There is no place in the world like Iceland. The Nordic island is a showcase for all of Earth’s most stunning and surreal natural wonders, from volcanoes and glaciers, to hot springs and black sand beaches. In fact, it’s almost like setting foot on a whole new planet, but likely for us all, Iceland is immensely accessible for vast exploration.
One of the defining features of Icelandic geography are the abundance of waterfalls.
There are over 100 waterfalls across the country, and each ‘foss’ is significant in its own way.
Starting in the Golden Circle route, the first waterfall you’ll spot is the main attraction of Thingvellir National Park, Oxararfoss. This man-made construct was built in the Middle Ages to form a sacred meeting place, and that with the basalt rock formations at the fall’s base and the surrounding canyon provide a solid introduction to the amazing waterfalls to come.
The golden star of the Golden Circle is the magnificent and powerful Gullfoss in the canyon of Hvita River. Viewed from over and above, the misty gust of Gullfoss has enough force to blow you right into the plunging, raging waters. It’s also a symbol of environmental activism, as in the early 20th century, Sigríður Tómasdóttir protested against the building of a hydroelectric power plant, which led to the protection of the waterfall as a nature reserve for visitors to admire and enjoy for centuries to come.
At Katla Geopark, you can walk around and behind Seljalandsfoss for a behind the curtains view of the cascading falls and the green meadows beyond. Just a short hike away, explorers can follow a trail through a narrow canyon, climb into a cave, and stand on top of a boulder to pose underneath the falls of the hidden gem Gljufrafoss.
Situated at Skoga River is the remarkable Skogafoss, one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls at a width of 50 feet and a drop of 200 feet. On sunny days, a single or double rainbow are known to magically appear, making Skogafoss a photographer’s dream. While you’re there, be sure to climb the steps up the cliff for a scenic hike up top with even more amazing views.
A worthy stop on your way to the glacier lagoons is Svartifoss of Skaftafell, Vatnajokull National Park. Surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns formed by dark lava, the dramatic black fall is truly unreal sight to behold. This geological wonder was the inspiration for the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church in Iceland’s capital of Reykjavik.
Inspired to go chasing waterfalls throughout Iceland? Here is a selection of photographs of the cascading falls as mentioned.
All photographs courtesy of Elizabeth Rosalyn The unless otherwise stated.
The Hudsucker 
Trackbacks/Pingbacks
[…] Continue reading on The Hudsucker… […]