. from 11-17 in June, July and August.
The Shore Walk
Along the paved shoreline path, a photographic exhibit depicts the life and times of the people who built the town of Hafnarfjörður.
Hafnarborg - The Hafnarfjörður Centre of Culture and Fine Art
Central to Hafnarfjörður´s arts scene is Hafnarborg − The Hafnarfjörður Centre of Culture and Fine Art. The museum has two exhibition galleries, a restaurant and a small museum shop. The exhibitions explore works by leading Icelandic artists, ranging from contemporary art to works by the pioneers of Icelandic art. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Guided tours in English upon request.
Hafnarborg has the restaurant Krydd on the ground floor. Address: Strandgata 34 220 Hafnarfjörður
Hellisgerði Park
Tucked away on a quiet street in Hafnarfjörður is the enchanting Hellisgerði Park. A pathway twists beside the lovely pond and through the lava rocks that buckle and fold into tiny caves and mysterious nooks. Draped in emerald and olive-coloured moss or covered in a wash of white snow, the rocks and the stories of this park are captivating. This magical place is known for its huldufólk (hidden people: elves, dwarves and other mystical creatures).
The Main street – down town
Strandgata is the main street. There you can find small shops, coffee houses, Hafnarborg the Centre of Culture and Fine Art. There is shop which sells ice cream – and if the sun shines you must buy ice crime like all Icelandic people do. Icelandic people love ice cream and it all the time, even at the wintertime! Usually it is very quiet down town but well worth it to take a stroll there.
Hvaleyrarvatn – Lake
In great contrast to the rough and rugged lava field, the quiet and lush Hvaleyrarvatn Lake and its surrounding area, near Hafnarfjörður, offers an idyllic spot to spend an afternoon or to take a morning stroll. Fir trees stretch across the sloping mountains, and the local flora flourishes, protected from the winds. In recent years, the Forestry Association of Hafnarfjörður has helped revive the area with a sustained tree-planting campaign. With help from the townspeople and local school children, their efforts still continue to this day.
A comfortable two-kilometer walking path circles the small tranquil lake where many Icelanders come to fish in the warmer months. Trails also lead away from the water toward the hills, looping their way through the hushed forest and mossy undergrowth. From breaks in the tree line it’s possible to catch sight of the cone-shaped Keilir Mountain in the distance. Also tucked along the paths are a memorial grove, a scouting center, and of course, dozens of pleasant spots where one can stop to rest and to gather serene memories.
Ástjörn – Lake
Ástjörn is a lake in 10 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14. We like to go there for a walk and take a look at the birds but Ástjörn is home to over 44 bird species. This is a delightful outdoor area, perfect for picnics and walks and to enjoy the nature next to our home.
Víðistaðatún Sculpture Park
Features 16 outdoor sculptures by local and international artists. The park also has a six-hole disc golf course, football field, tennis courts and camping grounds. Barbeque facilities.
Mt. Helgafell – This “Holy Mountain” offers a relatively easy hike to the top and scenic views of the surrounding lava fields.Formed in the late Ice Age when a volcano erupted under a glacier, today Helgafell Mountain anchors Hafnarfjörður. Rising low in the distance beyond the town, this dense sandstone and lava mound is often referred to as the town's mountain. With an accessible and easy trail, walking on Helgafell is popular for all levels of hikers, including young children. An ascent begins at the Kaldársel sheep corral, not far from the small Kaldárbotnum Reservoir. Here, protruding and upheaved lava formations twist into endlessly fascinating shapes, including large expanses of undisturbed ropy pahoehoe and pseudocraters. Passing these, the walk continues up the flat northeast slope of Helluhraun before it hits a grassy slope and finally reaches the top. Despite standing only 338 m (1300 feet) high, the panoramic view from the summit is picture-perfect with views of Reykjavík, Flaxafói Bay, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and of course, Hafnarfjörður. To avoid the excessively steep and rocky face, it is recommended that you take the same route down the mountain. The round-trip can be completed in approximately 1½- 2 hours time. Note: In advance of your climb, be sure to check the weather for adverse conditions and be mindful of the sometimes-high winds on the mountaintop.
22 當地人推薦
Hafnarfjordur
The most remarkable physical characteristics of Hafnarfjörður are the wildly shaped lava formations. Enormous, rough black rocks jut from the earth into craters, crevices and caves the cover the town. Yet here, carefully carved out among these seemingly immobile masses of rock, is a charming and tranquil. Homes peek out from behind boulders, shops sit beside lava flows, and parks are filled with moss-covered crags. In Hafnarfjörður, life exists in concert with the 7,000- year-old rolling lava.
