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Nature

Úlfarsfell

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Úlfarsfell

What It Is

Úlfarsfell is a 296-meter mountain in the greater Reykjavík area near Kópavogur. Its lower slopes are heavily forested, providing wooded walking trails that are uncommon in the area. Travellers visit for day hikes, trail running, and elevated views over the capital and coast.

Getting There

From central Reykjavík or Kópavogur, driving to the trailheads takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Local buses serve nearby stops within walking distance. From Keflavík International Airport (KEF), the drive is approximately 45 to 50 minutes.

Time to Allow

Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a complete round-trip hike to the summit and back through the forest trails.

When to Go

Summer and autumn offer clear trails and longer daylight. Winter visits are possible, but paths can freeze and require microspikes. It is popular with locals, so expect moderate foot traffic on sunny weekends and weekday evenings, though it rarely feels crowded.

Nearby Attractions

You can pair a hike here with these nearby spots:

  • Hafravatn (3.1km): A lake suitable for quiet shoreline walks.
  • Tungufoss (3.3km): A waterfall located a short drive to the north.
  • Elliðaár (5.9km): A river valley with paved walking routes.
  • Árbæjarsafn (6km): An open-air museum of historic Icelandic buildings.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Úlfarsfell

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Úlfarsfell Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Hafravatn

Nature

Hafravatn

A small lake on the eastern outskirts of Reykjavík, known for its calm lakeside scenery. A paragliding launch site nearby also offers a chance to try something a bit different.

3.1 km away
Tungufoss

Nature

Tungufoss

Tungufoss is a waterfall in western Iceland, a quiet spot to take in the gentle sound of the water. It's a nice place to pause for a while amid untouched natural scenery.

3.3 km away
Elliðaár

Nature

Elliðaár

Two small rivers that originate in the Bláfjöll mountains and flow into Lake Elliðavatn. They pass through the Heiðmörk nature reserve, offering walking paths and natural scenery near Reykjavík.

5.9 km away
Árbæjarsafn

Museums & galleries

Árbæjarsafn

An open-air museum depicting life in old Reykjavik. It features reconstructed buildings that show how Icelanders once lived and worked.

6.0 km away
Rauðhólar

Nature

Rauðhólar

Rauðhólar is a cluster of craters remaining in a lava field on the outskirts of Reykjavík, where you can get a close look at Iceland's distinctive volcanic terrain. It sits near the Ring Road, making it an easy stop along the way.

6.0 km away
Viðey

Nature

Viðey

Viðey Island floats in the bay off Kópavogur, home to the Imagine Peace Tower, which carries its message of peace. It's a great place to take a boat over and quietly explore.

7.1 km away