Discover Skool Beans: Iceland’s Unique Coffee Bus

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I flew all the way to Iceland to enjoy coffee on a school bus. Well, that wasn’t the only reason but I did do this and it was fabulous. During our 6 day trip to Iceland, we spent some time in Vik, one of the most visited towns in Iceland. While we were in Vik i Myrdal, we uncovered a hidden gem of a coffee shop known as Skool Beans.

When I travel, I like to seek out two important things: the first being caffeine. The second being unique, local experiences. A coffee shop in a school bus in the middle of Iceland checks both of those priorities off my list.

Origin Story of a School Bus Coffee Shop

Skool Beans Cafe offers visitors a unique blend of cozy ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty. A transformed American school bus in Iceland, this charming coffee shop has become a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers exploring Iceland’s southern coast.

The story of Skool Beans Cafe begins with Holly, a former UK police officer turned glacier guide. In 2018, Holly bought a a school bus and the dream for a coffee shop in the bus began. After two long years, Holly was converted it into a cozy coffee haven. She meticulously renovated the bus to what we see today. The bus is now a creative and inviting cafe complete with a wood-burning fireplace, seating, and even a book exchange!

Skool Beans Cafe prides itself on being Iceland’s first micro-roaster and tea lab coffee bus. The menu offers a little bit for everyone, rather it’s hot chocolate, tea, or their coffee. I absolutely love that this coffee shop also supports the community. In this already small space, they found room to sell local products on the bus. There’s even a book exchange to cultivate a welcoming atmosphere.

Whenever we travel, we seek unique experiences for ourselves. There’s bonus points for when the experience includes coffee, and Skool Beans stands out to us. Not only is this a quality unique experience for a coffee shop, but it stands out in Iceland too. A one-of-a-kind experience is waiting for you while you take in the scenery of Iceland.

After being outside in the brutal Icelandic wind for the last five days, the bus was a nice break from the outdoors. We were able to find two empty seats along the side of the bus to sip on a hot tea and chocolate.

Plan Your Visit

Vík í Mýrdal (commonly just called Vík) , a picturesque village in southern Iceland is where you’ll find Skool Beans Cafe. The school bus provides a cozy retreat for those exploring the region’s stunning landscapes. Visitors can sit on the bus, savor their drink, and take in the surrounding mountains. Beyond this coffee shop, there’s plenty to do in Vík.

Nestled between glaciers, black sand beaches, and towering cliffs, the small village of Vík might just be one of Iceland’s most dramatic and enchanting destinations. With a population of under 400, it’s hard to believe this quiet southern outpost is one of the most visited spots in the country. Once you visit, you’ll understand why.

If you’re planning to visit Vík, you should consider renting a car when planning a trip to Iceland. Having a rental car will allow you travel to Ví­k easily and make the most of your visit.

Accommodation recommendations for Ví­k:

• Splurge: Signature by Vík Apartments – A spacious apartment with sea views.
• Budget: Skammidalur Guesthouse – I love the options of staying at guest houses in Iceland to get a more local experience.
• Solo: Vi­k Hostel – Single rooms are available here if you don’t want to share a room.
• Hostel: The Barn – A budget-friendly choice that includes free WiFi and parking!
• Mid-range: Hotel KrÃia – A sleek-designed hotel that opened in 2018!

A Perfect Day in Ví­k i Myrdal

If you’re only planning one day in Vík, that’s plenty of time to enjoy the area. Kick off the day by heading to Reynisfjara Beach, where the crashing Atlantic waves and towering basalt columns feel like something out of a dream. You spend time marveling at the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar, keeping an eye out for puffins nesting on the cliffs.

By midday, you’re hiking up to Dyrholaey, soaking in sweeping views of the coastline and the endless blue beyond. By now, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Lunch is a warm bowl of lava soup at The Soup Company. They are famous for their lava bread and hearty soups – if you can’t decide what to order, get the red hot lava soup!

After lunch, this is a perfect time to head to Skool Beans Cafe.

Last but not least, drive up to the Ví­k i Myrdal Church, where certain times of year the lupines are in full bloom. The view from the church overlooking the town is beautiful.

If you still have time in Ví­k, go to Katla Wool Studio to finish off your visit. This is locally owned wool shop filled with blankets, sweaters, scarves. Women will be there making the products before your eyes. Their friendly dog will greet you before entering, and the experience felt very Icelandic and worth the time. 

Iceland is a one of a kind country, filled with culture, unique landscape, and overall one of our favorite trips to date. Specifically, Ví­k offers a rare mix of tranquility and raw, natural power. It’s a place where time seems to slow down. Where every turn reveals a new wonder, and even the smallest moments feel unforgettable. It’s a town we would prioritize revisiting on any trip to Iceland.

Whether you stay for a day or linger longer, Ví­­k will leave you with the kind of memories that call you back, again and again. Don’t forget to visit Skool Beans when you’re there!