This area is full of untouched nature, with steep sea cliffs, green mossy hills, and wide open skies. You can often see seabirds flying overhead and waves crashing against the rocks below. It’s a peaceful place, far from busy towns and crowds.
Only a few people live on the Langanes Peninsula today, but old fishing villages like Skalar remind visitors of its past. Many of these villages were left empty when fishing became harder and people moved away. Now, they add to the quiet and mystery of this wild and beautiful land.
Physical Features of Langanes Peninsula
Langanes is a narrow, grassy, and rocky peninsula with small lakes, rivers, and mossy meadows. It ends at Fontur, a sharp point with steep sea cliffs that rise 50–70 meters above the ocean. At Fontur stands the Langanesviti lighthouse, built in 1910, guiding ships along this rugged coast.
The highest mountain here is Gunnolfsvikurfjall, reaching 719 meters. On top of it is a NATO radar station, part of Iceland’s air defense system. Another mountain, Heidarfjall, once had a radar station during the Cold War.
Top Things to See at Langanes Peninsula
Langanes Peninsula in Northeast Iceland is a hidden treasure full of wild beauty and quiet charm. One of the top sights is the Skoruvikurbjarg cliffs, where you can see puffins and thousands of seabirds nesting in summer. You can also visit the old village of Skalar, which was once a busy fishing town.
Fontur is the easternmost point of the Langanes Peninsula. Then, at the tip of the Fontur Peninsula is the Fontur Lighthouse, where you can enjoy amazing ocean views and total silence. Another great stop is the Ytra Lon area, where you can hike through mossy hills and spot Arctic foxes if you’re lucky.
Birdwatchers will love the view of Stori Karl, a tall sea stack home to one of the largest gannet colonies in Iceland. The abandoned NATO radar station on Gunnolfsvikurfjall mountain is also worth seeing for its history and unique setting.
Best Time to Visit Langanes Peninsula
The best time to visit the Langanes Peninsula is during the summer months from June to August. This is when the weather is mild, the days are long, and the roads are easier to drive. It’s also the perfect time for birdwatching, with thousands of puffins and gannets nesting along the cliffs.
In summer, the sun barely sets, so you get more daylight to explore this remote area. Most guided tours only run in summer, and some places may be closed in winter due to snow or rough roads. Winter visits are possible but only for experienced travelers with 4x4 vehicles and a love for extreme solitude.
How to Get to Langanes Peninsula
Langanes is in Northeast Iceland, between Thistilfjordur and Bakkafloi bays. The nearest village is Thorshofn, a small fishing town with about 380 people. Thorshofn has basic services and a small airport with seasonal flights to Akureyri and Reykjavik.
Getting to Langanes Peninsula takes some time, but the trip is worth it. First, you need to drive to the small village of Thorshofn in northeast Iceland. From there, you can take road 869, a gravel road that leads out onto the peninsula. A 4x4 car is best because the road can be rough, especially for Fontur lighthouse.
You can also fly to Thorshofn from Reykjavik or Akureyri on small local flights during the summer. These flights save time and give you great views from the sky. Once you arrive, you can rent a car in town or join a local tour. Make sure to check the road and weather conditions before you go.
From Husavik, drive about 112 miles (180 kilometers) northeast on Route 85 to reach Thorshofn. From there, gravel road 869 takes you onto the peninsula. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to go all the way to Fontur.
Self-Drives
For those who prefer to explore on their own, renting a 4x4 vehicle is the best option. The roads can be rough, but the freedom to stop and enjoy the scenery is worth it.
Please note that to see Langanes, you must take a certain route with your rental car because it’s in a remote area. Take your pick for the best rental cars in Iceland.
10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road: This is a 10-day self-drive adventure around Iceland's Ring Road and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. This tour lets you explore stunning waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and glaciers at your own pace.
7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road: This is a 7-day self-drive adventure around Iceland's Ring Road. This tour lets you experience waterfalls, relax on black sand beaches, soak in hot springs, and see amazing glaciers and volcanoes, all at your own pace.
Things to Do at Langanes Peninsula
Langanes Peninsula is the perfect place for people who love quiet nature and amazing views. You can go birdwatching at Skoruvikurbjarg cliffs, where puffins, gannets, and other seabirds nest in huge numbers during summer. You can also hike in Skalar and scenic spots like the Fontur lighthouse.
For a deeper experience, join a local guided tour or stay at a farm retreat like Ytra Lon. These tours take you to hidden places and teach you about the area's history, nature, and animals. You might even spot an Arctic fox or seals along the coast.
Where to Stay Near Langanes Peninsula
The best place to stay near the Langanes Peninsula is the small fishing village of Thorshofn. It has cozy guesthouses, small hotels, and friendly local hosts who can help you explore the area. One popular place is Ytra Lon Retreat, where you can enjoy peaceful views, local food, and guided nature tours.
You can also find cabins and farm stays near the coast, perfect for travelers who want something simple and close to nature. Most places offer free parking, breakfast, and help with booking tours. It’s a good idea to book early in summer, as rooms are limited and this area is getting more popular.
