Arriving in Höfn

Höfn sits just off Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1), about halfway between the South Coast attractions around Vík and the eastern fjords on the way towards Egilsstaðir.

Most visitors arrive by car or bus along Route 1, often combining Höfn with stops at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach and Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park.

Höfn Airport (HFN) also has domestic flights in some seasons, and with a Hertz rental car in Höfn you can quickly connect from the airport or town centre to your accommodation and onward Ring Road routes.

Weather Conditions for Driving in Höfn

Höfn sits on a narrow spit of land on Iceland’s south‑east coast, flanked by Vatnajökull glacier to the north and the open Atlantic to the south, which means weather here can shift quickly and feel more intense than in many other parts of Iceland. Strong winds are common year‑round, and the combination of coastal exposure and proximity to the glacier creates conditions that can change from calm and clear to windy and rainy within hours.

• Summer (June–August): The most stable driving season around Höfn, with long daylight hours and generally milder temperatures. However, sudden rain showers and gusty winds are still possible, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Roads to Jökulsárlón, Stokksnes and Skaftafell are open and accessible.
• Summer (June–August): The most stable driving season around Höfn, with long daylight hours and generally milder temperatures. However, sudden rain showers and gusty winds are still possible, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Roads to Jökulsárlón, Stokksnes and Skaftafell are open and accessible.
• Autumn (September–October): Weather becomes more unpredictable and wind speeds increase. Northern lights become visible on clear nights, but rain and low cloud are frequent. Check road.is before any longer drive.
• Winter (November–March): Snow, ice and strong winds are common around Höfn and on the Ring Road in both directions. Black ice on Route 1 near the coast and on bridges is a serious hazard. Drive slowly, allow extra time and always check vedur.is and road.is before setting out.
• Spring (April–May): Conditions begin to improve but remain variable. Snow can still fall even in May on higher ground near Vatnajökull. Watch for slippery patches on shaded road sections and be prepared for sudden changes.
• Always check road.is for live road conditions and vedur.is for weather forecasts before driving longer distances from Höfn, especially in the off‑season.

Top Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland

• Check Your Driving Licence Before You Arrive: ost international licences are valid in Iceland. However, if yours isn’t in Latin script, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Sort this before you fly – you won’t get far with a car rental in Höfn without the right documentation.
• F-Roads Require a 4×4, No Exceptions: Planning day trips from Höfn into the Highlands or more remote interior routes? F-roads are restricted to 4×4 vehicles and are often closed until June or July. Always check with locals or the rental office for live conditions before heading out.
• Know the Speed Limits: Fines are steep, and cameras are common. Stick to 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved highways. Getting a fine will put a damper on exploring the sights and attractions around Höfn.
• Headlights On at All Times:  It’s a legal requirement to drive with headlights on 24/7 in Iceland, year-round. Most rental cars handle this automatically, but always double-check at pickup.
• Off-Road Driving is Illegal: Iceland’s landscapes around Höfn and Vatnajökull are breathtaking, but driving off designated roads is strictly prohibited and carries heavy fines. Whether you’re exploring near town or venturing towards the glacier, stay on marked roads at all times.
• Watch for Single-Lane Bridges, Blind Hills & Sheep:Icelandic roads have quirks that catch foreign drivers off guard. Narrow single-lane bridges, steep blind hilltops, and sheep freely crossing rural roads are common sights on Route 1 and surrounding roads near Höfn. Slow down and stay alert, especially on day trips outside town.
• Never Let Your Fuel Run Low: Fuel stations become scarce quickly once you leave Höfn. On longer drives along the Ring Road towards Vík or east towards Egilsstaðir, there can be 50+ km between stations. Fill up in Höfn whenever you can – don’t wait for the warning light.

What to Wear When Exploring Höfn

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and Höfn’s exposed position on the south-east coast – between Vatnajökull glacier and the open Atlantic – makes it particularly susceptible to sudden wind and rain. Once you’ve picked up your Hertz car rental in Höfn, keep a waterproof jacket and a warm mid-layer within easy reach in the car at all times. Coastal winds here can feel surprisingly cold even on a bright summer’s day.

