Search Results

A nice warm natural shower out in nature Laugarvellir is probably the best and most impressive natural geothermal pool in Iceland. The temperature in the pool, around 39 to 41 degrees Celsius, is perfect (although you should put your hand into the water and check the temperature before jumping in). If you are visiting Iceland's northeast region and looking for something to do, you must visit this fantastic place. Although situated at an altitude of approximately 600 meters in the Icelandic Highland, Laugarvellir is considerably green. It has more vegetation than usual and deceptively looks like a place 300 meters lower. In high contrast to most of the vast area surrounding the valley, you will find endless sand and spreads of volcanic ashes from the many eruptions from neighboring volcanos. The heat that comes from underground and the short distance to the sleeping magma produce heated water, which changes everything. This small creek at Laugarvellir farm is warm, and before merging with other streams, it falls down a small hill and forms a warm shower—a rather unusual shower. Map of Highland in Iceland The farming experiment that ended in disaster: Natural pool and shower at Laugavellir During hard times in Iceland's history, small farms developed near the Highland at a higher altitude. These were, of course, more complicated farms to cultivate than other good and valuable estates. One poor farmer built a house and moved to Laugarvellir in the beginning of the 20th century. This was rugged land to farm and proved a difficult place to stay during the whole year. The decision was devastating, and after only a few years, the farmer took his life. He and his wife were the only people that ever tried to live at Laugarvellir. Their houses are still standing. Easy access: Laugavellir naturlal pool and shower Access to Laugarvellir is quite simple, although a 4X4 vehicle is preferred. From the town of Egilsstaðir in the east, drive south on Road Nr. 1, i.e., the Ring Road. About seven kilometers south, turn to the west to Road Nr. 931 all the way over the bridge and take a turn to the south again on Road Nr. 933. Then, drive a short distance on Road Nr. 933 and turn to Road Nr. 910 and drive all the way to Hálslón, the new reservoir in Kárahnúkar. Once you pass the dam, the distance to Laugarvellir is only about seven kilometers. Since the road from Egilsstaðir to Hálslón is paved, you can drive a small car almost all the way to Laugarvellir. The rest, if you prefer, is a five-to-seven-kilometer hike. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Laugafell camping and natural pool in Highland in Iceland Driving a well-equipped 4X4 vehicle through the Icelandic Highland is an enthralling and probably once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people. Although a spectacular drive, the scenery is quite different from the exceptionally scenic drive in the east or west fjords. The Icelandic Highland is a place where you can drive for kilometers through black sands with a view of glaciers, rolling hills, and gray mountains with limited vegetation. However, fortunately, there are fascinating places in the Highland that we can even label as "oases," which are in striking contrast to the black sands, never-ending glaciers, muddy rivers, dusty gravel 4X4 tracks, and sandy mountains. One such place is Laugafell in the northern part of the highland road Sprengisandsleið. Map of Highland in Iceland A geothermal pool in the middle of nowhere: Laugafell is a great place for a stop in the Highland in Iceland On an island that is relatively young on the geological timeline and sits on magma, it is no surprise to find a warm geothermal pool here and there. At Laugafell, you will find one of the many fantastic geothermal pools located in the Icelandic Highland. The pool in Laugafell is one of the best and most impressive geothermal pools in Iceland. Not surprisingly, Laugafell draws a lot of visitors to the Highland. The temperature is perfect, and The Touring Club of Akureyri has built an excellent facility to make your visit as memorable as possible. Quarantine for the wealthy lady from Möðruvellir, her people, and stock: Laugafell camping Unlike many spots and places in the Icelandic Highland, Laugafell has been known to Icelanders for centuries. This could be attributed to the reasonably short distance from the lower inhabited areas north of Laugafell. Another reason could be the presence of vegetation and warm water. In fact, old folklore tells the story of a very wealthy woman that moved all her family, servants, and stock to Laugafell in the middle of the 14th century to avoid contamination from the severe black death plague. Apparently, this decision saved everyone as they stayed in a kind of quarantine while the plague killed over 100 million people worldwide. Access to Laugafell is not simple: At Laugafell is one of the best natural pools in Iceland As the Icelandic Highland is open only from the beginning of July until the middle of September, it defines the time you can visit Laugafell. If you are driving north on Sprengisandsleið (F26), you need to turn west on the mountain road F752 and follow that road. If you are in the northern part of Iceland, you drive from south of Akureyri on F821 up to the Highland. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Ljósárfjöll in the south part of the stunning Torfajökull caldera Iceland has in its offering numerous natural wonders worth visiting, seeing, and experiencing. Among the best known are waterfalls, hot springs, lagoons, basalt columns, geothermal pools, craters, canyons, and cliffs. Although not many mountains are on the list of natural wonders, there are several mountains and clusters of mountains that are highly interesting. Most of these are basalt mountains formed in an eruption when ice covered the island, and then we also have the colorful rhyolite mountains. One of the reasons that the Laugavegur hiking trail is so popular is that you walk through some very colorful rhyolite mountains within the Torfajökkull caldera for a large part of the trail. The starting point in Landmannalaugar is exceptionally colorful and most of the first day. This is the realm of rhyolite mountains. Map og Highland area in Iceland An interplay of hot springs and rhyolite: Ljósártungur Ljósártungur is a name for a relatively large area east of the hiking trail Laugavegur near Hrafntinnusker . Although the Ljósártungur mountains seem tempting, they are pretty difficult to trek as they have many ravines, gullies, and ridges. There are also numerous hot springs as well as small ice caves. The whole area is highly colorful and almost unreal. The mountains are located at an altitude of 800 to 1000 meters and, like most places in the Icelandic Highland, are covered with snow during winter. During summer, it usually doesn't get warm enough to melt all the snow from winter. Consequently, snowdrifts from the winter do not melt, adding the white color to the magnificent rhyolite color, the hazy smoke from the hot springs, the green mountain vegetation, and the blue sky—a perfect blend for a great photo. A difficult place to visit: Ljósárfjöll mountains Ljósártungur is a fascinating but challenging place to visit. Like almost all parts of the Icelandic highland, the area is only accessible from July until the middle of September. While driving on the mountain road Syðri Fjallabak, you can drive on a dirt road on a ridge in a modified 4X4 vehicle toward the edge of the southern part of the Torfajökull caldera east of the ford, the river crossing, at Markarfjljót river. Here you can get quite close to Ljósártungur and Ljósárfjöll mountains for a great experience and an excellent photograph with a superb view of the rhyolite mountains. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Markarfljótsgljúfur canyon Markarfljótsgljúfur, an awe-inspiring canyon located in the southern part of the Highland, is a hidden gem within Iceland's diverse and dramatic landscape. Renowned for its stunning beauty and distinctive geological features, this remarkable natural formation ranks among the country's most impressive canyons. Despite its captivating allure, Markarfljótsgljúfur remains relatively undiscovered by the public, enhancing its charm and pristine quality. Syðri Fjallabak remote part of the Highland The canyon is a vital component of the Highland Road Syðri Fjallabak, which serves as a gateway when entering the picturesque Fljótshlíð area from southern Iceland, particularly through the rugged terrain of Emstrur. The relatively remote location of Markarfljótsgljúfur is one of the primary reasons it has not yet become a bustling tourist hotspot. The journey to reach this hidden wonder is often challenging, as it is situated deep within the Icelandic Highland, characterized by its rugged landscapes, volcanic formations, and unpredictable weather patterns. Markarfljótsgljúfur a sizable canyon Although Markarfljótsgljúfur may not boast the title of the largest canyon in Iceland, it impressively reaches depths of up to 200 meters at its most profound point. This dramatic drop creates a striking visual contrast against the surrounding highlands, with steep cliffs that have been sculpted over millennia by the relentless forces of nature, including glacial meltwater and volcanic activity. The canyon