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79 km
About 1 h 15 min
Car 1–4 · Van 5–7
Free cancellation 24 h
South coast · from KEF
About Þorlákshöfn ferry and the drive
Þorlákshöfn is a harbour town in Ölfus on the south coast, built around one of the few sheltered ports on this long stretch of open shore. For travellers it matters mostly because of the Herjólfur ferry to Vestmannaeyjar: the ferry normally uses Landeyjahöfn further east, but when that harbour cannot be used, often in winter because of sand or heavy seas, sailings move to Þorlákshöfn instead.
From Keflavík Airport there are two ways to get here. One goes along the coast on the South Coast Road (Suðurstrandarvegur) via Grindavík, through lava fields and past empty black beaches. The other goes towards Reykjavík and then over the mountains on Route 1 and the Þrengsli road down to the coast. The driver picks the better route on the day, depending on weather and road conditions.
If you are catching the ferry, tell us your sailing time and we will plan the pick-up so you reach the terminal with time to spare. The town itself has a long black-sand beach that draws surfers, and a quiet harbour where you can watch the fishing boats while you wait. We also drive from Reykjavík to Þorlákshöfn, at a separate fixed price.
Seasons and roads
In winter Herjólfur sails from Þorlákshöfn more often, and both mountain and coastal roads can be affected by storms. Allow extra time for a ferry connection and keep an eye on announcements from the ferry operator.