If you’re visiting Höfn in winter, pack thermal layers, gloves, a warm hat and a windproof outer shell as a minimum. Temperatures around Höfn regularly drop below freezing from November through March, and wind chill near the harbour and along the coastline can make it feel considerably colder. Waterproof, insulated footwear is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to walk near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or Diamond Beach.

In summer, lightweight layers that you can add or remove throughout the day work best. Mornings and evenings near the glacier can still be chilly even in July, so a mid-layer and windproof jacket should always be in your bag even if you set out in sunshine.

For glacier walks or tours on Vatnajökull – which are popular day trips from Höfn – specialist equipment such as crampons, helmets and ice axes are always provided by certified tour operators. You should still wear warm, moisture-wicking base layers and sturdy waterproof boots underneath any rental gear.

Parking Information

Parking in Höfn is straightforward and stress-free compared to larger Icelandic cities. Street parking throughout Höfn town centre is free of charge, so you can leave your rental car near the harbour, restaurants or shops without worrying about meters or time limits. The town is small and compact, meaning most places you want to reach on foot are within easy walking distance of wherever you park.

Höfn Town Centre

Free street parking is available along the main streets in town, including near the harbour front, supermarket and local services. There are no paid parking zones in the town centre itself, making it easy to stop, explore and move on at your own pace.

Vestrahorn / Stokksnes

If you are planning a visit to Vestrahorn and the black-sand Stokksnes peninsula – one of the most photographed landscapes in south-east Iceland and an easy day trip from Höfn – note that access requires an entrance fee paid at the Viking Café at the turn-off from Route 1. This fee covers both entry to the area and parking at the site. The Viking Café is typically open daily in the main travel season; it is worth checking locally if you are visiting in the off-season, as access and opening hours can vary.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

Both sites have large, free car parks directly off Route 1, about 70–80 km west of Höfn. These are very popular stops, especially in summer, so arriving early in the morning gives you the best chance of easy parking and fewer crowds. you need to pay to park at Jokulsarlon.

General tip: Höfn has no multi-storey car parks or complex parking systems, so parking with a rental car here is simple. Just be mindful of any private land or farm access gates when pulling off the road near scenic view points.

Electric Car Rental in Höfn

Electric car rental is a practical and increasingly popular choice for exploring south-east Iceland, and Höfn is well set up as a charging stop on the Ring Road. Whether you are picking up a rental car in Höfn or passing through on a longer EV road trip, you will find reliable fast-charging options in town to keep you moving.

Charging in Höfn

Höfn has two main public charging points worth knowing about:

• Tesla Supercharger (open to non-Tesla EVs) – Vikurbraut 1, Höfn. Six Supercharger stalls with up to 250 kW capacity, available 24/7 and open to non-Tesla EVs with CCS compatibility.

• Ísorka / Olís fast charger – Hafnarbraut 45, Höfn í Hornafirði. A fast DC charging station with multiple outlets, conveniently located at the Olís fuel station in town.​

Key Roads & Travel Routes

Höfn sits directly on Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1), making it one of the best-positioned towns in south-east Iceland for exploring in any direction. With a Hertz rental car in Höfn, you can follow the Ring Road west towards the South Coast’s most iconic stops, or head north-east into the East Fjords – with dramatic scenery in either direction.

Key Roads

• Route 1 – The Ring Road: The main trunk road passing through Höfn, connecting the town west towards Jökulsárlón, Skaftafell and Vík, and east towards Djúpivogur and Egilsstaðir. Paved and well-maintained, but exposed to wind and occasional winter ice.
• Route 99 – Höfn town access road: The short connecting road from Route 1 into Höfn town centre, harbour and services.
• Route 985 – Stokksnes / Vestrahorn: A short turn-off from Route 1 just west of Höfn leading to the Stokksnes peninsula and Vestrahorn mountain, one of the most photographed landscapes in Iceland. Note the entrance fee at the Viking Café gate.
• Route 1 north via Breiðdalsvík: Heading north-east from Höfn, Route 1 curves through open glacial plains and coastal stretches before winding up into the East Fjords, with some narrow and hilly sections requiring extra care.

Getting from Höfn to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Approximately 70–80 km west along Route 1, usually around 1 hour. One of the most popular and easy day trips from Höfn, passing Diamond Beach along the way.

