Matkaopas: Raufarhafnarviti Lighthouse

Raufarhafnarviti is a lighthouse in the town of Raufarhofn in Northeast Iceland. It serves as a navigational aid for ships in the region, and it's known for its distinct bright orange color and scenic surroundings.

The Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse by the town of Raufarhofn serves as a guide to help ships navigate the rocky North Iceland coastline. It allows the vessels to avoid hazards and reach their destinations safely.

Because of its beautiful views and surroundings, it’s a great place to stop and rest for those who choose to rent a car for self-drive tours of Iceland. This seven-day self-drive tour of the complete Ring Road and this 14-day self-drive tour of the Ring Road and Westfjords are examples of itineraries that provide opportunities to visit Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse when you are in Northeast Iceland.

Photo above from Wikimedia Commons, by Bjorn.thorvaldsson.is. No edits made.

History of Raufarhafnarviti Lighthouse

Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Eysteinn Guðni Guðnason. No edits made.

Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse, also known as Raufarhofn lighthouse, is around 33 feet (10 meters) tall and was built in 1931. The village of Raufarhofn has been used as a shipping harbor since medieval times, and it is mentioned in the Icelandic sagas.

Although it is now a quiet fishing village, it was the second-largest herring station in Iceland in the 1940s, and over 2,000 workers could be found here at any one time.

Physical Features of Raufarhafnarviti Lighthouse

Photo from Flickr by Jennifer Boyer. No edits made.

The Raugarhanfarviti lighthouse is situated on steep cliffs, which can be dangerous if ships get too close. The light at the top shows ships where the coastline is.

By the lighthouse, there's a picnic bench surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers. Here, you can sit and enjoy the views over the North Atlantic Ocean. Bring a packed lunch, as it’s an excellent place to stop for a bite to eat in the area.

This coastline is home to whales and birdlife, so it’s an excellent place to watch wildlife. If you’re visiting in the evening, it’s also a spectacular place to watch the sunset.

How to Get to Raufarhafnarviti Lighthouse

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The nearest large town to Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse is Husavik, which is around 81 miles (131 kilometers) away. You’ll need to travel by car to reach Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse from Husavik, and the drive takes around two hours.

Start by heading north on Route 85 towards Hofdavegur. Continue onto Route 870 before turning left onto Hofdabraut, and you’ll arrive in Raufarhofn.

Raufarhofn is the northernmost settlement on the Icelandic mainland, on the Melrakkasletta peninsula. From the village of Raufarhofn, there is a small road which leads up to the lighthouse.

Attractions Near to Raufarhafnarviti Lighthouse

The Arctic Henge is close to the Raufarhafnarviti lighthouse. Located in Raufarhofn, it is a striking monument inspired by ancient Norse mythology and the celestial movements of the Arctic Circle. It's one of the top famous landmarks in Iceland.

The Arctic Henge is made from concrete and basalt columns. The structure is a modern-day sundial that aligns with the sun's path during the summer and winter solstices.

Beyond its astronomical significance, the Arctic Henge symbolizes Icelandic culture and the enduring link between humanity and the natural world.

Husavik is a picturesque harbor town renowned for its rich maritime history and stunning natural beauty.

With colorful wooden houses lining the waterfront, it's one of the best places in Iceland for whale-watching tours, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness the majestic creatures that frequent its waters.

Beyond its maritime allure, Husavik offers charming cafes, local museums, and opportunities for outdoor adventures like hiking and birdwatching.