If you’re chasing Icelandic waterfalls, look no further.
Iceland is an island of otherworldly beauty covered in glaciers, volcanoes, and sights you have only ever imagined. But as if that wasn’t enough, this land of ice and fire went ahead and #blessed us with waterfalls.
Thousands and thousands of waterfalls. Some that freeze solid in winter months, and some that seem to appear as if from nowhere.
How do you smuggle daydreams into reality, you ask? By chasing our favourite Icelandic waterfalls, and here’s where to find them!
1. Skogafoss
Nearly 15 meters wide and 60 meters tall, Skogafoss is one of Europe’s biggest waterfalls. When the sun’s out, catch all of that billowing mist at the right angle, and you’ll be treated to shimmering rainbow prisms on demand.
Spectacular from all angles, what makes Seljalandsfoss so special is the path leading to a cave you can walk into to view the falls from behind, making this possibly the most photogenic waterfall in Iceland.
3. Hraunfossar
The many small falls that make up Hraunfossar, which translates into “Lava Falls”, seem to appear from nowhere, but are in fact coming from cold, subterranean springs that pumps up through the lava and flows into the Hvita River.
4. Gullfoss
This powerful behemoth might be Iceland’s most popular waterfall, as it’s part of the famous Golden Circle, but don’t let that stop you. This is one of those gorgeous gems that freezes over in the winter months and can be a great spot to catch the Northern Lights.
5. Goðafoss
Aside from being breathtakingly beautiful, Goðafoss holds an interesting history: when Christianity was made the official religion of Iceland around the year 1000 by a lawmaker named Þorgeir, he is said to have taken his statues of the Norse gods and thrown them into the falls. Take that to your next trivia night at the pub.
6. Svartifoss
The defining feature of Svartifoss isn’t so much the actual waterfall as it is the striking backdrop made up of tall, hexagonal basalt columns that frames it. Just be sure to keep your distance – as tempting as it may be, the area around the falls is full of sharp and falling rocks ready to spoil your day out.
Kirkjufellfoss is not only beautiful, but it also happens to have one of Iceland’s most iconic mountains as its background, making it not only an awe-inspiring view to take in and appreciate, but an ideal spot for photographers wanting to capture one of this wonderland’s most unique and recognisable landmarks.
Feeling inspired, or not seeing your favourite waterfall? Let us know in the comments below!
