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Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, the country’s largest town, its political center, its cultural center, and the place where most visitors begin or end their journey. It is called a city, but compared with large cities in Europe or North America, it often feels more like a small town with national responsibilities. That contrast is one of the things that makes Reykjavík interesting. It has the government, parliament, universities, museums, concert halls, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, festivals, and international airport connections of a capital, but it still has short distances, low buildings, visible mountains, a working harbor, quiet residential streets, and a strong relationship with the sea. The municipality of Reykjavík had 139,804 inhabitants on 1 January 2026, according to Statistics Iceland. The wider Reykjavík capital region is much larger and includes neighboring municipalities such as Kópavogur, Hafnarfjörður, Garðabær, Mosfellsbær, and Seltjarnarnes. Visit Reykjavík describes the capital region as Iceland’s largest and most populous urban area, with about 249,000 residents in 2025, roughly 64% of the country’s population. This means that Reykjavík is not only the capital in a formal sense. It is the center of daily life, government, culture, business, education, and services for most people in Iceland. For visitors, Reykjavík is more than a stopover before the “real Iceland” begins. It is part of the Icelandic story. The city stands on the shore of Faxaflói bay, with Mount Esja across the water, the old harbor at its center, geothermal swimming pools in its neighborhoods, and lava fields, birdlife, coastal paths, and mountains never far away. It is a city where you can walk from the Parliament House to the harbor, from Harpa to Hallgrímskirkja, from the old center to a swimming pool, from a restaurant to the shoreline, and still feel the surrounding nature pressing gently against the urban landscape. City Hall in Reykjavík by the pond Reykjavík at a glance Reykjavík is located in southwest Iceland, on the southern shore of Faxaflói bay. It is the northernmost capital of a sovereign state and the center of Iceland’s government, culture, and urban life. The city is divided into ten districts: Vesturbær, Miðborg, Hlíðar, Laugardalur, Háaleiti og Bústaðir, Breiðholt, Árbær, Grafarvogur, Kjalarnes, and Grafarholt-Úlfarsárdalur. Reykjavík City’s own neighborhood information lists these ten districts, while Statistics Iceland identifies Breiðholt as the most populous district in 2025 and Kjalarnes as the smallest by population. For most visitors, the most important areas are Miðborg, the old city center; Vesturbær, the western residential district with the harbor, university area, and Grandi nearby; Laugardalur, with its swimming pool, botanical garden, and family attractions; and the harbourfront around Harpa and the old harbor. But Reykjavík is more than 101 Reykjavík. The outer districts show how the city expanded during the twentieth century from a compact coastal town into a modern capital. Reykjavík from the settlement period Reykjavík is one of the most important places in Icelandic settlement history. According to Icelandic tradition, Ingólfur Arnarson, widely regarded as the first permanent Norse settler in Iceland, settled in Reykjavík around the late ninth century. Ingólfur arrived in 870 and named the place where Reykjavík now stands, and archaeological discoveries in the center of the city support the importance of this area in the earliest settlement period. The old story says that Ingólfur threw his high-seat pillars into the sea and settled where they came ashore. Whether the story is read as literal history, symbolic origin myth, or a mixture of both, it has shaped Reykjavík’s identity. The city’s modern logo still refers to Ingólfur’s pillars rising from the waves, showing how deeply the settlement story remains connected to the capital’s self-image. For visitors who want to understand this early history, the most important place is Aðalstræti. The Settlement Exhibition at Aðalstræti 16 preserves the remains of a tenth-century Viking longhouse discovered in 2001. North of the longhouse, archaeologists found a wall fragment dating from before 871, making it one of the oldest archaeological remains in Iceland. The exhibition connects the settlement period to the later development of Reykjavík from farm to village, town, and capital. This is one of the best places to begin a visit to Reykjavík. It reminds visitors that the city did not begin as a grand capital. It began as a farm settlement by the sea. Skólavörðustígur shopping street in Reykjavík From farms to town For centuries, Reykjavík remained small. Farms were scattered across the area where the city now stands, including places such as Laugarnes and Nes by Seltjörn. Víkurkirkja stood near the town as early as around 1200, but true urban development did not begin until much later. Before the eighteenth century, Reykjavík was not a city in the modern sense. It was a rural coastal area with farms, fishing, scattered buildings, and local activity. The major turning point came in the eighteenth century with Innréttingarnar, an attempt to establish the wool industry and manufacturing in Reykjavík. This industrial effort helped Reykjavík begin to look more like a small village. In 1786, Reykjavík received town rights after the abolition of the Danish trade monopoly. The same year, several Icelandic trading places received town privileges, but Reykjavík gradually became the one that mattered most. This is important for visitors because Reykjavík’s historic center is young compared with many European capitals. You do not walk through medieval city walls, Roman ruins, or Renaissance squares. Instead, Reykjavík tells a different story: a small settlement becoming a town, then a national center, then a modern capital in a very short historical period. Reykjavík is the center of government Reykjavík became the center of Icelandic political life in the nineteenth century. Alþingi, the Icelandic parliament, was re-established in Reykjavík in 1845 after having been discontinued as a national legislative body. In 1881, Alþingishúsið, the Parliament House, was inaugurated at Austurvöllur square. The official Alþingi history states that the building was constructed in 1880–81 from hewn basalt from Skólavörðuholt, the hill where Hallgrímskirkja now stands. Since 1881, all meetings of Alþingi have been held there, except for special ceremonial meetings at Þingvellir. For visitors, Austurvöllur is one of the most meaningful places in Reykjavík. It is not only a square with cafés and a statue of Jón Sigurðsson. It is the symbolic front yard of Icelandic democracy. Parliament House, Reykjavík Cathedral, and nearby government buildings place politics, religion, history, and public life within a very small urban space. This compactness is typical of Reykjavík. The main institutions of government are not hidden in a distant administrative district. They are part of the walkable city center. You can stand in Austurvöllur, look at Parliament House, walk a short distance to City Hall by Tjörnin, continue to the old harbor, and understand how small and concentrated Iceland’s capital has remained. The districts of Reykjavík Reykjavík has ten official districts. Understanding them helps visitors understand how the city grew. Miðborg is the old center, the historic and commercial heart of Reykjavík. This is where visitors find Austurvöllur, Parliament House, Reykjavík Cathedral, City Hall, Tjörnin, Aðalstræti, Laugavegur, Skólavörðustígur, Harpa, and much of the city’s restaurant and nightlife scene. Miðborg is compact, walkable, and layered with history. Vesturbær developed west of the old center and has long been one of Reykjavík’s most attractive residential areas. It includes old neighborhood streets, the university area, the National Museum, the coastline toward Ægisíða, and the route toward Grótta in neighboring Seltjarnarnes. It also connects naturally with the old harbor and Grandi, which has become one of the most interesting food, design, and harbor districts in the city. Hlíðar lies east and southeast of the old center and includes important residential areas around Hlemmur, Miklabraut and the streets leading toward Kringlan and Perlan. It reflects Reykjavík’s twentieth-century expansion and has a mixture of older houses, apartment blocks, schools, services, and traffic corridors. Laugardalur is one of the most useful districts for visitors who want to see everyday Reykjavík life. It includes Laugardalslaug, one of the city’s major swimming pools, as well as sports facilities, the botanical garden, the family park and zoo, and open green areas. It is not as old as Miðborg, but it is central to modern Reykjavík. Háaleiti og Bústaðir developed largely as a residential and service district during Reykjavík’s modern expansion. It includes important urban infrastructure, shopping areas, schools and neighborhoods that show the city’s post-war growth away from the old harbor center. Breiðholt is Reykjavík’s most populous district according to Statistics Iceland’s 2025 district figures. It developed largely in the second half of the twentieth century and is often misunderstood by visitors because it is outside the classic tourist center. Yet Breiðholt is important for understanding modern Reykjavík: apartment neighborhoods, schools, immigrant communities, green spaces, and the everyday life of a growing capital. Árbær was developed on the eastern side of Reykjavík and connects the city to Elliðaárdalur, one of Reykjavík’s most valuable green river valleys. The Árbær Open Air Museum is one of the best places for visitors to understand older Icelandic buildings and daily life. Grafarvogur expanded as a large suburban district in the late twentieth century. It has residential neighborhoods, schools, coastal areas, parks, and family life. It shows Reykjavík’s shift from a compact center to a broader car-based city. Grafarholt-Úlfarsárdalur is one of the newer eastern districts, with recent residential development, open views, and proximity to the edge of the city. It reflects Reykjavík’s ongoing growth and the tension between expansion, planning, transport, and access to nature. Kjalarnes is the most rural district of Reykjavík and the smallest by population. It became part of Reykjavík in 1998 and gives the capital something unusual: farms, open land, mountain slopes, and a countryside character within the municipal boundary. Statistics Iceland identified Kjalarnes as Reykjavík’s least populous district in 2025. For visitors, the lesson is simple: Reykjavík is not only downtown. The city center is the best starting point, but the districts explain how the capital developed from settlement ground to trading town, from small town to post-war city, and from city to metropolitan region. Democracy and freedom of expression go hand in hand, and Icelanders don't hesitate to express their discontent about policies and actions of the government in front of the parliament, Alþingi Architecture in Reykjavík Reykjavík’s architecture reflects Iceland’s unusual urban history. The city does not have the monumental old stone architecture of European capitals. Its oldest urban buildings are modest, and many of its most characteristic houses are timber buildings clad in corrugated iron. This material, practical and weather-resistant, became one of Reykjavík’s defining visual features in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The colorful corrugated houses of the old center and Vesturbær are now part of the city’s charm, but they began as practical solutions in a windy, wet, northern climate. The city also has important stone and concrete public buildings. Parliament House, built of Icelandic basalt, is one of the most important nineteenth-century buildings in the country. The Government Offices on Lækjargata occupy an older stone building originally constructed as a prison between 1761 and 1771, and now serves as the office of the Government of Iceland. Hallgrímskirkja is the most famous architectural landmark in Reykjavík. It stands on Skólavörðuholt and dominates the skyline. The church was designed by state architect Guðjón Samúelsson, who began designing it in 1937 and used Icelandic forms and materials as part of his search for a national architectural expression. Harpa Concert Hall is the modern counterpart to Hallgrímskirkja. It stands by the harbor and has become one of the central symbols of contemporary Reykjavík. Harpa’s own website describes it as one of Reykjavík’s main landmarks and a center of culture and social life in the heart of the city, standing prominently by the harbor. Together, Hallgrímskirkja and Harpa tell a story. Hallgrímskirkja looks inward to landscape, basalt, national identity, and twentieth-century ambition. Harpa looks outward to the harbor, glass, music, design, international culture, and the post-crash rebuilding of confidence. Between them lies the old center, with its smaller houses, government buildings, shops, restaurants, and streets. The city center The city center is the natural starting point for most visitors. It is small enough to walk, varied enough to explore slowly, and full of historical meaning. Laugavegur remains the best-known shopping and nightlife street. Skólavörðustígur connects Laugavegur to Hallgrímskirkja and has become one of the most attractive walking streets in the city, with design shops, cafés, galleries, and views toward the church. Austurvöllur is the political heart. Tjörnin gives the center softness, birdlife, and reflection. City Hall stands by the lake. Aðalstræti connects the visitor to the settlement period. The old harbor and Grandi connect Reykjavík to fishing, whale watching, food halls, design, museums, and maritime history. Harpa and the waterfront create the modern northern edge of the city center. The best way to experience Reykjavík is not to rush from landmark to landmark. It is to walk. Start at Hallgrímskirkja, walk down Skólavörðustígur, continue along Laugavegur, turn toward Austurvöllur, visit Aðalstræti, walk to the old harbor, continue to Harpa, and then follow the shoreline toward the Sun Voyager and Höfði. In a few hours, you pass through religion, commerce, parliament, settlement history, harbor life, architecture, sculpture, and sea views. Culture, museums, and music Reykjavík is a cultural city out of proportion to its size. It has museums, theatres, galleries, festivals, concerts, book culture, design, nightlife, and a strong music scene. Reykjavík is known for its devotion to arts and culture, with many options for visitors despite the relatively small size of the capital area. For history, the Settlement Exhibition and the National Museum are essential. For art, Reykjavík Art Museum is especially important because it operates in three locations: Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, and Ásmundarsafn. The City of Reykjavík describes the museum as a progressive art museum with these three locations, regularly showing works connected to Erró, Kjarval, and Ásmundur Sveinsson. For natural history and city views, Perlan is one of the strongest visitor attractions. It stands on Öskjuhlíð hill, built around hot-water tanks, with a glass dome and a wraparound observation deck. Perlan describes its observation deck as giving a 360° view over Reykjavík and the surrounding area. Harpa is the center of major concerts and events. Smaller venues, bars, and clubs keep live music close to the street. Reykjavík is one of those cities where culture is not only found in large institutions. It is also in cafés, bookshops, swimming pools, small galleries, record shops, restaurants, street art, and informal conversations. Swimming pools and everyday Reykjavík One of the best ways for visitors to understand Reykjavík is to visit a swimming pool. The geothermal pool is not simply a leisure facility. It is part of everyday Icelandic social life. People go before work, after work, with children, alone, with friends, for exercise, conversation, hot tubs, and routine. Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug, and Sundhöll Reykjavíkur are among the best-known pools for visitors. Sundhöllin is especially useful for those staying downtown. Vesturbæjarlaug gives a strong local neighborhood feeling. Laugardalslaug is larger and connected to the sports and recreation character of Laugardalur. A swimming pool visit often tells you more about Reykjavík than a souvenir shop. It shows the city as residents use it. Food, restaurants, and cafés Reykjavík’s food culture has changed enormously in recent decades. Iceland once had a limited food tradition shaped by isolation, poverty, preservation methods, fish, lamb, dairy, and harsh conditions. Today, the city has a varied restaurant scene with excellent seafood, lamb, bakery culture, international cooking, cafés, fine dining, casual food halls, and increasingly diverse influences from people who have moved to Iceland. The old harbor and Grandi are especially good for food-oriented visitors. The city center has restaurants ranging from casual to expensive. Hlemmur has changed from an old bus-station area into a lively food and neighborhood hub. Good coffee is easy to find, and bakeries remain important to the rhythm of daily life. The best Reykjavík food experience is not only about luxury. It can be a fish dish by the harbor, a simple bakery stop, soup on a cold day, ice cream in bad weather, or coffee after a winter walk. Harpa concert hall and conference center in Reykjavík in the City Center Nature inside and around the city Reykjavík is not separated from nature. It is built into it. The sea is visible from many places. Esja frames the northern horizon. Tjörnin sits in the center. Elliðaárdalur brings a salmon river and green valley into the eastern part of the city. Öskjuhlíð offers woodland paths around Perlan. The shoreline walk from Harpa toward Höfði and beyond gives views over Faxaflói bay. For birdlife, the coast and Tjörnin are important. For walking, Ægisíða, Grótta in Seltjarnarnes, Elliðaárdalur, and the paths around Öskjuhlíð are excellent. For northern lights, Reykjavík is not ideal because of city lights, but on a good night, it is sometimes possible from darker coastal spots, especially toward Grótta, Seltjarnarnes, or other open areas facing away from the strongest lights. This closeness to nature is one of Reykjavík’s defining qualities. You can be in a restaurant downtown and half an hour later be standing by the sea watching the weather move across the bay. What to do in Reykjavík A good first day in Reykjavík should include Hallgrímskirkja, Skólavörðustígur, Laugavegur, Austurvöllur, Parliament House, Tjörnin, Aðalstræti, the old harbor, Harpa, and the waterfront. That gives a compact but meaningful introduction to the city. A second day can go deeper: the National Museum, the Settlement Exhibition, Reykjavík Art Museum, Perlan, Laugardalur, a swimming pool, and a longer coastal walk. Families may enjoy Laugardalur, Perlan, whale watching, the harbor area, and swimming pools. Visitors interested in design should explore Skólavörðustígur, Grandi, Hafnartorg, and smaller independent shops. Those interested in politics and history should spend more time around Austurvöllur, Alþingishúsið, Reykjavík Cathedral, City Hall, and the National Museum. Reykjavík is also a practical base for day tours: the Golden Circle, Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon area, South Coast tours, whale watching, northern lights tours in winter, and sometimes even longer Highland or glacier trips depending on season and conditions. But the city itself deserves time. Where to stay For first-time visitors, staying in or near Miðborg is usually the best choice. It allows walking to restaurants, museums, harbor tours, shopping streets, and major landmarks. Vesturbær is also excellent, especially for visitors who prefer a quieter residential feel near the center and harbor. Laugardalur can be good for families and those who want swimming pools, green space, and easier parking. The wider capital area can be practical for travelers with rental cars, but visitors should understand that Reykjavík’s center is where much of the cultural and historical experience is concentrated. The best area depends on the purpose of the trip. For nightlife and restaurants, stay central. For quiet walking and local life, Vesturbær is very attractive. For families, Laugardalur and some outer areas can work well. For pure convenience at the beginning or end of a trip, central Reykjavík remains the strongest choice. Reykjavík in winter and summer Reykjavík changes strongly with the seasons. Summer brings long daylight, outdoor seating, walking, festivals, harbor activity, and easy movement around the city. Winter brings darkness, Christmas lights, pools, museums, restaurants, concerts, and the possibility of northern lights. Spring and autumn are often underrated, with fewer visitors and beautiful light, although the weather can be unpredictable. Visitors should not expect stable weather in any season. Reykjavík weather can change quickly, even within a single day. Wind is often the most important factor. A good Reykjavík day is not always warm or sunny. Sometimes it is simply calm. Why Reykjavík is worth visiting Reykjavík is worth visiting because it is the key to understanding modern Iceland. The country’s settlement story begins here in tradition and archaeology. Its political center is here. Its largest concentration of people is here. Its cultural institutions are here. It's old harbor, colorful houses, swimming pools, music, museums, restaurants, shoreline paths, and views toward Esja all show a capital that remains unusually close to nature and to its own small scale. It is not a grand city in the old European sense. That is not its strength. Reykjavík’s strength is intimacy. It is a capital where national history, daily life, and landscape remain close together. You can walk through the center in a short time, but the layers are deep: settlement, trade, Danish rule, independence, fishing, modernism, geothermal life, culture, tourism, migration, and the growth of a small country into a modern society. For visitors to Iceland, Reykjavík should not be treated only as a place to sleep before driving away. It is part of the journey. It is the place where Iceland becomes urban, political, cultural, and social. And for anyone willing to walk slowly, look carefully, and move beyond the obvious postcard stops, Reykjavík is one of the most rewarding small capitals in the world. Location of Reykjavík on the map of Iceland

The Highland makes up around 40% of Iceland and is often described as Europe's last great area of wilderness. One Highland, not Highlands If you read about the interior of Iceland in English, you'll often see it called "the Highlands." In Icelandic, though, we call it Hálendið, singular. There has always been one Highland, and the word appears that way in our literary tradition all the way back to the settlement era. The reason matters more than the grammar. The Icelandic Highland is not a collection of separate ranges or regions, the way the Scottish Highlands are. It is one continuous interior geologically connected, ecologically unified, and culturally understood as a single place. The singular form reflects what the Highland actually is. The plural quietly turns it into something it isn't. The English-language convention of saying "Highlands" most likely came in by analogy from Scotland and has since been reinforced by travel writing and search-driven content online. It's an understandable habit, but it's worth letting go of, because "Highland" carries the right idea of the place.this error. A beautiful geothermal pool in the Highland in Iceland Understanding the Highland through Icelandic eyes Guðmundur Páll Ólafsson (1941–2012) was an Icelandic natural scientist, teacher, writer, photographer, and conservationist. Among his many works on Iceland and Icelandic nature, his book Hálendið í náttúru Íslands (The Highland in Icelandic Nature) is a monumental achievement — part study, part guidebook, part love letter, written specifically to introduce the Highland to future generations. He never wrote about "the Highlands." He wrote about the Highland, and his book is one of the best places to begin if you want to understand the place the way Icelanders do. The same singular usage runs through everything else: the Iceland Road Guide, decades of Icelandic newspapers and magazines, and the names of long-established places like the Highland Center at Hrauneyjar and the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll. None of these were chosen casually. Þórsmörk and the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail are part of the Highland in Iceland What the Highland is The Highland covers around 42,000 km² — roughly 40% of Iceland. It is uninhabited, mostly 350 to 400 meters above sea level, and shaped by extremes. The highest point, Öræfajökull, rises to 2,110 meters (around 7,000 feet), making it Iceland's tallest mountain. It also has some of the most fascinating geology on the planet, where ice and fire sit beside each other in everyday view. Within the Highland you'll find glaciers of every shape and size, spectacular mountains, canyons, lava fields, geothermal pools, active geothermal areas, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and active volcanoes. The land is sensitive and impossible to cultivate. The seasons swing between extremes, the soil is fragile, and the weather can change quickly. Visiting takes preparation — research, study, and often local guidance. A short summer For most of the year, the Highland sits under thick snow. Roads, trails, vegetation, and lava all disappear under it for months. Only in summer — really only a few short weeks — does the Highland reveal itself. When it does, it's unlike anywhere else. Vast stretches of black sand and dark lava give way to neon green moss, pink and purple rhyolite mountains, blue lakes, and turquoise rivers. Mighty muddy glacial rivers flood toward the horizon, and the landscape shifts dramatically over short distances. It is a place of extremes and contrasts, with a kind of variation you won't find anywhere else on the planet. Lakagígar in the Highland in Iceland Visiting the Highland Because the Highland is so large, it helps to choose a few areas in advance rather than try to see all of it. Some places have become more popular thanks to easier access and especially distinctive landscapes — among them Landmannalaugar, Sigöldugljúfur, Lakagígar, Hveradalir, Hveravellir, Þórsmörk, and Eldgjá. The roads to these places generally open in late June and close in the middle of September. Most are F-roads, which means river crossings — and river crossings are serious business that require a proper 4×4 and the right preparation. Hiking is another excellent way to experience the Highland. The 54 km Laugavegur trail from Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk is the most famous, and the Fimmvörðuháls trail from Þórsmörk to Skógafoss waterfall is another classic. A place once feared For most of Iceland's history after settlement, people rarely entered the Highland. There was a long-held belief that outlaws lived hidden in oases between the mountains, prospering quietly out of sight. These stories filled folklore for centuries. A few routes were used in summer to travel between regions — Kjalvegur and Sprengisandur to cross between north and south, and a route south of Fjallabak, north of Mýrdalsjökull, to cross between east and west while avoiding the strongest rivers. Otherwise, the interior was left mostly to itself. Visiting the Highland is an adventure Sensitivity and conservation It sounds like a paradox, but the harsh, rocky landscape is also extremely sensitive and fragile. In that respect it is a little like Icelanders themselves: tough on the surface, sensitive underneath. The basic rules are simple. Drive only on marked tracks, in a vehicle suited to the terrain. Hike on marked trails wherever possible. Follow the regulations. Driving off-road outside marked tracks is a serious offense in Iceland, with real legal consequences and real damage to the land. Map of the Highland of Iceland Sigöldugljúfur canyon in the Highland in Iceland - Winter A practical note for visitors: a vehicle that isn't fit for the Highland can put you in danger and ruin the trip. Getting stuck in a river or in mud with a rental car can cost more than the rest of your holiday combined. If you want to visit in winter or outside the open season, contact a professional tour company that specializes in Highland travel — it's the right way to do it. The Highland rewards visitors who treat it with care. It is one place, one continuous wilderness, and there is nothing else like it. Sigöldugljúfur canyon in the Highland in Iceland - Summer Here you can read about many places in the Highland.

Harbor at Húsavík town in northern region in Iceland Húsavík town, a part of the Norðurþing multiplicity with a population of 2.400 as of January 2022, is a beautiful fishing town in the Northern Region of Iceland. Húsavík ranks number one on my list of the most interesting towns and villages in Iceland. It is located near the most beautiful and interesting tourist attractions and natural wonders in Iceland Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. It is the home to many natural wonders and breathtaking places such as Dettifoss waterfall, Hólmatungur, and Hafragilsfoss waterfall. It is also close to Ásbyrgi, and Mývatn. Historically it is also a place of great importance, and it is an old town. One could argue that Húsavík (the bay of houses) is the first place that was inhabited by people of Iceland. The second Viking Explorer, who arrived in Iceland during the second half of the 9th century, built the first house by the bay and stayed there for one winter. Garðar Svavarsson named the island Garðarshólmi after himself, but the name didn't work. Historically, Húsavík has been an important place in Iceland ever since the Vikings started to settle there. Húsavík has a long history of trading The old church in Húsavík town Interestingly, Húsavík has been a place for trading for ages and has taken advantage of the fishing grounds in Skjálfandi bay throughout centuries. First, it was a trading place in the Middle Ages. Later, the notorious Danish-Icelandic Trade Monopoly carried out an operation in Húsavík. After the monopoly was abolished, Húsavík dominated trading in the annex trading period and continued to maintain its role when independent trading and Cooperative Societies finally took over most of the trading in Iceland including towns and villages around the country. A fishing town with tourist attraction Húsavík town has a great camping site Currently, fishing and fish processing are the primary sources of income for most residents in Húsavík. The first motorboats reached Húsavík in the first decade of the 20th century. This development made a huge difference as it did in most towns and villages around the shoreline in Iceland. After two decades, a permanent harbor was built that cleared the way for further development in fishing on a larger scale. In 2018, a silicon metal factory opened and started operation; PCC Bakki Silicon providing an essential base to the Húsavík economy. In recent years, Húsavík has made an impressive entry into the tourist industry while at the same time, fishing and fish processing is on a decline. The initiative of offering whale-watching tours to Skjálfandi bay years ago has resulted in the label "Whale-Watching capital" of the world when people refer to Húsavík. The place provides the most interesting whale watching tours in Iceland. For the people who are particularly interested in whale watching, it is strongly recommended that they take the tour with Norðursigling in Húsavík. An attractive town all year long The small theater in Húsavík part of rich art and culture Húsavík has always been considered a pleasant town to live in with good service for the residents. From early on, education was a priority like most towns and villages in Iceland. The first school was built at the end of the 19th century. Currently, there are quality schools from kindergarten to high school. The town has a gorgeous swimming pool, a sports center, great sports faculties, a community center, and a theater. It also includes a hospital, health care, and good care for the elderly. The Church in Húsavík is a timber building that was built in 1906 and consecrated in 1907. It is a beautiful building and has served the whole community of Húsavík for years. A beautiful and quiet place in the middle of Húsavík, ideal for walking around the town Most of the homes in Húsavík are single-family houses. However, the town has a few old houses. Here you also find a good selection of accommodation and an impressive small town center with excellent restaurants and cafés. Húsavík is a green area; heated with hot water from a geothermal plant and is thus part of the green energy revolution that started in Iceland more than a century ago. Know what to look for when you rent a car for your vacation in Iceland Accommodations, hotels, and guesthouses close to Selfoss town Húsavík Cape Hotel: This family-run hotel offers stunning views over the town, harbor, and ocean. It's uniquely connected to the world's only Eurovision exhibition, featuring original costumes and props from the event. Guests can also enjoy the cozy JaJaDingDong bar on-site. husavikhotel.com Fosshotel Húsavík: Situated in the heart of Húsavík, this well-equipped hotel is within walking distance of the harbor, offering stunning fjord views. It's an excellent base for whale watching and exploring the town's attractions. Island's Hotel Hótel Rauðaskriða: A family-run hotel located between Húsavík and Akureyri, offering a relaxed atmosphere with 42 rooms, an à la carte restaurant, and hot tubs. It's an eco-friendly establishment, certified by the Nordic Swan Association, making it a great base for exploring natural attractions in the area. Hotel Raudaskrida Húsavík Guesthouse: This family-run guesthouse provides a warm welcome with eight rooms, including single, double, triple, and a quadruple family room. It's an excellent choice for those planning to go whale watching or sightseeing in North Iceland.