Most people in Hafnarfjörður live on the 18-square kilometer (7-square mile) lava field named Búrfellshraun. This lava originally spewed out of the crater Búrfell, which is located about 7 km (4.3 miles) east of Hafnarfjörður and is part of the Krýsuvík volcano. From the Búrfell eruption, lava flowed into two main streams transforming into remarkable formations when it passed by and around a lake. Some of these lava fromations are now sites designated for preservation. At the Litluborgir site, beside Helgafell Mountain, the lava formed into pseudocraters and other unusual gnarled shapes. At Kaldárhraun and Gjárnar sites sharply upheaved lava rests among a large expanse of undisturbed, ropy pahoehoe lava.
Did you know...
...in the early fifteenth century, Hafnarfjörður was an „English town”.
...towards the close of the fifteenth century, the English and Germans were battling for power over the town, a struggle eventually won by the Germans. During the late fifteenth century and throughout the sixteenth century, Hafnarfjörður was a “German town”.
...in the seventeenth century, King Christian IV of Denmark issued an edict forbidding all but his Danish subjects to trade in Iceland. This marked the end of German influence in Hafnarfjörður and the start of the 200-years Danish monopoly.
...in the 1920s, Hafnarfjörður became the cradle of handball. To this day, the town remains a bastion of this hugely popular sport in Iceland.
...Hafnarfjörður's population is presently just over 26,000 and growing at an annual rate of 4%, not counting the “hidden people” and elves.
...Hafnarfjörður is part of the Greater Reykjavík Area.
...the Krýsuvík area, which is partly owned by Hafnarfjörður, has sizzling hot springs and is adorned in a unique array of colours.
The elves
Population figures for Hafnarfjörður are tricky, as every rock and cave in the town is home to elves and hidden people that not everyone is gifted enough to see.
The darkness
During the darkest winter days, it's light for only four hours a day. However, the same part of the year is brightened up by elaborate and extravagant Christmas lights, which keep on shining until March.
The colours
The Old Town brims with colourful houses clad with corrugated iron. In fact, Hafnarfjörður holds the Icelandic record for the largest continuous conurbation of timber houses covered with corrugated iron.
The town's character
Despite its close proximity to the capital city, Hafnarfjörður has a friendly, village-like atmosphere resembling that of rural seaside villages.
The port
Hafnarfjörður has an excellent natural harbour, which made it Iceland's main port for years.
Anniversary
Hafnarfjörður is one of Iceland's oldest townships, despite being a spring chicken compared with many towns in neighbouring countries. The township's 100th anniversary was celebrated in 2008.
Nature at your doorstep
Despite Hafnarfjörður being an ever-growing town, pristine nature is always close by in the town's environs.
Museum of Hafnarfjörður
The Hafnarfjörður Museum exhibits cultural artefacts and photographs of the town and its surrounding region. Housed in a number of buildings and outposts around Hafnarfjörður, the museum's collection offers extraordinary insight into the region's rich heritage.
Pakkhúsið
Three exhibits run concurrently at this tastefully restored, charming blue building that was formerly used as a warehouse. On display are two permanent exhibitions, one on the history of Hafnarfjörður and the other featuring classic toys and children's goods. A third, temporary exhibition on various themes rotates throughout the year.
The Sívertsen´s House
Sívertsen's House (Vesturgata 6) is the oldest house in Hafnarfjörður. Built from 1803-1805 by the great entrepreneur and fishing merchant Bjarni Sívertsen, it has since been restored to its original state. The house depicts how an upper-class family in Hafnarfjörður lived at the beginning of the 19th century. Open daily from 11-17 in June, July and August.
The Bookless Bungalow
Bookless Bungalow (Vesturgata 32) was built in 1918 by Scottish brothers who ran a large fisheries plant. For many years, they were the largest employer in town. Today, the restored house contains an exhibition describing foreign fishing enterprises in Hafnarfjörður at the start of the 20th century. Open daily from 11–17 in June, July and August.
Siggubær
Built in 1902, Siggubær has been preserved as an example of the home of a labourer and a seaman in Hafnarfjörður at the beginning of the 20th century. Here you can experience how the common people lived at the time. Open on Sat. – Sun. from 11-17 in June, July and August.
Beggubúð
The Museum of Commerce, Beggubúð (Vesturgata 8), was built in 1906 and stood for many years on the main shopping street. The building has been moved and restored and is now situated at Museum Square which is behind Pakkhúsið at Vesturgata 8. The house is open daily from 11-17 in June, July and August.
Gúttó (Suðurgata 7)
The Good Templars Hall
When the Good Templars Hall was built in 1886 it was considered an extraordinarily large building—it could accommodate 300 people and the town's population was only 400. As Hafnarfjördur's first public hall, it was the centre of cultural and social activity. In addition to being used for gatherings of the Good Templars' Order, the venue was the site of the first town council. Today, an exhibit here depicts the development of sports and community in Hafnarfjördur. Open on Sat. – Sun. from 11-17 in June, July and August.
