Access and Information
Hólmanes is located between the settlements of Eskifjörður and Reyðarfjörður and is a popular area for outdoor recreation. Norðfjarðarvegur (Route 92) runs just outside the protected area. A parking area is located at Hólmaháls, offering a rest stop and panoramic views over the area.
Hólmanes offers numerous hiking trails, providing visitors with opportunities to experience a variety of natural environments and to observe the area’s ecosystems and wildlife at close range.
Rangers in East Iceland are responsible for monitoring and managing the area.
Protection status
Hólmanes was designated in 1973 as a nature reserve (fólkvangur) The total area of the protected site is 318 hectares.
The objective of the nature reserve designation at Hólmanes is to promote the sustainable development and protection of the ecosystems found within the area. The Hólmanes Nature Reserve is classified as an IUCN Category IV protected area, according to the classification system of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The objective of the nature reserve designation at Hólmanes is to facilitate public access to nature and related cultural heritage near urban areas for recreation, nature appreciation, and education. The Hólmanes nature reserve is classified as an IUCN Category V protected area according to IUCN definitions.