Best for
Village walk + history
Twin streams named for medieval nuns, steps from the village.
Systrafoss Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide
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.
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: 2026-02-01
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. The trail can be slippery in rain—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
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 peaceful, scenic setting at the edge of a small village
- Rich 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 offers 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 — wear sturdy shoes
Planning help
Systrafoss FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.