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.
Quick Facts
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.
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