Svínavatn: Lake, Churches and Livestock Gathering

At Svínavatn, a large lake, historic church sites and the tradition of livestock gathering come together. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Svínavatn, these topics offer practical guidance when choosing your destination. The waterscape, church architecture and pastureland represent different aspects of the area and provide different perspectives on its history and character.

The lake, its tributaries and fishing

The lake covers about 12 km² and lies around 130 m above sea level. Its deepest point is 30 m below the water’s surface. The Sletta and the Svinadalsa feed Svínavatn; the Upper-Laxa is its outflow. This makes it possible to distinguish the different roles of the waterways: two tributaries carry water into the lake, while the outflow carries it away. The three figures describe different measurements: the area indicates the lake’s extent, the elevation relates it to sea level, and the depth measures the distance below the water’s surface. When comparing them, keep these reference points distinct: 30 m is not an elevation above sea level, but a depth measurement for the lake.

Brown trout are the most commonly caught fish in Svínavatn; Arctic char are also found there. If you would like to fish, check the applicable regulations and access arrangements separately.

Church sites and history

Svínavatnskirkja, a wooden church, stands on the southeast shore. It is first mentioned around 1318 in the Auðunarmáldagi. Its altarpiece is an oil painting by H. V. Westergaard from 1902. Auðkúla is a farm and church site on Svínavatn; the current building of Auðkúlukirkja was erected in 1894. The dates refer to different things: for Svínavatnskirkja, the date marks an early mention; for Auðkúlukirkja, it is the construction year of the current building.

Visits to Svínavatnskirkja are possible by prior arrangement.

Livestock gathering and landscape

Auðkúlurétt stands on Stóradalsnes at the end of Svínavatn. Animals are gathered at the rétt from Auðkúluheiði, the pastureland associated with this livestock gathering. This shows the clear relationship between a specific place at the end of the lake and its associated pastureland. In 2024, several sheep and horse gathering events took place at Auðkúlurétt. This connection between pastureland and gathering place complements the themes of water and churches with an insight into local agricultural tradition.

Visiting and getting oriented

Svínavatn is about 9 km from the road, at the turnoff to Route 724. Check current navigation before setting out. Travel-planning advice depends on your plans: church visits are possible by prior arrangement; anyone wishing to fish should check access and applicable regulations separately.

Discover more destinations: Blönduós, Skagaströnd, Varmahlíð, Vidhidalstunga, Undirfell, Miklibær, Hofsós, Lækjamót

For the broader travel overview: Northwest Iceland.