Plizio Visual Lab
Keldur
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
monument
Weather…
Water temperature…
Keldur, located in the Rangárvellir region, is one of the oldest and most remarkably preserved turf farms in Iceland, offering a unique window into the nation's medieval architectural history. The farm is mentioned in the Njal's Saga and served during the 12th and 13th centuries as a seat for the powerful Oddaverjar clan, one of the most influential families in Icelandic history. A particularly notable feature is an ancient underground tunnel, rediscovered in the 20th century, which is believed to have functioned as an escape route during the violent conflicts of the Sturlung Era. The complex consists of several interconnected turf buildings, with some structural elements potentially dating back to the 11th century, though most visible parts were rebuilt in the 19th century. The thick earth walls and grass-covered roofs provided essential insulation against the harsh Southern Icelandic climate. Alongside the main farmhouse stands a small church and a historic cemetery, completing an ensemble that remains a cornerstone of Iceland's national cultural heritage.
- Location: Iceland
- Nearby: Hella (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -3 | -2 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 2 | -2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 192 | 175 | 169 | 130 | 96 | 92 | 111 | 119 | 183 | 156 | 162 | 194 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Keldur is a historic turf farm that can be visited both inside and outside. The site is open during the season, entry typically involves a fee.
Typical hours
Opening hours typically follow the summer months, June to August, with daily guided tours. In winter, access is often limited or by appointment only.
Photography
Photography is allowed indoors and outdoors, but flash may be restricted in the delicate turf houses. The traditional architecture and landscape provide worthwhile subjects.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour for exploring the building and grounds. Including a guided tour, expect around 1.5 hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the museum in Skógar. The south coast route has many additional stops.
Getting there
Keldur is about 90 km southeast of Reykjavík along Route 1. A rental car is the best option; there is parking on site.
Insider tip
Book the guided tour in advance during peak season, as capacity is limited. Sturdy footwear is recommended as the ground can be uneven.
Geography
Facts
- Keldur was the home of Jón Loftsson, a key political figure in the 12th century.
- The ancient escape tunnel extends approximately 25 meters from the house.
- The current church at the site was constructed in 1875.
- People lived in the turf houses at Keldur until as late as 1946.
- It is considered the largest surviving turf farm complex in South Iceland.
- Archaeological evidence points to continuous settlement since the 10th century.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Keldur special?
It houses one of the oldest preserved turf houses in Iceland.
Is it still inhabited?
No, it is preserved as part of the National Museum of Iceland.
What is the secret tunnel?
An old escape tunnel from the Saga age was discovered there.
Where is Keldur located?
In Southern Iceland, near the Hekla volcano.
Are you allowed inside the buildings?
Yes, during summer opening hours, the rooms can be visited.
Keldur: where is it located?
Keldur is located in Iceland.
Keldur: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Keldur: why is it worth visiting?
Keldur, located in the Rangárvellir region, is one of the oldest and most remarkably preserved turf farms in Iceland, offering a unique window into the nation's medieval architectural history.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Iceland →
Nearby cities
Reykjavík
Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.
Kópavogur
Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.
Hafnarfjörður
A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.
Hafnarfjörður
Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.
Keflavík
Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.
Mosfellsbær
Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.
Garðabær
Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.
Selfoss
Selfoss is the largest service center in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River.
Akranes
Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.
Seltjarnarnes
Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.
Vestmannaeyjar
Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.
Grindavík
Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)
Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.
Hveragerði
Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.
History & landmarks
Reykjavík City Hall
Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.
Hvolsvöllur
A historic town in South Iceland, famous as the heart of the Njál's Saga and a gateway to glaciers.
Oddi
Oddi was one of the most important cultural and educational centers in medieval Iceland.
Eyjafjallajökull / Seljalandsfoss
A spectacular duo of the world-famous volcano and a waterfall where you can walk behind the water curtain.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is famous for the walking path that leads behind the falling curtain of water.
Nature
More places
Skálholt Cathedral
Skálholt was one of Iceland's two episcopal seats for over 700 years and a center of learning.
Knarrarósviti Lighthouse
Knarrarósviti is a notable lighthouse on the south coast of Iceland.
Skálholt
For over 700 years, this location was the religious and cultural center of Southern Iceland.
Eyjafjallajökull
Eyjafjallajökull is a smaller glacier in southern Iceland covering a stratovolcano of the same name.
Skálholt Monastery
This was once the religious and intellectual center of Iceland.