Gígjagjá
Hjörleifshöfði is a small, flat-topped mountain located in southern Iceland. It's surrounded by black sand beaches and vast plains. The mountain is named after Hjörleifur Hróðmarsson, one of the first Viking settlers in Iceland. A hiking trail leads to the top, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. At the base of Hjörleifshöfði, you'll find an old burial mound believed to be Hjörleifur's resting place. Nearby is Yoda Cave, a unique cave with an entrance that resembles the face of Yoda from "Star Wars." This natural feature has become a fun spot for tourists and movie fans alike. The cave is inside a rocky hill and can be easily explored on foot. While it's not large or deep, its distinctive entrance makes it an interesting stop for visitors exploring the area. Both Hjörleifshöfði and Yoda Cave offer a glimpse into Iceland's natural beauty and history. They're great places for a short hike and photos, especially if you're interested in unique landscapes and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours
The Area
Top ways to experience
Gígjagjá
What other travelers are saying about
Gígjagjá
This was a fun beautiful spot. Definitely the top opening looks like Yoda. Photos print worthy. Surrounded by beautiful black beach and crazy ocean views. Love it. We don’t need a lot of time but it’s worth a stop. Pay to park. No bathrooms
Gravel road to get here and a paid parking lot. It wasn’t on our itinerary until I showed a picture to my husband who loves Star Wars, and then it was definitely on the itinerary. It wasn’t crowded and we were able to get photos with just us in them.
Yoda was here, optional stop. It’s a cool volcanic cave with a fun shape, and if the light hits just right, the silhouette really does resemble Yoda from Star Wars. That said, it’s a very quick stop — you can walk to the cave in a few minutes from the parking area, snap a photo, and be back on the road in 10–15
Nearby attractions to see
Frequently asked questions
What is Hjörleifshöfði?
Hjörleifshöfði is a prominent rocky promontory in southern Iceland, known for its stunning views and rich history. It was named after Hjörleifur Hróðmarsson, one of the first settlers in Iceland.
How can visitors access Hjörleifshöfði?
Visitors can access Hjörleifshöfði by driving along Route 1 and taking a short detour onto a gravel road. The area is accessible year-round, but visitors should check weather conditions during winter months.
What is unique about the Yoda Cave near Hjörleifshöfði?
The Yoda Cave, known for its entrance resembling the face of the Star Wars character Yoda, offers a unique photographic opportunity for fans and nature enthusiasts alike. It's located on the eastern side of the promontory.
What activities can be done at Hjörleifshöfði and Yoda Cave?
Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and exploring the historical ruins at Hjörleifshöfði. The Yoda Cave provides an interesting spot for photographers and Star Wars fans.
Are there any guided tours available for these attractions?
Yes, several local tour operators offer guided tours that include visits to both Hjörleifshöfði and the Yoda Cave. These tours often provide insights into local history and geology.
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