stretches for approximately four kilometers, with its most popular and accessible section offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its stunning vistas. Everyone who hikes Laugavegur hiking trail will see Markarfljótsgljúfur This particular stretch of Markarfljótsgljúfur is also an integral part of the renowned hiking trail Laugavegur, which runs from the colorful geothermal area of Landmannalaugar to the lush valley of Þórsmörk. Hikers traversing this iconic route are afforded the unique opportunity to view the canyon from the east side, particularly when they choose to stay in the cozy mountain huts located in Emstrur. The combination of the canyon's natural beauty and the exhilarating hiking experience creates a memorable adventure for those who venture into this less-traveled part of Iceland. Markarfljótsgljúfur has beautiful surroundings With its captivating scenery, Markarfljótsgljúfur is not just a canyon; it is a testament to the raw and untamed beauty of the Icelandic Highland. The interplay of light and shadow on the canyon walls, coupled with the vibrant colors of the surrounding flora, offers a visual feast for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The serene atmosphere and the sounds of nature create a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the stunning environment. In summary, Markarfljótsgljúfur is a remarkable destination that deserves to be explored, revealing the hidden wonders of Iceland's natural landscape to those who are willing to seek it out. Map of Icelandic Highland Formed from a disaster Markarfljótsgljúfur The canyon is believed to have been created by a flood bursting from the Mýrdalsjökull glacier following the eruption of the famous volcano Katla under the glacier. Most floods caused by Katla erupting find their way to the east side of the glacier. Occasionally, like when Markarfljótsgljúfur was formed, the flood finds its way to the west. If this geological theory is correct, you will be amazed when looking at the canyon and imagining the enormous power a single flood can have and the devastation it can leave behind. This occurred about two thousand years ago, and other geological factors have contributed to the canyon since then, such as the stone continuing to be carved by the river Markarfljót. It is this river that gave the canyon a name. The river originates in the Torfajökull area. Like many rivers, it is fed by other rivers, streams, and surface water branches, but this particular river is quite significant in Icelandic social history and geological history. It is mentioned in one of the Sagas, Njáls Saga, and is one of the rivers that has greatly affected the south shore throughout centuries. Hard to access and requires a 4X4 Markarfljótsgljúfur and Mt. Hattfell in background You can access Markarfljótsgljúfur either by a hiking trail from Þórsmörk or on the mountain road Emstruleið F261. This is a challenging and rough mountain road with complicated and often dangerous rivers to cross, so it requires a well-equipped 4WD vehicle. Another way up is to find a good tour operator. To access the mountain road, take a left turn when coming from Reykjavík on the Ring Road by the village Hvolsvöllur to the Road Nr. 261. From Hvolsvöllur village, the drive is then about 50 kilometers. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Nýifoss or Leynifoss waterfall The waterfall Nýifoss, or "New waterfall," is relatively new because it was formed only decades ago and not centuries ago or even thousands of years ago like many natural wonders in Iceland. Nýifoss is sometimes referred to as Leynifoss or the Confidential Waterfall. According to geologists, the waterfall was formed in 1939 when water levels in Lake Hagavatn decreased substantially due to a flood from the glacier Langjokull. The lake changed dramatically between 1929 and 1939, and then a part of its eastern side collapsed due to the glacial flood, giving birth to the waterfall Nýifoss. Although Nýifoss is hardly one of our most beautiful waterfalls, it is interesting because it is rather different from most waterfalls people like to visit. Map of Iceland Highland Comparing Nýifoss to other waterfalls I love photographing the harsh environment close to Leynifoss waterfall In addition to being not as well known, Nýifoss is situated in a sandy, gray landscape. A large area around the waterfall and Lake Hagavatn is almost devoid of vegetation, giving it a unique look. On the northern side of the lake, the landform meets the southern edge of the glacier Langjökull. On all other sides is either sand or raw lava. Because the water is 100% glacial, it is colored with mud, clay, ash, dirt, and all kinds