Stays in Kjalarnes
Kjalarnes, about 21 km north of central Reykjavík, is a coastal district with views over the sea and the mountains. It is a starting point for nature outside the capital, with a few unusual places to stay.
Kjalarnes is a rural coastal district about 21 kilometres north of central Reykjavík, set between the sea and the slopes of Mount Esja. It suits travellers who want to stay close to the capital while sleeping in a quieter, more open landscape. The area is defined by its shoreline and mountains, with wide views over the bay and the peaks around it. Accommodation here tends to stand out for its originality and its place in the landscape, including rooms set in converted buses. It is a good choice for travellers who want to avoid city traffic without being isolated, with Reykjavík's services a short drive away on Route 1.
Kjalarnes in numbers
CouplesReykjavik 116 Cozy Mini Studio 14m2 On Road no1 28km from the center of Rvk
Compact studio on Route 1, a practical stop for couples
Why guests love itI would choose this 14 m² mini studio on Route 1 for a short, practical stop 28 km from central Reykjavík. It has one room with a bathroom, a kitchenette, a washing machine and a private entrance, plus free Wi-Fi, private parking and a patio facing the garden. Guests rate it 9.8 across 66 reviews. At 14 m² it is very compact, so I would pick it for one or two people who want a simple base, not for families.
CoastalEsjan
Refurbished buses with mountain and sea views near Reykjavík
Why guests love itEsjan is unusual: guest rooms in refurbished buses in Kjalarnes, 21 km from Reykjavík. Each has a seating area and a kitchenette, and large windows frame the mountains and the sea. Bathrooms are shared and sit in a separate service building, which matters on a cold night. Parking is free and private. The novelty is the draw; guests wanting an en suite should look elsewhere.
What to expect
- Close to Reykjavík (21 km) for easy access to services and sights.
- Coastal scenery and mountain views below Mount Esja.
- Unusual stays, such as converted buses.
- Outdoor activities including hiking and horse riding.
- A practical starting point for West Iceland.
Local tips
- Rent a car to explore Kjalarnes and the surrounding area, public transport is limited.
- Expect changing weather even in summer and pack accordingly.
- Make the most of the sea and mountain views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
- Plan meals and shopping in Reykjavík or Akranes, local options are scarce.
- In winter, check road conditions before setting off, especially for drives inland.
Where to stay
Frequently asked questions
Which areas are best for staying in Kjalarnes?
Accommodation in Kjalarnes is mostly spread along the coast, with views of the sea and the mountains. There are no distinct districts as in a town, rather isolated properties set in the landscape, so choose based on the view and access to the outdoor activities you want.
What types of accommodation are there in Kjalarnes?
Kjalarnes has some unusual places to stay, including guest rooms set in renovated buses. These often include kitchenettes and living space, which suits independent travellers. Shared facilities are common, such as bathrooms in a separate service building.
When is the best time to visit Kjalarnes?
It depends on your plans. Summer, from June to August, brings long days and milder temperatures for hiking, including on Mount Esja. Winter, from October to March, is the season for northern lights, but roads can be harder. Spring and autumn are quieter.
Where should you stay in Kjalarnes?
Look for places that focus on nature and originality. Most are set apart from each other, with quiet surroundings and wide views. A stay with a kitchenette is a good idea, since dining options in the immediate area are limited and the nearest choice is in Reykjavík or Akranes.