• From Höfn town centre, take Route 99 back out to the Ring Road (Route 1)
• Turn right (west) onto Route 1 and continue for approximately 70–80 km
• Follow signs for Jökulsárlón on the left side of Route 1; the glacier lagoon car park is directly off the main road
• Diamond Beach is just across Route 1 from the lagoon car park, a 1-minute walk

Getting from Höfn to Vestrahorn / Stokksnes

Just 15–20 minutes from Höfn town centre via Route 1 west and Route 985. An easy half-day or evening trip, ideal for photography and short walks.

• From Höfn town centre, take Route 99 west back onto Route 1
• Continue west on Route 1 for approximately 10–12 km
• Turn left onto Route 985 (signed for Stokksnes / Viking Café)
• Follow Route 985 to the Viking Café gate where the entrance fee is paid; continue straight to the Stokksnes peninsula and Vestrahorn viewpoints

Getting from Höfn to Skaftafell

Around 130 km west on Route 1, roughly 1.5–2 hours depending on conditions. A straightforward Ring Road drive through sweeping glacial landscapes.

• From Höfn, take Route 99 onto Route 1 and head west
• Stay on Route 1 for approximately 130 km through open glacial plains
• Turn right (north) at the signed Skaftafell / Vatnajökull National Park entrance

Getting from Höfn to Vík

Around 270 km west along Route 1, approximately 3–3.5 hours. A long but scenic drive combining glacier views, black sand beaches and waterfalls.

• From Höfn, take Route 99 onto Route 1 heading west
• Stay on Route 1 for approximately 270 km, passing Jökulsárlón, Skaftafell, Kirkjubæjarklaustur and the black sand plains
• Follow local signs for Vík (Route 1 / 215) into the village for town services and the famous black sand beach at Reynisfjara nearby

Getting from Höfn to Egilsstaðir

Approximately 260 km north-east along Route 1 through the East Fjords, usually 3–4 hours. The road narrows and winds significantly through the fjords, so allow extra time and check conditions in winter.

• From Höfn, take Route 99 onto Route 1 and head north-east
• Stay on Route 1 for approximately 260 km, passing through Djúpivogur and winding through the East Fjords
• Follow signs for Egilsstaðir town centre; note the road narrows significantly through the fjord sections so allow extra time

Getting from Höfn to Reykjavík

Around 460 km via Route 1, typically 5–6 hours in good conditions. Plan fuel stops along the way, particularly between Höfn and Vík where stations can be widely spaced.

• From Höfn town centre, take Route 99 onto Route 1 heading west
• Stay on Route 1 for approximately 460 km, passing all major South Coast stops
• As you approach the capital region, follow signs for Reykjavík via Route 1 / Route 49 into the city

Driving Tips

• Speed limits: Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas like Höfn town, 80 km/h on gravel roads, and 90 km/h on paved rural highways including Route 1. Always follow posted signs as limits can change without much warning.
• Ring Road driving: Route 1 around Höfn and the south-east is paved and generally well-maintained, but stretches between towns can be long, exposed and subject to sudden weather changes. Keep your speed sensible and your fuel tank topped up.
• Winter awareness: In and around Höfn in winter, watch for black ice on Route 1, especially on bridges and shaded coastal sections. Strong winds off the glacier and the sea can make conditions unpredictable even when skies look clear. Winter tyres are standard on all rental cars in season.
• Single-lane bridges: Common on Route 1 and on side roads near Höfn. Slow down well in advance, yield to oncoming traffic according to the priority signs, and never try to race through.
• Gravel roads and track pull-offs: Some side roads near viewpoints, farms and beaches around Höfn are gravel or unsurfaced. Reduce speed, keep both hands on the wheel and watch for loose stones.
• Lights: Keep headlights on at all times, day and night, as required by Icelandic law. Most rental cars handle this automatically.
• Weather checks: Always check vedur.is for weather forecasts and road.is for live road conditions before any longer drive from Höfn, especially heading west towards Skaftafell or east into the East Fjords.