of soil that the melting ice carries from under the glacier. All the banks of the lake are harsh and without vegetation, like in a desert or on the moon, but with a lot of water. Access is not easy and requires a 4X4 Nýifoss is situated in a sandy, gray landscape Nýifoss is not far from Gullfoss, sometimes referred to as Iceland's most spectacular waterfall. Continue north on Kjalvegur Nr. 35 from Gullfoss, drive 10 kilometers and turn left (west) to Hagavatnsvegur Nr. F35. Like many F roads in Iceland that are mountain roads, this road requires a well-equipped 4X4 vehicle. We recommend you stop in the parking lot in front of the waterfall and walk the last few hundred meters up the track by the waterfall. There is no point in driving up the steep and challenging part of the track up to the lake. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Nýidalur is conveniently located in the middle of the Sprengisandur Road If one place can claim the title of being in the middle or center of the Icelandic Highlands, it is Nýidalur or New Valley. You must visit this place if you choose to drive your rental car or your 4x4 [A1] through the Icelandic Highlands Road Sprengisandur between the southern and the northern regions. You should seriously consider stopping for a night or two in the mountain cabins or camping area there, although you should probably keep in mind that the altitude is 1.100 meters, and it is rarely warm in the middle of the Highlands. Map of Highland in Iceland How New Valley gained its name Nýidalur is a fascinating place to hike For centuries, there was a suspicion among farmers in the northern region of Iceland, around the valley Bárðardalur and in Eyjafjörður, that deep in the Highland was an area with considerable vegetation. This was supposedly a place where sheep would wander, but it was too far and too deep for farmers to go and herd their sheep in the autumn. These beliefs would also entail stories about outlaws living in unusually pleasant conditions as if in an oasis. So in 1843 and 1844, three men traveled from Bárðadalur to explore this place. To their surprise, there actually was considerable vegetation in the middle of the enormous black desert of Sprengisandur. They then came to a valley they named New Valley, a moniker that has stuck with Nýidalur ever since. A plethora of interesting hiking options The right gear and clothing are always essential when hiking in Iceland Nýidalur is conveniently located in the middle of the Sprengisandur Road, or Road F26. It is an ideal place to stop when driving this Highland Road. Not only can you take part in some exciting hiking tours, but you can also drive along the 4X4 track northeast of the tiny glacier Tungnafellsjokull and take the exotic hiking path to the geothermal area near Vonarskarð. After all, Nýidalur is not a place you want to drive through in a hurry, although everything seems cold and black. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Ófærufoss waterfall in Eldgjá canyon in Iceland The waterfall Ófærufoss (the "impassable" waterfall) is one of several interesting waterfalls in the Highlands of Iceland. It is a waterfall you don't want to miss if you are traveling in the country, and waterfalls are on your list of things to see. It is a waterfall in the course of the river Nyðri-Ófæra or "the impassable northern river." Not only is it a beautiful and impressive fall, but probably one of the ten most exciting waterfalls in Iceland. The river is fed by springs and runoff water in the area, so it has quite a volume year-round, and as it lacks contribution from glaciers and glacial water, it is usually clean and clear. Placed in the great fissure Eldgjá, or Canyon of Fire, it is one of the main attractions in the Highlands. The canyon Eldgjá, a 40 km long eruptive fissure, is a geological phenomenon and one of the largest and longest in Iceland, formed by an eruption around the time of the first human settlement in Iceland around the year 930 AD. There is a ranger and a small service center in the parking lot , and the hike from the parking lot to the waterfall is about an hour. You can also view it from a distance or walk up to an observation panel. So, it is definitely worth it to spend two to three hours in Eldgjá and by Ófærufoss. Map of Icelandic Highland - Home of Ófærufoss A short and stunning hike to the waterfall Ófærufoss waterfall Where we find Ófærufoss is the most beautiful part of the fissure and the most interesting as both the canyon and the waterfall are stunning. The canyon is around 600 meters wide and 200 meters tall. Before 1993, the waterfall was even more attractive, with an arch bridge across the lower cascade. However, in 