Raufarhofn Village Travel Guide
Image from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Bromr.
The village is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, with rugged coastlines, open spaces, and mountains surrounding it.
Due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Raufarhofn is often referred to as the Arctic Circle Village. Since it's the northernmost village in Iceland, it's an ideal location to witness the northern lights during winter and the midnight sun during summer.
History of Raufarhofn
Beginning in the early 19th century, Raufarhofn was a well-known trading post and an excellent location to import and export goods. During the 1830s, Denmark authorized Raufarhofn to operate as a trading post, and the village began taking shape after 1875.
Like many coastal villages in Iceland, Raufarhofn's economy heavily depended on fishing. During the Icelandic herring frenzy, Raufarhofn became a key hub for salting and processing herring, becoming the second-largest station by 1944. However, in the late 1970s, the herring stock declined due to overfishing, resulting in the collapse of the village's economic base.
Top things to do in Raufarhofn
Despite being a small village, Raufarhofn provides a unique combination of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. The following are the top things to do in Raufarhofn:
Visit the Arctic Henge
The Arctic Henge is a stone monument that features basalt columns in a circular pattern inspired by Norse mythology. It's aligned with celestial events specific to the Arctic Circle, serving as an artistic installation and astronomical observatory, attracting visitors to experience the Arctic landscape and Icelandic heritage.
Birdwatching
Raufarhofn and its surrounding areas are home to diverse bird species like puffins and Arctic terns, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities in nearby cliffs or Langanes Peninsula.
Explore the Coastline
Explore Raufarhofn's rugged coastline for a stroll, showcasing stunning Atlantic Ocean views and potential sightings of seals or whales offshore. Enjoy its captivating blend of natural beauty and tranquility that will leave you spellbound.
Hiking
Discover a variety of hiking trails in Raufarhofn, suitable for all levels of experience. From easy walks along the coast to challenging mountain treks, there is something for everyone.
Raufarhofn Lighthouse
Image from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Bjorn Thorvaldsson.
Visit the Raufarhofn Lighthouse located beyond the marina and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean, especially during sunset.
Raufarhofn Swimming Pool
Enjoy a relaxing dip in the local swimming pool. The local swimming pool also features a sauna, a gym, and a sports hall. It's open every day during summertime and closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays during winter.
Visit Hraunahafnartangi
Visit the second northernmost point of Iceland, located 3 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. Visitors can receive a certificate for visiting the lighthouse by taking pictures. However, the elder duck is protected under Icelandic law, and access to its nesting area is prohibited between April 15th and July 14th.
Surroundings of Raufarhofn
Raufarhofn is one of the only two small villages on the Melrakkasletta peninsula, stretching almost to the Arctic Circle. Thus, it boasts a picturesque natural beauty and coastal landscape, perfect for those seeking tranquility and nature.
The peninsula is known for its flat and low-lying plains and a small mountain range called Leirhafnarfjöll in the western part. The eastern side of this area is a low-lying plain with several ponds and lakes, and some of these bodies of water are home to trout.
The northernmost point of Iceland, Riftangi, is also found in Melrakkasletta. Rifstangi offers stunning views, such as the lake Kottjarnir. The area is renowned for its abundant bird life, making it an ideal spot for bird watching.
Melrakkasletta's coastal area boasts beautiful bays, lagoons, and driftwood coastline, making it an ideal spot for bird watching due to its abundant bird life.
Melrakkasletta offers a unique experience for those seeking peace and nature, particularly during the unique sunset nights.
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