1,257 reviews
From
$300Hafnargata 16, Rif, Sandur, 360, Iceland
1,257 reviews
1/65
Free parking
Free wifi
Air conditioning
Beach
Bar
Tour desk
Parking On Site
Terrace
The Freezer Hostel & Culture Center is a 2-star hostel on Iceland’s west coast, inviting travelers to a culture-forward stay in Hellissandur. Address: Hafnargata 16, Rif, located about 2mi from the town center, making it a quirky base for exploring the coastline and local arts.
Guest facilities include free on-site parking and free Wifi, as well as air conditioning, a bar, terrace, and garden with mountain and landmark views. Soundproof rooms, non-smoking options, and a tour desk add practical comforts, while live music performances (free), beach access, and kitchenware round out the stay.
With 1257 reviews, this two-star hostel blends budget-friendly lodging with a culture-forward vibe, making it a lively stop for travelers seeking music, local scenes, and Iceland’s coastal scenery. Plan to soak up the coast, culture, and friendly rhythms after a day of exploration.
After a day along the rugged coast, the vibe here leans into culture-forward charm, turning Hellissandur into a playful playground for curious travelers. The setting places guests in the heart of coastal scenery and Iceland’s local arts scene, with evenings often accompanied by free live music and a welcoming, friendly rhythm.
Room options are as varied as the itinerary, ranging from Basic Dormitory and private Double rooms to Family setups and Quadruple arrangements. This mix accommodates solo explorers, couples, and small groups, with examples like Family, Private Bathroom and Quadruple Room providing comfy, flexible choices for different travel styles.
Payment is cashless, with cash not accepted; Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro are all accepted. Amenities include free on-site parking, free Wifi, an air-conditioned bar area, a terrace, and a garden with mountain and landmark views. Practical touches such as a tour desk, soundproof rooms, non-smoking options, and kitchenware round out the stay, while beach access invites a refreshing coastal breeze.
Free parking
Free wifi
Air conditioning
Beach
Bar
Tour desk
Parking On Site
Terrace
Soundproof rooms
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Live music/Performance
Garden view
Kitchenware
Landmark view
Playground
Picnic area
Garden
View
Free toiletries
Soundproof
Show 3 photos
Dormitory, 4 Bed
1 Bunk Bed
170 sqft
Landmark view
Garden view
Kitchenware
Microwave
More details
Show 3 photos
Dormitory, 8 Bed
1 Bunk Bed
280 sqft
Mountain view
Landmark view
Kitchenware
Microwave
More details
Show 2 photos
Family
1 Twin Bed
1 Bunk Bed
150 sqft
Mountain view
Landmark view
Kitchenware
Microwave
+
More details
Show 2 photos
Double Room
1 Double Bed
170 sqft
Private Bathroom
View
Kitchenware
Microwave
More details
Show 2 photos
Family, Private Bathroom
1 Twin Bed
1 Double Bed
1 Bunk Bed
300 sqft
Garden view
Private Bathroom
Kitchenware
Microwave
x5
More details
Show 2 photos
Room - 2 Twin
1 Double Bed
170 sqft
Private Bathroom
View
Kitchenware
Microwave
More details
Double, Triple
1 Twin Bed
1 Double Bed
170 sqft
View
Kitchenware
Microwave
Refrigerator
x3
More details
Double, Triple, Private Bathroom
1 Twin Bed
1 Double Bed
215 sqft
Garden view
Private Bathroom
Kitchenware
Microwave
x3
More details
Quadruple Room, Bunk, Shared Bathroom
1 Bunk Bed
x4
+
x3
More details
Room - 2 Double
2 Double Beds
x4
+
x3
More details
Quadruple Room, Bunk
1 Bunk Bed
x4
+
x3
More details
Family, Bunk
1 Bunk Bed
x8
+
x4
More details
8.3
1,257 reviewsCategories of assessments
Cleanliness
Comfort
Location
Facilities
Staff
Value for money
WiFi quality
Featured reviews:
Barbara
8.2
August 2025
Really wonderful common area, and very welcoming host who made us feel comfortable in the common area. This hostel is a fantastic place to feel as though you can connect with other travelers. The goal of creating community here is something that makes us want to support the place! There was a foozeball table in the common area that gave our son a chance to meet other kids and play, something that was a real highlight for him.
