Hvaleyrarvatn and Stórhöfði

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.