höfða

Höfði, meaning “headland” in Icelandic, is a historic house and estate in Reykjavík, Iceland. Built in the early 20th century, the wooden villa stands on the edge of the city’s harbor area and has long been recognized as a landmark in Icelandic architecture and society. The estate’s name reflects its geographic setting on a promontory overlooking Faxaflói Bay.

The building is best known internationally for hosting the Reykjavík Summit of 1986, a high-level meeting between United States President Ronald Reagan and Soviet General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachev that helped shape the later stages of the Cold War. Since then, Höfði has served various functions, including as a private residence, a guest house for visiting dignitaries, and a venue for conferences, cultural events, and exhibitions. It is commonly used for receptions and diplomatic hospitality when appropriate.

Architectural details are modest and reflect early 20th-century Icelandic design, with a dignified façade and a layout suited to its ceremonial role. The site remains a symbol of Reykjavík’s social and political history, drawing visitors interested in both its historical significance and its scenic harbor views.