1993, the arch collapsed in a regular spring thaw that proved extensive. How to reach Ófærufoss Ófærufoss waterfall Access to the canyon is a little tricky, and the area is only accessible from the middle of June until late September as the Highland roads are closed in the winter. From Route 1 in southern Iceland, turn north on Route 208 located about 20 kilometers west of the small village Kirkjubæjarklaustur. After a short drive, this road changes into a mountain road F203, Fjallabaksleið nyrðri (the northern track behind the mountains). A 25-kilometer drive on this road will take you straight to the mouth of Eldgjá, which houses the waterfall. A few kilometers before you arrive at the parking lot for Eldgjá, you need to drive over a river that can be difficult to pass, so be cautious. There are two and a half to three kilometers to walk from the parking lot, depending on how near the waterfall you want to go. Before you drive to the parking lot passing the river, you can take a turn to Gjátindur. This road definitely requires a well-equipped 4x4 as you drive up and by the canyon's rim. Here, you get an impressive view of Eldgjá and Ófærufoss. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland

Rauðfossakvísl the source, the springfed river Every river, creek, and stream begins somewhere, a source. Hiking along a river or stream towards a source is often an exciting and rewarding experience. Often, the source is hidden under a glacier, comes from a lake, from under a ground of black sand, or even spread over a vast moorland. But sometimes, you can actually see the source floating from a mountain slope or running out from under a lava field. Irrespective of the type, it is always a captivating sight. Occasionally, you can even find a place where beautiful, clear, and clean water flows from below as a spring and feeding a creek or a river. This is the case in the Rauðfossafjöll mountains and of the small river Rauðfossakvísl. Map of Highland in Iceland The beautiful spring at Rauðfossafjöll The stunning landscape when hiking around Rauðfossakvísl In the Rauðfossafjöll mountains, you will find one such source, a rare spring forming a beautiful pound. And even when you look through the surface from above, it looks even more mystical and strange as the hole at the bottom of the spring leaves an eerie feeling that someone is living there. It may seem like a Gollum-like creature will crawl to the surface at any time, only adding to the magic of the surrounding nature. The small waterfall close to the source Rauðfossakvísl Adding to the sight and mystical nature of the spring is the red floor to the floating water, the river Rauðfossakvísl that runs from the source. The bottom is a deep orange, almost red, for the first three to four hundred meters, which is very unusual. This is truly one of the most fascinating phenomena in the Icelandic landscape. It is also a great place to hike with children if you are on a family vacation in Iceland. Take great care and caution in this sensitive area The Rauðfossakvísl source But beware if you intend to find and visit Rauðfossafjöll, it is a natural phenomenon and a treasure only intended for viewing so avoid waling close to the source or into the riverbed. Moreover, it is only possible to visit here from the end of June until the middle of September, much like all other places in the Highlands of Iceland. In other seasons, the surrounding area is more or less covered with snow and extremely difficult to navigate. The river leading to Rauðfoss (also with a red bed) has highly sensitive surroundings and vegetation, so walking by the river is a bad idea. There is enough room on the banks and the land a bit higher, and from there, the river is a joy to view with its odd color and the noon green “dýjamosi” moss stretching from the waterfall to the source. So be careful and enjoy it from a distance. The riverbed of Rauðfossakvísl You can hike to Rauðfossakvísl by turning north from Route 1 to Route 26 along the south shore. When you reach F225, turn right or west and drive about 24 kilometers until you see a sign that reads "Krakatindar." Then, turn by that sight, and in a few hundred meters, you will find a parking lot. From there, you can hike the path to Rauðfossakvísl, which takes about two to three hours. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Rauðfoss waterfall Rauðfoss (Red Waterfall) is a unique waterfall, albeit not often counted among major natural wonders. Located a short hike from the mountain road Nyrðri Fjallabak, the Dómadalur track leading to the more famous Landmannalaugar, it is a place only a few people stop by. Like the Dynjandi waterfall in the Westfjords, it takes on the form of a veil, falling in a beautiful stream and stretching out on both sides as it reaches the ground. Rauðfoss derives its name from the mountain behind the waterfall, which is adorned with red or orange hues. The waterfall is part of the river Rauðufossakvísl, which originates in the mystical source Rauðfossakvíls in the Rauðufossafjöll mountains. This is also what makes Rauðfoss unique. The waterfall is about 60-meter high and, indeed, is an impressive sight surrounded by captivating landscapes. Map of Highland of Iceland home of Rauðfoss waterfall A refreshing and relatively easy hike: Rauðfoss waterfall at Fjallabak Nyrðri Highland in Iceland When driving Dómadalsleið or Nyrðri Fjallabak mountain road coming from the west by Búrfell mountain, you will notice a sign "Rauðufossafjöll" about 24 kilometers into the road. The turn will lead you to a parking lot only minutes away from the mountain road F225. From the parking lot starts an old dirt road that is forbidden and illegal to drive. Today, it serves as a walking path to Rauðfoss. The walk takes about 30 minutes, and although the waterfall is visible from the main road, you will start to see it only after you trek toward the top of the first hill. Rauðfoss needs to be seen up close if you really want to enjoy its true beauty. This is especially true for photographers. Finding your way to Rauðfoss: Rauðfoss waterfall in spring When you drive from Reykjavík, you find your way to Dómadalsleið on Nyrðri Fjallabak mountain road. We recommend renting a good 4X4 vehicle if you intend to drive a mountain road in Iceland. On the southern part of the Ring Road, look out for the road Landvegur (Road Nr. 26) after you pass the bridge on the mighty river Þjórsá. You need to drive approximately 50 kilometers north on Landvegur, and by the mountain Búrfell, you take a right turn on Dómadalsleið (Road Nr. 225). Another 24 kilometers will take you to the sign "Rauðufossafjöll" on the south side, the right side coming from Búrfell. Now revel in the charm of the place, but be careful as the vegetation in the Icelandic Highland is very sensitive If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Sigöldufoss waterfall Sigöldufoss waterfall is one of those strange beasts in the Icelandic landscape that has been transformed by an enormous engineering project. For hundreds and thousands of years, the waterfall was part of the glacial river Tungnaá, where a large volume of glacial water forced its way downstream, carrying with it all the mud, ashes, dirt, small rocks, and a load of other substances to the shore. However, when Sigalda Power Plant was installed some decades ago, the glacial water was diverted from the river into a tunnel to drive the hydroelectric turbines to produce electricity. What was left was a small river (compared to the enormous force from the glacial river) of spring water, and this part of the river mainly became a spring water stream. Map of Highland in Iceland home of Sigöldufoss waterfall Changes to the waterfall: Sigöldufoss waterfall in winter Although the former waterfall was quite impressive as the vast volume fell six meters, it could be argued that it is much more beautiful today. The water is less, but clear. After probably thousands of years of a mighty glacial river falling off the cliffs, a deep place formed in front of the waterfall. Today this translates into a water body with turquoise blue color, which bestows the waterfall and its environment an extra charm. And with the green vegetation and the cliffs and the canyon, the place became a beautiful little natural wonder, almost as if the power plant took it through a cosmetic remake.Consequently, we got an incredible waterfall that was a joy to view in the process. For those who would like to see the former waterfall, the power plant needs maintenance every 20 years or so; at that time, the glacial river is reunited with the waterfall. The last maintenance was in 2009. Although in the Highland, Sigöldufoss is quite accessible: Sigoldufoss An asphalt road that goes farthest into the Icelandic Highland to Hrauneyjar and Sigölduvirkjun Power Plant is right next door to the waterfall. Therefore, it is relatively easy to visit, even into October. This makes access to Sigöldufoss quite simple. On the Ring Road Nr. 1, you take a turn north on Landvegur (Road Nr. 26). After about 63 kilometers, you take a left turn on Sprengisandsleið (F26). Then, after 22 kilometers, you take a right turn on the Nyrðri Fjallabaksleið (F208) and stop a few kilometers farther between the bridges; you can't miss the waterfall on this route. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!

