Photo: Anders Peter

Kjölur Route (Kjalvegur / Route 35)

Iceland’s legendary highland trail between glaciers

The Kjölur Route, or Kjalvegur (Route 35), is a historic highland road that cuts through the heart of Iceland’s interior, connecting the Golden Circle area to the north. This rugged trail runs between two massive glaciers—Langjökull and Hofsjökull—and passes through a desolate yet mesmerizing landscape of lava fields, hot springs, and sweeping glacial views. Highlights along the way include Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis, and Kerlingarfjöll, a colorful rhyolite mountain range. The route follows ancient horse paths once used by Icelanders for travel and trade. Best traversed in summer with a 4x4 vehicle, Kjölur offers one of the most remote and rewarding road trips in Iceland, delivering raw nature, solitude, and adventure.

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