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Bárðarlaug at Snæfellsnes Peninsula Bárðarlaug is a small lake or a pond near road nr. 574, the road that goes around the glacier Snæfellsjökull at Snæfellsnes Peninsula. When you take the turn to Hellnar on the road, nr. 5730, the lake is on your right, and a parking lot is about ten minutes from the lake. The part of the name "laug" in this context means bath. So, the term is really the bath of Bárður Snæfellsás, referring to the mystical person that has hovered over the area around Mt. Snæfellsjokull as well as the glacier for centuries. Bárðarlaug was given the status of a natural monument in 1980 and thus became part of the preservation of critical natural wonders in Iceland and is today an essential part of the Snæfellsjökull National Park. Map of West Region in Iceland A bath for Bárður approximately eleven hundred years ago Supposedly the lake was his bath when he was among mortals, the son of a human mother and a half-troll, and as everyone knows, his spirit is still around as the protector of the glacier and the neighboring area. Many of the names of the nearby landscape have the word bath attached, which indicates that when Iceland was settled, the lake was warm and used for bathing by others, and not only by Bárður but also by other people living in the area. A peaceful crater with a stunning view In geological terms, the lake is an old spatter cone that has slept silently for ages, finding it more convenient to house water rather than erupting fire. It is renowned for its elliptical form. It is an amazingly peaceful place to visit when you walk the short slope down to the water. Suppose Bárður and the glacier are in a good mood, and the beautiful white glacier reveals itself with the blue sky behind. In that case, the moment becomes magical, and you might feel the extraordinary power of the Snæfellsjökull glacier. 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.

Mt. Baula in Borgarfjörður Some mountains in Iceland are more impressive than others. It doesn't have to do with size or magnitude. It has more to do with its role and identity. Baula in Borgarfjörður is one of those mountains. Like Keilir on the Reykjanes Peninsula Baula is known to most Icelanders. At the mere mention of those two mountains, everyone can instantly visualize them and their surroundings. Like Keilir, Baula is cone-shaped and has forever served as a landmark for travelers. When you pass Baula, you are leaving the south part of Iceland and venturing on the dangerous Holtavörðuheiði moor, where the weather can be portentous. The mountain marks the end of the secure world when traveling from the south – and means you have reached safety when traveling from the north. West Region in Iceland Map Apart from being a landmark, the Baula Mountain is quite beautiful with its red and orange hues caused by its rhyolite rock composition. It is 934 meters high and was created approximately 3 million years ago. Geologically it is classified as an intrusion. In geological terms, it is a batholith, which is a mass of rock that has been thrust upwards from deep within the earth. Nearby you'll find Litla-Baula (Tiny Baula), where rare columnar strands of rhyolite are to be found. Together, Baula and Litla-Baula are considered the most beautiful pair of mountains in Iceland. 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.

