Kerlingarfjöll: The Enchanting Mountain Peak of Iceland

Getting There

• Car

  If you're driving from Reykjavik, head north on Route 1 (the Ring Road) until you reach the town of Blönduós. From Blönduós, take Route 30 east towards the town of Varmahlíð. Once in Varmahlíð, switch to Route 1 again and continue east. After about 70 km, take the exit onto Route 35 towards Þingvellir National Park. Follow Route 35 until you reach the junction with Route 37. Continue on Route 37 until you reach the junction with Route 550. Take Route 550 and follow it until you reach the Kerlingarfjöll area. Remember that the roads can be challenging, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. There are also tolls on some roads, so keep some cash handy for those.

• Public Transportation

  For travelers relying on public transport, the best option is to take a bus from Reykjavik to Húsavík or Akureyri. From either of these towns, you’ll need to arrange a taxi or local shuttle service to Kerlingarfjöll, as public transport does not directly service this remote area. Be prepared for potential waiting times and ensure you check the local bus schedules in advance, as they can vary by season. Note that taxi fares can be costly due to the distance, so budgeting accordingly is essential.

• Hiking

  If you're already in the Highlands and prefer to hike, you can access Kerlingarfjöll via established trails from nearby mountain huts, such as the Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort. The trails are well-marked but can be steep and rugged. Ensure you are prepared with proper hiking gear, a map, and sufficient supplies, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the Highlands.