A charming highland refuge, Hvítárnes (Hvítárnesskáli) is Iceland’s oldest mountain hut, built in 1930 and protected by national heritage laws. It lies at 550 m above sea level along the classic Kjalvegur (Old Trail), halfway through Iceland’s Central Highlands.
Getting There
- Only accessible with a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as it requires traversing unbridged sections of the Kjölur road.
- The warden’s hut is nearby.
Campsite
The campsite offers basic amenities, including a toilet and an outdoor sink with cold water. Daytime visitors are encouraged to leave a 700 ISK donation in the box provided. The campsite fee is 3200 ISK per person.
- The campsite area sits adjacent to the toilet building on grassland, accessible by both tents and campervans.
- There are no showers or Wi‑Fi; guests must carry out all trash to preserve the surroundings.
Hut
- The two-story turf-roofed hut sleeps up to 30 guests.
- Ground floor includes entrance, a small kitchen with running cold water, gas stove, wood-burning stove, and two rooms with bunk beds.
- The upper loft features floor mattresses and a small sleeping room. The hut is heated by its wood-burning stove.
- A separate flush outdoor toilet building is located very close by.
Pricing & Booking 2025
- Hut bed: 9,000 ISK per person per night. Reservation and payment in advance are required.
- Camping fee: 3,200 ISK per person per night, plus a 700 ISK facility fee if you use hut amenities like the grill or toilet but don't stay overnight.
- Cancellations: Upfront payments can be partially refunded depending on timing. No refund for cancellations fewer than 7 days before arrival.
Nearby Trails & Significance
- Hvítárnes is a key stop on the historic Kjölur walking route, ideal for hikers between Þverbrekknamúli, Hagavatn, and Hveravellir.
- It can serve as a trailhead for hikes toward highland lakes or glacier views, also noted for cultural importance.
Highlights
- Oldest FÍ hut—beautifully preserved stone and turf building.
- Central highland location—a resting point amidst dramatic landscapes.
- Basic but cozy—warm stove, rustic kitchen, clean sleeping space.
- Perfect for solitude-seekers or hikers on Kjölur.
Visitor Tips
- Book the hut online in advance—bed availability is limited once open season begins.
- Prepare for no electricity or shower—basic shelter only.
A charming highland refuge, Hvítárnes (Hvítárnesskáli) is Iceland’s oldest mountain hut, built in 1930 and protected by national heritage laws. It lies at 550 m above sea level along the classic Kjalvegur (Old Trail), halfway through Iceland’s Central Highlands.
Getting There
- Only accessible with a high-clearance 4×4 vehicle, as it requires traversing unbridged sections of the Kjölur road.
- The warden’s hut is nearby.
Campsite
The campsite offers basic amenities, including a toilet and an outdoor sink with cold water. Daytime visitors are encouraged to leave a 700 ISK donation in the box provided. The campsite fee is 3200 ISK per person.
- The campsite area sits adjacent to the toilet building on grassland, accessible by both tents and campervans.
- There are no showers or Wi‑Fi; guests must carry out all trash to preserve the surroundings.
Hut
- The two-story turf-roofed hut sleeps up to 30 guests.
- Ground floor includes entrance, a small kitchen with running cold water, gas stove, wood-burning stove, and two rooms with bunk beds.
- The upper loft features floor mattresses and a small sleeping room. The hut is heated by its wood-burning stove.
- A separate flush outdoor toilet building is located very close by.
Pricing & Booking 2025
- Hut bed: 9,000 ISK per person per night. Reservation and payment in advance are required.
- Camping fee: 3,200 ISK per person per night, plus a 700 ISK facility fee if you use hut amenities like the grill or toilet but don't stay overnight.
- Cancellations: Upfront payments can be partially refunded depending on timing. No refund for cancellations fewer than 7 days before arrival.
Nearby Trails & Significance
- Hvítárnes is a key stop on the historic Kjölur walking route, ideal for hikers between Þverbrekknamúli, Hagavatn, and Hveravellir.
- It can serve as a trailhead for hikes toward highland lakes or glacier views, also noted for cultural importance.
Highlights
- Oldest FÍ hut—beautifully preserved stone and turf building.
- Central highland location—a resting point amidst dramatic landscapes.
- Basic but cozy—warm stove, rustic kitchen, clean sleeping space.
- Perfect for solitude-seekers or hikers on Kjölur.
Visitor Tips
- Book the hut online in advance—bed availability is limited once open season begins.
- Prepare for no electricity or shower—basic shelter only.
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