Vogar: Coastal Landscape, Pond and Culture

Vogar combines a seaside location with distinctive places for observing nature and a monument to local fishing history. The town lies on Vogavík in Stakksfjörður. Along the coast, the seaweed-covered rocks are part of the Þráinsskjöldur lava field, which formed about 10,000 years ago. If you like to consider coastal landscapes and nature when choosing a holiday destination, Vogar offers specific points of interest to help you plan your trip.

Vogatjörn in the middle of the built-up area

At the heart of the built-up area lies Vogatjörn, right by the sea and the harbour. The pond is slightly larger than two hectares; its island covers about half a hectare. Visitors can watch birds here. This makes observing nature within the built-up area a distinct option, unlike a walk by the sea or a visit to the Háibjalli grove outside town. If you are travelling with children, you can consider whether a visit that includes birdwatching at the pond suits your interests.

The coast and the grove offer different nature experiences

In Vogar, visitors can walk along the sea. Another natural site is Háibjalli: this grove, sheltered by rocks, is about a 20-minute walk from Vogar, above Reykjanesbraut. The walk by the sea and the grove differ in the landscapes described: open coastline on one hand, and a grove sheltered by rocks on the other. When choosing activities, you can decide whether you would rather walk along the water or explore a grove.

The approximate walking time to Háibjalli provides a guide for planning your day; it is specifically given as about a 20-minute walk.

Art and local memory

The artwork “Íslands Hrafnistumenn” was unveiled at Stóra-Vogar in 2008. Created by Erlingur Jónsson, it is a monument commemorating local fishermen. Its name, artist, location and year make it a specific cultural activity to enjoy alongside Vogar’s natural attractions. If you are interested in art or in the memory of the fishing industry, you can include this site in your plans.

Vogar’s Family Day is another possible reason to consider when to travel: it is held in August.

Getting there and finding your way around

Vogar is 1.5 km from Reykjanesbraut. Both Reykjanesbraut and the road down to Vogar are lit. This means you can consider travel arrangements separately from whether you mainly want to visit the coast, the pond, the grove or the artwork during your stay.

Another point of reference is Vogar’s campsite, located by the sports centre. It offers guests a kitchen, showers and free Wi-Fi.

More destinations

If you would like to choose destinations beyond Vogar, you can find Njardvik, Kálfatjörn, Hafnir, Gardur, Grindavík, Sandgerði and Reykjanesbær here.

For the broader travel overview: Suðurnes.