Álftavötn is a popular and pivotal stop along the Laugavegur Trail, nestled beside the scenic Lake Álftavatn. Located roughly halfway between Hrafntinnusker and Emstrur, it offers both shelter and panoramic highland views.
Though it’s part of the Laugavegur route, note that Álftavötn Hut itself is not located directly on the trail—slight detours are required to reach it.
Accommodation & Camping Facilities
- Two spacious huts with shared kitchens, sleeping areas, and cold running water:
- A larger hut for up to 40 guests (shared kitchen and dining)
- A smaller one accommodating 32 in a combined kitchen-sleeping room
Combined capacity is 72 beds.
- Both huts offer gas stoves, utensils, outdoor grills, and easy access to shared restrooms and showers (fee-based).
- The campground, located near the huts on flat ground, provides sinks for water and dishwashing, toilets, and barbecue benches.
Access & Season
- Accessible by vehicle in summer via Fjallabaksleið syðri (F210) with river crossings en route. The last ~200 m must be done on foot after crossing the Syðri-Ófæra river.
- The site typically opens from June 25 through September 17, depending on snow conditions and road openings.
Pricing Overview 2025
- Hut bed: 9,600 ISK per person per night in sleeping-bag accommodation (bookable in advance).
- Camping: 2,400 ISK per person per night, plus 400 ISK per tent charge.
- Facility fee: Required for day visitors not staying at hut or campsite; needed to use toilets, showers, grill, and benches.
Payment may be made at the hut or at Útivist office in Reykjavík—or deposited into a designated container.
Behind-The-Scenes & Hiking Notes
- The Ascent from Hrafntinnusker to Álftavötn involves steep, loose terrain and scree; many hikers describe this section as physically tough.
- Álftavötn camping area is exposed to wind, so extra tent guylines and stakes are advised. Backpackers frequently recommend reinforcing stakes with rocks.
- The Álftavatn restaurant—run by Volcano Huts—serves hot meals, snacks, and drinks to hikers in the area, open daily in summer (approx. midday to 22:00).
Why It's a Key Stop
- Provides reliable shelter and facilities in a scenic lake setting—rare on this section of the trail.
- Acts as a natural rest point midway through the long route—ideal for regrouping, resupply meals, and recovery from the Hrafntinnusker ascent.
- The lakeside setting allows for optional side hikes such as Brattháls ridge or Álftaskarð, offering panoramic views.
Visitor Tips
- Book early if planning to stay in the hut—especially in July and August. Camping spots don’t require booking.
- Carry sufficient stakes or rocks: strong winds are common at Álftavötn.
- The huts do not sell cooked meals, except at the nearby restaurant—pack your cookware and food supplies accordingly.
- Be prepared for rapid weather shifts and wind while camping—layered clothing and reliable sleeping gear are essential.
Summary
Álftavötn Hut & Campsite is a vital and well-equipped stop along the Laugavegur Trail—offering shelter, dining options, and open landscapes perfect for a mid-hike reset. Just remember: it's exposed, sometimes windy, and should not be skipped lightly.
Álftavötn is a popular and pivotal stop along the Laugavegur Trail, nestled beside the scenic Lake Álftavatn. Located roughly halfway between Hrafntinnusker and Emstrur, it offers both shelter and panoramic highland views.
Though it’s part of the Laugavegur route, note that Álftavötn Hut itself is not located directly on the trail—slight detours are required to reach it.
Accommodation & Camping Facilities
- Two spacious huts with shared kitchens, sleeping areas, and cold running water:
- A larger hut for up to 40 guests (shared kitchen and dining)
- A smaller one accommodating 32 in a combined kitchen-sleeping room
Combined capacity is 72 beds.
- Both huts offer gas stoves, utensils, outdoor grills, and easy access to shared restrooms and showers (fee-based).
- The campground, located near the huts on flat ground, provides sinks for water and dishwashing, toilets, and barbecue benches.
Access & Season
- Accessible by vehicle in summer via Fjallabaksleið syðri (F210) with river crossings en route. The last ~200 m must be done on foot after crossing the Syðri-Ófæra river.
- The site typically opens from June 25 through September 17, depending on snow conditions and road openings.
Pricing Overview 2025
- Hut bed: 9,600 ISK per person per night in sleeping-bag accommodation (bookable in advance).
- Camping: 2,400 ISK per person per night, plus 400 ISK per tent charge.
- Facility fee: Required for day visitors not staying at hut or campsite; needed to use toilets, showers, grill, and benches.
Payment may be made at the hut or at Útivist office in Reykjavík—or deposited into a designated container.
Behind-The-Scenes & Hiking Notes
- The Ascent from Hrafntinnusker to Álftavötn involves steep, loose terrain and scree; many hikers describe this section as physically tough.
- Álftavötn camping area is exposed to wind, so extra tent guylines and stakes are advised. Backpackers frequently recommend reinforcing stakes with rocks.
- The Álftavatn restaurant—run by Volcano Huts—serves hot meals, snacks, and drinks to hikers in the area, open daily in summer (approx. midday to 22:00).
Why It's a Key Stop
- Provides reliable shelter and facilities in a scenic lake setting—rare on this section of the trail.
- Acts as a natural rest point midway through the long route—ideal for regrouping, resupply meals, and recovery from the Hrafntinnusker ascent.
- The lakeside setting allows for optional side hikes such as Brattháls ridge or Álftaskarð, offering panoramic views.
Visitor Tips
- Book early if planning to stay in the hut—especially in July and August. Camping spots don’t require booking.
- Carry sufficient stakes or rocks: strong winds are common at Álftavötn.
- The huts do not sell cooked meals, except at the nearby restaurant—pack your cookware and food supplies accordingly.
- Be prepared for rapid weather shifts and wind while camping—layered clothing and reliable sleeping gear are essential.
Summary
Álftavötn Hut & Campsite is a vital and well-equipped stop along the Laugavegur Trail—offering shelter, dining options, and open landscapes perfect for a mid-hike reset. Just remember: it's exposed, sometimes windy, and should not be skipped lightly.
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