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Looking for a campsite with a view? Here are our top picks of campsites near Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón.
If you’ve come to Iceland because of its breathtaking scenery, then it goes against the grain to tuck yourself away indoors, right? Choosing to camp means you can enjoy the outdoors for much longer and if the weather’s agreeable, have breakfast outside. In this article, we’ll take a look at the campsites that are nearest to Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón, and also explore what you can expect if you want to upgrade your experience in one of our floating glamping huts.
Svínafell offers sleeping bag accommodation in six cabins, each sleeping four people in bunks, as well as an adjacent campground for tents and camper vans. Regardless of which you book, you have the use of the Skáli service building which contains showers, toilets and kitchen facilities. Campers should supply their own utensils while those who’ve opted to stay the night in a cabin will find crockery and cutlery waiting for them. The site, on a grassy meadow grazed by sheep, is overlooked by mountains and pretty waterfalls that cascade down from the high ground behind. Also, there are stables nearby if you’d like to book a riding tour of the area.
This large campground can accommodate around 400 tents at its maximum and also has pitches for vans. It’s well situated in the heart of Vatnajökull National Park with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks even in summer. It’s convenient for accessing Skaftafell highlights such as Svartifoss waterfall yet you’ll only be a short drive away from the glacial lagoons further east. In winter, a smaller section of the campground remains open but nevertheless it’s a handy option for when other local sites have closed for the season. Amenities include bathroom, kitchen and laundry facilities. There’s no need to reserve ahead unless you are travelling in a larger group.
This stellar choice is ideal for those who are keen to immerse themselves in nature. The campsite is flanked by trees and overlooked by mountains. Located close to the Fláajökull glacier, there are numerous walking trails on its doorstep. More remote than some choices, it’s a good option if you’re looking for a tucked away corner in which to relax. Facilities are basic but well maintained, while access is via a gravel road. This campsite opens seasonally from April to September; be prepared for midges if you opt to stay here in summer.
This seasonal campsite welcomes visitors from the middle of April until the end of September. It’s located about an hour’s drive east of Fjallsárlón so it’s more suited to those continuing on along the ring road. Those who stay here can opt for a tent, campervan pitch or space in a cottage with sleeping bag provided. The campsite has plenty of facilities, including cooking facilities, WiFi, laundry at extra cost and a playground for children. Best of all, it looks out over the mountains and it’s this extraordinary setting that means it’s exceptionally popular during the summer months.
If you’re keen to stay somewhere rural yet be close enough to a town to go out for dinner, then this campsite 12km from Höfn offers the compromise you’re looking for. With electrical hook-ups, cold water and waste disposal for motorhomes and grassy pitches for tent campers, this is an enticing option. The view is what really sells it, however: a glorious outlook over some of the area’s most stunning mountain scenery. It’s another seasonal option with easy access in summer to nearby attractions such as Vestrahorn and Fjallsárlón.
But what if you really wanted to remain close to the glacier lagoons? The good news is that it’s possible to glamp right on the water here at Fjallsárlón. Our floating huts provide an upscale base that’s especially perfect for solitude-seekers or couples on a romantic getaway. You’ll be transported over to a secluded part of the lagoon in one of our Zodiacs. Once there, you’ll have an extraordinary view of the sky and stars through the huts’ glass windows and ceiling. In summer, experience long hours of daylight; by September, you could also spot the Northern Lights. If you can tear your eyes away from the heavens, the lake and its icebergs are equally delightful. There’s no shower, but the huts do have a composting toilet and small kitchenette, though we’d recommend you dine before checking in.
When you see the pictures and videos you might be thinking, how cold is Ice floating in Iceland? Not that cold! Ice Floating sounds a little crazy at first, but honestly, that’s part of the fun. When travellers hear about it, the first question is almost always how cold it really is.
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Fjallsárlón
