south iceland
Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns
About Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns
When early Icelandic settlers first saw this perfectly flat expanse of hexagonal stone tiles, they believed it must be the floor of an ancient church built by Irish monks before the Norse arrival. The 'tiles' fit together so precisely, the surface so level and geometric, it seemed impossible that nature alone could create such order. In fact, Kirkjugólf is the eroded top of a basalt lava column system — the same hexagonal formations seen at Giant's Causeway in Ireland or Svartifoss in Iceland, but viewed from above rather than the side. When early Icelandic settlers first saw this perfectly flat expanse of hexagonal stone tiles, they believed it must be the floor of an ancient church built by Irish monks before the Norse arrival. The 'tiles' fit together so precisely, the surface so level and geometric, it seemed impossible that nature alone could create such order. In fact, Kirkjugólf is the eroded top of a basalt lava column system — the same hexagonal formations seen at Giant's Causeway in Ireland or Svartifoss in Iceland, but viewed from above rather than the side. It remains one of Iceland's most curious and photogenic geological oddities. Visitor Information: This site is located in South Iceland, Iceland. As a natural wonder, it provides visitors with a distinctive experience of Iceland's remarkable natural and cultural heritage. What to Expect: - A unique natural wonder experience in one of Iceland's most scenic regions - Opportunities for photography and exploration - Connection to Iceland's natural landscape and cultural heritage - Accessible during the main tourist season (June-September) - Can be combined with other nearby attractions in South Iceland Best Time to Visit: The site is most accessible during summer months (June-August) when daylight hours are longest and weather is mildest. However, each season offers its own unique character — winter brings possible Northern Lights, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds. Nearby: Explore other attractions in South Iceland to make the most of your visit to this beautiful region of Iceland.
🐉 The Troll of Reynisdrangar
The dramatic sea stacks at Reynisdrangar, visible from many points along the South Iceland coast, are said to be trolls turned to stone. According to legend, two trolls were trying to drag a three-masted ship to shore when they were caught by the first rays of dawn. Sunlight is fatal to trolls in Icelandic folklore, and they were instantly petrified, becoming the towering rock pillars that stand in the sea to this day. On stormy nights, some locals say you can still hear the trolls groaning as the waves crash against them, forever frozen in their midnight labor.
📖 History of Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns
This site in South Iceland has captivated visitors and locals alike throughout Iceland's history. The natural formations here were shaped over thousands of years by the forces of volcanism, glaciation, and erosion. Early settlers recognized the unique beauty of this place, and it features in various historical accounts and folklore. Iceland's natural wonders have been described by travelers since the medieval period, with some of the earliest written accounts appearing in the sagas and geographic treatises of the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, This site continues to draw visitors from around the world who come to witness the extraordinary landscapes that make Iceland one of the most geologically diverse places on the planet.
✈️ Why Visit
See a 'church floor' made by nature — perfectly geometric basalt columns that fooled early settlers into thinking it was built by monks.
💡 Did You Know?
Early Icelanders thought Kirkjugólf was built by Irish monks — it's actually the top of ancient basalt columns exposed by erosion.
Key Facts
~80 m² basalt pavement
Tops of vertical hexagonal columns
Named by early settlers who thought it man-made
2 km from Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Quick 10–15 min stop
💎 Hidden Gems
Off-Peak Visit
Visit this attraction during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
this attraction looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
🕐 Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
🚗 Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
⏱ Duration
1-2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.