Höfn (pronounced "hup") is one of those places that totally grows on you. This laid-back fishing town sits on Iceland's southeast coast, perfectly positioned as your gateway to some of the country's most incredible attractions. We're talking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, and the dramatic Eastfjords - all just a short drive from this charming harbor village.

The town sits right off Route 1 (the Ring Road) with the massive Vatnajökull glacier looming in the background. What makes Höfn really special is its location between glacial rivers that dump black volcanic sand into the bay, creating this incredible contrast between the dark shoreline and the bright blue waters beyond.

But here's what most people don't know - Höfn is famous throughout Iceland for its langoustine (what locals call "lobster"), and the whole town comes alive during summer's Humarhátíð lobster festival. Plus, it's got one of the best swimming pools in the country, which might sound random until you experience how incredible Icelandic pool culture really is.

Höfn might be small (we're talking about 2,500 people), but its location is absolutely perfect for exploring glacier country. The town sits smack in the middle of some of Iceland's most dramatic landscapes.

What makes it awesome as a base:

Perfect for:

Höfn is basically Iceland's langoustine capital, and trust me, this isn't just any seafood - we're talking about some of the sweetest, most delicious "lobster" you'll ever taste. The cold waters around Höfn create perfect conditions for these little crustaceans.

Every summer (usually late June or early July), Höfn throws one of Iceland's best food festivals. The whole town transforms into this incredible celebration of local seafood and community spirit.

What makes it special:

Pro tip: If you're planning to visit during the festival, book accommodation way in advance - the whole town fills up with langoustine lovers from across Iceland and beyond.

Pakkhús Restaurant: Höfn's fine dining spot with incredible langoustine preparations and harbor views.

Humarhöfnin (The Lobster House): Casual dining focused entirely on langoustine dishes - from simple grilled to elaborate preparations.

Local cafés: Even the casual spots in town serve langoustine dishes that'll blow your mind.

Good to know: "Lobster" on Icelandic menus usually means langoustine (Nephrops norvegicus), which is technically a type of crayfish but tastes incredible either way.

After hours of driving Iceland's Ring Road or hiking in glacier country, nothing beats soaking in Höfn's incredible swimming pool complex. This place is seriously one of Iceland's best-kept secrets.

Hot pots galore: Multiple hot tubs at different temperatures - perfect for finding your ideal soaking spot 25-meter pool: Great for actual swimming if you want some exercise Kids' area: Water slides and play features that adults secretly love too Incredible views: Soak while looking out at glacial mountains and the harbor

The experience: Picture yourself in naturally heated water, surrounded by other relaxed locals, with glacier-capped mountains in the background. It's basically the perfect way to end any Iceland adventure day.

Local culture note: Icelanders take their pool time seriously - it's where community happens. Don't be surprised if friendly locals strike up conversations about your travels.

Höfn might be small, but it's packed with character. The main action happens along Hafnarbraut and Víkurbraut, which form a loop through the town center.

Harbor walks: Stroll along the working harbor to see fishing boats and maybe catch the daily catch being brought in.

Local shops: Browse for Icelandic wool products, local crafts, and souvenirs that actually come from the area.

Gamlabúð Visitor Center: Learn about the area's history, geology, and wildlife - plus it's got a great café.

Town church: Simple but beautiful, with incredible views from the churchyard.

For the most incredible views around Höfn, head to Ósland headland. This easy walk gives you panoramic views over the town, harbor, and surrounding landscapes.

What you'll see:

Photography tip: This is the perfect spot for sunset shots over the town and mountains.

Höfn's location makes it perfect for incredible day trips to some of Iceland's most famous attractions.

The famous iceberg lagoon is practically Höfn's backyard. You can easily visit for a boat tour and be back in town for dinner.

What to do:

This dramatic black sand peninsula with its pyramid-shaped mountain is one of Iceland's most photogenic spots.

Why it's incredible:

Skaftafell area (1.5 hours west): Incredible hiking trails including the famous Svartifoss waterfall

Glacier tours: Join ice cave expeditions or glacier hiking adventures departing from the park

Highland access: Summer routes into the park's interior for serious adventure seekers

Djúpivogur (1 hour east): Charming fishing village with incredible mountain scenery

Eastfjords scenic drive: Start exploring Iceland's most dramatic and least visited region

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather, midnight sun, and the famous lobster festival. All attractions are accessible, but expect higher prices and more visitors.

Spring/Fall (April-May, September-October): Fewer crowds, dramatic weather for photography, and still good access to major attractions. The glacier lagoon looks incredible in changing weather conditions.

Winter (November-March): Quiet and atmospheric with potential Northern Lights viewing. Ice cave season for glacier adventures, but shorter daylight hours and challenging weather.

Festival timing: The Humarhátíð lobster festival usually happens in late June or early July - check dates if you want to experience this awesome local celebration.

Hótel Höfn: Main hotel in town with restaurant and harbor views

Milk Factory: Unique accommodation in a converted dairy building

Various guesthouses: Smaller, family-run options that often include breakfast

Town campsite: Basic facilities right in town, walking distance to restaurants and the pool

Good to know: Book ahead during summer, especially if you're visiting during the lobster festival or planning multi-day glacier adventures.

Höfn sits right on Route 1 (the Ring Road), making it super accessible for any Iceland road trip.

From Reykjavík: 5 hours east via the Ring Road - perfect stopping point for Ring Road journeys

From Akureyri: 4.5 hours south through varied landscapes

Tour options:

Fuel: Important stop for fuel - next stations are far apart on the Ring Road

Grocery stores: Stock up on supplies, especially if heading into remote areas

Banks and ATMs: Get cash for activities and services

Tourist information: Get local advice and current conditions for attractions

Medical services: Basic healthcare facilities available

Höfn perfectly captures authentic Icelandic small-town life. The community is tight-knit, incredibly welcoming to visitors, and proud of their fishing heritage and incredible natural surroundings.

What makes it special:

Cultural tips:

Ready to experience Iceland's most authentic glacier country base camp? Höfn offers the perfect combination of incredible natural attractions, delicious local cuisine, and genuine Icelandic small-town hospitality.

You've got the freedom to customize your Iceland adventure exactly how you want it. Use Höfn as your base for South Coast exploration, make it an overnight stop on your Ring Road journey, or focus on glacier and ice cave adventures from this perfect location.

Our local travel team is here if you need help planning the perfect Höfn itinerary. With just a 5% deposit, you can secure your spot and start looking forward to discovering Iceland's glacier country and the sweetest langoustine you'll ever taste.

Ready to soak in hot pots with glacier views and taste the best seafood in Iceland? Start planning your Höfn adventure today and discover why this fishing town makes the perfect gateway to Iceland's most dramatic landscapes.

Related: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Your Ultimate Guide

Related: Iceland Ring Road Itinerary - Southern Highlights

Related: Vatnajökull National Park - Glacier Adventures

Related: Best Seafood Experiences in Iceland