The Shore Walk
Along the paved shoreline path, a photographic exhibit depicts the life and times of the people who built the town of Hafnarfjörður.
Hafnarborg - The Hafnarfjörður Centre of Culture and Fine Art
Central to Hafnarfjörður´s arts scene is Hafnarborg − The Hafnarfjörður Centre of Culture and Fine Art. The museum has two exhibition galleries, a restaurant and a small museum shop. The exhibitions explore works by leading Icelandic artists, ranging from contemporary art to works by the pioneers of Icelandic art. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Guided tours in English upon request.
Hafnarborg has the restaurant Krydd on the ground floor. Address: Strandgata 34 220 Hafnarfjörður
Hellisgerði Park
Tucked away on a quiet street in Hafnarfjörður is the enchanting Hellisgerði Park. A pathway twists beside the lovely pond and through the lava rocks that buckle and fold into tiny caves and mysterious nooks. Draped in emerald and olive-coloured moss or covered in a wash of white snow, the rocks and the stories of this park are captivating. This magical place is known for its huldufólk (hidden people: elves, dwarves and other mystical creatures).
The Main street – down town
Strandgata is the main street. There you can find small shops, coffee houses, Hafnarborg the Centre of Culture and Fine Art. There is shop which sells ice cream – and if the sun shines you must buy ice crime like all Icelandic people do. Icelandic people love ice cream and it all the time, even at the wintertime! Usually it is very quiet down town but well worth it to take a stroll there.
Hvaleyrarvatn – Lake
In great contrast to the rough and rugged lava field, the quiet and lush Hvaleyrarvatn Lake and its surrounding area, near Hafnarfjörður, offers an idyllic spot to spend an afternoon or to take a morning stroll. Fir trees stretch across the sloping mountains, and the local flora flourishes, protected from the winds. In recent years, the Forestry Association of Hafnarfjörður has helped revive the area with a sustained tree-planting campaign. With help from the townspeople and local school children, their efforts still continue to this day.
A comfortable two-kilometer walking path circles the small tranquil lake where many Icelanders come to fish in the warmer months. Trails also lead away from the water toward the hills, looping their way through the hushed forest and mossy undergrowth. From breaks in the tree line it’s possible to catch sight of the cone-shaped Keilir Mountain in the distance. Also tucked along the paths are a memorial grove, a scouting center, and of course, dozens of pleasant spots where one can stop to rest and to gather serene memories.
Ástjörn – Lake
Ástjörn is a lake in 10 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14. We like to go there for a walk and take a look at the birds but Ástjörn is home to over 44 bird species. This is a delightful outdoor area, perfect for picnics and walks and to enjoy the nature next to our home.
Víðistaðatún Sculpture Park
Features 16 outdoor sculptures by local and international artists. The park also has a six-hole disc golf course, football field, tennis courts and camping grounds. Barbeque facilities.
Mt. Helgafell – This “Holy Mountain” offers a relatively easy hike to the top and scenic views of the surrounding lava fields.Formed in the late Ice Age when a volcano erupted under a glacier, today Helgafell Mountain anchors Hafnarfjörður. Rising low in the distance beyond the town, this dense sandstone and lava mound is often referred to as the town's mountain. With an accessible and easy trail, walking on Helgafell is popular for all levels of hikers, including young children. An ascent begins at the Kaldársel sheep corral, not far from the small Kaldárbotnum Reservoir. Here, protruding and upheaved lava formations twist into endlessly fascinating shapes, including large expanses of undisturbed ropy pahoehoe and pseudocraters. Passing these, the walk continues up the flat northeast slope of Helluhraun before it hits a grassy slope and finally reaches the top. Despite standing only 338 m (1300 feet) high, the panoramic view from the summit is picture-perfect with views of Reykjavík, Flaxafói Bay, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and of course, Hafnarfjörður. To avoid the excessively steep and rocky face, it is recommended that you take the same route down the mountain. The round-trip can be completed in approximately 1½- 2 hours time. Note: In advance of your climb, be sure to check the weather for adverse conditions and be mindful of the sometimes-high winds on the mountaintop.
Food scene
Krydd – Modern style restaurant in Hafnarfjörður. We like it for both for lunch and dinner. They also have a happy hour. Krydd in 20 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14. Strandgötu 34, 220 Hafnarfirði
32 當地人推薦
Krydd Restaurant
34 StrandgataKrydd – Modern style restaurant in Hafnarfjörður. We like it for both for lunch and dinner. They also have a happy hour. Krydd in 20 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14. Strandgötu 34, 220 Hafnarfirði
Von – restaurant - We like it a lot – Both for lunch and dinner. Von is for them how is willing to try something new, different and delusion. They also have a happy hour. Address: Strandgata 75. 220 Hafnarfjörður.