Sigöldugljúfur canyon Fjallabak in Iceland Sigöldugljúfur canyon, known as the Valley of Tears by tourists, is an enchanting small canyon nestled in the Icelandic Highland. This extraordinary natural wonder boasts small spring-fed streams, crystal clear waterfalls, and a blue river, all surrounded by colorful vegetation and fascinating cliffs. Its beauty is so mesmerizing that it could easily be a setting in an adventure story or a sci-fi movie. With its fairytale-like charm and otherworldly allure, Sigöldugljúfur has all the makings of a popular destination. Previously a hidden gem due to tricky access, a new road constructed in 2021 now allows most 4X4 cars to reach this picturesque location. A stop at Sigöldugljúfur is a must for photographers and visitors heading to Landmannalaugar via the Sigalda track. This photogenic canyon offers endless opportunities for capturing unique perspectives and presenting its scenery in new and surprising ways. Map of Highland in Iceland home of Sigöldugljúfur Although fascinating, there is a drawback: Sigöldugljúfur in winter One of the reasons the canyon has not been popular among visitors, in addition to difficult access, is significant changes in the landscape surrounding the canyon, owing to the modifications made by the Sigalda Power Plant project. Thus, it is a gem burdened by all the changes brought about by the power plant project and other man-made interferences. So, like other similar natural wonders that have been affected by a similar project, there is always the danger that the muddy water from the glacial river will again float through the canyon when the reservoir for the project fills up. Therefore, it can be dangerous to hike to the bottom of the canyon. But apart from that, it is a fascinating and beautiful canyon. You will get the most spectacular view if you stop by the parking lot on the east side of the canyon. I have walked around it to the bottom and photographed it from almost any possible angle; nothing beats the perspective from this side. The best access is when you come down the Sigalda hill: Sigöldugljúfur canyon and Tungnaá river Although today the canyon has become easily accessible, the small hillock Sigalda still provides as the best access. The hillock is located along Road Nr. 208 and arrives a few minutes after you turn south from Road Nr. 26, which leads to Sprengisandur road. Road Nr. 208 is part of Nyrðri Fjallabaksleið track and is one of two entrances that will lead you to Landmannalaugar from the west side. Sigöldugljúfur is easily accessible when you drive down the slope of the small hillock Sigalda and turn left immediately while coming down the hill. It is good to park the car near the interception and walk the short distance to the canyon if you want to enjoy a short hike along the canyon. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip! Sigöldugljúfur on the map of Iceland

Silfurfoss waterfall The name "Silfurfoss waterfall" (somtimes also called Huldufoss) is almost unknown, as it is still an unofficial name but the most common refference to this waterfall. The name "Silfurfoss" or "Silver waterfall" refers to the mighty Gullfoss—the waterfall of gold—the most famous waterfall in Iceland. Like many visitors who visit the Silfurfoss waterfall experience, there is a certain resemblance between the two. However, Silfurfoss does not have as many visitors as Gullfoss, which is one of the major attractions in Iceland. Nevertheless, Silfurfoss, the surrounding area, and the relatively short hiking trail could be a fantastic choice for those who seek to stay out of mainstream tourism and experience the wonders of unexplored nature quietly and peacefully. Map of Highland of Iceland Located near the camping site Hólaskjól: The waterfall is part of the river Syðri Ófæra Silfurfoss is situated in the Highland and part of the Fjallabak Nyrðri highland drive. It is located at the edge of the Icelandic Highland near Hólaskjól. The camping site marks the beginning of one of Iceland's most popular Highland roads—Nyrðri Fjallabaksleið—which marks one of the entrances to the Highland. The waterfall is part of the river Syðri Ófæra, a fascinating river that originates much higher in the Highland at Syrði Fjallabak and the Torfajökull glacier area. By Silfurfoss, the river runs through a small fissure, which is located near the hiking trail. It is a beautiful place to take an evening or morning hike when you plan to drive Nyrðri Fjallabaksleið and a wonderful place to take children, although caution is recommended when near the waterfall. Moreover, there are other cracks and fissures nearby with unusual basalt column formations. It will undoubtedly be a great addition to your tour and a relaxing hike, even though the waterfall is not a mainstream attraction like Gullfoss. However, the name "Silfurfoss" is becoming better known and will probably be the name that will stick to this waterfall. How to get to Silfurfoss waterfall and Hólaskjól: Hólaskjól hut and campsite If you plan to visit Silfurfoss or Hólaskjól, you should plan to drive Nyrðri Fjallabak. The best way to access the road to Hólaskjól is from the Ring Road, some 23 kilometers west of the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Here, you take a turn north on Road Nr. 208 and drive approximately 16 kilometers until you take a left turn and enter Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri (F208). You need to go about 20 kilometers on this road to reach the Hólaskjól camping site and Silfurfoss waterfall. And remember, Hólaskjól is an excellent place to camp overnight, as the camping site has superb facilities and magnificent landscape and surroundings. If  you're planning to tour Iceland in a  rental car , make sure to  read this article  about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!