Einar Páll Svavarsson doing his photography and research in Stuðlagil in August 2016 Introduction Stuðlagil Basalt Column Canyon, one of the most stunning natural wonders in Iceland, remained largely unknown until 2016 when explorer, photographer and travel writer Einar Páll Svavarsson brought it to light. His discovery not only transformed the canyon into a major tourist destination but also set a standard for ethical exploration and responsible tourism. This article explores the journey of Stuðlagil's unveiling, its naming, and the significant impact of its newfound recognition. Pre-2006: A Hidden Natural Wonder For centuries, the magnificent Stuðlagil Canyon lay concealed beneath the relentless torrents of the glacial river known as the Jökla River, or Jökulsá á Dal as it is also often called. This powerful river, carving its path through the dramatic landscape, transported a constant flow of water and a rich assortment of sediment from various origins around the Vatnajökull Icecap and its impressive outlet glaciers. The immense strength and volume of the river created a powerful muddy stream at the Stuðlagil canyon's lower reaches, hiding its breathtaking beauty from all but a few local inhabitants and farmers. Before 2006, the stunning formations of basalt columns that define the canyon were largely submerged, with only the upper sections above the surface. 2006-2016: A Dormant Natural Wonder The construction of the Kárahnjúkar Dam and power plant significantly altered the course of the Jökla River. It was one of the largest intervention into nature and landscape in Iceland’s history. The glacial river was redirected into man-made tunnels and eventually moved to a different valley, Fljótsdalur. This diversion led to a drastic reduction in the river's size in the Jökuldalur valley, transforming it from a large and powerful glacial river into a smaller spring-fed river. Although the river Jökla in Jökuldalur did not disappear, thanks to Iceland's rich water resources, it continued to receive water from various creeks and smaller rivers flowing from the highlands north of the dam and within the valley itself. As a result, the water became clean and vibrant, in stark contrast to the previously muddy glacial river. Additionally, the change in volume caused the water level to drop by 4 to 5 meters, which played a crucial role in exposing the lower part of the basalt column stacks in Stuðlagil Canyon. The process of moving the river from Jökuldalur valley began in September 2006. Then, the numerous glacial rivers flowing from the Vatnajökull icecap were redirected into the newly constructed Hálslón reservoir. Filling the reservoir took fifteen months. During this time, the glacial river altogether ceased to flow through the Jökuldalur valley. As a result, the stunning canyon of Stuðlagil emerged. Although the canyon was fully revealed in 2006, as it can be seen today, it went largely unnoticed for almost a decade. Local residents and farmers living close to the canyon did not recognize its potential or appreciate its beauty during that period. It was, in essence, a dormant natural wonder. Untouched Stuðlagil Canyon in 2016 the way it had been for a decade without anyone noticing it 2016: The Discovery of Stuðlagil by Einar Páll Svavarsson In the early summer of 2016, Einar Páll Svavarsson came across a photograph of a canyon that was unfamiliar to him. Despite his extensive knowledge of Iceland's diverse landscapes, he was initially skeptical about the canyon's location within his own country. Driven by a desire to learn more, Svavarsson embarked on a comprehensive research effort to identify the river associated with this remarkable basalt-column canyon. His investigation was facilitated by the fact that the search was limited to a select number of significant rivers in Iceland, making the task more manageable. In a matter of weeks, he found the basalt column canyon in Jökuldalur. The First Visit and Ethical Photojournalistic Considerations When Einar Páll Svavarsson discovered the canyon and as a photojournalist educated at the University of Iceland in Political Science, he had ethical concerns about publishing the photos. He realized that the canyon was located on private property. Therefore, before visiting Stuðlagil, he reached out to the owner of Klaustursel Farm, located on the eastern side of the canyon, to request permission to photograph and publish images of the area. After obtaining the necessary approval, he began his first exploration of the canyon, accompanied by his daughter, Halla Einarsdóttir, who was 24 years old at the time. The owners' permission During this initial visit, he anticipated that the unveiling of Stuðlagil would attract significant tourist interest, a prediction that quickly proved to be true. On their way from the canyon, they reencountered the farmer and current owner while he was haying. At that moment, Einar repeated that the photographs revealed such stunning landscapes that traffic would increase substantially if they were published. The resulting interest would surge dramatically, and the canyon would most likely become a major tourist attraction within two to three years. The farmer considered this carefully and obviously gave it another thought. After a while and further discussion with Einar and his daughter Halla, he maintained his permission to proceed. Later, when criticisms arose against Einar for publishing the photos on the Icelandic FB travel discussion forum "Bakland Ferðaþjónustunnar," the former owner of the farm, who is also the father of the current owner, defended Einar. He confirmed that Einar had asked for and received full authorization to photograph, document, and share information about the location. Two years later, the owners of the farm Grund, on the other side of the canyon, contacted Einar and asked him to define and add their information to his article, which he did at their request. The hiticeland.com article and Facebook follow up In August 2016, Einar Páll Svavarsson released the first comprehensive travel guide for Stuðlagil on his website, Hit Iceland (hiticeland.com). He officially named the canyon "Stuðlagil," inspired by its unique basalt columns, referred to as "Stuðlar." To further promote the location, Svavarsson also shared his article on Facebook. Additionally, he utilized his role as a Local Guide on Google Maps, where he had contributed hundreds of photos of important places in Iceland, to advocate for the inclusion of a location point for the canyon. This request was granted, making this the first-ever official mapping of Stuðlagil. It gave the canyon a name and a defined location, making it accessible for visitors. Consequently, interest in the site began to increase significantly. What to know before renting a car in Iceland. Notably, it came to light that despite the canyon being fully visible since 2007, almost no documented photographs of Stuðlagil existed prior to Svavarsson's discovery in 2016, a full decade. The solitary image that initially directed him to the canyon has since been lost. It was only through his dedicated efforts that the world began to acknowledge the natural beauty of Stuðlagil. Stuðlagil Canyon untouched in 2016 2017: The First Major Public Exposure The significance of Stuðlagil garnered global attention following the publication of Svavarsson's article in WOW Air's in-flight magazine. This exposure generated considerable international interest, resulting in an even further increase in visitors eager to photograph and explore this newly uncovered natural marvel. However, despite the extensive utilization of his research and information, numerous low-quality travel writers with limited self-respect sadly did not properly cite Einar as the original source and even fabricated inaccurate information about the Stuðlagil Canyon discovery. Articles that are still around and should be ignored and avoided by everyone. 2018: Government Acknowledgment of His Discovery In January 2018, Iceland’s Minister of Tourism, Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörð Gylfadóttir, authored an article in Iceland’s most widely read newspaper, Morgunblaðið (mbl.is) discussing hydroelectric projects and Kárahnjúkavirkjun power plant. In the article she publicly credited Einar Páll Svavarsson with discovering and photographing Stuðlagil and acknowledged his pivotal role in unveiling the canyon to the world. 2019: Academic Recognition and Tourism Boom In 2019 a 100-page research report commissioned by the University of Iceland and the Icelandic Tourism Research Centre was published. Behind it was extensive research on how the popularity of this natural wonder had emerged. It included interviews with local people and farmers who never mentioned that they had photographed or in any way promoted this canyon before 2016. Interestingly the report officially credited Einar Páll Svavarsson for: Discovering, naming, and introducing Stuðlagil to the public. Publishing the first widely available photographs and travel guides. Transforming a hidden canyon into a major tourist destination. Recognizing the growing significance of Stuðlagil, the Icelandic government allocated hundreds of millions of ISK to develop infrastructure around the site in the following years, ensuring its accessibility and preservation. Bringing considerable economic growth to the Jökuldalur area and the local population. 2020: The COVID-19 Icelandic Tourism Boom at Stuðlagil With international travel halted due to COVID-19, the government of Iceland encouraged Icelanders to travel within their own country. At that time Einar Páll Svavarsson with his vast knowledge of Iceland responded by opening an Icelandic-only Facebook group “Ferðumst innanlands”. His group grew fast and now has 17,000 local Icelandic followers out of the whole population of 390 thousand people. His main article and post were highlighting why Stuðlagil Canyon is worth visiting. The post sparked widespread interest, leading thousands of Icelanders to visit the canyon that summer and cementing its status as a national landmark. 2021: Stuðlagil Goes Global – Even Hollywood Notices Stuðlagil’s growing popularity catches the attention of Hollywood when Will Smith films part of his project there, further propelling the canyon into the global spotlight. Icelandic media, including mbl.is, covers his visit, adding to the site's international appeal. Ring Road Drive in Iceland Legacy: Ensuring Proper Recognition The photo that defined Stuðlagil was taken of Halla, Einars daughter, in August 2016 Einar Páll Svavarsson’s contributions to the discovery and documentation of Stuðlagil must be acknowledged in all future discussions about the canyon. His work: Provided the first comprehensive travel guide to Stuðlagil. Named the canyon "Stuðlagil." First put the canyon on the map by defining the GPS coordinates on Google Maps Took great ethical precautions and got permission when introducing and publishing photos from Stuðlagil Inspired thousands of people around the world with his stunning photographs Was formally acknowledged by Iceland’s Minister of Tourism in 2018. Was validated by a University of Iceland and Icelandic Tourism Research Centre report in 2019. Led to extensive government-funded infrastructure development from 2019 in Jökuldalur valley. Led both farms and owners of Stuðlagil to receive hundreds of millions of ISK from government funds to develop the area around the Natural Wonder Inspired thousands of Icelanders to explore their own country in 2020 Even caught the attention of Hollywood and celebrities who choose to have their photos taken in Stuðlagil Furthermore, his ethical approach—seeking permission before documenting and publishing the site sets a gold standard for responsible tourism journalism. Photos from 2016, before Stuðlagil became a popular tourist attraction, when it was a hidden gem in Iceland Final Thoughts The story behind the discovery of Stuðlagil is more than just a story of a geological marvel; it is a testament to the power of modern-day exploration, responsible journalism, and the profound impact that a single individual’s discovery can have on the world. Thanks to Einar Páll Svavarsson’s dedication, Stuðlagil has been cemented as one of Iceland’s most treasured natural landmarks, inspiring countless adventurers, photographers, and travelers to experience its beauty firsthand. It is a unique story globally that has few similarities in the world's vast travel industry. How to visit Studlagil Canyon

Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue and lagoon Admission to Svínafellsjökull is free Visitors to Svínafellsjökull are not required to make any payment for entry. The parking area has good capasity and generally accommodates the number of visitors adequately. Regrettably, restroom and sanitary facilities are not provided at this natural attraction. There are many glacier tongues that stem from the massive ice cap Vatnajökull. When driving the Ring Road in Iceland on the south side, the glacier tongues create a fascinating landscape, with ice cliffs falling hundreds of meters and moving at such a slow speed that the human eye can't capture the movement. The view is decorated with a clean white top and a beautiful green and yellow foreground during summer. As the ice melts and decreases, the cliffs in between the tongues increase. Each tongue has a unique name, with the most famous and accessible being Skaftafellsjokull and Svínafellsjökull on the southern side. Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue is in the South Region on the Map of Iceland Svínafellsjökull is a great place to get close to a glacier tongue Svínafellsjökull glacier You want to see a glacier tongue up close for many reasons. First is the ice breaking apart and forming hundreds of cracks and stacks of an endless formation. It is always a mild attack on your imagination as you just can't avoid strange thoughts in proximity to this demolishing part of nature. Secondly, the beauty of this amazing landscape is so bright and clean yet so powerful. Thirdly, there is the weirdness when you can hear the movement and all the spooky sounds, although you can't see the movement. Then, there are many motives you can find to photograph. We could probably go on and on. Svínafellsjökull glacier has also gained fame as an attraction after this fascinating site was selected as a location for Game of Thrones season seven to represent "north of the wall." Glacier tongues and lagoons The Svínafellsjökull glacier falling like a slow river You will find a lake or at least a small pond at the end of many glacier tongues. Some are larger glacier tongues, like the famous Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón, where the icebergs float on a relatively large lake, and some are small with icebergs that have broken from the tongues. The lagoon by Svínafellsjökull is small but enough to give the glacier a fascinating and compelling look. The glacier tongue is simply a fascinating phenomenon in nature, and there are not many places you can visit such a natural wonder with such proximity as you can by visiting Svínafellsjökull. Svínafellsjökull is also part of the Ring Road drive in Iceland, and I recommend reading my article about the Ring Road drive. Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland. For those interested in seeing Svínafellsjökull, you only need to drive a few kilometers east from Skaftafell on the Ring Road and turn left to drive the short distance to Svínafellsjökull.

