Kjölur Route 35 (F35) in Iceland: 4x4 Guide, Stops and Driving Tips

Quick Facts About Kjölur Route 35

• Official road number: Route 35
• Also known as: Kjölur, Kjalvegur and F35
• Distance: Approximately 168 kilometres
• Driving time without long stops: Around 4–5 hours
• Recommended travel time: One full day or two days
• Road surface: Mainly gravel
• River crossings: None on the main route
• Recommended vehicle: An approved 4x4 rental car
• Typical season: Summer, depending on road conditions
• Fuel stations: None along the central Highland section

What Is Kjölur Route 35?

Kjölur, also known as Kjalvegur or the F35 route, is one of the most accessible ways to explore Iceland’s remote Highlands by car.

The approximately 168-kilometre route connects the Golden Circle area in the south with North Iceland. Along the way, it passes between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers and leads travellers through vast lava fields, geothermal areas and open Highland landscapes.

The route is officially numbered Road 35, although it is still widely known as F35 in travel guides, older maps and online searches. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration currently identifies it as Kjalvegur Route 35.

Unlike many more challenging Highland roads, the main Kjölur route does not involve river crossings. However, it is still a remote mountain road with rough surfaces, limited services and rapidly changing conditions.

At Lava Car Rental, customers travelling on Kjölur and connecting Highland roads must use a suitable 4x4 vehicle approved for the route. Always check your rental agreement before entering the Highlands.

Why Is Kjölur So Special?

Kjölur is one of the main routes crossing Iceland’s interior between the south and north.

It offers a completely different experience from the Ring Road. Instead of coastal villages and busy attractions, you will travel through wide, open landscapes where glaciers, mountains and lava fields dominate the view.

Highlights of the route include:

• Views of Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers
• The colourful Kerlingarfjöll mountain range
• The geothermal valleys of Hveradalir
• The Hveravellir geothermal area
• Natural bathing pools
• Remote hiking trails
• Vast volcanic landscapes with very few buildings or settlements

Kjölur is also an important historic route. Icelanders used this path for centuries when travelling between the north and south, including journeys to Alþingi at Þingvellir.

When Is the Best Time to Drive Kjölur?

Kjölur is a seasonal Highland road and should only be driven when the entire route is officially open.

The opening date changes every year. It depends on winter snowfall, spring temperatures, the condition of the ground and how quickly the snow melts. Mountain roads can remain closed during the thawing period because driving on soft ground can seriously damage the road.

Kjölur usually opens sometime in June and may remain accessible into September. However, these dates are not guaranteed.

July and August are generally the safest months when planning the journey in advance.

The official opening and closing dates of Iceland’s Highland roads vary each year depending on weather and road conditions. You can check the typical opening periods in the table below, but always confirm the latest status of the entire route on www.road.is before setting off. Do not assume Kjölur is open simply because the weather is good near Reykjavík or Akureyri.

Even when Kjölur is open, temporary closures or difficult conditions can occur after heavy rain, snow or strong winds.

What Car Do You Need for Kjölur?

You should drive Kjölur in a reliable 4x4 vehicle approved for Highland travel by your rental company.

Although the main route has no river crossings, you will still encounter:

• Long sections of loose gravel
• Potholes and uneven surfaces
• Narrow sections
• Steep hills
• Limited roadside assistance
• Rapidly changing weather
• Connecting roads that may be rougher than Route 35 itself

A compact 4x4 such as a Dacia Duster can be suitable in good summer conditions. A larger 4x4 may provide more comfort, luggage space and stability, particularly when travelling with several passengers or planning a longer Highland trip.

Not every vehicle advertised is suitable for Highland roads. Two-wheel-drive cars, including all-wheel-drive vehicles, should not be taken on Kjölur under the car rental company website. Check that your specific vehicle is authorised before travelling.

What is Driving Kjölur the F35 Road in Iceland Like?

Kjölur is considered one of the more manageable Highland routes, primarily because there are no mandatory river crossings on the main road.

However, it should not be compared with the paved Ring Road.

Most of Kjölur is gravel, and parts of the road can be narrow, uneven or covered with loose stones. Conditions may vary considerably from one section to another.

The normal maximum speed limit on rural gravel roads in Iceland is 80 kilometres per hour unless signs state otherwise. This does not mean that travelling at 80 kilometres per hour is always safe. On Kjölur, you will frequently need to drive much more slowly according to visibility, road conditions and traffic.

When driving on gravel:

• Reduce your speed before bends and hills.
• Brake and steer smoothly.
• Keep a generous distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Slow down when approaching oncoming traffic.
• Be prepared for potholes and loose stones.
• Watch for sheep or other livestock near the road.
• Never stop in the middle of the road for photographs.