Traffic Rules in Reykjavik

Höfn is a small and easy town to drive through, with straightforward road markings and minimal traffic even in peak season. The same national rules apply here as across all of Iceland: drive on the right, wear seat belts in all seats at all times, and use a legal hands-free setup for any phone calls. Headlights must remain on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

On the roads surrounding Höfn, be particularly alert at pedestrian crossings near the harbour and town centre, and slow down when driving through any residential streets. On Route 1 outside town, watch for sheep crossing the road freely in summer, slow-moving farm vehicles and cyclists, especially during the warmer months. Off-road driving is strictly illegal across all of Iceland and carries heavy fines — stay on marked roads and designated pull-offs at all times..

Road Conditions in and around Höfn

Route 1 through Höfn is paved and open year-round, but conditions on this stretch of the Ring Road can vary significantly by season. The coastal and glacial terrain means strong winds, drifting snow and occasional ice are real hazards from autumn through spring.

The long open stretch west of Höfn towards Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell can be particularly exposed. Always check road.is before setting out, allow more time than map estimates suggest in winter or shoulder season, and be prepared to adjust plans if conditions deteriorate.

Fueling Instructions

Höfn has at least one fuel station in town — the Olís station on Hafnarbraut — where you can fill up before any longer drive in either direction. Once you leave Höfn on Route 1, fuel stations become less frequent, with significant gaps particularly heading west towards Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Vík, or east into the East Fjords.

Always top up in Höfn before a long drive rather than waiting for the low-fuel warning. Most stations are self-service and accept credit cards at the pump, but always carry a physical credit card with a PIN as a backup.

Rental policies with Hertz Iceland

Before you pick up the keys, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with Hertz Iceland’s rental policies to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Here are some essentials you need to know before hitting Iceland’s roads:

• • Driver’s Licence: A valid, physical licence held for a minimum of one year is required. Licences with English/Latin script are accepted as-is. If yours is in a non-English script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also required.

• • Minimum Age: The minimum rental age is 20 for standard vehicle groups (economy, compact, intermediate). For most other vehicles, it’s 23, and select prestige/luxury models require drivers to be at least 25. There is no maximum age restriction.

• • Additional Driver: Extra drivers can be added for a small daily fee. Any undeclared driver who drives the vehicle automatically voids the insurance coverage.

• • Payment & Credit Card: A valid physical credit card (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex) in the main driver’s name is required at pickup. Debit cards are accepted under specific conditions.

• • One-Way Rentals: One-way rentals are available but subject to a fee and location/vehicle availability restrictions.

• • Cancellation Policy: Prepaid bookings cancelled more than 3 days before pickup receive a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days or no-shows are non-refundable. Pay-on-arrival bookings can be cancelled up to the start of the rental.

Vehicle Options for a Car Rental in Höfn

With Hertz car hire in Höfn, you can match your vehicle to the way you plan to explore the south-east coast, the Ring Road and the wider Vatnajökull region. Hertz offers practical options for everyday cruising, plus vehicles built for comfort, cargo and all-season travel in Iceland’s varied conditions.

• • Economy Small Rental Cars: A budget-friendly option for getting around Höfn town and short drives along Route 1. Ideal for travellers keeping costs low on straightforward paved road itineraries.

• • Compact Rental Cars: Comfortable for couples or solo travellers with light luggage. A solid pick for Ring Road day trips from Höfn and straightforward coastal routes.

• • Mid-size Rental Cars: More space for passengers and bags without feeling bulky. A good all-round choice for longer drives between Höfn, Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell.

• • Full-size Rental Cars: Extra comfort for families or groups. Better for longer Ring Road journeys when you want more room to stretch out on multi-hour drives.

• • Automatic Rental Cars: Simple, familiar driving along Route 1 and beyond. Helpful on longer stretches and when road conditions change unexpectedly around Höfn.

• • EV/PHEV Rental Cars: A quieter, greener way to explore south-east Iceland. Höfn has fast-charging options in town, making EV travel along the Ring Road practical with good planning.

• • Tesla Rental Cars: Premium electric driving with modern features and comfort. A strong option for Ring Road routes with reliable charging at Höfn and key stops along the way.

• • Luxury Rental Cars: Elevated comfort and refined interiors for a premium experience. Ideal for special occasions or travellers who want to arrive in style at every stop.

