Hellnar

Hellnar was a substantial fishing station for centuries - at times one of the larger on the peninsula - and is now a handful of houses at the bottom of a steep track. On the shore is Badstofa, a sea cave in the cliff whose interior takes on different colours as the light and the tide change through the day, and which fills with the noise of birds and water. A small cafe sits on the rocks by the landing in summer. The coastal path to Arnarstapi starts here and runs along the cliff through protected lava. Gudridur Thorbjarnardottir, who sailed to Vinland and later walked to Rome, is said to have come from this district.

What's there

• Badstofa sea cave - colours shifting with light and tide.
• A former fishing station - now a few houses on the shore.
• The path to Arnarstapi - starting from the village.
• Gudridur's district - the Vinland traveller who later walked to Rome.

When to go

May to September, when the cafe and path are at their best. Half a day.

Things to know

The cave is reached over slippery rock and the tide cuts access - it is not always possible. The village is very small with almost no services. The road down is steep and narrow. Parking is limited.

Nearby

Arnarstapi is along the cliff path; Londrangar is west.

Key facts