Þykkvibær – Settlement history and potato farming

Þykkvibær is a settlement on the Hólsá, south of Safamýri. Its history tells of a place that was once surrounded by water and whose agriculture later changed considerably. Today, Þykkvibær in Iceland is known for potato farming. Anyone interested in the development of a rural community will find several tangible points of interest here – from early settlement to a church with a striking shape.

Landscape and change

In the past, Þykkvibær was surrounded by water on all sides. Farmers had to swim their cows to the pastures – an unusual glimpse into everyday life at the time. In 1923, a sturdy dam was built across Djúpós; a road now runs along it. After it was built, hay cultivation in Þykkvibær increased considerably, and the settlement developed into a substantial community in every respect. The story of the dam thus connects a striking change to the landscape with agricultural development.

Þykkvibær has a long history of settlement and was first mentioned around 1220. Another milestone in the area's history followed in 1892, when a primary school was established here—the first rural school in Rangárvallasýsla. Together, these dates give an impression of how far back the settlement's history reaches and the role education played in its development.

Church and historical traces

Þykkvabæjarkirkja was built between 1967 and 1972. Its modern design is stylistically pure; its shape resembles a pyramid. This sets it clearly apart from a simple, traditional church design. The present-day cemetery of Þykkvabæjarkirkja is also part of the area's history: old graves and weapon remains have been discovered there. Here, a modern church building and finds from local history meet.

Potato farming and regional cuisine

Potato farming is one of Þykkvibær's best-known features in Iceland. Another culinary point of interest is Hlöðueldhúsið in Oddspartur in Þykkvibær. It is considered a culinary experience for company groups, groups of friends and families, and is located in an old barn with an attached sheep shed. The place is 16 km from Route 1, near Hella. The connection between farming and cuisine may be of interest when planning your trip, especially if you are interested in local food culture.

Getting there and accommodation

Coming from Reykjavík, turn off Route 1 onto Road 25 shortly before Hella. After the Þykkvibær sign, continue for about 16 km. The dam across Djúpós is now part of the road network and also a defining chapter in the area's history. If you are looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home, you can choose a location based on whether you plan to focus your stay on settlement history and agriculture.

A specific accommodation option in Þykkvibær is Hotel VOS, a small country hotel on the Norður-Nýibær farm, about ten minutes from Hella. The single-storey hotel has 18 rooms. Each room has a private bathroom, its own entrance and access to a hot tub. Breakfast is included; dinner is available on request. The hotel also offers good wheelchair access.

More places to discover: Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Ásólfsskáli, Hella, Stóri Núpur, Grimsnes, Grafarkirkja, Ólafsvellir and Skálholt.

For the broader travel overview: South Iceland.