Hofskirkja Turf Church
Iceland's last turf church, a fairytale-like structure from 1884, offering a unique glimpse into traditional architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Hofskirkja Turf Church
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iceland's last turf church, a fairytale-like structure from 1884, offering a unique glimpse into traditional architecture.
"Worth a quick hop on and of the main road."
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Worth a brief stop if you're on the Ring Road. Snap photos from the outside!
🚶♀️ Admire from Afar
The church and its grounds are now fenced, so enjoy the view from the perimeter.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Last Turf Church
Öræfi region, South-East Iceland
Marvel at Iceland's final turf church, a living piece of history built in 1884 and still serving its parish.
Fairytale Architecture
Exterior of Hofskirkja
Its grass-covered roof blending into the landscape creates a surreal, storybook appearance.
Serene Burial Ground
Adjacent to Hofskirkja
The peaceful cemetery next to the church offers a quiet space for reflection amidst the Icelandic scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse of Iceland's Past
Respectful Observation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Worth a brief stop if you're on the Ring Road. Snap photos from the outside!
🚶♀️ Admire from Afar
The church and its grounds are now fenced, so enjoy the view from the perimeter.
🕰️ Historical Significance
It's the last turf church built in Iceland, a unique piece of architectural history. 
🚗 Easy Access
Conveniently located off the main Ring Road with free parking available.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Worth a brief stop if you're on the Ring Road. Snap photos from the outside!
🚶♀️ Admire from Afar
The church and its grounds are now fenced, so enjoy the view from the perimeter.
🕰️ Historical Significance
It's the last turf church built in Iceland, a unique piece of architectural history.
🚗 Easy Access
Conveniently located off the main Ring Road with free parking available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hofskirkja to be a charming and historically significant stop, particularly for its unique turf architecture that resembles a fairytale building. While it's a brief visit, many appreciate its picturesque setting and the opportunity to see the last of its kind in Iceland. Some note that access is now limited to the exterior due to fencing.
"Very nice place with free parking. You used to be able to walk around the church, including the garden next to it, but now the area is fenced and access is limited - you can only take pictures from the outside. Nevertheless, it is worth stopping because the view is still impressive."
Sylwia Sylwia
"A quiet place to look at meditate and admire: maybe one of the most eerie and serene burial grounds I have seen in Iceland and elsewhere.
Worth a quick hop on and of the main road."
Felix Suciu
"Beautifully preserved church well worth a stop on the ring road"
sam facey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hofskirkja is easily accessible from Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1) in the Öræfi region of South-East Iceland. It's located about 20 km east of the Vatnajökull glacier. There's free parking available right near the church, making it a convenient stop for travelers driving the South Coast.
Yes, Hofskirkja is quite a distance from Reykjavik, approximately a 4.5 to 5-hour drive one way. It's best visited as part of a longer South Iceland itinerary, perhaps when exploring areas like Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon or Skaftafell Nature Reserve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees to visit Hofskirkja. The church and its surrounding grounds are accessible for viewing from the outside.
While Hofskirkja is still a practicing parish church, visitors are generally not permitted inside unless attending a service. The primary experience is admiring its unique exterior architecture.
The grounds around Hofskirkja are free to access for viewing and photography from the perimeter.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity at Hofskirkja is admiring its unique turf architecture, which looks like it's straight out of a fairytale. You can take photos from the outside and reflect in the serene, historic cemetery adjacent to the church.
Most visitors find that a quick stop of 5-15 minutes is sufficient to take photos and appreciate the church's unique appearance. It's often described as a worthwhile, brief stop on the Ring Road.
The viewing area around Hofskirkja is generally flat and accessible from the parking lot. However, the terrain might be uneven in places. It's best to assess the conditions upon arrival.
Currently, the area around Hofskirkja is fenced, limiting access to the immediate perimeter for preservation purposes. You can still get great views and take photos from outside the fence.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the designated viewing areas outside the fence, offering clear views of the entire church and its grassy roof. The surrounding landscape also provides a beautiful backdrop.
Yes, photography is allowed from the exterior viewing areas. Capture the unique turf architecture and its integration with the Icelandic landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Since access is limited to the exterior, it's easy to manage with children. The nearby cemetery, while potentially somber, can also be a point of discussion about history and remembrance. Remember to keep an eye on children near the fences and the road.
📸 Photographers
While the fencing limits close-up angles, strategic positioning from the viewing areas can yield beautiful shots. Consider visiting during golden hour for softer light and longer shadows that enhance the texture of the turf. The adjacent cemetery can also provide interesting compositional elements.
🚗 Road Trippers on the Ring Road
Given its status as the last of its kind, it offers a unique cultural insight into Iceland's past. Even if you're short on time, a 10-minute stop here provides a glimpse into traditional Icelandic architecture that you won't find anywhere else.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of Turf Churches
+1Unlike many other turf buildings that have succumbed to time and weather, Hofskirkja has been remarkably well-preserved. Originally built in 1884, it underwent significant restoration in the 1950s by the National Museum of Iceland, ensuring its survival for future generations. This dedication to preservation allows visitors today to witness one of the last remaining examples of this distinctive architectural style.
+1The visual impact of a turf church is undeniable. The thick, green blanket of grass on the roof, often spilling towards the ground, gives these structures an almost organic, fairytale-like appearance. This unique look is a major draw for tourists seeking to experience the authentic and often whimsical side of Iceland's cultural heritage.
+1Hofskirkja's Historical Context and Preservation
+1The church's survival is also a story of dedicated conservation efforts. The restoration work undertaken in the mid-20th century was crucial in stabilizing the structure and ensuring its longevity. This intervention highlights the importance placed on safeguarding Iceland's unique cultural heritage. Today, the church stands as a symbol of resilience and the enduring connection between Icelanders and their past.
While the church is still functional, access to the interior is typically limited. The focus for visitors is on appreciating the exterior and the surrounding historical context. The adjacent cemetery, though described by some as somber, adds to the contemplative atmosphere of the site, offering a quiet space to reflect on the passage of time and the lives of those who have worshipped here.
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