Nature attractions and walks

You might be surprised to learn that in addition to its 30,000 human residents, Hafnarfjörður is also home to many elves, dwarfs and other mystical beings, collectively called ‘Hidden Folk’. Local folklore has it that you can visit these supernatural beings in Hellisgerði an enchanting park located close to the town centre.

Not too far from the centre of Hafnarfjörður rest the remarkable solfatara fields of Krýsuvík, where you’ll discover an expanse of steaming volcanic vents and boiling hot springs, framed dramatically by a range of multi-coloured hills.

Víðistaðatún sculpture park is one of Hafnarfjörður‘s green recreational areas which features a collection of outdoor sculptures by local and international artists. The park also has a six-hole disc golf course, football field, tennis courts, children's playground and barbeque facilities.

This cliff is just a few minutes' walk from the town center. Hamarinn is a protected nature site and a sightseeing point offering expansive views of the town and the surrounding natural area. Here you can take your perfect photo of Hafnarfjörður to take back home with you.

A picturesque lake surrounded by forest and greenery. There are lots of trails to explore and handy barbecue facilities around. The perfect spot for a picnic in a good company.

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.

Leiðarendi is a lava tube located in a lava field close to Bláfjöll, the Blue Mountains, in southwest Iceland. These beautiful and natural wonders are created by flowing lava under the earth after a volcanic eruption. Journeys in its depths reveal a wealth of knowledge about Icelandic history, geology and folklore.

Steps from the dramatic geothermal area at Krýsuvík Seltún lies the sweeping blue expanse of Kleifarvatn Lake. Nestled below a steep mountain, the seemingly deserted space is an attractive spot for a quiet walk. A small path circles the lake, jogging around water's edge and over small black lava rocks. 

With its sea cliffs, tranquil wind-protected lakes, and treeless mudflats, Hafnarfjörður attracts an abundance of birdlife. For many years, the town has been an immensely popular location for bird watching