Hvaleyrarvatn and Stórhöfði Running trail
A sheltered, varied trail run by Hvaleyrarvatn in Hafnarfjörður, through the Höfðaskógur woodland and up onto Stórhöfði. An approximately 8 km loop with moderate elevation on gravel and forest paths. A beautiful lake steeped in folklore, lush woodland and good views from the headland.
More information
Region
Höfuðborgarsvæðið, Hafnarfjörður
Starting point
Parking north of Hvaleyrarvatn
Markings
Sign(s) at the starting point of the trail
Duration
1 - 2 hours
Surface
- Gravel
- Wood chips
- Mixed surface - e.g. soil, stones, grass
- Lava
Obstacles
Step - A step, ledge, stair or low ledge that must be stepped on
Busy paths in summer; mutual care between runners and cyclists. The path up Stórhöfði can be indistinct.
Hazards
Cyclist traffic
Service on the trail
Restrooms
Bílastæði, salerni, bekkir og grillsvæði við Hvaleyrarvatn.
Lighting
Unilluminated
Period
Open all seasons
This route is a sheltered, varied trail run by Hvaleyrarvatn, a beautiful lake within the boundaries of Hafnarfjörður, surrounded by woodland. The route starts at the parking area north of the lake and links the loop around the lake with the Stórhöfði hill. By the lake is the Höfðaskógur woodland, managed by the Hafnarfjörður Forestry Society founded in 1947, which over more than sixty years has developed into a lush recreational area. The surface is mostly firm gravel paths by the lake and softer forest paths in the woodland. Stórhöfði is the highest hill in the area and offers good views, including towards Helgafell. Hvaleyrarvatn is rich in folklore; Nykur, a dangerous water horse is said to have lived in the lake and killed a girl at a summer farm, and south of the lake you can see the ruins of Hvaleyrarsel. The area also has Skátalundur, a scout hut. The route is about 8 km with around 140 metres of ascent and suits training runs; the Haukar Whitsun Run passes through here. On summer days there is some traffic on the paths, both walkers and cyclists. By the lake there is parking, toilets, benches and a barbecue area, and the area is ideal for outdoor recreation year-round.