south-iceland · Iceland
Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns
About Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns
Step onto Kirkjugólf, a mesmerizing natural pavement of hexagonal basalt columns, so perfectly fitted they resemble a tiled church floor. Gaze across this geological wonder, with puddles reflecting the blue sky, as sheep graze peacefully in the verdant fields beyond. It's a testament to Iceland's powerful volcanic forces, revealing the tops of ancient lava columns.
History & Background
This extraordinary 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 powerful forces of volcanism, glaciation, and erosion. As molten lava from ancient eruptions cooled and contracted, it formed these distinctive hexagonal columns. Over millennia, subsequent geological processes and erosion wore down the landscape, eventually exposing the perfectly flat tops of these columns, creating the pavement we see today. Early settlers, arriving in Iceland, were profoundly struck by the geometric precision of Kirkjugólf. Unaware of the geological processes at play, they recognized the unique beauty and order of this place. Their belief that it must be a man-made structure – specifically the floor of an ancient church built by Irish monks – led to its enduring name, Kirkjugólf, meaning 'Church Floor'. This folklore highlights the settlers' ingenuity in interpreting their new, dramatic environment. 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, Kirkjugólf 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, offering a tangible link between ancient myths and scientific understanding.
Did You Know?
- ✔~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
Tours Near Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Why Visit
Experience nature's awe-inspiring geometry at Kirkjugólf, where ancient lava created a 'church floor' of basalt.
Did You Know?
Early Icelandic settlers believed Kirkjugólf was built by Irish monks – it's actually the eroded tops of ancient basalt columns, a natural wonder.
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.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
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."
Practical Information
Best Time
Sumar (júní-ágúst) fyrir milt veður og langan dagsbirtu; Vor/Haust fyrir færri mannfjölda; Vetur fyrir stórbrotna fegurð og möguleika á norðurljósum.
Duration
30 minutes
Access
Malbikaður vegur, stutt ganga frá bílastæði (2 km frá Kirkjubæjarklaustri).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an entry fee for Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns?▾
No, there is no entry fee to visit Kirkjugólf Basalt Columns. It is a natural site open to the public.
How long should I plan for a visit to Kirkjugólf?▾
A visit to Kirkjugólf typically takes about 15-30 minutes, allowing enough time to walk on the columns, take photos, and appreciate the unique geological formation.
Is Kirkjugólf accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?▾
The site involves walking on an uneven surface of basalt columns, which can be challenging for wheelchairs and strollers. The path leading to the columns is generally flat but unpaved.
What should I wear or bring when visiting?▾
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. In Iceland, layers are always recommended, and a waterproof jacket is advisable regardless of the season.
Can I combine a visit to Kirkjugólf with other attractions?▾
Absolutely! Kirkjugólf is located close to Kirkjubæjarklaustur and can easily be combined with visits to nearby attractions in South Iceland like Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon or the Laki Craters area.
