Your options
In Arnarstapi. The village has a small hotel, a guesthouse section, cottages for families and a campground, all run under one local business. It is the most convenient base: you step out onto the cliff path. Sources list a season from about March to November, but dates change, so confirm when you book.
Hellnar. The next village along the coast, smaller still. Good if you want a quiet night close to the path.
Ólafsvík and Grundarfjörður. Larger towns on the north coast with more guesthouses and a few hotels. Grundarfjörður is also the base for Kirkjufell.
Which base fits you
| If you want | Choose |
|---|---|
| Cliff walks at your door | Arnarstapi or Hellnar |
| More choice and restaurants | Ólafsvík or Grundarfjörður |
| Kirkjufell at sunrise or the aurora | Grundarfjörður |
| Budget with a van or tent | The Arnarstapi campground, or other peninsula sites |
Northern lights season: from about late September to early April, a night here gives you dark skies away from city lights. Check the forecast, and see our best time to visit page.
On a budget? See camping at Arnarstapi for the village campground and the rules for tents and campervans.
Frequently asked questions
Are there hotels in Arnarstapi?
Yes, but few. The main operator in the village runs a hotel, a guesthouse, cottages and a campground, with a season that typically runs from spring to autumn.
Where else can I stay near Arnarstapi?
Hellnar is the nearest village, about 2.5 km along the coast. Ólafsvík and Grundarfjörður on the north side have more guesthouses and hotels.
Do I need to book ahead?
In summer, yes. Rooms in Arnarstapi often sell out well in advance. In winter you have more choice but some places close.
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