What to Eat Near Langanes Peninsula
When visiting the Langanes Peninsula, you can enjoy fresh and local Icelandic food. In the village of Thorshofn, Baran Restaurant is known for its seafood and lamb dishes. It’s the last place to get food before heading deeper into the peninsula. The restaurant offers a cozy setting with meals made from local ingredients.
For a unique dining experience, Ytra Lon Farm Lodge offers farm-to-table dinners featuring lamb from their farm and fresh trout from nearby lakes. If you’re exploring nearby towns, North East Restaurant in Bakkafjordur serves dishes made from locally caught fish and hunted game.
What Makes Langanes Peninsula Special
Langanes is one of Iceland's best spots for birdwatching. At Skoruvikurbjarg cliffs, you can see Stori Karl, a tall rock column that hosts one of the world's largest gannet colonies. Thousands of puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes, and razorbills also nest here during May and June.
The peninsula also has several deserted villages, like Skalar, which was once a busy fishing town but was abandoned by 1946. Walking through these empty places gives you a glimpse into Iceland's past.
Langanes offers quiet landscapes, with moss-covered hills, driftwood beaches, and wide-open skies. It’s a perfect place to hike, take photos, or just enjoy the silence.
Safety Tips for Visiting Langanes Peninsula
Langanes Peninsula is beautiful but very remote, so it’s important to stay safe. Always check the weather and road conditions before your trip, since the roads can be rough and change quickly. A 4x4 car is best, especially if you plan to drive to the tip of the peninsula.
Make sure to bring enough gas, food, and water, as there are no stores once you leave the village of Thorshofn. Tell someone where you’re going, especially if you plan to hike or explore alone. Dress in warm layers and bring a rain jacket, even in summer, because the weather can change fast.
Wear strong shoes for hiking and bring a rain jacket just in case. Cell phone service may be weak in some areas, so consider bringing a GPS or an offline map. Most of all, take your time and enjoy the quiet nature while staying alert and prepared.
Other Attractions Near Langanes Peninsula
There are a few great places to visit near the Langanes Peninsula that are worth adding to your trip. Just outside the village of Thorshofn, you can explore Saudanes, a small museum with an old church and beautiful ocean views.
If you enjoy nature, head to Raudanes Cape, which has sea arches, cliffs, and hidden caves. Another cool place nearby is Asbyrgi Canyon, shaped like a giant horseshoe and full of legends and forest trails. You can also visit Dettifoss, one of the most powerful waterfalls in Europe, about a two-hour drive away.
Both spots are part of the famous Diamond Circle route. These places make the area around Langanes even more exciting for travelers who love nature and adventure.
FAQs About Langanes Peninsula
Langanes Peninsula is a hidden gem in northeast Iceland, offering stunning landscapes, wildlife, and peace away from the crowds. Whether you're visiting for birdwatching, hiking, or exploring old villages, these FAQs will help you make the most of your trip.
How do I get to the Langanes Peninsula?
To reach Langanes, you can drive from Thorshofn, using a 4x4 vehicle. It’s best to check road conditions before you go, as the roads can be rough, especially in winter.
What is the best time to visit Langanes?
The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is milder, and you can enjoy birdwatching. Winter visits are possible but require a 4x4 and a love for solitude.
Are there any accommodations near Langanes?
Yes. There are guesthouses and farm stays in Thorshofn and nearby areas. You can also find retreats like Ytra Lon, offering a peaceful stay with views of the peninsula.
Can I visit Langanes in winter?
Yes. You can visit Langanes in winter, but it requires preparation. Be sure to rent a 4x4 car, check weather conditions, and be ready for cold and snowy conditions.
Are there guided tours available to explore Langanes?
Yes. There are local tours available, especially in summer. These tours will take you to the peninsula’s top sights, including birdwatching spots and the Fontur lighthouse.
What wildlife can I see at Langanes?
Langanes is known for its rich birdlife, including puffins, guillemots, and gannets, especially during the summer months. You might also spot Arctic foxes and seals along the coast.
Is there cell phone service in Langanes?
Cell phone service can be limited in some parts of Langanes, especially in more remote areas. It’s a good idea to download offline maps or bring a GPS device.
What should I pack for a trip to Langanes?
You should pack warm clothing, a rain jacket, and sturdy hiking shoes. Since the weather can change quickly, layers are essential for staying comfortable while exploring.
Are there any restaurants or cafes in the area?
There are a few small restaurants and cafes in Thorshofn, where you can enjoy local Icelandic food. However, options are limited, so it’s a good idea to bring some snacks for longer trips.
Can I hike on Langanes?
Yes. Langanes offers several scenic hiking trails. Some trails lead to birdwatching spots, while others take you to abandoned villages and along dramatic sea cliffs.
Langanes Peninsula: The Long Beauty of the Northeast
Langanes Peninsula is a place like no other. It has stunning views, rich wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere that can make you escape from the busy world. The birdwatching opportunities, especially at Skoruvikurbjarg cliffs, are unforgettable, and the empty villages give you a good idea of Iceland’s past.
With its rugged landscapes and endless horizons, Langanes is one of Iceland’s hidden gems waiting to be explored. Visiting Langanes might take some effort on your part, but the journey is completely worth it. The natural beauty, rich history, and adventurous vibe make Langanes a must-see attraction for anyone.