• • 4×4 Rental Cars: Built for Iceland’s tougher conditions, including gravel roads, exposed coastal stretches and any approved highland routes near Vatnajökull. Strongly recommended for off-peak travel and winter driving around Höfn.

• • Passenger Vans/Minibus: Practical for larger groups and extra luggage. Keeps everyone together for day trips to Jökulsárlón, Vestrahorn and beyond.

• • Campers and Motorhomes: Combines transport and accommodation in one. Ideal for multi-day adventures along the South Coast and Ring Road, using Höfn as a base or overnight stop.

• • Mini Vans: Useful for bulky luggage, equipment or business needs. Extra capacity without compromising driveability. Special D-type driver’s licence is needed for 9+ seat mini vans.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Höfn?

The cost of renting a car in Höfn varies depending on the vehicle type, rental duration and time of year. Prices are generally higher during peak summer months (June–August) and lower in the off-season, often significantly so.

Unlike Reykjavík, Höfn is a small town with a limited rental fleet and fewer providers operating locally. This means that last-minute availability in summer can be very tight — if you don’t book in advance, you may find that popular vehicle categories such as 4×4s are already fully booked, or that only a handful of options remain at significantly higher prices. To secure the best rate and the right vehicle for your south-east Iceland trip, booking as early as possible is strongly recommended, especially for travel between June and August.

Compulsory Equipment in your Hertz Rental Car

Safety on Iceland’s roads isn’t optional, and neither is the right equipment.

Quick Guide to Höfn (Restaurants, Hotels, Attractions)

Attractions in Höfn

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

One of Iceland’s most iconic natural landmarks, Jökulsárlón is a vast glacial lagoon filled with drifting icebergs calved from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Just across Route 1, Diamond Beach is scattered with ice chunks washed ashore on black sand — unmissable at any time of year and one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Höfn.

Vestrahorn & Stokksnes Peninsula

Route 985 off Route 1, approximately 15 km west of Höfn, Iceland

A dramatic black-sand peninsula framed by the jagged peaks of Vestrahorn mountain, Stokksnes is one of south-east Iceland’s most photographed landscapes. Access is via the Viking Café gate where an entrance fee is paid; from there a short walk brings you to sweeping dune and mountain scenery.

Hoffellsjökull Glacier

Hoffellsvegur (Route 985b), approximately 25 km from Höfn, Iceland

One of the most accessible glacier tongues near Höfn, Hoffellsjökull calves into a small glacial lake and is surrounded by short walking trails and longer hiking routes. A peaceful, less crowded alternative to Jökulsárlón for those wanting a closer look at Vatnajökull’s reach. you will need a 4×4 SUV rental car for this attraction

Things to do in Höfn

• • Eat langoustine (lobster) at the harbour – Höfn is known as Iceland’s lobster capital and the local langoustine is not to be missed; several harbour restaurants serve it fresh in season.

• • Visit Jökulsárlón on a boat tour – Join an amphibious or zodiac boat tour among the icebergs for a closer look at the lagoon and its resident seals.

• • Walk Diamond Beach – A short stroll along the black-sand beach beside Jökulsárlón, where ice chunks wash ashore like natural sculptures.

• • Photograph Vestrahorn at Stokksnes – Best at golden hour or on calm days when the mountain reflects in the shallow lagoon pools among the dunes.

• • Explore Hoffellsjökull glacier – A scenic drive and easy walk to one of Vatnajökull’s most accessible glacier tongues, ideal for those who want to get close to the ice.

• • Northern lights watching (September–April) – Drive just outside Höfn away from the harbour lights for some of Iceland’s best dark-sky aurora viewing on clear nights.

• • Ice cave tours at Vatnajökull (November–March) – Book a guided ice cave tour from near Jökulsárlón for a rare look inside the glacier’s blue ice formations.

Shopping in Hofn

• • Krónan Supermarket: The main supermarket in Höfn, ideal for stocking up on groceries, road trip snacks and everyday essentials before heading further along the Ring Road in either direction.

• • Nettó: A budget-friendly supermarket and general goods store in Höfn, useful for picking up provisions, basic clothing layers and travel supplies before longer drives towards Skaftafell or the East Fjords.

