Þykkvibær: Local history and Hotel VOS

Þykkvibær is a settlement on the Hólsá and south of Safamýri. If you are planning a stay, you will find a place here whose history spans several centuries and is closely connected to agriculture. Hotel VOS is located on the Norður-Nýibær farm in Þykkvibær; it is a small country hotel.

Local History and Landscape

Þykkvibær has a long history of settlement; it was first mentioned around 1220. A primary school was founded here in 1892, the first rural school in Rangárvallasýsla. The first mention around 1220 is not a founding date.

In the past, Þykkvibær was surrounded by water on all sides. Farmers had to drive their cows through the water to the pastures. A substantial dam across the Djúpós was built in 1923; a road now runs along it. After the dam was built, meadow cultivation in Þykkvibær increased significantly, and the settlement developed into a substantial place in every respect.

Church and Local Character

Þykkvabæjarkirkja was built between 1967 and 1972. Its modern, stylistically pure design is pyramid-shaped. Old graves and weapon remains were discovered in the church’s current cemetery.

Today, Þykkvibær is known in Iceland for potato farming. A municipal description from 2020 names Hlöðueldhúsið in Oddspartur as a culinary experience for business groups, groups of friends, and families. The setting was an old barn with an attached sheepfold. The venue is 16 km from Route 1 and near Hella. These two details provide different reference points for getting there. Since the description dates from 2020, check directly before making plans to confirm whether the offer is still available.

Hotel VOS as Accommodation

The single-storey Hotel VOS has 18 rooms. Each room has a private bathroom and entrance; guests also have access to a hot tub. Since facilities can change, check the details of the amenities that matter to you before your trip.

The hotel offers good wheelchair access. If you need specific access details for your plans, check directly with the hotel. The meal information lists breakfast as included and dinner on request; confirm both directly when booking.

Getting There and Finding Your Way

The hotel is about ten minutes from Hella. Coming from Reykjavík, turn off Route 1 onto Road 25 shortly before Hella. From the Þykkvibær sign, the remaining drive is about 16 km. The travel time from Hella and the distance after the sign are two different reference points for planning. Check road conditions and signage before your trip.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Ólafsvellir, Stóri Núpur, Selfoss, Hvolsvöllur, Sólheimar, Vestmannaeyjar, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Laugarás.

Go to the main travel overview: Sudurland.