Arnarstapi basalt column shoreline to Hellnar at Snæfellsnes Peninsula ©Emstrursf. Suppose you are looking for an exciting drive, a short road trip, or a tour in Iceland where you can comfortably drive and see the magnificent landscapes and beautiful natural wonders, astonishing small villages, and places with entertaining stories. In that case, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive is an excellent option. Especially if you have your own car, ccamper, or a rental car, before you start. For a better understanding of what kind of car fits you tour make sure you read my extensive article about choosing the right car in Iceland. It is quite possible to take the Snæfellsnes Peninsula drive in a day, but you have to ask yourself, "am I really in a hurry when traveling?" I cannot suggest or advise such a rush as I always encourage people to enjoy the landscapes and the various natural wonders and appreciate the stories and folklore that have developed for centuries. If you stay in Reykjavík, the whole drive is approximately 500 kilometers or 310 miles. The area you cover has a good cell phone cover and is never specifically remote. It is a scenic drive by the shoreline with a spectacular view of mountains and a beautiful glacier. Self drive map for Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland- Click to expand Enjoy the drive and inhale the natural wonders Driving the Snæfellsnes Peninsula with Snæfellsjökull glacier in the background ©Emstrursf. To fully enjoy your drive, we suggest spending three days and two nights exploring the stunning Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This route offers breathtaking scenery and numerous impressive natural attractions. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, situated in Iceland's West Region, also features charming small towns and villages with excellent accommodations, campsites, cafés, and restaurants. Many of these places provide fascinating tours and activities. Our journey starts and finishes in the town of Borgarnes in the West Region, just 70 kilometers (45 miles) from Reykjavík, Iceland's capital. The route follows the intersection of Road nr 1 (the Ring Road) and Road nr. 54. This plan allows you to take a different path on your return, ensuring you discover new sights throughout the drive. What you will see Snæfellsnes Peninsula a view from Snæfellsjökull glacier ©Emstrursf. Driving on this tour around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on Road Nr. 54, you will see a large crater, fields of lava, waterfalls, basalt columns, stacks and pillars by the shoreline, ravines with strange stories attached to them, and places from stories in the Sagas that happened over a thousand years ago. You will also see Snæfellsjökull, the Snæfellsnes glacier. It is a remarkable journey through landscape and history. In addition, you will visit some beautiful towns and villages and experience a scenic drive with spectacular mountains. The roads, your car, and the best time of the year to take this tour drive Spectacular rock formation and shoreline by Hellnar small hamlet ©Emstrursf. This is a trip that you can take at any time during the year, although the most exciting and straightforward time is from the middle of May until the end of September. Regarding seasons, you can fill in some valuable information by reading my comprehensive article about the best time to visit Iceland. The colors of summer also make the lava moss and vegetation very beautiful, giving you a much more enjoyable experience. But experiencing Iceland in the autumn and winter is also quite interesting. Any car, small or large, can be used for this drive as the roads are almost all excellent asphalt roads except for a part on the Northeast part of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that only has a gravel road. In winter, it is always better and more secure to have a car with a front-wheel drive or preferably a four-wheel drive since they are more stable when the roads are icy and slippery. First day from Borgarnes to Arnarstapi Hiking up to the top of Eldborg crater ©Emstrursf. When you drive through the town of Borgarnes heading north, you turn to your left on a roundabout at the edge of this small town to Road Nr. 54 Snæfellsnesvegur or The Snæfellsnes Road. At first, you drive on a lowland area called Mýrar with the whole Snæfellsnes peninsula in front of you with its many mountains and the glacier Snæfellsjökull quite visible at the far end. After a 20-kilometer drive, 13 miles, you will start to notice a large crater in front of you, standing alone on the lowland and dominating the view. This is Eldborg Crater, which you can read about in more detail here, your first stop. To access the walking trail to Eldborg, you turn left approximately 35 kilometers, 22 miles, to Road Nr. 5610 to a farm called Snorrastaðir. From the parking lot, you take the 3-kilometer hike, 2 miles. Gerðuberg basalt column cliff ©Emstrursf. When you continue on Road Nr. 54. After the hiking tour to Eldborg, you only drive a few kilometers when you reach the short path to Gerðuberg, which you can read about in more detail here. This is a spectacular cliff with a fascinating geological formation of basalt columns. The basalt columns are so regular and so even that you would almost think this is man-made instead of made by Mother Nature. This should be your second stop, and you can drive to a parking lot by the cliffs. Bjarnarfoss waterfall ©Emstrursf. From Gerðuberg cliffs to your next and third recommended stop, Bjarnarfoss waterfall, which you can read about in more detail here, is approximately 55 kilometers, 35 miles. This is an incredibly scenic drive on a clear day since there are beautiful mountains on your right side and the glacier Snæfellsjökull at the end of the peninsula in front of you. You will also drive by stunning small ponds. Bjarnarfoss is an impressive waterfall with a spectacular small layer of basalt column cliff. There is a good parking lot beside the road and an easy and enjoyable path to the waterfall by the small spring-fed river. The famous black church at Búðir ©Emstrursf. From Bjarnarfoss, you turn towards Road Nr. 574 and take another turn to your left to Road Nr. 5723 to Búðir. From the parking lot at Búðir, there is a beautiful hike by the shoreline. You only need to walk about 500 meters -1.5 kilometers or a mile to enjoy this part of Snæfellsnes. It is a delightful walk where the rush is not required, but leave the sandals in the car as this is mostly walking in the sand. You should wear your hiking shoes, like in most places in Iceland. Rauðfeldsgjá ravine ©Emstrursf. After Búðir, I recommend a visit to Rauðfeldsgjá, which you can read about in more detail here, a stunning ravine with an intriguing story dating back over a thousand years. Bárður Snæfellsás, a prominent character in the tale, is said to have played a significant role in the area's history. To reach Rauðfeldsgjá, you must travel a few kilometers on Road nr. 574 from Búðir. I suggest reading the fascinating story about Rauðfeldsgjá and the information on Bárður Snæfellsás, both of which can be found at the link above. Arnarstapi small hamlet ©Emstrursf. If you prefer to dine at a restaurant, you should consider the excellent restaurant at the Hotel Búðir. From Búðir, you drive approximately 20 kilometers, 12 miles, to the west on Road Nr.574 to Arnarstapi, which you can read about in more detail here. Arnarstapi and the nearby village or hamlet Hellnar are excellent places to stay in addition to the Hotel at Búðir. Many places in the neighborhood offer affordable accommodations, and there is also a beautiful and convenient camping area at Arnarstapi. This should wrap up your first day at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula drive. Second day Snæfellsnes road trip Arnarstapi to Grundarfjörður Bárður Snæfellsás the troll settler ©Emstrursf. You should begin your day early by taking the spectacular 2.5-kilometer hiking trail from the small harbor at Arnarstapi to Hellnar. It is an excellent marked trail by the shoreline, filled with unusual geological formations and lovely birdlife. In contrast to the coastline, you have the excellent Snæfellsjökull glacier and the mountain Stapafell on your right or north. If you take this track, you probably have to walk the same way back to Arnarstapi, but it is entirely worth it. At Arnarstapi, you should salute the statue of the mysterious person and troll Bárður Snæfellsás, which you can read about in a separate article. Bárður is a historical person who had quite an impact on the surrounding area. His story is hilarious and kind of sad at the same time, as part of the Icelandic Sagas. Even though he came to Iceland more than one thousand years ago, he still lives on the slope of the glacier Snæfellsjökull, and his presence is felt by many people who live there. Lóndrangar sea stacks ©Emstrursf. From Arnarstapi, you continue west on Road Nr. 574 to Lóndrangar which you can read about in a separate article. Although the stacks are pretty impressive and visible from the road viewing panel at Þúfubjarg, I recommend driving a bit farther, taking the left turn after a short distance to Malarrif, and walking the one-kilometer walk by the shore to the stacks. It is a more impressive view and also more interesting for photographing. After a few minutes drive from Malarrif, you will find a small cabin on the right side of the road selling tours down to the deep cave Vatnshellir (Water Cave) on your right side. You can take a guided tour with stunning formations deep under the dark lava. Djúpalónssandur ©Emstrursf. As you continue from the Vatnshellir Cave, you turn left on Road Nr. 575 to the parking lot by Djúpalónssandur, which you can read about in a separate article in more detail here and Dritvík. Both are beautiful places to visit and have fascinating histories that go back to the first settlement in Iceland. Although the walk or short hike to Dritvík takes about an hour and a half back and forth, it is an enjoyable scenic hike with stunning stack formations along the way. Both places are ideal for photography, especially on a bright day when the glacier Snæfellsjökull is visible in the background. Dritvík cove ©Emstrursf. After Djúpalónssandur and Dritvík which you can read about in a separate article in more detail here, you continue on Road Nr. 574. After a short drive, you will see a small crater, Saxhóll, on your left side. This is ideal for a short stop and a walk up to the top. A good view of the shoreline and the glacier is from the top of the crater. From Saxhóll crater, you turn to Öndverðarnes, the westernmost point at Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The road is a dirt road and bit difficult and worse than a regular gravel road, but along the way, you can visit Skarðsvík which you can read about in a separate article beach and Svörtuloft which you can also read about in a separate article in more detail here cliffs, an excellent addition to the tour but a bit of a loop that takes about one and a half hours with all the stops. The cliffs at Svörtuloft display fantastic lava structures shaped by the Atlantic ocean's mighty force. Svörtuloft ©Emstrursf. When you approach the northern side of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, your journey is more like a scenic drive, and you'll visit small towns and villages rather than view natural wonders. The first stop is in the two small villages of Hellisandur and Rif. At Hellisandur, there is an excellent opportunity to visit the Maritime Museum in the Fishermen's Garden. It is an excellent opportunity to understand the hardship it took to live in Iceland only a few centuries ago. It is also a good idea to walk the village of Hellisandur by the shore from the parking lot at the Maritime Museum. When you drive towards Rif, the twin village, you should take a turn on Road Nr. 5738 to the church Inngjaldhólsskirkja that some folklore claim was visited by Cristoper Coluomus, and you can read about it in a separate article. Here you have a good view of the magnificent surroundings in a place called “Under the Glacier.” At Hellissandur, you should stop at Gilbakki Café and taste their fabulous fish soup. The owner is a dear friend of mine and Gunna, my wife, and we have known her since childhood. Her husband built the house a few years ago, and he also provides fresh fish for the fish soup from his daily fishing tour to the Breiðafjörður Bay. Here is an interview with Lúlli about their life at Snæfellsnes peninsula. One of the best cafés in Iceland is located at Rif village - Gilbakki - Sitting outside with the owners, my wife Gunna, and my granddaughter Yrsa. ©Emstrursf. From Rif village, you drive to the junction of Svöðufoss which you can read about in a separate article, turn right, and head on to the parking lot. A short hike from the parking lot to the beautiful waterfall Svöðufoss and the small basalt column cliffs within the fall. Next, you drive to the friendly town of Ólafsvík, a beautiful small fishing town with old houses and a small harbor. Walking from the town up to the slopes and having a good view over the shoreline is worth walking. After that stop, you continue to Grundarfjörður town, where you should find accommodation or stay at the campsite. Since it is only about 20-kilometer drive from the town of Grundarfjörður to the town of Ólafsvík, you can also find suitable accommodation at Ólafsvík, and the Camp Site in Ólafsvík is relatively new and among the best in Iceland. Third day: Grundarfjörður - Borgarnes Mt. Kirkjufell seen from the church in the town Grundarfjörður ©Emstrursf. A great beginning on your third day is to walk from Grundarfjörður, a parking lot at the center, or from the camping site to Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall and photograph and view the waterfall and the mountain, Kirkjufell which you can read about in a separate article. You can also drive the short distance back on Road nr. 54 and park by the waterfall; the walk from the town is highly recommended. The mountain is probably one of the most renowned mountains in Iceland, and few mountains in Iceland are photographed more than Kirkjufell not surprising as it is one of the most beautiful mountains in Iceland. The famous Kirkjufellsfoss and Mt. Kirkjufell ©Emstrursf. From Grundarfjörður village, you continue on Road Nr. 54 Snæfellsvegur to the east. After you pass the bridge over the fjord Hraunsfjörður (Lavafjord), you take a turn after a two-and-a-half-kilometer drive to a gravel road, Berserkjahraunsvegur Road Nr. 558, to view Berserkjahraun lava field. You continue on that road for about 1.7 kilometers, a mile, and take a left turn that takes you to the edge and over the lava back to Road Nr. 54, this unusual loop gives you a great view of the lava. The name comes from the Sagas (Eyrbyggja), and you should also read Berserkirnir in Berserkjahraun which you can read about in a separate article. When you have returned to Road Nr. 54, you continue west to one of Iceland's most beautiful and exciting towns, Stykkishólmur. You should begin your arrival to Stykkishólmur with a tour with Sæferðir to sail around the many islands in the large fjord, Breiðafjörður. The Vikingsushi Adventure is highly recommended. Sometimes, on the boat tour, you can spot the white-tailed eagle. After the boat tour, you should walk around the town, preferably up to the little lighthouse on the island beside the harbor now attached to the land. The views from the lighthouse and the top of the island are spectacular in all directions. Stykkishólmur town in Snæfellsnes Peninsula ©Emstrursf. From Stykkishólmur, I recommend stopping by the mountain of Helgafell, a small mountain in Iceland famous for its mystic powers. According to Eyrbyggja written in the 13th-century, Þorsteinn Þorskabítur drowned near Stykkishólmur in 938 and entered the mountain, where he has resided ever since. His father, Þórólfur Mostrarskegg, had already moved in. Both of them were followers and good friends of Þór (Thor), the Pagan god who still visits them quite often. If you are visiting Helgafell for the first time, you are eligible to make three wishes. First, you need to go to the graveyard by the church and find the grave of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir, who was buried there in the year 1000. To log in to the wishing process, make a sign of the cross over her grave. The grave of Guðrún Ósvífursdóttir While Guðrún is believed to have lived in the mountain with the Pagan father and son, she was a Christian. To make your wishes, walk up to the top of the mountain in complete silence, without looking left, right, or back. Once you reach the top, enter the stone fence, look east, and present your three wishes. After that, you can look around and talk. To make your wishes, walk up to the top of the mountain in complete silence, without looking left, right, or back. From Helgafell, you continue on Road Nr. 54 to the east. Mind you, this part of the road is gravel and harder to drive for those not used to gravel roads. You have to drive a bit slower and take care. On the other hand, this is quite a scenic drive with an excellent view of the large fjord Breiðafjörður and all the islands. The white-tailed eagle is the largest bird in Iceland ©Emstrursf. When you reach the intersection of Road Nr. 60 that takes you back to Road Nr. 1, where your drive began; you should continue for the moment, then take a right turn after a few hundred meters on Road Nr. 586 to Eiríksstaðir. At Eiríksstaðir is a small museum on the farm where the Viking Erik the Red lived before heading to the west, eventually making it possible for his son, the Viking Leif the Lucky, to find America. You should visit the museum and learn the story of the Viking Erik the Red and Leif the Lucky. Berserkjahraun lava field, famous in the Sagas ©Emstrursf. After learning about this story from the days of settlement in Iceland, you drive back to Road Nr. 60 and head south. You will eventually come to Road Nr. 1, which will take you to Borgarfjörður and Reykjavík. On your way to Borgarfjörður, you should take the opportunity and walk on top of the small mountain Grábrók and also visit the waterfall Glanni. A view to Haukadalur valley where Eric the Red lived ©Emstrursf. I believe this plan is an excellent way to explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It will provide you with valuable insights into Icelandic life throughout the centuries and showcase some of the spectacular natural wonders that Snæfellsnes has to offer.