The kitchen was quite small for the number of guests using it - we were very happy we had arrived right at 4 pm and started cooking right away or it would have been difficult to make dinner, and the cost was quite high (maybe because of location?)
Olga
10
May 2025
The Freezer is a hidden Gem on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula! For Icelandic standards, the price was incredibly affordable, especially considering the quality of the experience. The place was spotlessly clean, full of atmosphere and artistic charm, and had everything a traveler could ask for. The kitchen was perfectly equipped, beds were very comfortable, and the linen smelled fresh and clean, making it easy to get a good night’s sleep after a long day of exploring. But what truly made this stay unforgettable was the amazing team running the place - Klaudia and Max! They made me feel completely at home with their warmth and hospitality. They shared so many insider tips about exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, helping me discover places I wouldn’t have found on my own. My If you’re looking for an affordable, cozy, and truly unique place to stay in West Iceland - this is it!
-
Talia
8.2
July 2025
Cool place with a chill vibe. The room was clean and comfortable and bigger than I expected. Lots of parking out front and it was easy to find. I really liked how there were free yoga mats you could borrow.
Writing it here in the reviews to no one else is unpleasantly surprised--the shower was one of the ones where you have to push for water every 20 seconds or so. Not the biggest deal, but I find those showers annoying. Also the water does get warm enough to be comfortable, but not super hot, so just a warning to those of you who are particular about that.
Ginevra
9.1
January 2025
We had a wonderful stay at this hostel! The facility is impeccably clean and well-equipped, making it a perfect base for seeing the Northern Lights. The shared kitchen is fully stocked, allowing for easy meal preparation. A special mention goes to the common area, which feels like a friend's home—super cozy and spacious. It’s a great place to relax and connect with fellow travelers. The context, history, and artistic culture of the hostel are truly fascinating. Although we didn’t get a chance to attend any events, we thoroughly enjoyed playing games in the common room and meeting new people. When a small issue arose, the staff resolved it quickly and efficiently. The ladies running the hostel are absolutely lovely and provided excellent recommendations for nearby attractions. We highly recommend this hostel! Maximum rating! 🌟
Michael
8.2
August 2025
Great to have this place in such a convenient location for travelling around the Snaefellsnes peninsular. Staff are welcoming and friendly, and the large reception/common room is comfortable, with lots of games and information provided. Bunk rooms are adequate, and shared bathrooms are clean, warm and well-equipped.
The kitchen area is a bit cramped for the number of guests accommodated. The room was a bit smelly and could do with a deep clean.
Mark
9.1
July 2024
I loved the living room concept, especially as it provided different spots to sit and relax. You could interact with each other or be a bit more private in a corner, especially as it is not adjacent to sleeping chambers it provides a place where you can stay a bit longer and make a bit more noise at later hours. The idea of the kitchen is a great addition, but sadly not all people knew the rule to use the kitchen for preparing food and and to bring it into the living room to talk there (this way the kitchen stays usable for others while also making sure the adjacent rooms would not be disturbed) A group of French people woke us up around 6, and kept loud talking until 9.
The music was way too good, and sadly to quickly to end. At a reasonable bedtime the singer stopped, while I could listen to his songs for the entire night and day. But sadly the hosts respect their visitors way to much, making them feel welcome and certain that each person can tell them their wishes. So I wanted to write a bad review, but it's not possible with such great hosts. The only problem I can think of that I had not enough time to stay longer.
Sudhir
10
September 2024
I liked that it was one of the cheapest stays in Iceland. It was very accessible to places I wanted to cover in the Snaefellness peninsula. It was just 25mins from Kirkufell to hike and also just 30mins to the Snæfellsjökull national park too. The staff were very friendly, they've created a very communal atmosphere, they encouraged me to sing in the Karaoke nights.
Only 2 bathroom cum showers that I could spot across the place so it could get tricky in busy times. However, it was never a problem for me and managed well.
