Frostastaðir
A small mountain hut settlement in the interior serving as a base camp and supply point for trekkers exploring the Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk regions. It provides essential lodging and services for adventure travelers undertaking the famous Laugavegur Trek.
Things to do
- Laugavegur Trek departure — Start or end the famous 55 km multi-day trek connecting Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk, one of Iceland's most celebrated hiking routes.
- Landmannalaugar geothermal exploration — Day hike to the nearby Landmannalaugar colorful rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs, approximately 15 km north of Frostastaðir.
- River crossing and ford training — Practice safe glacier river crossing techniques with guides before attempting the challenging Þórsmörk section of the trek.
- Mountain hut stargazing — Experience the clear interior skies from the hut settlement during autumn and winter months for exceptional northern lights viewing.
- Backcountry supply restocking — Resupply food and fuel at the hut's provisions before continuing into the remote interior wilderness.
- Trekking route acclimation — Spend a rest day at Frostastaðir to acclimatize to the altitude and highland conditions before tackling the full Laugavegur route.
Food to try
- Dehydrated trail meals and freeze-dried provisions — Stock up on lightweight, non-perishable nutrition specifically curated for multi-day trekking in Iceland's interior.
- Hot soup and warm bread service — The hut provides hearty hot meals and freshly baked bread to weary trekkers arriving at the settlement after days on the trail.
- Icelandic rye bread (traditionally geothermally baked) — Purchase dense, slightly sweet rye bread baked using traditional methods, perfect for sustaining energy during trekking days.
- Canned Icelandic fish and preserved lamb — Buy shelf-stable protein sources such as canned Arctic char or canned lamb to supplement trail rations.
- Fresh water from mountain springs — Access pure glacial meltwater and mountain spring water directly at the hut, eliminating the need to carry water containers.
Local customs & good to know
- Leave no trace ethics are paramount — Respect the delicate interior ecosystem by packing out all waste, staying on marked paths, and minimizing impact on this protected wilderness area.
- Weather changes demand constant vigilance — Highland conditions shift rapidly; always check forecasts with hut staff and be prepared to delay departure or take shelter if dangerous weather approaches.
- Respect the hut community and shared spaces — Follow hut etiquette by cleaning up after yourself, respecting quiet hours, and maintaining camaraderie with fellow trekkers sharing the cramped mountain facilities.
- Book accommodations well in advance — The settlement fills quickly during peak trekking season (June-September), so reserve your bunk bed and meals weeks or months ahead.