Nestled in the sweeping Þjófadalir valley at the foot of Mt. Rauðkollur and the hillock Þröskuldur, Þjófadalir Hut & Campsite offers a simple, atmospheric stop along the ancient Kjalvegur highlands trail (Old Kjölur Route). Equipped, maintained, and booked through Ferðafélag Íslands (Iceland Touring Association, FÍ), it's an ideal spot with clean air, dramatic skies, and minimal modern disruption.
Access & Opening Season
- Accessible only by foot or hitchhiking along the historical Fjallabaksleið norðri (Kjalvegur)—no roads lead here.
- Taken annually by hikers walking between Hveravellir, Þverbrekknamúli, and Hrauneyjar, it serves as a remote mid-point.
- Typically open from mid‑June through early September, weather and road conditions permitting.
Facilities & Camping Setting
- A rustic wooden cabin built in 1939, with room for 12 people in bunk beds—bring your own sleeping gear.
- Small kitchen nook inside equipped with a gas stove and basic cooking utensils; no indoor dining area.
- No running water: guests must collect drinkable water from a nearby stream and carry it into the hut.
- Simple latrine (outhouse) is located a short walk from the structure; no showers or electricity.
- Camping allowed directly around the hut—ground is open; space for tents but no marked pitches (Hut facilities are not for campers)
Pricing & Booking
- Hut bed (bring your own sleeping bag): 8,400 ISK per person per night; budget huts but always reserve online in advance.
- Camping fee: 3,200 ISK per person per night.
- Optional shower usage at neighboring Hveravellir costs 1,000 ISK.
- Children and seniors receive discounts at the hut; day visitors pay facility fee only.
- Online bookings required for hut beds; camping is valid on a first‑come, first‑served basis once the season opens.
Hiking & Nearby Attractions
- Straddling the well-established Kjalvegur route, Þjófadalir is a restful midpoint between Þverbrekknamúli and Hveravellir.
- Nearby trails include climbs to Mt. Hrútfell, Fagrahlíð, and Jökulkrókur, all offering incredible views of the surrounding wilderness.
Why Choose Þjófadalir?
- Historic charm: One of Iceland’s oldest huts, in almost untouched condition.
- True isolation: No vehicle road noise, no crowds—just hiker-friendly quiet.
- Well-placed on the Kjalvegur trail: Makes for a natural rest point or overnight anchor.
- Wild, open surroundings: Watch for changing light on glaciers, enjoy meditation-friendly dawns and dusk.
- Low‑cost but full‑value: Access highland beauty without the price of luxury; perfect for low‑impact explorers.
Planning Tips
- Always book the hut online in advance—the limited spaces fill up months ahead. camping releases remain first‑come after grounds open.
- Carry all essentials (food, water container, matchbox, and toilet paper). The hut provides nothing other than shelter and stove.
- Respect “Leave No Trace” rules—carry out all garbage, avoid cooking near fragile moss beds, and keep noise to a minimum.
- Expect low temperatures even in July; the hut is slightly heated and shared by all residents.
Nestled in the sweeping Þjófadalir valley at the foot of Mt. Rauðkollur and the hillock Þröskuldur, Þjófadalir Hut & Campsite offers a simple, atmospheric stop along the ancient Kjalvegur highlands trail (Old Kjölur Route). Equipped, maintained, and booked through Ferðafélag Íslands (Iceland Touring Association, FÍ), it's an ideal spot with clean air, dramatic skies, and minimal modern disruption.
Access & Opening Season
- Accessible only by foot or hitchhiking along the historical Fjallabaksleið norðri (Kjalvegur)—no roads lead here.
- Taken annually by hikers walking between Hveravellir, Þverbrekknamúli, and Hrauneyjar, it serves as a remote mid-point.
- Typically open from mid‑June through early September, weather and road conditions permitting.
Facilities & Camping Setting
- A rustic wooden cabin built in 1939, with room for 12 people in bunk beds—bring your own sleeping gear.
- Small kitchen nook inside equipped with a gas stove and basic cooking utensils; no indoor dining area.
- No running water: guests must collect drinkable water from a nearby stream and carry it into the hut.
- Simple latrine (outhouse) is located a short walk from the structure; no showers or electricity.
- Camping allowed directly around the hut—ground is open; space for tents but no marked pitches (Hut facilities are not for campers)
Pricing & Booking
- Hut bed (bring your own sleeping bag): 8,400 ISK per person per night; budget huts but always reserve online in advance.
- Camping fee: 3,200 ISK per person per night.
- Optional shower usage at neighboring Hveravellir costs 1,000 ISK.
- Children and seniors receive discounts at the hut; day visitors pay facility fee only.
- Online bookings required for hut beds; camping is valid on a first‑come, first‑served basis once the season opens.
Hiking & Nearby Attractions
- Straddling the well-established Kjalvegur route, Þjófadalir is a restful midpoint between Þverbrekknamúli and Hveravellir.
- Nearby trails include climbs to Mt. Hrútfell, Fagrahlíð, and Jökulkrókur, all offering incredible views of the surrounding wilderness.
Why Choose Þjófadalir?
- Historic charm: One of Iceland’s oldest huts, in almost untouched condition.
- True isolation: No vehicle road noise, no crowds—just hiker-friendly quiet.
- Well-placed on the Kjalvegur trail: Makes for a natural rest point or overnight anchor.
- Wild, open surroundings: Watch for changing light on glaciers, enjoy meditation-friendly dawns and dusk.
- Low‑cost but full‑value: Access highland beauty without the price of luxury; perfect for low‑impact explorers.
Planning Tips
- Always book the hut online in advance—the limited spaces fill up months ahead. camping releases remain first‑come after grounds open.
- Carry all essentials (food, water container, matchbox, and toilet paper). The hut provides nothing other than shelter and stove.
- Respect “Leave No Trace” rules—carry out all garbage, avoid cooking near fragile moss beds, and keep noise to a minimum.
- Expect low temperatures even in July; the hut is slightly heated and shared by all residents.
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