From cosy domes just outside the centre of Reykjavik to barrel-shaped cabins in a far-flung corner of the country, these are the most stylish campsites in the scenic country of Iceland.
No question about it – Iceland is one of the most spectacular countries in Europe. From spouting geysers to rushing waterfalls, steaming hot springs to lunar landscapes, nature here goes to extremes. And you can get close to its dramatic, austere beauty by visiting a camping or glamping site, where the wind will whistle you to sleep and singing birds act as your alarm clock. Sound enticing? Here’s our list of the most scenic camping spots in Iceland.
Fossatún Camping Pods and Cottages
Camping
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If you’ve always wanted to see the Northern Lights, try Fossatún, in western Iceland, where heated glamping pods will keep you cosy enough to enjoy the show, even in the depths of the Icelandic winter. In summer, long days let you barbecue al fresco, if you don’t fancy tucking in at the nearby Rock ‘n’ Troll Coffee House. Most of the cosy pods sleep two, but some suit families up to four, while an adjoining campsite accommodates larger groups.
Southeast of Reykjavik, on the banks of a glacial river, Original North has been run by the same family for generations. Explore forests, waterfalls and historic sights nearby throughout the day, before returning to your stylish bell tent with king-size beds, carpets, furniture and deliciously cosy heated blankets. Proper seating areas let you enjoy breakfast in the tent, though on sunny days it’s best taken al fresco, overlooking the epic river scenery.
You don’t need to go miles from the city to get an Icelandic glamping experience. Just 10 minutes from the capital – perfect if you’re only visiting for a weekend, or if you don’t have a car – Reykjavik Domes feels properly remote with views out to green mountains, forest and open sky. The two-person windowed domes, which look a bit like igloos, have windows so you can watch the Northern Lights dance, plus wood-burning stoves and fluffy throws to keep you toasty.
Want to strike out beyond the classic Golden Triangle? Try Aurora Cabins, overlooking the sea in northeast Iceland in the fishing town of Höfn. The cabins are a five- to six-hour drive from Reykjavik, so you can be sure that only the most dedicated of travellers make it here, meaning you won’t be surrounded by crowds as you gaze out at the spectacular mountain scenery, barbecue on your private cabin terrace and cosy up in the self-catering spaces sleeping up to four.
Love the idea of sleeping in nature, but can’t bear camping? You’ll get epic scenery and all the modern comforts – plus seriously cool style – at these south coast lodges. Panoramic windows look out to the tranquil Westman Islands on the horizon, while inside, two bedrooms and a bathroom, kitchen and living room will ensure you’ll want for nothing. A mix of rustic cabin woods and chic furnishings make you feel as if you’re staying inside a glossy interiors magazine.
The clue’s in the name: with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Grindavik harbour, these 10 cool cabins, sleeping two, let you start and end each day gazing across the steely sea. But while the view is rural, you’re within easy reach of loads of must-see sights – in particular, the bubbling waters of the Blue Lagoon, just five minutes away. Hiking, biking and quad biking are also on offer, and there’s a good choice of restaurants and cafes where you can recharge after a busy day.
Dangling off the east coast of Iceland, sleepy Djúpivogur has an intoxicatingly slow place of life, perfect if you’re looking to relax. And this campground, with barrel-style cabins that sleep up to three, helps you make the most of it. Accommodation here is no-frills – just wooden walls, beds with white sheets and shared bathrooms – so you can live the simple life, while a shared kitchen lets you whip up breakfast before setting out to explore.
This set of glamping bell tents, on a family-owned estate around 40 minutes south of Reykjavik, is just a five-minute walk from a black-sand beach – though you’re better off visiting to see the local birdlife than to work on your tan. Great for families, the largest tents sleep four, and each is uniquely designed and warmed with electric heaters. On clear days you can roll up the tent flaps and let the sunshine pour in.
The steaming al fresco hot tub is a highlight at this six-person luxury cabin in southern Iceland. Another is the location: you’re only a 20- to 30-minute drive to the must-see Great Geysir and the gushing Gullfoss waterfall. The contemporary Nordic interiors with black kitchen cabinets, moody grey-and-white colour palettes and cosy faux-fur throws complete this perfect pick for cool families.
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