Peter
8.2
April 2024
This is an amazing place. I run an arts center in the US and was intrigued that this remote arts center in Iceland also had a hostel and rooms to rent so we gave it a try. It's out toward the end of the beautiful Snæfellsnes peninsula and national park. It was also less than 10 minutes away from the whale watching tour we took out of Olafsvik, which is not to be missed. We stayed in one of their rooms that had a full bed and bunkbeds and our own bathroom. It was really comfortable and there was a great common area with a bar and all kinds of board games. Our room was off the theater and that night locals were watching a football match between Iceland and the Ukraine; much to their chagrin, Iceland lost. If you're looking for a unique place to stay and you want to support the local arts scene, this is your place!
Nothing not to like really. If you're looking for luxury, this ain't it. But if you want to stay and support one of the coolest places in Iceland, stay here.
Tanja
10
June 2024
From the outside -a warehouse. From the inside: a great, funky, alternative place to go to, hang out, chill, play games and LISTEN TO MUSIC every night. Spent one night only there, but had the chance to meet, mix and migle with locals. If I ever come back to this area, a definite repeat! Food (snacks) and drinks available, too if you arrive late.
Supermarkets/convenience stores are either in Olafsvik or Hellisandur, and weekend closing times are "tough". there's nothing else to go to in Rif, but the FREEZER takes care of it.
Savannah
8.2
January 2024
The location is located in a really cute town and right next to the shore. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful and very knowledgeable about the area. The bathrooms were very clean, especially compared to other guesthouses or hostels I’ve been to. We were able to cook our meals there and store food with no issue.
There was a large group that came in around 22:30 (which was past check-in when staff wasn’t there) and they were very rowdy and drunk all night. They saw that we were there but would not try and be quiet in the private areas. It didn’t quiet down until almost 5 hours later. They also left a mess in the kitchen and the main area, including taking a bunch of a drinks from the bar fridge without paying.
Attractions
Snaefellsjokull National Park
1.9miAttractions
Snaefellsjokull National Park
1.9miFree parking
Free wifi
Air conditioning
Beach
Bar
Tour desk
Parking On Site
Terrace
Soundproof rooms
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Live music/Performance
Garden view
Kitchenware
Landmark view
Playground
Picnic area
Garden
View
Free toiletries
Soundproof
Accessibility
Entire unit located on ground floor
Activities
Beach
Cycling
Fishing
Game room
Golf course
Happy hour
Hiking
Horseback riding
Karaoke
Live music/Performance
Ping-pong
Stand-up comedy
Temporary art galleries
Tour or class about local culture
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Hairdryer
Private Bathroom
Shared bathroom
Shower
Toilet
Bedroom
Linens
Business Facilities
Meeting/Banquet facilities
Cleaning Services
Daily housekeeping
Common Areas
Shared lounge/TV area
Entertainment & Family Services
Board games/Puzzles
Books, DVDs or music for children
Entertainment staff
Evening entertainment
Indoor play area
Outdoor play equipment for kids
Playground
Food & Drink
Bar
Coffee house on site
Snack bar
Wine/Champagne
Front Desk Services
Baggage storage
Concierge
Express check-in/out
Invoice provided
Private check-in/out
Tour desk
General
Air conditioning
Convenience store on site
Designated smoking area
Family rooms
Heating
Non-smoking rooms
Smoke-free property
Soundproof
Soundproof rooms
Internet
Free wifi
Kitchen
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Shared kitchen
Stovetop
Toaster
Media & Technology
CD player
Outdoors
Garden
Outdoor dining area
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Terrace
Parking
Free parking
Parking On Site
Physical distancing
Cashless payment available
Contactless check-in/out
Room Amenities
Clothes rack
Socket near the bed
Safety & security
24-hour security
CCTV in common areas
CCTV outside property
Fire extinguishers
Security alarm
Smoke alarms
Safety features
First aid kits available
Spa
Back massage
Full-body massage
Head massage
Massage
Spa lounge/Relaxation area
View
Garden view
Landmark view
Mountain view
View
Pets are not allowed.
WiFi is available in all areas and is free of charge.
There's no age requirement for check-in
Come and go whenever you want
Free public parking is available on site (reservation is not possible).
Child policies
Children of all ages are welcome.
To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.
Crib and extra bed policies
No capacity for extra beds or cribs.
Mastercard,
Visa,
Maestro
This property does not accept cash.
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