Hraunhafnartangi
The second northernmost point of mainland Iceland, long taken to be the northernmost, with its lighthouse of 1951.
Updated 2 November 2026
Hraunhafnartangi, whose name means Lava Harbour Ness, is the second northernmost point of mainland Iceland, only about 800 metres from the Arctic Circle. It was long believed to be the northernmost point of all, until in 2016 nearby Rifstangi was found to reach 68 metres further north. The headland is known for the Hraunhafnartangi Lighthouse, which dates from 1951.
Background
Hraunhafnartangi, Lava Harbour Ness, is the second northernmost point of mainland Iceland. It was held to be the northernmost until 2016, when nearby Rifstangi was found to reach 68 metres further, and it is known for its lighthouse.
Source: Wikipedia, "Hraunhafnartangi"
What to look for
- The lost record - since 2016 Rifstangi, 68 metres further north, holds the title.
- The lighthouse - Hraunhafnartangi Lighthouse, dating from 1951.
- The Arctic Circle - only about 800 metres to the north.
- Rifstangi - the nearby point that is now mainland Iceland's northernmost.
When to go
June to August. An hour.
Good to know
Hraunhafnartangi is a headland with a lighthouse, and since 2016 the title of northernmost point of the mainland has belonged to nearby Rifstangi.
Nearby
Rifstangi, the northernmost point of the mainland, is close by, and the Arctic Circle lies about 800 metres to the north.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q5923561, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Hraunhafnartangi
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Warm base layers - Merino or synthetic against the skin - never cotton, which chills when damp. Find on Amazon
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- An insulated + windproof jacket - A down or synthetic layer under a hard shell handles most cold. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
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