Region
Capital Region
Part of Gardabaer municipality in Greater Reykjavik
Alftanes and Bessastadir
A residential peninsula and the home of Bessastadir, the official residence of the President of Iceland, with quiet surroundings and coastal views.
Population
~2,500
Capital Region • Gardabaer municipality
Alftanes is a quiet peninsula in the Capital Region of Iceland, best known as the location of Bessastadir, the official residence of Iceland's President. Part of the Gardabaer municipality, this residential area sits minutes from Reykjavik, with views across Skerjafjordur bay.
Sources and last reviewed
Last reviewed: 2026-03-03
Alftanes is the site of the presidential residence and a quiet residential area close to the capital.
Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.
Population
~2,500
Upscale residential community on a peninsula
Notable Feature
Bessastadir
Official residence of the President of Iceland
Top Attractions in Alftanes
Bessastadir
The official residence of Iceland's President since 1944
Bessastadir Church
Historic white church on the presidential grounds
Coastal Walking Paths
Scenic trails along the peninsula shoreline
Skerjafjordur Views
Panoramic views of Reykjavik and Mount Esja
Alftanes Golf Course
Well-maintained course with ocean views
Birdwatching Sites
Coastal areas with diverse seabird populations
How to Get to Alftanes
From Reykjavik: Alftanes is approximately 10 km from central Reykjavik, about a 15-minute drive via Route 49. The peninsula is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
Public Transport: Straeto bus routes connect Alftanes to Reykjavik and Gardabaer, though service is less frequent than in central areas. A car is recommended for exploring the peninsula.
From Keflavik Airport: The airport is about 35 km away, approximately 30 minutes by car via Route 41.
Best Time to Visit Alftanes
Summer (June-August): The best time for coastal walks and long daylight hours. Gardens around Bessastadir are at their best.
Winter (November-February): A quieter period, with chances of Northern Lights from the dark peninsula. The historic buildings stand out against the snow.
Year-round: Bessastadir and its grounds can be viewed from outside at any time, and the peninsula works as a short, quiet day trip in any season.
Planning help
Alftanes FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.