Þykkvibær combines a long settlement history with a present-day agricultural focus: potato farming. The settlement area lies by the Hólsá river and south of Safamýri. Other defining features include the pyramid-like Þykkvabæjarkirkja church and the development of agriculture from water-dominated conditions towards more meadow cultivation. For travelers interested in rural history, architecture and agriculture, this offers several distinct perspectives on the place.
Þykkvibær between Settlement History and Agriculture
Settlement in Þykkvibær dates back a long way and was first mentioned around 1220. In 1892, a primary school was established there, the first rural school in Rangárvallasýsla. These dates mark different stages in the area's history: an early mention of the settlement area and, later, an important milestone in rural education. They are two specific reference points separated by a considerable span of time.
Church and Archaeological Finds
Þykkvabæjarkirkja was built between 1967 and 1972. Its modern design is pure in style and resembles a pyramid. Its construction came considerably later than the early mention of the settlement and the founding of the school in 1892. Old graves and weapon remains have been discovered in the church's present-day cemetery. These finds add an archaeological dimension to the history of the church site.
Water, Meadows and Potato Farming
In the past, Þykkvibær was surrounded by water on all sides; farmers had to swim their cows to the pastures. After the dam was built across Djúpós, meadow cultivation increased considerably, and Þykkvibær developed into a prosperous settlement in every respect. Today, the place is known in Iceland for potato farming. Thus, a history in which water shaped agriculture sits alongside a present-day agricultural focus.
A Culinary Destination in Oddspartur
Hlöðueldhúsið in Oddspartur in Þykkvibær is considered a culinary experience for work groups, groups of friends and families. It is located in an old barn with an attached sheep shed. It is 16 km from Route 1, near Hella. If you would like to plan this culinary experience, check current availability and booking details in advance.
Accommodation and Directions
Hotel VOS is a small country hotel on Norður-Nýibær farm in Þykkvibær, about ten minutes from Hella. The single-storey hotel has 18 rooms; each room has a private bathroom, a private entrance and access to a hot tub. The accommodation offers good wheelchair access. Confirm the accessibility details that matter to you directly with the hotel. As facilities may change, ask for confirmation before booking that the amenities important to you are still available.
To reach Hotel VOS from Reykjavík, turn onto Road 25 from Route 1 shortly before Hella. After the Þykkvibær sign, continue for about 16 km. Check road conditions and signage before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Eyrarbakki, Villingaholt, Ásólfsskáli, Skeiðflötur, Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Skálholt.
For the broader travel overview: Sudurland.