This is the first article written about Stuðlagil Canyon. It was published in 2016 and has been reviewed several times for updates. Most of the information in other articles and travel blogs comes from this article. In 2016, my discovery of Stuðlagil, also known as Studlagil in English, marked the beginning of a transformation for this hidden gem in Iceland. Through my extensive research, writing, and photography, I unveiled the beauty of the canyon and brought it to the attention of locals and tourists alike. Before my exploration, Stuðlagil was unknown, tucked away from the eyes of those wandering through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes. Delving deeper into the canyon's history, I uncovered the intriguing tale of its evolution from a glacial river to a spring-fed waterway due to the construction of a hydroelectric power plant. This narrative added another layer of fascination to this natural wonder. This fascinating narrative was published in a Wow Air Magazine in June 2017. This is one of my photo that made Stuðlagil famous My discovery was later documented in a comprehensive 100-page report commissioned by the University of Iceland and the Icelandic Tourism Research Center, shedding light on the geological and environmental significance of Stuðlagil. Adding Stuðlagil to Google Maps to assist you in locating it To further facilitate access to this newfound treasure, with the permission of the landowners, I took it upon myself to establish the location of Studlagil on Google Maps, ensuring that enthusiasts and explorers could easily navigate their way to this picturesque spot. Despite the timeless presence of Stuðlagil's basalt columns, much of its enchanting landscape remained submerged beneath the waters of the Jökla River until recent years, a fact that adds a surreal quality to the experience of witnessing this natural marvel. Stuðlagil Canyon in 2016, showcasing its pristine basalt columns and vibrant turquoise waters before it became popular with tourists. The enchanting marvel of nature and Stuðlagil basalt columns Step into the stunning beauty of Stuðlagil Canyon! Imagine yourself standing beside the tranquil river, captivated by the graceful movements of birds against the impressive basalt formations' backdrop. Reflecting on the dramatic history that has shaped this landscape is truly fascinating. From a turbulent past to its current serene state, Stuðlagil stands as a testament to the incredible force of nature and the enchanting beauty that arises from its constant evolution. This destination is a must-see in Iceland, where time and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience that will leave you utterly amazed! East Region on map of Iceland Studlagil canyon and Jökuldalur valley To enter upper Jökuldalur, you need to take a turn south onto road no. 923 near the Skjödólfsstaðir farm Jökuldalur, or the “Glacier Valley,” is an impressive valley in East Iceland and home of Studlagil. Since early on, it has mostly consisted of sheep farms, some of which are considered among the best in the country. The valley is also known for its forceful glacial river that has three names: Jökulsá á Brú, Jökulsá á Dal, and Jökla, which forces its way down from the highland through the bottom to the valley for centuries. When heading to northern Iceland from Egilsstaðir in the Eastern Region of Iceland on the Ring Road, road no. 1, part of the road goes through the lower part of Jökuldalur valley. To enter upper Jökuldalur, you must turn south onto road no. 923 near the Skjödólfsstaðir farm. In upper Jökuldalur, you will find the breathtaking waterfall Stuðlafoss (basalt column waterfall) and the Stuðlagil canyon (basalt column canyon). The terrifying river that kept Studlagil basalt column canyon hidden A view from the east side Klaustursel is the one I recommend The Jökulsá á Brú River, renowned for its impressive basalt column formations, was relatively undiscovered prior to 2016. This area, often referred to as the glacier river by the bridge, had been one of Iceland’s hidden natural wonders until the discovery of the Stuðlagil basalt column canyon attracted widespread attention. My writing and photography helped to popularize it as a significant tourist attraction, as noted by the Icelandic Tourism Research Center. The mighty river and its role in dividing the farms Historically, one reason for the limited visitation to this region was the formidable nature of the River Jökla. Stretching 150 kilometers, it was one of Iceland’s largest and most powerful glacial rivers until the construction of the Hálslón reservoir. Its strength caused it to divide the Jökuldalur valley, resulting in minimal communication between the two parts for centuries. Additionally, the river posed dangers that made crossing difficult, leading to its local designation as Jökla rather than its official name. The reservoir that swallowed the glacial river The stunning basalt columns at Stuðlagil canyon The powerplant that chanced the river When Icelanders constructed the Kárahnjúkavirkjun hydroelectric plant and created the large Hálslón reservoir in the Hafrahvammagljúfur canyon, it changed the flow of the River Jökla. Instead of the river flowing freely as a glacial river through the beautiful Jökuldalur Valley and the stunning Studlagil Canyon, the water from its original sources in the northeastern highlands was redirected into the new reservoir. From there, the water travels through 60 kilometers of underground tunnels to power the turbines of the plant. The water and the power of the vanished river As a result, the sources of River Jökulsá á Brú no longer reach the Jökuldalur Valley; instead, they are diverted to the Fljótsdalur Valley. This project was undertaken to supply electricity to the aluminum plant in Reyðarfjörður. However, this large-scale alteration of the natural landscape sparked significant debate and controversy. The sacrifice of building a power plant The construction of the hydroelectric project in Iceland stirred deep emotional responses among its people. Many felt a profound sense of loss as the project significantly altered the natural landscape. The creation of the reservoir led to the submergence of cherished landscapes and natural wonders, forever changing the character of the second-largest river in Iceland. It was particularly heartbreaking for many to see the Töfrafoss waterfall vanish beneath the water's surface. Preservationists voiced their concerns about the 57-square-kilometer reservoir, highlighting the irreversible environmental damage inflicted on the unique landscape, its natural treasures, and the local fauna. Yet, amidst this loss, a strikingly beautiful feature emerged—the Stuðlagil basalt column canyon, a stunning natural wonder that had been hidden from view. This dual narrative reflects the complex emotions surrounding the project, as the community grappled with both sorrow and a newfound appreciation for nature's resilience. Stuðlagil is a ravishing natural wonder In 2016 when I discovered Studlagil and turned it into one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland with my writing and photography Environmental changes from a glacial river to a spring-fed river The transformation of the river Jökla is truly a poignant story that reflects the changing nature of our environment. Once a robust glacial river, it has undergone a remarkable shift, now drawing its lifeblood from springs and creeks nestled in the lower highlands and surrounding mountains. This change has had deep implications for the river itself, altering its volume and vigor. The powerful waters that once carried copious amounts of sand, mud, and debris from beneath the Vatnajökull glacier have given way to a serene, crystal-clear flow that gently winds its way to the sea. Ring Road Drive in Iceland A smaller glacial river in winter runs through Stuðlagil Canyon As we observe this beautiful yet stark contrast, we can’t help but feel a sense of loss for the river’s former might, with its waters at a noticeably lower level and a gentler force. However, there is an enchanting turn of events each autumn when the river momentarily returns to its vibrant past. As the Hálslón reservoir reaches its capacity, glacial waters overflow from the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap, reviving Jökla and allowing it to carry echoes of its former self through the landscape of Jökuldalur. Visit Stuðlagil at the right time Though this resurgence typically comes in late August or September, the volume of water released is modest compared to what it once was. This cyclical transformation brings both beauty and melancholy, impacting how we experience the breathtaking area around Studlagil. The interplay between the river's past and present weaves a complex narrative into the natural landscape, reminding us of the fragility and resilience of Iceland's geological wonders. In all their dynamic splendor, these changes invite us to reflect on our connection to nature and the stories it tells. Map of how you visit, drive, and hike to Studlagil Canyon Map of the short hiking trail to Stuðlafoss on the better side, the east side - expand to see details The drawbacks of the western side and why it's not worthwhile as it looks like a badly designed tourist trap. The observation platform is oddly placed, and has 240 steps, like walking up and down 18 floors in an apartment building Accessing Studlagil can be done in two ways. The less favorable option is to drive to the Grund farm and observe the canyon from the west side, following a route that involves turning south on Ring Road no. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir and then onto road no. 923 for about 20 kilometers until reaching the farm. At Grund farm, there is a parking lot available. However, the west side of Studlagil is far from being as impressive as the one at Klaustursel, and I outline it on the map above. At Grund, there is an oddly positioned observation platform that requires climbing 240 steps (equivalent to ascending and descending 18 floors in a building) and offers a very restricted view of the canyon's beauty. On this side, the owners have also damaged the surrounding area terribly. This site is under no circumstances recommended for photographers, as it is challenging or impossible to capture the true magnificence of the canyon from this angle. In contrast, hiking on the east side is a more pleasant experience compared to climbing numerous steps. Therefore, visiting the west side at Grund is considered a waste of both time and energy. How to visit and hike to the stunning eastern side of Stuðlagil that I highly recommend. The second option requires some hiking—an effort that only adds to the enjoyment of visiting such a place. The second option to view and experience Studlagil requires some hiking. It is such a short hike, as you can see on the map that the effort only adds to the enjoyment of visiting such a place. Again, after turning south on Ring Road no. 1 by Skjödólfsstaðir to road no. 923, drive about 14 kilometers to farm Klaustursel. Less driving is required to reach the Klaustursel farm than Grund. On River Jöklai, by Klaustursel, you find a bridge on the east side. By the bridge, there is a parking lot A on the west side. You can also drive over the new bridge, which is about two kilometers away, to another parking lot B on the east side and shorten the hike. After crossing the bridge to the east riverbank and the drive to lot B, hike for two kilometers to reach Stuðlagil Canyon. This is probably less of an effort and more interesting than climbing the odd stairs with a very limited view on the west side by Grund. You can see this more clearly on the map above. Climbing down to the river on the east side of the canyon is possible at one spot and requires caution, but once down by the river, you sense that you have entered a wonder world of basalt columns. The stones and rocks are sometimes wet and slippery, so take precautions. The hike for both ways is six to eight kilometers, and reaching the stop by the canyon takes probably two to three hours. I recommend going to the canyon in the morning for photography. An excellent way to plan this visit is to stay at a Skjödólfsstaðir accommodation or campsite and get an early morning start. Stuðlagil is part of my Ring Road article. When to visit Stuðlagil Canyon? The spectacular basalt columns on each side of the river Visiting Stuðlagil Canyon in the summer, from the beginning of June until the second week of August, is advisable. In August, the hydroelectric reservoir's overflow sends part of the old, dirty glacial river down the river path. This occurs every year in the middle of August and changes this natural wonder substantially. In winter, the vibrant colors of the vegetation disappear, and the canyon becomes dull and drab and is often covered with snow and ice. It is not noteworthy for viewing or photography as in the colorful summer days when the river is turquoise instead of brown and dirty. Accommodation close to and around Stuðlagil Basalt Column Canyon Á Hreindýraslóðum Guesthouse: Found in East Skjöldólfsstaðir, this guesthouse offers single, double, and triple rooms with shared facilities, as well as a camping site and restaurant. Gistihúsið – Lake Hotel Egilsstaðir: Located in Egilsstaðir, approximately 72 km from Stuðlagil Canyon, this family-run hotel offers a range of rooms, a restaurant, and a spa with views over Lake Lagarfljót. Hotel Eyvindará: A peaceful hotel situated in a forested area near Egilsstaðir, offering cozy rooms and cottages, making it a convenient base for exploring the canyon and surrounding attractions. What to know before you rent a car Photos from 2016, before Stuðlagil became a popular tourist attraction, when it was a hidden gem in Iceland

Stuðlagil basalt column canyon in 2016 before bcoming a tourist attraction Iceland is a geological marvel, offering a wide variety of places for geologists to conduct research, making it a significant source of study compared to most locations on the planet. Some geological wonders, such as basalt column stacks and various basalt column formations, are also among the most popular tourist attractions. Although this beautiful structure, which originates from basalt lava, can be found in many places worldwide, Iceland is the best place to find many beautiful basalt columns. At least where the distance between them is relatively short. The basalt column is a magnificent rock formation that has inspired many artists and designers and has sometimes been elevated to a divine level, as with our famous church, Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. Basalt column places that you will enjoy Litlanesfoss waterfall basalt columns We only had two main premises when choosing from the many basalt column places in Iceland. On the one hand, the place had to be a joy to visit and, on the other, relatively easy to access. Of the ten places, we choose at least four to five that are among Iceland's most visited tourist attractions. Places that people love to visit and photograph. But all the ten we chose are truly places that we can label as stunning natural wonders and places you will not regret visiting. The best way to explore Iceland's many basalt column sites is to rent a car and drive between them. Make a journey out of this interest in basalt columns. As car rental is expensive in Iceland, here is a useful link to compare offers from reliable companies and find the best price. 1. Stuðlagil canyon in Jökuldalur Stuðlagil when I visited the canyon with my daughter Halla in 2016 The newly discovered Stuðlagil, with its fascinating story at Jökuldalur valley in the Northeastern Region of Iceland, is probably one of the most beautiful basalt column attractions on the planet. As I have discussed in another article about Stuðlagil, I am the person who discovered this unique place and put it on the map. In 2016, I discovered Stuðlagil and turned it into one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions with my writing and photography. The cathedral-like cliff formation around the turquoise-blue river is breathtaking. When you are down in the canyon, it feels like one of the otherworldly places or another dimension. The many forms of the basalt column are simply unique and a feast for photographers and those who enjoy the spectacular handwork of mother nature. For more information about Stuðlagil and its location on the map of Iceland, click Stuðlagil 2. Gerðuberg Gerðuberg basalt columns Gerðuberg at Snæfellsnes Peninsula is an almost unbelievably regular cliff composed of hundreds of stacks of basalt columns. From the road, it looks like any other cliff in the landscape, but once you approach, the beauty of this natural wonder opens up. You can observe the stacks from below and above and it does not require steep climbing. Like any basalt column attraction, there are many interesting photo opportunities and the best photo taken by Gerðuberg is yet to be submitted to the internet. For more information about Gerðuberg and its location on the map of Iceland, click Gerðuberg 3. Reynisfjara Reynisfjara basalt columns Throughout the years before Iceland became a favorite destination for tourists, Reynisfjara was never a big attraction when almost only Icelanders traveled the country during summer. We can even say that Reynisfjara was invented as one of the major tourist attractions in Iceland by our visitors, the tourists. And not without reason, one of the most interesting parts of Reynisfjara is the basalt column cliff by the black beach not far from the sea stacks of Reynisdrangar. There are probably thousands of photos floating on the internet taken of people climbing the basalt column in Reynisfjara. For more information about Reynisfjara and its location on the map of Iceland, click Reynisfjara 4. Hljóðaklettar Hljóðaklettar basalt columns Like Stuðlagil in Jökuldalur, Hljóðaklettar or Echo Cliffs is more like a wonderland constructed by patient people dedicated to minute detail rather than by the hand of mother nature. Or it might be the place where she worked on her art skills. On arrival, you are tempted to think that this is a bit weird. The many rock formations and patterns are almost deceiving and can easily fuel your imagination. In a place like this, you can easily understand why Icelanders were so interested in the stories of elves and small people living on cliffs as most of our many folklores reveal. For more information about Hljóðaklettar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Hljóðaklettar Read this important article about renting a car in Iceland. 