Hiking to Eldborg crater The crater Eldborg, at Mýrar, is extraordinary for many reasons. It has a beautiful shape and is quite noticeable as it stands alone 100 meters above sea level majestically over its surroundings. It is a place where you can see and understand what a crater is. You can't miss it when driving on the Road NR 54, at Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Eldborg is part of the Snæfellsnes Road Trip , which is described in more detail in a separate article. Map of West Region in Iceland The crater has a regular oval form with a diameter of 200 meters and a depth of 50 meters. The sides are quite thin and steep, on the inside and outside, making it difficult to walk the rim; but, it has adequate space to stand on, when you climb all the way up. It is an amazing natural structure, like a fortress or a castle, built for the protection of the 32 square kilometers of lava that the magma delivered at times of eruption. And that is really what a crater is: a hole in the ground that delivers lava when a magma surfaces in an eruption and builds this great natural wonder. Eruption in historical times Eldborg the crater at Mýrar Snæfellsnes Peninsula The crater erupted in historical times, right about when people were first coming to settle on this challenging island, around twelve hundred years ago. The eruption is even mentioned in our Book of Settlement telling a story of a farm that the fire consumed right where the crater stands today. And then the lava started cooling and began to foster all kinds of plants moss and small trees. A moderate hike Climbing up to the brim is a bit steep This natural wonder is a great place to visit; but it requires a hike. When you walk to the crater through the lava, it is interesting to keep the recent Geldingadalir eruption, at Reykjanes Peninsula, in mind. When you stand on the rim and view the surrounding area, you can only imagine the large farmland the eruption and the lava ruined. After people left the glowing lava field, the lava started to cool and began to foster all kinds of plants, moss, small trees, and vegetation. By comparing the tow and the lava surrounding the craters, you can visually perceive how nature changes over the course of time, how vegetation develops, and how the lava rocks change. It is one of the reasons why it is so interesting and educational for children traveling in Iceland, who come on family tours to see the craters and go hiking in the area. Eruption in historical times or much earlier Hiking up to the top of Eldborg crater The crater erupted in historical times, right about when people first started arriving to settle on this challenging island; this was around twelve hundred years ago, according to the sagas. The eruption is even mentioned in the Book of Settlement, which tells a story of a farm that the fire consumed, right where the crater stands today. And then, we have the geologists and the scientists. According to geological research, the eruption in Eldborg was probably around four thousand years ago, long before the settlers arrived. For the purpose of enjoying Eldborg, both explanations are interesting and contribute to the mystique of Eldborg. When you stand at the top, you visually take in the crater, the lava, and the extended view, all the way to the end of Snæfellsnes Peninsula¾with the beautiful Snæfellsjökull glacier standing tall at the end of the horizon. How to find and go to Eldborg Eldborg is easily accessible; although; it takes a bit of effort. You take a left turn if you are driving from Reykjavík and coming from Borgarnes toward the farm Snorrastadir, Road 5610. There is a parking lot, by the farm, which offers accommodation as part of the Icelandic Farm Holidays. Here, the walk to the edge of the crater is around three kilometers, which is approximately a 40-minute walk. So, if you decide to take this excellent walk, through the beautiful lava landscape up to the crater, expect to spend about two and a half hours or more, depending on the time you take to click photos. 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.

Houses in Grafarholt district in Reykjavík Grafarholt is the latest district in Reykjavík, planned and developed in the last decade of the twentieth century. It is a perfect neighborhood for those who value outdoor activity and seek peace and quiet within the city limits. Within the district, there are some attractive outdoor recreational areas, among them one of the very best golf courses in Iceland, Grafarholtsvöllur. The district also has a salmon river, a small mountain, a lake, hiking tracks, and many other options to enhance its residents' and visitors' quality of life. You can almost walk out the door from the houses on the eastern side and start a long walk on the Mosfellsheiði moors. Reykjavík on the map of Iceland Grafarholt also has a commercial area Gas station in Grafarholt district in Reykjavík Iceland The district is built on a hill, which offers a magnificent view from most houses. On top of the hill are apartment buildings and mostly single-family houses as you move down the slopes. The western part is adjacent to the main road from Reykjavík center to the western and northern parts of Iceland. This allowed developers to develop a commercial area within the district. Many companies have taken advantage of this opportunity and moved their operation to the Grafarholt district. So, Grafarholt does not have the typical characteristics of a suburb but a high-quality neighborhood. The district Grafaholt offers good quality service to its residents Grafarholt district is first and foremost a residential area The district has three kindergarten schools, two primary schools, sports,s and recreational center, and a sports club. It is built from the ground on principles and values cherished by Icelanders for many centuries, where the education and the well-being of its citizens are at the core. 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.