• • Local gift shops and harbour stores along Hafnarbraut and the harbour area: A handful of small souvenir and gift shops along Höfn’s main street and harbour front sell Icelandic wool products, postcards, locally branded items and travel accessories — worth a browse before you leave town.

Frequently Asked Questions – Höfn Car Rental

• • Do I need a rental car in Höfn?
    Yes, having a rental car in Höfn makes a significant difference. While the town centre is small and walkable, a car gives you the freedom to reach nearby highlights like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Vestrahorn and Hoffellsjökull at your own pace — without relying on tours or fixed schedules. It also lets you adjust plans quickly if weather changes, which is common in south-east Iceland.

• • What do I need to rent a car in Höfn?
    To complete your car rental booking in Höfn with Hertz, you’ll need a valid physical driving licence held for at least one year, a credit card in the main driver’s name, and a passport or national ID. If your licence is not in Latin script, you must also bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original licence.

• • Is car rental in Höfn worth it?
    Absolutely. Höfn is one of Iceland’s best bases for self-drive exploration. With your own rental car you can visit Jökulsárlón at sunrise before the crowds arrive, stop at Diamond Beach on a whim, drive out to Stokksnes for golden hour photography and explore the glacier at Hoffellsjökull — all on your own timetable and without the cost of private tours for each stop.

• • Can I drive outside Höfn with a rental car?

    Of course. With a Hertz rental car in Höfn you can drive freely along Route 1 in either direction — west towards Skaftafell, Vík and the South Coast, or north-east into the East Fjords towards Djúpivogur and Egilsstaðir. Just make sure to choose the right vehicle for your plans, top up fuel before long stretches and check road.is before setting out.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – No matter how far your journey takes you from Höfn, you will have peace of mind knowing you are driving a meticulously maintained vehicle from our Newer, Reliable Fleet (all cars are under 2 years old with low mileage).

• • Are there electric vehicle options available to rent in Höfn?
    Yes. Hertz Iceland offers EV and hybrid options, and Höfn has fast-charging facilities in town including a Tesla Supercharger on Vikurbraut (open to non-Tesla EVs with CCS) and an Olís fast charger on Hafnarbraut. For longer Ring Road drives, plan your charging stops in advance as gaps between stations can be significant east of Höfn.

• • What are the speed limits when driving around Höfn?
    Speed limits in Iceland are 50 km/h in built-up areas like Höfn town, 80 km/h on gravel roads and 90 km/h on paved highways including Route 1. Speed cameras are in use and fines are steep, so always follow posted signs and reduce speed on gravel sections and when weather conditions change.

• • Can I drive the Ring Road from Höfn?

    Yes. Höfn sits directly on the Ring Road (Route 1), making it one of the best starting or stopping points for a Ring Road circuit. You can head west along the South Coast towards Reykjavík or east through the fjords towards Egilsstaðir and North Iceland. Allow plenty of time for either direction as distances are significant.

    Pro Tip: The Hertz Iceland Difference – As you embark on the Ring Road, enjoy total peace of mind knowing our comprehensive Nationwide Support and premium customer service are always just a phone call away.

• • What are the driving rules around Höfn?
    The standard Icelandic rules apply: drive on the right, wear seat belts at all times, keep headlights on day and night and use only a hands-free setup for phone calls. Around Höfn and on Route 1, pay particular attention to single-lane bridges, watch for sheep on rural roads in summer and be especially cautious of black ice on coastal sections and bridges in winter.

• • Is fuel easy to find outside Höfn?
    Höfn has a fuel station in town (Olís on Hafnarbraut) where you should always fill up before longer drives. Once you leave Höfn, fuel stations become less frequent — particularly heading west towards Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Vík, or east into the East Fjords. Always top up whenever you pass a station and never rely on reaching the next one before refuelling.

• • What is the best time of year to rent a car in Höfn?
    June to August offers the most stable weather, long daylight hours and access to all roads and attractions around Höfn. However, this is also peak season and car rental prices are at their highest, with limited fleet availability — so book well in advance. September and October bring autumn colours, quieter roads and northern lights without the peak-season crowds. Winter (November–March) suits experienced drivers looking for ice caves and aurora, but road conditions require extra care.