Vehicles ahead can throw loose gravel towards your windscreen and bodywork. Keeping a safe distance helps reduce the risk of damage.

Driving the full route without long stops normally takes around four to five hours in favourable conditions. However, you should allow a full day if you want to visit Hveravellir, take photographs and make several short stops.

For hiking or an extended visit to Kerlingarfjöll, plan at least two days.

The Best Things to See Along Kjölur Road F35

Gullfoss Waterfall

If you are travelling from south to north, Gullfoss is the natural starting point for your Kjölur journey.

Located on the Golden Circle, Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The Hvítá River drops into a dramatic canyon across two main stages, creating one of the country’s most powerful and recognisable landscapes.

Gullfoss is your last major attraction before entering the quieter Highland section of Route 35.

It is also a good place to make a final check of the weather, your fuel level and your supplies.

Views of Hvítárvatn and Langjökull

As you travel further into the Highlands, the landscape opens towards Hvítárvatn, a glacial lake located near Langjökull.

The lake and glacier can be seen from parts of the surrounding area, depending on the weather and visibility. Only use marked roads and approved access routes when exploring.

Do not attempt to reach the lake by driving across unmarked tracks or open land. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited in Iceland.

Kerlingarfjöll

Kerlingarfjöll is one of the most impressive destinations in the Icelandic Highlands.

The mountain range is known for its rust-coloured peaks, patches of snow and steaming geothermal valleys. It is reached via Kerlingarfjallavegur, F347, which leaves the main Kjölur route.

Before taking this detour, confirm that F347 is open and that your rental vehicle is approved for it.

Kerlingarfjöll is not a quick roadside stop. Allow several hours if you want to hike, visit the geothermal areas or enjoy the facilities at Highland Base.

Hveradalir Geothermal Area

Hveradalir, meaning “the Valley of Hot Springs”, is one of the main highlights of Kerlingarfjöll.

Its landscape is filled with steaming vents, colourful mineral deposits, hot streams and mountains in shades of red, yellow and brown.

Several walking routes allow visitors to experience the area, but the terrain can be steep and muddy. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and waterproof clothing.

Stay on marked paths at all times. The ground around geothermal features can be thin and unstable, and the water beneath it may be dangerously hot.

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Highland Base is a useful stop for accommodation, food and activities in the Kerlingarfjöll area.

Accommodation options include a hotel, hostel-style rooms and a campsite. There is also a restaurant and geothermal bathing facilities.

The Highland Baths include geothermal pools and a sauna surrounded by mountain scenery. Availability and opening hours can change by season, so reserving accommodation, meals and bathing access in advance is recommended.

Hveravellir

_{Photo by Hveravellir}

Hveravellir is located directly along the Kjölur route between Langjökull and Hofsjökull.

The area combines lava fields, steaming geothermal features, hiking paths and a natural bathing pool. Wooden walkways allow visitors to explore part of the geothermal area without stepping onto the fragile ground.

Hveravellir also offers:

• A mountain lodge
• Private rooms
• Dormitory accommodation
• A campsite
• Toilets and showers
• A restaurant and café
• A geothermal bathing pool

Facilities are seasonal, and accommodation can fill quickly during summer. Book ahead rather than relying on last-minute availability.

Only enter the designated bathing pool. Other geothermal pools and springs in the area may be dangerously hot.

What Can You Do Along Kjölur? 

Go Hiking

Kerlingarfjöll and Hveravellir both offer excellent hiking opportunities.

Some walks are short and accessible, while others require several hours and proper hiking equipment. Weather can change rapidly, even on a sunny summer morning.

Before beginning a longer hike:

• Check the weather forecast.
• Ask local staff or wardens about trail conditions.
• Wear warm, waterproof layers.
• Bring food and water.
• Carry a fully charged phone.
• Tell someone where you are going.

Bathe in a Highland Hot Spring

Bathing in the Highlands is one of the most memorable experiences along the route.

Designated bathing facilities are available at Hveravellir and Highland Base. Bring a swimsuit and towel, and check access conditions or booking requirements before your visit.

Never enter an unmarked geothermal pool. Water temperatures can vary suddenly, and apparently solid ground may be unstable.

Take Photographs

Kjölur offers dramatic views of glaciers, mountains, lava fields and geothermal landscapes.

Use designated parking areas or safe places completely away from traffic when stopping for photographs. Never stop on a blind hill, bend or narrow section of road.

Drones may be restricted in protected areas or near other visitors. Check local signs and regulations before flying.

Suggested Kjölur Itineraries

One-Day Kjölur Itinerary

A one-day crossing is possible for travellers who mainly want to experience the drive and make a few selected stops.

