Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Simply referred to as Klaustur, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, which literally means ‘church farm cloister’ is a tiny village, surrounded by hills and plateaus, with a very small population. However, the little town, located about 261 km from Reykjavik and lies strategically between Vik and Höfn has rich folklore, multiple legends and amazing natural attractions in its vicinity, making it more popular than any other village its size. 

Simply referred to as Klaustur, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, which literally means ‘church farm cloister’ is a tiny village, surrounded by hills and plateaus, with a very small population. However, the little town, located about 261 km from Reykjavik and lies strategically between Vik and Höfn has rich folklore, multiple legends and amazing natural attractions in its vicinity, making it more popular than any other village its size.

Some of the popular attractions in the Vatnajökull  National Park include the Laki craters, Eldgjá and Skaftafell, besides the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, Kirkjugólf, Systrafoss (sisters’ waterfall), Systravatn (water of the sisters), Systrastapi (sister’s rock), which indicate the presence of Kirkjubæjar Abbey. It is believed that the Irish monks were first to arrive here, even before the Vikings and the presence of Kirkjubæjar  Abbey, the Convent of Benedict nuns  from 1186 till 1550 may also indicate this fact. 

Kirkjugólf, a natural pavement of basalt which means a ‘church floor’ and resembles a paved church floor is also a tourist attraction. The town has also become a popular connecting point between far-flung towns and provides various services to people living in the region and those passing through. There are various other options for tourists too, including a visit to the moss exhibition, relaxing in the geothermal pool, climbing Systrastapi, opting for a short hike or even fly-fishing. 

 

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