Kjós

Kjós is a rural region in southwestern Iceland, located in the Capital Region. It centers on the Kjós valley and lies to the northwest of Reykjavík, bordered by Mosfellsbær to the east and the Hvalfjörður fjord to the west. The area is sparsely populated and predominantly agricultural, with farms scattered among rivers, small woodlands, and open pastures.

Geography and landscape define Kjós, which features rolling hills and expansive rural scenery that attract visitors for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and birdwatching. The valley systems and waterways contribute to a distinct rural character that contrasts with the urban center of nearby Reykjavík.

Administration and identity: Kjós has historically been known as Kjósarsveit, a separate municipality within Iceland’s local government structure. In the modern municipal framework of the Capital Region, the Kjós area is generally administered as part of larger neighboring municipalities, while retaining a strong geographic and cultural identity recognized by residents and planners alike.

History: The Kjós valley has a long settlement history dating back to Iceland’s medieval era. Agriculture has been a central part of life in Kjós for centuries, with farming communities evolving alongside changes in transportation, governance, and regional planning.

Transport and economy: The region is connected to the Icelandic road network via Route 1 and related local roads. Proximity to Reykjavík means many residents commute for work, while local farming and small-scale rural services continue to shape the regional economy. Tourism related to the natural landscape is also a growing aspect of Kjós.

See also: Kjósarsveit, Capital Region (Iceland)