Region
East Iceland
650 km from Reykjavik
Skriduklaustur: Monastery Ruins and Gunnarsson's Home
A historic monastery site turned cultural center in the Fljotsdalur valley, preserving the legacy of writer Gunnar Gunnarsson.
Population
~10
East Iceland • Fljotsdalur Valley
Skriduklaustur is one of East Iceland's most significant historical sites, in the Fljotsdalur valley beside Lagarfljot lake. Founded as an Augustinian monastery around 1493, it was a center of learning and healing until the Reformation. Centuries later the writer Gunnar Gunnarsson built his home here, and today the Gunnar Gunnarsson Institute preserves both the literary and archaeological heritage. Visitors can see the monastery ruins and art exhibitions, and walk in a valley of waterfalls and birch forest.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Population figure is approximate, reflecting permanent residents at and near the cultural site.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Population
~10
Cultural site with seasonal staff
Known for
Medieval monastery
Gunnar Gunnarsson Institute & archaeology
Top Attractions near Skriduklaustur
Hengifoss Waterfall
a tall waterfall in Iceland at 128 meters, known for the red clay stripes between its basalt layers. A 2.5 km hike from the trailhead.
Litlanesfoss
A waterfall framed by symmetrical basalt columns, passed on the hiking trail to Hengifoss. The columns are visible on the approach to Hengifoss.
Hallormsstadarskogur Forest
Iceland's largest national forest, along the shores of Lagarfljot lake. It has extensive hiking trails through birch woodland and imported tree species.
Lagarfljot Lake
A long, narrow glacial lake said to be home to the Lagarfljot Wyrm, Iceland's counterpart to the Loch Ness Monster. Good for lakeside walks and photography.
Monastery Archaeological Site
The excavated ruins of the 15th-century Augustinian monastery at Skriduklaustur itself, with interpretive displays explaining the medieval hospital and cemetery finds.
Gunnar Gunnarsson House
The preserved home of writer Gunnar Gunnarsson, now housing exhibitions on his life, his novels, and rotating contemporary art shows.
How to Get to Skriduklaustur
From Reykjavik: Drive the Ring Road (Route 1) east through Akureyri and along the northern coast, or south through Vik and Hofn. The total distance is about 650 km. From Egilsstadir, take Route 931 south along Lagarfljot lake for approximately 25 km to reach Skriduklaustur.
From Egilsstadir: The site is a 25-minute drive south on Route 931. Egilsstadir has a domestic airport with daily flights from Reykjavik, so you can fly in and drive to Skriduklaustur in under an hour total.
Best Time to Visit Skriduklaustur
Summer (June-August): The cultural center and cafe are open, the hiking trails to Hengifoss are in good condition, and Hallormsstadarskogur forest is at its greenest. Long daylight hours leave plenty of time to explore. Temperatures are mild at 10-15 degrees Celsius.
Winter (October-March): The cultural center has limited opening hours or may be closed. The Fljotsdalur valley is quiet under snow, and Hengifoss partially frozen is worth the walk. Roads are generally maintained but can be icy.
The writer’s house and the monastery remains
The indoor and outdoor parts tell different stories. Gunnar Gunnarsson’s house, built in 1939, contains exhibitions about the writer and the monastery, alongside Klausturkaffi. The excavated monastery remains are below the house. Visit Austurland’s site description dates the excavation to 2000–2012 and lists the outdoor remains separately from seasonal house opening.
If you want an exhibition or a meal, confirm those opening hours first; seeing the outdoor site does not imply the house or café is open. The regional listing gives conflicting October end dates, so it is not enough to settle a late-season trip. Contact Skriðuklaustur through its visitor page or the contact details in the regional listing.
Planning help
Skriduklaustur FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What is the population of Skriduklaustur?
Skriduklaustur has fewer than 10 permanent residents. It is primarily a cultural center and historic site.
What was the monastery?
Skriduklaustur was an Augustinian monastery from 1493 to 1550, one of the last Catholic monasteries in Iceland before the Reformation.
Who was Gunnar Gunnarsson?
Gunnar Gunnarsson (1889-1975) was one of Iceland's most famous writers. He built his home at Skriduklaustur, now the Gunnar Gunnarsson Institute.
How far is Skriduklaustur from Reykjavik?
Skriduklaustur is about 650 km from Reykjavik, approximately 7.5-8 hours by car via Route 1.
What is the cultural center?
The Skriduklaustur cultural center includes the writer's house, archaeological exhibitions about the monastery, a cafe, and rotating art exhibitions.
What valley is Skriduklaustur in?
Skriduklaustur sits in the Fljotsdalur valley beside Lagarfljot lake, surrounded by mountains and birch woodland.
Are there hiking trails nearby?
Yes, trails lead to Hengifoss waterfall and through the surrounding Fljotsdalur valley.
When is the cultural center open?
The house exhibitions, café and outdoor monastery remains should be planned separately. Visit Austurland lists seasonal house hours, but its two October end dates disagree; confirm the current house and café schedule directly before a dedicated visit.
For national population totals and trends to put local figures in context, see our Iceland statistics.