Part of a nature reserve, this waterfall crashing into a deep canyon is among the country’s most iconic features.
Witness the power of the water of River Hvita plunging into a deep crevice at Gullfoss Waterfall. As an integral part of Iceland’s Golden Circle route, the huge cascade is among the county’s most visited landmarks. Get a closer look at the various stages of this great waterfall.
Take one of the many Iceland tours that feature the waterfall as a highlight. These include bus tours around the Golden Circle and river rafting toward the cascades. Walk on the path along the green banks of the river to reach the waterfall. The viewpoint closest to the tremendous site is on a rock that juts out toward the water. Capture photos of this phenomenal triumph of nature with a backdrop of brown and green plains.
A wooden deck farther back from the waterfall provides a vista from above. Listen to the ferocious roar of the water plummeting over a cliff. Hike through the seemingly endless fields in pleasant countryside, which is a stark contrast from city life.
Approach the waterfall from the surrounding green meadows. From here it seems that the river simply vanishes from the earth. With a closer view, the 105-foot (32-meter) drop into which the water plunges becomes visible.
Enjoy a meal at the site’s restaurant, which is famous for its meat soup. Try to spot a rainbow hovering over the falls on a sunny day.
See the stone memorial to Sigriour Tomasdottir, who is said to have threatened to throw herself into the crevice to preserve the waterfall in the late 1800s.
The water appears more powerful in summer and dries up slightly in winter. The Hvita River is fed by one of Iceland’s largest glaciers, the Langjokull. See if you recognize the site. It has become such an icon of Iceland that it is featured in music clips and other artistic references.
Gulfoss Waterfall is 24 miles (39 kilometers) northeast of LaugarvatnOpens in a new window in southwestern Iceland. Drive past Geysir Hot SpringsOpens in a new window on the 30-minute journey to the waterfall. A parking lot beside the waterfall provides ample spaces.
