Hvaleyrarvatn Lake
About Hvaleyrarvatn Lake
Hvaleyrarvatn is a small lake in the hills just south of Hafnarfjörður, about 25 minutes' drive from downtown Reykjavík. Planted conifer forest wraps around most of its shore, which makes it one of the greenest outdoor spots in the capital area.
The main Hvaleyrarvatn walk is an easy, marked gravel loop of about 2 km around the water, and most people finish it in 30 to 60 minutes. Benches sit along the way, and there's no real climbing, so it suits young kids and dogs alike. For something longer, trails lead from the lake up through the Höfðaskógur woodland and onto the moss-covered knolls behind it.
Families come on warm summer days to swim, paddle small boats and fish, since fishing is open to everyone here. In winter, when the ice is thick enough, a cross-country ski track is laid on the lake and people skate on the ice. The path itself is open all year but has no lighting, so plan around daylight in December and January.
Free Hvaleyrarvatn parking is on the north and west sides of the lake, with toilets, a playground, picnic tables and a barbecue area nearby. There's no entry fee, and an hour or two is plenty unless you're settling in for a picnic.
Good to know
How long is the walk around Hvaleyrarvatn?
The marked loop around Hvaleyrarvatn is about 2 km on gravel and takes 30 to 60 minutes at an easy pace.
Can you swim in Hvaleyrarvatn?
Yes. On warm summer days people swim in the lake, and small boats and fishing are allowed too. Keep a close eye on children near the water.
Where do you park at Hvaleyrarvatn?
There are free parking areas on the north and west sides of the lake, close to the toilets, playground and barbecue area.
How do you get to Hvaleyrarvatn?
Drive to Hafnarfjörður and follow the road up into the hills south of town to the lake. It's about 25 minutes from downtown Reykjavík by car.
Is Hvaleyrarvatn good in winter?
Yes. The loop stays open all year, and when the lake freezes there's skating and a cross-country ski track on the ice. The path isn't lit, so go in daylight.
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