69 當地人推薦
Von mathús
75 StrandgataVon – restaurant - We like it a lot – Both for lunch and dinner. Von is for them how is willing to try something new, different and delusion. They also have a happy hour. Address: Strandgata 75. 220 Hafnarfjörður.
Tilveran is situated in the center of the town of Hafnarfjörður, right by the harbour in it's friendly surroundings. There you can have a very good fish for dinner and more. Tilveran is in 20 - 25 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14.
30 當地人推薦
Tilveran
1 LinnetsstígurTilveran is situated in the center of the town of Hafnarfjörður, right by the harbour in it's friendly surroundings. There you can have a very good fish for dinner and more. Tilveran is in 20 - 25 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14.
For Thai – Ban Kunn is our favorite. Ban Kunn in the same building as Bónus – low price supermarket - at Tjarnavellir 15. Ban kunn in 10 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14.
14 當地人推薦
Ban Kunn
TjarnarvellirFor Thai – Ban Kunn is our favorite. Ban Kunn in the same building as Bónus – low price supermarket - at Tjarnavellir 15. Ban kunn in 10 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14.
Rif is similar to TGIF - they have a decent food and price and a very good happy hour. Address: Fjarðargata 13 - 15 Hafnarfjordur. Within a 15 - 20 minutes walk from Fagrihvammur 14.
32 當地人推薦
Krydd Restaurant
34 StrandgataRif is similar to TGIF - they have a decent food and price and a very good happy hour. Address: Fjarðargata 13 - 15 Hafnarfjordur. Within a 15 - 20 minutes walk from Fagrihvammur 14.
Hamborgarabúlla Tómasar
Geirsgötu 1 GeirsgataFor burger :) Address: Reykjavíkurvegur Hafnarfjordur.
Castello Pizzeria
13 DalshraunFor pizza :) Address: Dalshraun 13 Hafnarfjorður
Bakery: delicious bred and more. Address: Norðurbakki 1. b. Hafnarfjordur. 20 - 30 min walk from Fagrihvammur.
50 當地人推薦
Brikk
1b NorðurbakkiBakery: delicious bred and more. Address: Norðurbakki 1. b. Hafnarfjordur. 20 - 30 min walk from Fagrihvammur.
Swimming pool
Experience pure thermal energy and take a dip in Suðurbæjarlaug (outdoor) one of Hafnarfjordur thermal pools and spas! Not only a great source of natural therapy but an important part of our culture and a tonic for the body and mind! Whether you go for a swim, take a healing soak in a hot tub, or enjoy a thermal steam bath, you will leave feeling relaxed and re-energized. 5 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14
65 當地人推薦
Suðurbæjarlaug
77 HringbrautExperience pure thermal energy and take a dip in Suðurbæjarlaug (outdoor) one of Hafnarfjordur thermal pools and spas! Not only a great source of natural therapy but an important part of our culture and a tonic for the body and mind! Whether you go for a swim, take a healing soak in a hot tub, or enjoy a thermal steam bath, you will leave feeling relaxed and re-energized. 5 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14
Indoor swimming pool. Opening hours, Mon-Thurs 6:30-22:00, Friday, 6:30-20:00, Saturday 08:00-18:00, Sunday 08:00-17:00 10 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14.
34 當地人推薦
Ásvallalaug
Indoor swimming pool. Opening hours, Mon-Thurs 6:30-22:00, Friday, 6:30-20:00, Saturday 08:00-18:00, Sunday 08:00-17:00 10 minutes walking distance form Fagrihvammur 14.
Grocery store with in a walking
distance
Bónus – low price supermarket
Opening hours Mon Thurs 11 – 18:30. Friday 10 – 18. Saturday 10 – 18. Sunday 12 = 18.
Address: Tjarnarvellir 15 Hafnarfjordur
28 當地人推薦
Bonus
TjarnarvellirBónus – low price supermarket
Opening hours Mon Thurs 11 – 18:30. Friday 10 – 18. Saturday 10 – 18. Sunday 12 = 18.
Address: Tjarnarvellir 15 Hafnarfjordur
Krónan – low price supermarket
Opening hours – all day from 10 – 21.Address: Hvaleyrarbraut Hafnarfjordur.
91 當地人推薦
Krónan
HvaleyrarbrautKrónan – low price supermarket
Opening hours – all day from 10 – 21.Address: Hvaleyrarbraut Hafnarfjordur.