5. Kálfshamarsvík Kálfshamarsvík basalt column stacks Another great basalt column formation by the seashore, just like Reynisfjara, but very different. Kálfshamarsvík is a small bay on the Vatnsnes Peninsula in the Northern Region of Iceland. When you approach, it seems like just another flat bay by the shore, but as you come closer, the magic is revealed. The many rock formations, including the many basalt column formations, makes Kálfshamarsvík one of the most interesting attractions in Iceland and surely one of the most interesting basalt column attractions on our little island. For more information about Kálfshamarsvík and its location on the map of Iceland, click Kálfshamarsvík 6. Dverghamrar Dverghamrar basalt columns The Dwarfs Steep Cliff or Dverghamrar, is one of the wonderful gems in the Southern Region in Iceland just by the Ring Road. It is a perfect place to watch basalt columns without much effort if you are on a family tour and driving your own car on the Ring Road. This is also a good place to stop for a picnic and relax, surrounded by wonderful landscapes. But as the name implies, the basalt columns are quite small, and caution is needed as you might be surrounded by small people and elves. They are not particularly keen on having traffic of people by their homes. For more information about Dverghamrar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Dverghamrar 7. Svartifoss Svartifoss waterfall basalt columns When you have two magnificent natural wonders combined into one, like a basalt column cliff and a waterfall, you most definitely have a winner. This combination of mother nature is so irresistible that you are easily hypnotized when placed in front of it. Svartifoss is a relatively small waterfall in a small spring-fed river, but falling over the basalt column in this quiet place fills your heart with enormous joy. It is one of those places that is so relaxing that it seems to lower blood pressure and could possibly replace tranquilizers. The basalt column cliff is beautiful and would be worth visiting even without the waterfall. For more information about Svartifoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Svartifoss 8. Arnarstapi - Hellnar in Snæfellsnes Peninsula Arnarstapi basalt columns by the shoreline There are many reasons to walk the hiking path, from the small hamlet Arnarstapi, in the Snæfellsnes peninsula, to the tiny hamlet Hellnar. One is to view the many basalt column formations by the seashore. On this somewhat easy walk, there are many formations, and most of them are cliffs packed with birds, especially in spring and early summer. It is a very lively and enjoyable walk for everyone, and one of the attractions is the many basalt column formations. For more information about Arnarstapi - Hellnar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Arnarstapi – Hellnar 9. Stuðlafoss Stuðlafoss basalt columns The newly discovered Stuðlagil canyon in the Jökuldalur Valley drew more attention to the Stuðlafoss waterfall and the basalt columns cliffs. The waterfall is in many ways similar to Svaritfoss, although the stacks are reversed. It is also a combination of a small waterfall and a small cliff of basalt column formation. For more information about Stuðlafoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Stuðlafoss 10. Aldeyjarfoss Aldeyjarfoss basalt columns In contrast to the Svartifoss waterfall and Stuðlafoss waterfall, Aldeyjarfoss is fed by a mighty glacial river. The river falls from a cliff, which is a major artwork of basalt columns. It is a waterfall viewed by many as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland, although it did not make it to our list of 10 most impressive waterfalls. The basalt column surrounding the waterfall is one of the most impressive ones in Iceland. On August 16th, 2016 when, Stuðlagil was named, positioned, discovered, and introduced to the public. For more information about Aldeyjarfoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Aldeyjarfoss

Dynkur is one of the most beautiful and unusual waterfalls in the Icelandic Highland. It is located on Þjórsá, Iceland’s longest river, in a remote part of the southwest Highland where access is difficult, seasonal, and only suitable for well-prepared travelers in a proper 4×4 vehicle. This is not a normal waterfall stop, and it should never be treated as one. Unlike Dettifoss, Gullfoss, Skógafoss, or Goðafoss, Dynkur is not a place most visitors can simply add to an ordinary travel itinerary. It sits high in the Highland, far from regular services and away from the safe predictability of paved roads. The route to Dynkur is rough, slow, and highly dependent on weather, snowmelt, road damage, and summer conditions. In a good year, the realistic visiting season may only be a short period in high summer. In a bad year, or after heavy rain, it may not be a sensible destination at all. That difficulty is part of the experience. Dynkur is not only a waterfall. It is a Highland journey, a wide view over Þjórsá, a rough track, an isolated river landscape, and a reminder that many of Iceland’s most remarkable places are not available on demand. Dynkur waterfall in the river Þjósrá Dynkur at a glance Dynkur is a waterfall in the river Þjórsá in the southwest part of the Icelandic Highland. The waterfall is also known as Búðarhálsfoss, and the two names reflect how people on opposite sides of the river historically named the same place. The waterfall is about 38 meters high and is not a single narrow drop, but a broad waterfall system where Þjórsá falls over several steps, ledges, and channels. Visit South Iceland describes Dynkur as about 38 meters high and formed where the river falls from many ledges into one waterfall system. Þjórsá itself is one of the great rivers of Iceland. It is widely described as Iceland’s longest river, about 230 km long, and it has played a major role in Icelandic hydroelectric development because of its volume, drop, and Highland catchment. The most important thing to know before visiting Dynkur is simple: this is a Highland destination for experienced drivers, not a regular sightseeing stop. A proper high-clearance 4×4 is necessary. A normal rental car, a small SUV, or an unprepared vehicle should not be used. The road or track can be slow, rough, damaged, wet, stony, and difficult even in summer. The river Þjórsá is the longest river in Iceland Where is Dynkur? Dynkur is located in the southwest Highland, on Þjórsá, southeast of Búðarháls and not far from the larger system of Highland roads and power-development areas connected to Þjórsá and Tungnaá. It belongs to a landscape of open views, barren ridges, rough tracks, glacial rivers, reservoirs, and old Highland grazing routes. Although Dynkur is not far from better-known parts of the south Icelandic interior on a map, distance on a map means very little here. The real question is not how many kilometers it is from the lowland, but what kind of road or track lies between you and the waterfall. In the Highland, a short distance can take a long time, and a rough track can become a serious problem in the wrong conditions. Dynkur is therefore best understood as a Highland destination rather than a waterfall destination. The waterfall is the reward, but the route, the terrain, the river, and the surrounding landscape are all part of the visit. Access to Dynkur: this is not a normal road The usual approach to Dynkur is from the south, using Road 26 into the interior and then continuing toward Búðarháls and the rough track that leads in the direction of the waterfall. From there, the drive becomes much slower and more demanding. The final part is not a comfortable tourist road. It is a rough Highland track suitable only for a good 4×4 vehicle in favorable summer conditions. This distinction matters. Too many visitors now look at remote Icelandic places on a map and assume that if a route exists, it is simply a road. Dynkur is exactly the kind of place where that assumption can become dangerous. The route can include loose material, stones, ruts, wet sections, uneven ground, and slow driving. The weather can change quickly. Snow can remain long into summer. Heavy rain can damage tracks or make them much worse. A road that one experienced driver considers manageable can be completely unsuitable for someone in the wrong vehicle or without Highland driving experience. Vegagerðin, the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration, emphasizes that Highland roads receive less service than other roads and are closed during winter. Its mountain road information is updated as conditions change, which is essential for anyone planning travel into the Highland. For Dynkur, do not rely only on a calendar date. The fact that it is July or August does not guarantee that the route is wise. The correct question is always: what are the actual current conditions? When can you visit Dynkur? Dynkur should be considered a short-window summer destination. In practical terms, that usually means high summer, when snow has melted, the ground has dried, and the road or track is open and passable. Even then, the route can remain difficult. It is safer to think of Dynkur as a destination for a few suitable weeks in summer rather than a place that is reliably available from mid-June to mid-September. In some years, conditions may allow a longer window. In other years, the useful period may be much shorter. Early summer can be affected by remaining snow, wet ground, and soft tracks. Late summer and early autumn can bring storms, cold weather, and rapid deterioration of Highland driving conditions. If you are planning to visit Dynkur, check road conditions before departure, check the weather, and be prepared to cancel the visit. A good Highland plan always includes the possibility of turning around. The drive to Dynkur is part of the experience The journey to Dynkur is part of what makes the waterfall memorable. As you leave the lowland and move into the interior, the landscape changes. The farms, roads, and more familiar parts of south Iceland give way to open Highland terrain, river systems, ridges, and long views. The route toward Búðarháls gives a strong sense of the geography of the Þjórsá area. From parts of the route and the parking area, the view over the river and surrounding Highland landscape can be remarkable. The waterfall itself is not the only reason to go. The journey gives context to Þjórsá, to the power of the river, and to the way Icelandic rivers have shaped both the landscape and the country’s energy history. But the beauty of the drive should not hide the reality of the access. This is not a route for speed. It is not a route for careless driving. It is not a route for people who are uncomfortable with rough terrain. The slower you treat it, the better. In the Highland, speed is usually the enemy of both safety and enjoyment. Dynkur and Þjórsá Dynkur is part of Þjórsá, the longest river in Iceland. The river begins in the interior, gathering water from many branches and tributaries before flowing south toward the lowland. Because of its length, volume, and descent from the Highland, Þjórsá has long been important in Iceland’s hydroelectric development. Several power stations use water from Þjórsá and its tributaries, and the river has become one of the central energy rivers in Iceland. This background is important because it explains the scale of the river. Dynkur is not formed by a small mountain stream. It is part of a major Icelandic river system. The water has weight and width. The waterfall spreads across the river in steps and channels, creating a broad, complex formation rather than one clean vertical fall. That is what makes Dynkur visually interesting. It is not just powerful. It is structured. The river breaks over ledges and smaller falls that work together as one waterfall system. In good light, the shapes in the water, the dark rock, the riverbanks, and the open Highland surroundings create a scene quite different from most of the famous waterfalls in Iceland. Dynkur or Búðarhálsfoss: two names for the same waterfall Like many places in Iceland, Dynkur has more than one name. It is also known as Búðarhálsfoss. This is not unusual in a country where rivers, mountains, grazing areas, and remote landmarks were often named from different directions by different communities. For centuries, Þjórsá was a serious boundary. In the lowland and the Highland, large rivers separated people, farms, districts, and summer grazing areas. A powerful river like Þjórsá was not something people simply crossed at will. The people on one side could see the same waterfall as the people on the other side, but they approached it from different land, different routes, and different local traditions. The name Dynkur has a strong sound. It suggests noise, resonance, and the deep sound of falling water. Búðarhálsfoss connects the waterfall to Búðarháls, the ridge and area on the eastern side. Both names belong to the place. For a modern visitor, the dual naming is part of the story of how remote landscapes in Iceland were understood from different sides long before tourism arrived. A view to Dynkur from the Parking Lot Dynkur in Popular Culture, The Last Kingdom Dynkur has also reached a wider audience through popular culture. The waterfall appears in the opening of Season 5 of the Netflix series The Last Kingdom, in scenes connected to Brida’s time in Iceland. For anyone familiar with the series, it is a striking moment: a remote Highland waterfall used as a dramatic visual symbol of exile, distance, and a harsh northern world. As a filming location, Dynkur makes perfect visual sense. It looks remote, unusual, and powerful. It is not one of the overused Icelandic locations that appear again and again in international productions. The waterfall has a fresh quality on screen because most viewers have never seen it before. Historically, of course, the scene should not be taken literally. Given the location of Dynkur in the Highland and the difficulty of access, it is highly unlikely that people in settlement-age Iceland were casually spending time there in the way the series suggests. But film uses landscape as atmosphere, and in that sense Dynkur works extremely well. It gives the scene a raw northern character that few places could provide. Walking near Dynkur From the parking or stopping area, visitors can usually walk along the riverbank to see more of the waterfall system and the surrounding landscape. The walk is part of the visit and should not be rushed. Depending on where you stop and how close you want to get, the walk toward better viewpoints can be a few kilometres. The terrain is open, but that does not make it harmless. There may be uneven ground, loose stones, wet patches, fragile vegetation, and steep or dangerous edges near the river. The river itself must be respected. Þjórsá is powerful, cold, and dangerous. The goal is to experience and photograph the waterfall, not to move carelessly close to the river for a better angle. Visitors should also remember that there are no services at Dynkur. No café, no fuel, no rescue nearby, no easy assistance, and possibly limited phone connection. That is part of the Highland reality. You should arrive with enough fuel, proper clothing, food, water, offline maps, and the ability to handle basic problems yourself. Photographing Dynkur For photographers, Dynkur is a remarkable subject. It is visually different from most of the famous waterfalls in Iceland. The shape is broader and more complex, the surroundings are more open, and the Highland setting gives the waterfall a sense of isolation that is difficult to find at the more popular locations. The best photographs of Dynkur are not necessarily close-ups of the falling water. The place works well when the river, the waterfall system, the ridges, the sky, and the open terrain are allowed into the frame. Dynkur is a landscape subject as much as a waterfall subject. Light is critical. In flat light, the waterfall can lose some of its structure. In good directional light, the ledges, channels, spray, and surfaces become much more interesting. Because the location is remote, you do not have the same flexibility as at easier places. You cannot simply return in an hour after coffee. Planning matters. A drone can reveal the structure of Dynkur exceptionally well, but drone use must always follow Icelandic rules, local restrictions, weather limits, and common sense. Wind in the Highland can be difficult, and remote locations are not forgiving if equipment fails. Ground photography remains very strong here, especially when the waterfall is framed as part of the broader Þjórsá landscape. Safety at Dynkur Dynkur requires a different safety mindset from most well-known waterfalls in Iceland. The main risk is not only the waterfall itself. The main risk is the whole journey: road conditions, isolation, weather, vehicle suitability, navigation, and lack of services. A proper high-clearance 4×4 is essential. Good tyres matter. Experience matters. You should know how to drive slowly on rough tracks, how to judge soft or damaged sections, and when to stop and turn around. You should not continue simply because a map says the road goes there. Weather is another major factor. The Highland can change quickly, and poor