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
Quick Answer
Alftanes is a quiet residential peninsula about 10 km from Reykjavik, home to Bessastadir, the official residence of Iceland's president, and its old church.
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 page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Alftanes is the site of the presidential residence and a quiet residential area close to the capital.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
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 is a working presidential residence. Follow on-site access instructions rather than assuming its grounds are always open. For a scheduled activity on the peninsula, check Álftaneslaug’s opening hours.
Add a swim at Álftaneslaug
Álftaneslaug at Breiðumýri gives the peninsula a family activity alongside the church and shoreline. The municipality’s pool page lists a wave pool, an 80-meter waterslide, a 25-meter outdoor pool and a 12-by-8-meter indoor pool with space for young children learning to swim.
For access planning, the municipality lists adapted changing facilities within the gender-separated changing rooms, bathing wheelchairs and a lift at the outdoor pool. Ask staff about the facilities you need; those details are more useful than a general “accessible” label.
The posted single-entry price was 1,350 ISK when checked on September 10, 2026. Swimwear and towel rentals were 800 ISK each. Check the current price and opening notice before visiting: the same page separates holiday hours and summer Sunday hours from the regular timetable.
Planning help
Alftanes FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What is the population of Alftanes?
Alftanes has approximately 2,500 residents. It is a small, upscale residential community located on a peninsula in the Capital Region of Iceland.
What is Bessastadir?
Bessastadir is the official residence of the President of Iceland, located on the Alftanes peninsula. The site dates back to the 13th century and includes a white church and the presidential grounds.
What municipality is Alftanes part of?
Alftanes is part of the Gardabaer municipality in the Capital Region. While administratively part of Gardabaer, Alftanes keeps its own identity as a quiet residential peninsula.
How far is Alftanes from Reykjavik?
Alftanes is approximately 10 km (6 miles) from central Reykjavik, about a 15-minute drive. The peninsula is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
What are the main attractions in Alftanes?
The main attractions include Bessastadir (presidential residence), the historic Bessastadir Church, scenic coastal walks, and views across Skerjafjordur bay to Reykjavik and Mount Esja.
What is the weather like in Alftanes?
Alftanes has a similar climate to Reykjavik with mild winters and cool summers. Being on a peninsula, it can be windier than inland areas. Average temperatures range from 0°C in winter to 12°C in summer.
Why is Alftanes considered upscale?
Alftanes is known for its spacious properties, quiet atmosphere, and prestigious location near the presidential residence. Many affluent Icelanders choose to live here for its peaceful environment and scenic views.
What is the history of Alftanes?
Alftanes has been inhabited since the settlement of Iceland. Bessastadir served as the residence of Danish governors and later became the presidential residence when Iceland gained independence in 1944.
For national population totals and trends to put local figures in context, see our Iceland statistics.