Höfði House Reykjavík
Historic 1909 wooden house on Reykjavik's waterfront, famed for hosting the 1986 Reagan-Gorbachev summit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
To appreciate the architecture
Höfði House Reykjavík
Best Time
To appreciate the architecture
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1909 wooden house on Reykjavik's waterfront, famed for hosting the 1986 Reagan-Gorbachev summit.
"History was made here! The site of the 1986 summit that ended the Cold War."
📸 Capture the Waterfront View
The house offers lovely ocean vistas, perfect for a quick photo op. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Easy to Access
Located on the waterfront, it's a straightforward walk from many city points. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Reagan-Gorbachev Summit Site
Main Hall
Stand where history was made as leaders met to end the Cold War.
Architectural Charm
Exterior
Admire the elegant wooden architecture, imported from Norway.
Einar Benediktsson Monument
Adjacent to the house
A tribute to the renowned Icelandic poet who once lived here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into History
Beyond the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Looking for a "haunted" house on Iceland - Reykjavik?
📸 Capture the Waterfront View
The house offers lovely ocean vistas, perfect for a quick photo op. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Easy to Access
Located on the waterfront, it's a straightforward walk from many city points. :athletic_shoe:
[unknown < english] found this weird letter at work, can anyone translate it for me?
💡 Learn the History
Read up on the 1986 summit beforehand for a richer experience. :bulb:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Waterfront View
The house offers lovely ocean vistas, perfect for a quick photo op. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Easy to Access
Located on the waterfront, it's a straightforward walk from many city points. :athletic_shoe:
💡 Learn the History
Read up on the 1986 summit beforehand for a richer experience. :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hofdi House is lauded for its immense historical significance, particularly as the site of the 1986 Reagan-Gorbachev summit that helped end the Cold War. Visitors appreciate its charming architecture and waterfront location. While it's a brief stop, its impact as a historical landmark is undeniable.
"Höfði House is located on the Reykjavik waterfront. It a wooden house imported from Norway for the use of the French consul in 1909. Later on it was put to use for social functions and was famously the site for the historic meeting between Presidents Reagan and Gorbachev in 1986, setting the stage for an end to the Cold War. There is also an interesting monument to Einar Benediktsson to see just next to the Höfði House."
Brad
"History was made here. Did not know of this place until a return from one of our excursions. The guide told us about this place and the piece of the Berlin wall here. Had to come explore."
Brian Proctor
"Beautiful house by the ocean. Historic house where Reagan and Gorbachev had Reykjavík summit ending Cold War"
Lister Chen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hofdi House is easily accessible by foot from downtown Reykjavik, located on the waterfront. You can also take a local bus or a taxi. It's a pleasant walk along the coast, offering scenic views.
Yes, Hofdi House is situated on the waterfront, making it a convenient stop when exploring the city's coastal areas. It's a short walk from the city center.
There is limited parking available near Hofdi House, but it's generally recommended to walk or use public transport due to its central location and pedestrian-friendly surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hofdi House is typically open for visitors to view from the outside and explore the grounds. Entry into the house itself may be limited or require specific arrangements, but the exterior and its historical significance are freely accessible.
Hofdi House is primarily an exterior attraction. While the grounds are generally accessible, specific interior visiting hours, if any, can vary. It's best to check local information closer to your visit.
There is no admission fee to see Hofdi House from the outside and appreciate its historical context. It's a free landmark to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main draw is the historical significance as the site of the 1986 Reagan-Gorbachev summit. You can admire the house's architecture, the surrounding waterfront, and the monument to poet Einar Benediktsson.
A visit to Hofdi House is usually brief, often around 15-30 minutes, as most visitors focus on the exterior and its historical context. It's a great spot for a quick photo and a moment of reflection.
Yes, children can appreciate the historical stories associated with the house, especially the idea of world leaders meeting. The waterfront location also offers space to explore.
While dedicated tours of Hofdi House itself might be limited, many Reykjavik city tours include a stop here and provide historical context about the summit and the building.
📸 📸 Photography
The front of the house with the ocean backdrop is a classic shot. Also, capture the Einar Benediktsson monument and the overall waterfront scenery.
Photography of the exterior and grounds of Hofdi House is generally permitted and encouraged. Be mindful of any specific rules if you happen to visit during an event or interior access.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for a short, educational stop during a family outing in Reykjavik. The waterfront location provides a pleasant environment for a stroll, and the nearby monument to Einar Benediktsson can spark curiosity about Icelandic culture and literature. Keep the visit brief and focus on the 'big picture' historical narrative to keep younger minds engaged.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the summit, the house's own history as a diplomatic residence and its distinctive Norwegian-inspired architecture add further depth to its appeal. Consider researching the key figures and events leading up to and following the summit to enrich your experience. The nearby monument to Einar Benediktsson also provides a glimpse into Iceland's rich literary heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic 1986 Summit
The significance of this event cannot be overstated. It was a moment where two superpowers, on the brink of a new era, chose dialogue over confrontation. Visitors can stand in the very rooms where these historic conversations took place, offering a tangible connection to a defining period of the 20th century. The house itself, though modest in appearance, became a symbol of hope and change.
While the summit is its most famous event, Hofdi House has a broader history. It was originally built in 1909 as the residence for the French consul and has since served various purposes, including hosting other dignitaries and celebrities. This layered history adds to its allure for those interested in Icelandic heritage and international relations.
Architectural Style and Origins
The house was constructed in 1909 and has maintained much of its original charm. Its wooden structure is a distinctive feature in Reykjavik, where many buildings are made of concrete or stone. The exterior showcases clean lines and a classic aesthetic, making it visually appealing against the backdrop of the ocean.
Visiting Hofdi House offers a chance to appreciate this imported architectural style and imagine its past as a consul's home. The surrounding area also features a monument dedicated to Einar Benediktsson, an influential Icelandic poet, adding another layer of cultural significance to the site.
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