visibility, wind, rain, cold, or early snow can turn a difficult trip into an unsafe one. Even in summer, conditions can become unpleasant fast. Travellers should check both road and weather information before leaving the lowland. The most important rule is simple: Dynkur is optional. If the track looks worse than expected, turn around. If the weather changes, turn around. If the vehicle is not suitable, do not go. If you are unsure, choose another destination. The waterfall is not worth damaging a vehicle or placing yourself in danger. Dynkur is actually a flow of many small waterfalls Is Dynkur a hidden gem? Dynkur is often described as a hidden gem, but that phrase is not quite right. Among Icelanders with an interest in the Highland, rivers, waterfalls, or Þjórsá, Dynkur has been known for a long time. It is not hidden because nobody knew about it. It is little visited because it is difficult to reach. That distinction matters. Many places in Iceland are now called hidden gems only because they are less crowded than the famous stops. Dynkur is different. It has remained relatively quiet because access naturally limits the number of visitors. The road, the season, the vehicle requirement, and the isolation all protect it from casual tourism. This is also why information about Dynkur should be careful. The goal is not to encourage everyone to go there. The goal is to explain the place accurately so that only those who are properly prepared consider it. Why Dynkur is worth visiting Dynkur is worth visiting because it combines a beautiful waterfall with a real Highland journey. The waterfall itself is impressive, but the surrounding landscape gives the visit its deeper value. Þjórsá, Búðarháls, the rough track, the open views, the silence, and the remote feeling all contribute to the experience. It is one of those places where the journey filters the visitor. You do not arrive at Dynkur by accident. You go there because you have planned the visit, chosen the right vehicle, checked the conditions, and accepted that the trip may take time. That effort changes the way you experience the place. Dynkur is not for everyone, and that is part of its strength. For travellers with the right preparation, it is one of the most rewarding waterfall visits in the Icelandic Highland. For photographers, it offers a rare combination of water, structure, isolation, and Highland landscape. For anyone interested in Þjórsá, it is one of the most beautiful expressions of Iceland’s longest river. The view on the F-road is spectacular in all directions to the Highland in Iceland Frequently asked questions about Dynkur Is Dynkur the same as Búðarhálsfoss? Yes. Dynkur is also known as Búðarhálsfoss. The two names reflect different local naming traditions connected to the two sides of Þjórsá and the surrounding areas. Can I visit Dynkur in a normal car? No. Dynkur should only be visited in a proper high-clearance 4×4 vehicle and only in good summer conditions. A normal rental car or small SUV is not suitable When is Dynkur accessible? Dynkur is usually only a realistic destination during a short high-summer window, depending on snowmelt, road conditions, wet ground, and weather. Do not rely on the calendar alone. Always check current conditions before attempting the drive. Is the road to Dynkur difficult? Yes. The final access is a rough Highland road or track and can be difficult even in summer. It is slow, remote, and conditions can change. Drivers need suitable vehicles and experience. Is Dynkur suitable for most tourists? No. Dynkur is best for experienced Highland travellers, photographers, and visitors with proper 4×4 vehicles who understand Icelandic interior-road conditions. Most visitors to Iceland should choose more accessible waterfalls. Why is Dynkur worth visiting? Dynkur is worth visiting because it is a beautiful and unusual waterfall system on Þjórsá, set in a remote Highland landscape. The combination of the waterfall, the river, the rough journey, and the open views makes it a rare Icelandic experience. Was Dynkur used in The Last Kingdom? Yes, Dynkur appears in the opening of Season 5 of The Last Kingdom, in scenes connected to Brida’s time in Iceland. The waterfall’s remote Highland appearance made it a strong visual location, even if the historical geography should not be taken literally. Location of Dynkur on the map of Iceland

Dettifoss waterfall Dettifoss is one of the great natural landmarks of North Iceland. It is not the highest waterfall in the country, nor the most delicate, but few places in Iceland give such a direct impression of force. The waterfall drops from the glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum into Jökulsárgljúfur canyon, where the sound, spray, vibration, and scale of the landscape combine into an experience that is difficult to understand from photographs alone. Dettifoss is usually described as Europe’s most powerful waterfall. The official Vatnajökull National Park information gives the waterfall as 44–45 meters high and about 100 meters wide, and notes that the power can even be felt through the nearby rock as the waterfall vibrates through the canyon walls. Dettifoss is also one of the main highlights of Jökulsárgljúfur, the northern canyon area of Vatnajökull National Park. The waterfall is part of the same powerful river system as Selfoss upstream and Hafragilsfoss downstream. For visitors planning a trip in North Iceland, the most important question is usually not whether Dettifoss is worth visiting. It is. The more practical question is which side to visit, how to get there, and what conditions to expect. Map of the northeast region in Iceland Dettifoss at a glance Dettifoss is located in Northeast Iceland, inside Vatnajökull National Park, in the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. The waterfall is fed by Jökulsá á Fjöllum, one of Iceland’s major glacial rivers, flowing north from Vatnajökull toward the sea. The waterfall is around 44–45 meters high and about 100 meters wide. The two main access routes are Road 862 on the west side and Road 864 on the east side. Nearby waterfalls include Selfoss, about one kilometer upstream, and Hafragilsfoss, downstream in the canyon. For most first-time visitors, the west side is usually the better and more convenient choice. For those who want a rougher, closer, and less polished experience, the east side can be excellent when Road 864 is open, and conditions are good. Where is Dettifoss? Dettifoss is in Jökulsárgljúfur, the great canyon carved by Jökulsá á Fjöllum in North Iceland. The waterfall lies within Vatnajökull National Park, in a remote but accessible part of the north. Many visitors include Dettifoss as part of the Diamond Circle route, often together with Mývatn, Húsavík, Ásbyrgi, Goðafoss, and other places in North Iceland. The setting is important. Dettifoss is not an isolated waterfall in a soft green valley. It belongs to a larger landscape of basalt, glacial water, old flood channels, lava formations, barren plains, canyon walls, and powerful erosional history. The waterfall is only one part of the story. Jökulsárgljúfur itself is just as important. Which side of Dettifoss should you visit? Dettifoss can be visited from both the west side and the east side. The waterfall is the same, but the experience is not. The views, the road conditions, the paths, the facilities, and the feeling of the place are different. The west side, reached by Road 862, is generally the more developed and practical side. This is the better option for most visitors, especially those traveling in a regular rental car or visiting Dettifoss for the first time. The west side has marked hiking routes, parking, toilets, and a more organized visitor experience. The official national park information describes Road 862 as the western access road and notes that it has limited winter service, meaning that conditions should still be checked carefully outside the main summer season. The east side, reached by Road 864, is rougher and less developed. Road 864 is a gravel road, and driving can be slow. It usually closes when snow begins in autumn, and the spring opening depends on snow, mud, and drying conditions. The east side gives a more immediate and intense feeling of the waterfall, but it is not the side to choose casually in poor weather, outside the main season, or without checking current road conditions first. If you only have time for one side, choose the west side unless you specifically want the rougher east-side experience and know the road is suitable. If you have time, good weather, and proper road conditions, visiting both sides gives a better understanding of Dettifoss. The west side gives structure and overview. The east side gives closeness and raw power. The river's yearly average flow is slightly less than 200 m3/s, so in winter, the flow is greatly reduced. Road 862: the west side of Dettifoss Road 862 leads to the west side of Dettifoss. For most travelers, this is the standard route. It is the side most likely to suit families, visitors with limited time, and people who want a clear path from parking to the viewpoint. From the west-side parking area, the walk to the Dettifoss viewpoint is about one kilometer each way, according to Vatnajökull National Park. The marked route is not difficult in normal summer conditions, but it still requires proper footwear. The ground can be wet, uneven, slippery, or icy, depending on the season and weather. The west side is also the best starting point for the short hike to Selfoss. The Dettifoss and Selfoss trail from the west-side parking area is listed by the national park as a 2.5 km circular route, estimated at around one hour, and rated easy. This makes the west side the most efficient choice if you want to see both Dettifoss and Selfoss in one visit. Road 864: the east side of Dettifoss Road 864 leads to the east side of Dettifoss. This side can be very rewarding, but it demands more caution. It is a gravel road, the drive is slower, and the route is much more dependent on seasonal conditions. The official national park information states clearly that driving on Road 864 can be slow, that it closes when snow begins in autumn, and that its reopening in spring depends on conditions, including whether wet mud has dried. The reward is a different view of Dettifoss. On the east side, the waterfall often feels closer and more violent. The experience is less formal and less polished. For photographers, this can be useful because the east side gives a different relationship between river, canyon, mist, and falling water. But the east side should not be treated as simply another tourist stop. The road and the conditions matter. Always check current road conditions before choosing Road 864. In Iceland, especially in the shoulder seasons, a route that looks simple on a map can be unsuitable in reality. Dettifoss is one of the main attractions that people flock to The power of Jökulsá á Fjöllum The force of Dettifoss comes from Jökulsá á Fjöllum, one of Iceland’s great glacial rivers. The river originates from Vatnajökull and carries meltwater, sediment, and volcanic material northward through the landscape. This is why the water at Dettifoss is often grey, brown, or milky rather than clear. It is not a clean mountain stream. It is a glacial river carrying the story of ice, volcanic terrain, erosion, and distance. This gives Dettifoss much of its character. The waterfall is not elegant in the same way as many other Icelandic waterfalls. It is heavy, loud, and physical. The water does not fall like a curtain. It collapses over the edge in a dense, forceful mass, sending spray into the canyon and sound through the rock. In winter or during lower-flow periods, Dettifoss can look different from the classic summer image. In the main melt season or after periods of high water, the waterfall becomes more violent. This variability is part of the place. Dettifoss is not a fixed object. It changes with the river. The geology of Dettifoss and Jökulsárgljúfur The landscape around Dettifoss was shaped by both ordinary river erosion and extraordinary flood events. Jökulsárgljúfur is not simply the result of slow, gentle river carving over an immense period. Scientific research on the lower Jökulsá á Fjöllum area has shown that extreme jökulhlaup, or glacial outburst floods, played a major role in shaping the canyon landscape during the Holocene. One study describes widespread evidence of catastrophic flood action and emphasizes that extreme flood events had a dominant effect on the evolution of Jökulsárgljúfur. This matters when visiting Dettifoss. The canyon is not only scenery. It is evidence. The large-scale forms in the landscape — the canyon walls, old flood channels, rock surfaces, boulder deposits, and the position of the waterfalls — tell the story of water moving with force far beyond ordinary river flow. Vatnajökull National Park also explains that the large passes in Jökulsárgljúfur were shaped by outburst floods and glacial river processes over recent millennia. North of Dettifoss, the canyon narrows to about 100 meters in a short section, and the national park describes this narrow stretch as part of the ongoing work of Dettifoss cutting through the landscape. This is one reason Dettifoss feels different from many other waterfalls. It is not only the falling water that impresses. It is the whole canyon system. Selfoss: the waterfall upstream from Dettifoss Selfoss is located upstream from Dettifoss and should not be skipped if conditions are good. It is lower than Dettifoss, with a drop of about 10 meters, but it has a completely different shape and mood. Instead of one massive plunge, Selfoss spreads across the river in a broad, broken formation of cascades. The contrast between the two waterfalls is one of the best reasons to walk beyond the main Dettifoss viewpoint. Dettifoss is a force and compression. Selfoss is width, rhythm, and structure. Seen together, they show two different expressions of the same river. From the west-side parking area, the Dettifoss and Selfoss trail is a manageable short hike in normal conditions. The national park describes the circular route as 2.5 km, about one hour, and easy. Hafragilsfoss: the waterfall downstream Hafragilsfoss is downstream from Dettifoss and receives less attention, partly because many visitors focus only on the famous name. That is a mistake if you have time and the conditions are favorable. Hafragilsfoss drops into a narrower part of Jökulsárgljúfur and gives another view of the canyon’s scale. The national park gives Hafragilsfoss a drop of 27 meters. It is not as famous as Dettifoss, but it belongs to the same river system and helps visitors understand the canyon better. For photographers and landscape-minded visitors, Hafragilsfoss can be especially interesting because it places the river more clearly within the canyon. Dettifoss is often overwhelming as a single subject. Hafragilsfoss can sometimes explain the landscape more clearly. Dettifoss from the east side When is the best time to visit Dettifoss? The easiest time to visit Dettifoss is summer, from June into early September. Roads are generally more reliable, daylight is long, and the walking routes are easier. This is also the busiest time, and the west side in particular can receive many visitors. The shoulder seasons can be excellent, especially for photography. Late May, September, and early October may bring fewer people, lower light, snow remnants, autumn color in nearby areas, or more dramatic weather. But the shoulder seasons also bring more uncertainty. Road 864 may not be open, or may be unsuitable, and even Road 862 can have limited winter service. Winter visits to Dettifoss can be powerful, but they should not be treated like normal summer visits. Ice, snow, darkness, wind, road closures, and slippery paths change everything. A winter visit requires proper information, proper equipment, and a willingness to turn around if conditions are wrong. In Iceland, the best travel plan is always flexible. Dettifoss is not going anywhere. It is better to miss it once than to force a visit in bad road or weather conditions. Safety at Dettifoss Dettifoss deserves respect. The waterfall, the canyon edges, the mist, the rock, and the weather all create risk if visitors are careless. Stay on marked paths, respect signs and closures, and do not move close to edges for a photograph. The ground can be wet and slippery, and in winter or spring, ice can make ordinary paths dangerous. Good footwear matters. Even in summer, this is not a place for weak shoes if you intend to walk beyond the simplest viewpoint. Waterproof clothing is also useful, because the spray from the waterfall can travel with the wind and soak both people and camera equipment. The official national park information specifically says that care must be exercised whichever side is chosen. That is a simple sentence, but it is the right one. Before visiting, check road conditions, weather forecasts, and local warnings. In Iceland, especially outside towns, conditions are not theoretical. They decide whether a place is safely accessible or not. Dettifoss from the west side Photographing Dettifoss Dettifoss is both a rewarding and difficult subject for photography. Its scale is hard to show, the mist can reduce clarity, and the contrast between dark canyon walls and white water can be difficult to control. The waterfall is also so powerful that simple front-facing photographs often fail to describe the experience. The west side is useful for broader compositions and for including more of the waterfall’s full width. It can also work well when the light catches the mist and creates an atmosphere over the canyon. The east side may offer a stronger sense of closeness and force, but the road and conditions make it less predictable. For photography, the surrounding landscape is often as important as the waterfall itself. Jökulsá á Fjöllum, the canyon walls, the approach paths, the