Why is it called Sisters' Falls?

Systrafoss means 'Sisters' Falls' in Icelandic. It is named after the nuns (sisters) of a medieval Benedictine convent that once stood nearby at Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The two side-by-side streams represent the sisters.

How do I get to Systrafoss?

Systrafoss is located right at the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur on the South Coast. An easy, well-maintained walking trail leads from the village center to the waterfall, just a few minutes' walk.

Can I swim in the lake at Systrafoss?

The small lake at the base of Systrafoss is not a designated swimming area. The water is very cold and the falls are best seen from the walking trail. The village has a public swimming pool if you want a swim.

When is the best time to visit Systrafoss?

Systrafoss is accessible year-round. Summer has the greenest surroundings and longest daylight. It makes a pleasant stop when passing through Kirkjubæjarklaustur on the Ring Road.

Systrafoss (Sisters' Falls)

Q: How tall is Systrafoss?

Systrafoss is approximately 25 meters (82 feet) tall. Two streams fall side by side over a cliff into a small lake below, which gives it the twin appearance that earned its name.

A twin 25-meter waterfall at Kirkjubæjarklaustur: two streams falling side by side, named for the nuns of a medieval convent. An easy walk from the village center.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

South Iceland

Easy walk from village. Year-round. Medieval history.

A twin waterfall at Kirkjubæjarklaustur, named for the nuns (sisters) of a medieval convent that once stood nearby. Two streams fall side by side over a cliff into a small lake below. An easy walking trail from the village center makes it one of the most accessible waterfalls on the South Coast.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. The trail can be slippery in rain, so wear sturdy shoes. Check weather conditions before your visit.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Best for

Village walk + history

Twin streams named for medieval nuns, steps from the village.

Access

Very easy

Short, well-maintained trail from Kirkjubæjarklaustur center.

Pro tip

Explore the village

Kirkjubæjarklaustur has Kirkjugólf basalt floor and more trails.

What to Expect at Systrafoss

Two parallel streams falling 25 meters into a small lake
A quiet setting at the edge of a small village
Medieval history connected to a Benedictine convent

Nearby Attractions to Systrafoss

Kirkjugólf (natural basalt floor, resembling church tiles)
Foss á Síðu (waterfall visible from the Ring Road)
Dverghamrar (Dwarf Cliffs, columnar basalt formation)

How to Get to Systrafoss

Located at Kirkjubæjarklaustur on Iceland's South Coast
Right off Route 1 (Ring Road), about 260 km from Reykjavik
Easy walking trail starts from the village center
Just a few minutes' walk to the waterfall
Free to visit; no entrance fee or special vehicle needed

Best Time to Visit Systrafoss

Accessible year-round from the Ring Road
Summer has the greenest surroundings and warmest weather
A pleasant stop when driving between Vík and Höfn
The village has services including a gas station and café
Trail can be slippery in rain, so wear sturdy shoes

Planning help

Systrafoss FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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