A typical south-to-north route could include:

1. Leave the Golden Circle area early.
2. Visit Gullfoss.
3. Enter Kjölur Route 35.
4. Make short scenic stops along the route.
5. Spend approximately one to two hours at Hveravellir.
6. Continue towards Blönduós.
7. Stay overnight in North Iceland.

Allow a full day, even though the driving itself may take four to five hours. Road conditions, weather and stops can considerably extend the journey.

Trying to combine the full crossing with a long Kerlingarfjöll hike is not recommended in one day.

Two-Day Kjölur Itinerary

Two days allow you to enjoy the Highlands at a more relaxed pace.

Day one

• Begin near Gullfoss.
• Drive north along Route 35.
• Turn onto F347 towards Kerlingarfjöll.
• Explore Hveradalir.
• Stay overnight at Highland Base or its campsite.

Day two

• Return to Route 35.
• Continue north to Hveravellir.
• Explore the geothermal area and bathing pool.
• Continue towards Blönduós and North Iceland.

This itinerary gives you more time for hiking, photography and weather-related adjustments.

Where Can You Stay Along Kjölur?

Accommodation is limited, so booking ahead is strongly recommended.

Kerlingarfjöll

Highland Base offers several comfort levels, including hotel rooms, simpler accommodation and camping.

This is the best option for travellers who want to spend more time hiking around Hveradalir and the Kerlingarfjöll mountains.

Hveravellir

Hveravellir offers dormitory-style accommodation, private rooms and a campsite.

Dormitory guests may have access to shared cooking facilities, while private-room and campsite facilities differ. Check exactly what is included when booking.

Outside the Highlands

Travellers completing Kjölur in one day can stay near the Golden Circle before entering from the south or around Blönduós after leaving from the north.

Fuel, Food and Other Services

There are no petrol stations along the central section of Kjölur.

If travelling from south to north, fill your tank before leaving the Golden Circle area. If travelling from north to south, refuel in or around Blönduós before entering the Highlands.

Do not begin the route with only enough fuel for the estimated distance. Gravel roads, detours, strong winds and difficult conditions can all increase fuel consumption.

Food is available seasonally at Highland Base and Hveravellir, but you should not rely entirely on these facilities.

Bring:

• Plenty of drinking water
• Snacks
• At least one proper meal
• Warm clothing
• Waterproof outer layers
• Sturdy footwear
• A charged phone and power bank
• An offline map
• Any medication you may need

Mobile coverage may be limited or unavailable on parts of the route.

Essential Safety Tips for Driving Kjölur

Check the Road Conditions

Check the full route on www.road.is shortly before departure. A road can be open but still have rough, wet or difficult sections.

Do not rely only on Google Maps or your navigation application to determine whether a Highland road is accessible.

Check the Weather

Highland weather can be very different from the weather in Reykjavík, the Golden Circle or Blönduós.

Strong winds, heavy rain, fog and even summer snow can occur. SafeTravel recommends gathering current information on www.vedur.is before entering the Highlands because road and weather conditions can change quickly.

Stay on Marked Roads

Off-road driving is illegal throughout Iceland.

Never leave the marked road to avoid potholes, water, snow or another obstacle. Driving on unmarked ground can permanently damage fragile vegetation and volcanic landscapes.

Tell Someone Your Plans

Let someone know:

• Which route you are taking
• Where you expect to stop
• Where you plan to stay
• When you expect to arrive

For longer hikes or more remote itineraries, submit a travel plan through SafeTravel.

Do Not Attempt Closed Roads

A closure applies even if the road looks passable at the entrance.

Driving around a barrier or entering a closed road may put you at risk, damage the landscape and invalidate your rental protection.

Choose Suitable Rental Protection

Gravel roads increase the risk of damage from loose stones.

Before travelling, understand what your rental protection includes and excludes. Lava Car Rental’s Full Protection package can reduce your financial liability for many common types of damage, subject to the rental agreement.

Damage caused by prohibited driving, off-road driving or using an unauthorised vehicle may not be covered.

Ready to Drive Kjölur Route 35?

Driving Kjölur is an unforgettable way to experience Iceland beyond the Ring Road.

The route takes you through a remote landscape of glaciers, lava fields, geothermal valleys and natural hot springs, connecting South and North Iceland through the heart of the Highlands.

Good preparation is essential. Travel only when the road is officially open, check the latest conditions, carry enough food and fuel, and choose a 4x4 vehicle authorised for Highland driving.

Explore Lava Car Rental’s selection of reliable 4x4 cars and SUVs and find the right vehicle for your Kjölur adventure.