mist, distant viewpoints, Selfoss, and Hafragilsfoss can all produce better images than a standard photograph of the main drop. Dettifoss is not only a waterfall subject. It is a landscape subject. A practical approach is to photograph it in layers. Start with the classic viewpoint, then look for the river, the canyon, the spray, the people for scale, the basalt, the water color, and the relationship between Dettifoss and the other waterfalls. The best image may not be the most obvious one. Map and location A map is useful for Dettifoss because the two access roads create confusion. Visitors often assume that the east and west sides are easily interchangeable. They are not. A good Dettifoss map should show Road 862 on the west side, Road 864 on the east side, Dettifoss itself, Selfoss upstream, Hafragilsfoss downstream, and ideally the connection to the Ring Road and Ásbyrgi. For a website like Hit Iceland, a clean custom Leaflet/OpenStreetMap map can be better than a standard Google Maps embed. Google Maps is useful for navigation, but a custom map can explain the place more clearly. It can show the visitor how the landscape is organized, not just where to drive. The most useful map section would include three things: Dettifoss location, west-side access, and east-side access. A short warning below the map should tell visitors that Road 864 is seasonal and that road conditions must be checked before travel. Why Dettifoss is worth visiting Dettifoss is worth visiting because it is one of the clearest demonstrations of natural power in Iceland. Many waterfalls are beautiful. Dettifoss is more than beautiful. It is physical. You hear it before you understand it. You feel the spray and vibration. You see an entire glacial river drop into a canyon carved by water, ice, volcanic activity, erosion, and catastrophic floods. The experience is strongest when visitors understand the setting. Dettifoss is not just a stop beside a parking lot. It is part of Jökulsárgljúfur, part of Jökulsá á Fjöllum, part of Vatnajökull National Park, and part of a much larger geological story. The waterfall is impressive on its own, but the landscape around it makes it more meaningful. If you visit Dettifoss, give it enough time. Walk carefully. Consider Selfoss. Consider Hafragilsfoss. Think about which side suits your trip. Check the road conditions. And do not reduce the place to a quick photograph. Dettifoss is one of those places in Iceland where the landscape still feels stronger than the visitor. Dettifoss waterfall and the river Jökulsá á Fjöllum Frequently asked questions about Dettifoss Is Dettifoss worth visiting? Yes. Dettifoss is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Iceland and one of the main natural landmarks in North Iceland. Its value is not only the waterfall itself, but also its setting in Jökulsárgljúfur canyon and its connection to Jökulsá á Fjöllum. Which side of Dettifoss is better? For most visitors, the west side is the better choice because it is more developed and generally easier to access. The east side can offer a more intense and raw experience, but Road 864 is gravel, slower, and more seasonal. Can you visit Dettifoss and Selfoss together? Yes. From the west-side parking area, the Dettifoss and Selfoss route is listed by Vatnajökull National Park as a 2.5 km circular walk taking about one hour in normal conditions. Is Road 864 to Dettifoss always open? No. Road 864 is a gravel road and is seasonal. It closes when snow begins in autumn, and its spring opening depends on conditions such as snow, mud, and drying. Always check current road conditions before using it. Can you visit Dettifoss in winter? Sometimes, but winter access is conditions-dependent. Road 862 has limited winter service, and Road 864 is generally not a winter route. Winter visitors need to check road and weather conditions carefully and be prepared for ice, snow, wind, and limited daylight. How long is the walk to Dettifoss? From the parking lot to the Dettifoss viewpoint, Vatnajökull National Park gives the distance as about 1 km one way. Is Dettifoss inside Vatnajökull National Park? Yes. Dettifoss is in Jökulsárgljúfur, which is part of Vatnajökull National Park in North Iceland Location of Dettifoss waterfall on the map of Iceland

Ice cave close to Jökulsárlón I started my four-and-a-half-hour drive early as the weather forecast was great. I was on my way to visit Ice Caves and write an article for my information web page, Hit Iceland. Although I had traveled to most places in Iceland in the last two years, I had not visited an Ice Cave. I anticipated a magnificent mountain and glacier view along the way and wanted to have time to photograph before reaching my destination. I was on my way to Jökulsárlón, where I was to meet Little Siggi, an ice cave tour operator at South East Tours. Fortunately, I had about two hours to spare for photography. The drive is part of the Ring Road in Iceland from Reykjavík, where I live to the famous iceberg lagoon Jökulsárlón. The place where Little Siggi has his meeting point. The weather was great, and I consistently stopped the car and ran out with the camera. Most of the Ice Caves are in the South Region in Iceland The tour operator knows his way around the area Visiting an ice cave is a gret experience Arriving at Jökulsárlón, I was greeted by Little Siggi, who is not so little despite the nickname. It sounds like a name that he got stuck with when growing up in the small town of Höfn, not far from Jökulsárlón. Little Siggi is a local operator who knows the terrain, the glacier, the ice caves, and the whole area like the palm of his hand. A man who goes out of his way to avoid driving over elves as he knows where they live. The Black Dimond cave with a hole in the bottom The Black Diamont ice cave The first cave was Black Dimond, a rather small, dark ice cave. The reason for the dark color is the ash from a major eruption in the glacier Öræfajökull ages ago. Ash is stuck in the ice but clearly visible through the transparent layer of clean ice. Although small, the cave has a narrow path that I crawled to see the hole at the end. Crystal Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier Ice cave at Breiðamerkurjökull glacier The second ice cave, Crystal Cave, is much bigger and quite popular among our visitors. It is a breathtaking sight to walk through the large cave with its blue color above you and the transparent layer of ice. You can't help thinking if there is something stuck in the ice from another century. Possibly an old Viking that got lost centuries ago, and the glacier has been protected. It is simply a very unusual place to visit and a very rare sight. If you are planning a trip to Iceland in the time period between November and March, a visit to an ice cave should most definitely be on your list. How cool is a selfie inside the spectacular formation of a blue ice cave? Taking a selfie inside the ice cave Entering an ice cave under and at the end of a glacier tongue is a unique experience. The caves are natural wonders created by mother nature during summer and accessible during winter. In the spring, when temperature rises and glaciers are exposed to the sun, ice melts, and water filled with mud and rocks finds its way under the glacier, crawling to the edge of the glacier tongue. In the process, the rivers under the glaciers polish the ice and create caves. When winter returns, the melting and floods end, the caves become accessible, and you can enter this dreamlike world of blue ice caves. Accessible from November until March Interesting ice formation inside an ice cave One of the most popular and most accessible places to explore an ice cave is Breiðamerkurjökull glacier tongue at the edge of the large ice cap Vatnajökull in southeast Iceland. Although the caves are accessible from the Ring Road, the dirt road to the caves is quite challenging and, at some points, dangerous. It is deceiving as some harsh dirt roads are placed on ice with possible crevasses under the road. So driving on the roads requires some local knowledge. The roads are also hard to drive and more or less only fit for large modified 4X4 vehicles. And anyhow, you should only enter an ice cave with a guide and equipped with the appropriate gear. Placed near the Jökulsárlón lagoon Ice cave close to Jökulsárlón lagoon Visiting an ice cave is one of the most exciting things you can do in Iceland during winter. Although this season is the most interesting for tourists, there are many things you can do and experience. Jökulsárlón iceberg lagoon is one of the natural wonders you can visit and enjoy all year round. Most of the companies and guides offering ice cave tours operate from the Jökulsárlón center. Location of Breiðamerkurjökull and Jökulsárlón on the map of Iceland

The tem most interesting waterfalls in Iceland Iceland is an absolutely incredible destination bursting with awe-inspiring waterfalls! If you're a waterfall enthusiast, you're in for a real treat. Imagine yourself embarking on an adventure across this stunning country, whether you're cruising in a rental car or setting off in a camper. You'll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and it's almost certain that a magnificent waterfall will reveal itself to you before you know it! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Many of these stunning waterfalls are perfectly positioned near the Ring Road or other easily accessible routes, adding extra joy to your journey. Each waterfall boasts its own unique charm, promising a deeply fulfilling experience. It's no wonder they've been celebrated on international lists of the world's most beautiful waterfalls. Take your time to immerse yourself in their breathtaking beauty and tranquility—you definitely won't regret it! Although not on our list Aldeyjarfoss is a spectacular waterfall in the North East region So how do we pick ten from hundreds of waterfalls and claim that they are more impressive, more beautiful, and more interesting than others. Especially if we could undoubtedly name 20 to 30 more waterfalls, in addition to the ten, that are easily accessible and enjoyable to visit. There are a number of things that are important when evaluating a waterfall. The volume of water, the height of the waterfall, the width and overall form, the geological base, the surrounding area, the landscape, is the water source a spring fed river or glacial, is it photogenic and does it have an interesting history? Fagrifoss, in English, the beautiful waterfall, is not on the list but most definitely a waterfall worth visiting With all those premises in mind, we reduced our list to 40 waterfalls, traveled to all of them, and evaluated them based on the above criteria. All aim to introduce and photograph the most attractive waterfalls in this beautiful country. A country that is packed with waterfalls. Flögufoss in the East Region is another waterfall that is not on the list but is a natural wonder worth visiting Gullfoss waterfall is number one #1 Gullfoss waterfall #1 The waterfall Gullfoss has it all. It is a beautiful waterfall with a high volume of water fed by the mighty glacial river Hvítá and many other sources. It has a height of approximately 35 meters and falls on two separate steps into a deep canyon. The overall landscape and surrounding are stunning, and it is so perfect for photographing that it is almost difficult to take a bad shot at Gullfoss. For more information about Gullfoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Gullfoss Dynjandi in the West Fjords is number two #2 Dynjandi waterfall #2 If there is a serious competitor for Gullfoss when defining the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland, it is Dynjandi, sometimes referred to as Fjallfoss. In addition to being a stunning natural wonder, it is a joy to visit. It is also a very friendly waterfall, and contrary to Gullfoss has a low volume of water from a spring fed river but spreads over a cliff in the fall. The short phat leading up to the waterfall also has seven waterfalls for your enjoyment. Unlike most of the popular waterfalls in Iceland Dynjandi is not easily accessible as the waterfall is located in the Westfjords. It is placed in Arnarfjörður fjord which is difficult to visit during winter and we only recommend a visit to Dynjandi in the months from June through September. For more information about Dynjandi and location on the map of Iceland, click Dynjandi Skógafoss is my number three most interesting waterfall in Iceland #3 Skógafoss waterfall #3 The main reasons for the huge admiration of Skógafoss is its rectangular shape, the constant volume of water and the stunning landscape surrounding the fall. It is almost the definition of the perfect tourist attraction waterfall. The water in the river Skógá is a combination of glacial river and spring fed river which makes the water cleaner than waterfalls that are mainly from glacial rivers. Skógafoss is also easily accessible from the Ring Road in Iceland. For more information about Skógafoss and location on the map of Iceland, click Skógafoss Dettifoss is number four on my list #4 Dettifoss waterfall #4 Sometimes referred to as the most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss is in a very powerful glacial river Jökulsá. Viewing such a massive force is an experience in addition of being in a spectacular surrounding in the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. Dettifoss is also quite photogenic and you can view the fall from both sides of the river. Whichever side you choose caution is always needed as conditions can change with weather, especially in winter. For more information about Dettifos and location on the map of Iceland, click Dettifoss Háifoss is number five although my favorite waterfall #5 Háifoss waterfall #5 Located at the edge of the Icelandic Highland near Þjórsárdalur in the Southern Region, Háifoss waterfall is the second highest waterfall in Iceland. Although placed in a somewhat narrow and steep canyon it is visible from above and is easy to enjoy and photograph from top to bottom, contrary to Glymur the highest waterfall in Iceland. Access is not complicated, but not simple either. You need a good 4X4 vehicle as the road leading to the parking lot above Háifoss is a simple dirt road seldom maintained. For more information about Háifoss and location on the map of Iceland, click Háifoss Seljalandsfoss one of the most popular number six #6 Seljalandsfoss waterfall #6 There are many reasons why Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. It is an exceptionally photogenic, both from the front and the back or behind. The overall landscape around the waterfall is beautiful at the root of the mountains Eyjafjöll and the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. It is a very friendly waterfall that you can enjoy for hours and is never intimidating as the fall is has a consistent flow of water. Seljalandsfoss is also easily accessible all year round from the Ring Road Nr. 1. For more information about Seljalandsfoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Seljalandsfoss Goðafoss is number seven on my list #7 Goðafoss waterfall #7 One of the best-known landmarks in a fascinating part of Iceland, the Northeast region, is the waterfall Goðafoss. The fall is almost on the Ring Road Nr. 1 at a place that is also a perfect stop. It is fed by a large river with a massive volume of water and is also stunning from any point of view. It is much like Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland's most photogenic natural wonders. It is also easy to walk to the waterfall's east and west sides of the waterfall and spend an hour or two viewing and exploring this remarkable construction of mother nature. For more information about Goðafoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Goðafoss Svartifoss at a basalt column cliff is number eight #8 Svartifoss waterfall #8 One of the natural wonders that have proved to be extremely popular in Iceland among visitors is the geological formation of basalt columns. In most cases, the basalt column structure is like a work of art by mother nature, just stunning. So when a river falls down an extraordinary basalt column cliff, you must have something unique. This is the reason why Svartifoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Although it requires a walk for an hour and a half from the magnificent Skaftafell, it is one of the most popular attractions in Iceland. For more information about Svartifoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Svartifoss Hjálparfoss is number nine #9 Hjálparfoss waterfall #9 Hjálparfoss is simply a beautiful waterfall from any angle. Highly photogenic and a joy to visit. It is surrounded by an excellent combination of stunning geology and vegetation with a magnificent overall background. It is easily accessible, although a bit out of the main roads and popular road trips. For more information about Hjálparfoss and its location on the map of Iceland, click Hjálparfoss Klifbrekkufossar in the East Region number ten #10 Klifbrekkufoss waterfall #10 Like many of our magnificent Highland waterfalls, it is difficult, if not impossible, to visit Klifbrekkufossar during winter. The waterfall is a series of small waterfalls located at the bottom of a narrow fjord in the East Region of Iceland, Mjóifjörður fjord. To get there, you need to drive over a mountain pass with a magnificent view. The road is usually closed for months during winter. But once you get in front of the waterfalls, it is almost mesmerizing. For more information about Klifbrekkufossar and its location on the map of Iceland, click Klifbrekkufossar In addition, a bonus for reading this article, Dynkur is a spectacular waterfall in the Highland that few have the opportunity to visit. If you're planning to tour Iceland in a rental car, make sure to read this article about the type of car that would be best for your trip. Dynkur waterfall in the highland in Iceland