Grafavogur district in Reykjavík city Grafarvogur is the second largest district in Reykjavík and has a population of slightly over seventeen thousand population. The district has been in development for decades, and the first part of the development was the commercial and industrial area built in the seventies and the eighties. It is the largest and most active commercial area in the city of Reykjavík. In fact, the city of Reykjavík has barely developed a proper area for industrial and commercial activity since this area was finalized. Most of the larger industrial development in the Capital Region has been left to Kópavogur and Hafnarfjörður, the nearby Capital City neighbors. Reykjaík on the map of Iceland The shoreline and hills are characteristics of Grafarvogur Preschool in Grafavogur in Reykjavík The fact that the district has a long shoreline defines the character of all the neighborhoods within Grafarvogur. Another characteristic is the hills, which made the whole area perfect for single-family homes. In the southern part of the district, the view over Reykjavík center and the old city from most houses are spectacular. While in development, residents of Gravarvogur developed a strong neighborhood identity, almost like the district was a specific municipality. One of the reasons might be the size and combination of commercial and residential areas that convey the feeling that this is not just a suburb but also a community with its identity. An excellent district in Reykjavík with neighborhoods that have good access to outdoor activities A typical apartment building in Grafarvogur district isn Reykjavík In Grafarvogur, there are great opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. The walking path along the coastline is spectacular and gives a great view of Reykjavík old town and the surrounding mountains. In Grafarvogur, you also find a challenging golf course located in the area of the old farm Korpúlfsstaðir. The farm has an important place in Iceland’s history because of the huge dairy farm that was built early in the last century by Iceland’s most prominent entrepreneur, Thor Jenssen. The main building is still standing, now housing the golf club and artist's studios. Through Grafarvogur runs the river Korpa further enhancing the outdoor options. Reykjavík offers basic service to its residents in Grafarvogur Grafarvogur district is mainly a residential area Service for residents is of similar quality as for all districts and neighborhoods in Reykjavík. Kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, library, great sports centers, and sports facilities. But then again, more complaints have been submitted by the residents to the city council from Grafarvogur than in most other neighborhoods or districts. Maybe the residents in Grafarvogur are more conscious of their rights within the democratic society and are not shy about taking advantage of those rights. 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.

Glanni waterfall in the west region in Iceland The Glanni waterfall on the Norðurá river is believed to be home to elves and gnomes—and believe you me, that is of great importance to the Icelanders, who have immense respect for these invisible beings which, according to popular belief, coexist with humans in perfect harmony. Glanni is by no means the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland, nor is it the largest. You will also not find it on any list of spectacular waterfalls. Indeed, in many respects, it is a rather ordinary waterfall. However, its allure is that it is part of the Norðurá river, one of the best rivers in Iceland for salmon fishing. Glanni waterfall is also a part of my Ring Road vacation drive article. West Region on Map of Iceland Norðurá is often referred to as the most beautiful river in Iceland. The surrounding landscape, with its small hills, tiny canyons housing the stream, beautiful rapids, expansive vegetation, and glorious lava rocks, perfectly conveys its beauty, and Glanni as well as the other waterfalls surrounding the Norðurá river only add to this glory. Therefore, the Glanni waterfall is more precisely something that you need to experience with reference to everything around it, rather than as the sole attraction. This principle also applies to the part of the Borgarfjörður region that you would have to drive through when visiting the waterfall. Additionally, the landscape around Glanni is quite diverse due to its proximity to ancient lava fields. How to find Glanni waterfall When driving in Borgarfjörður on road no. 1, which is close to Bifröst, you need to be on the lookout for road no. 5257, which would lead you to Glanni and a small 9-hole golf course. In terms of weather, this is one of Iceland’s most genial areas. Here, you will be sure to find fragrant woods and colorful fauna nearby. Moreover, after hiking from the parking area by the golf club, the Glanni area is ideal location for a picnic and is sure to offer you the most tranquil experience. Afterward, you can take a short hike toward a viewing panel by the river and get an excellent view of the Glanni waterfall. This happens to be a perfect spot for photoshoots. However, be careful! Once you are at the waterfall, you cannot stand by its edge as it is too close to the river's deepest part. But then again, your visit is not about experiencing the edge but rather about enjoying the beauty of the river and the waterfall. 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.

Grábrók crater Grábrók is a crater in Borgarfjörður just a few meters from the main road, the Ring Road nr. 1, formed by a typical fissure eruption approximately three thousand years ago. The fissure that initially opened during that eruption wasn't very long but left behind Grábrók and her two crater sisters that can be seen when on top. Also, from the top the massive lava about seven square kilometers that surfaced in that eruption is visible. It is a sight of geological interest comparable to Lakagígar, the Laki craters in the Icelandic Highland accessible from the Southern Region. Mt. Grábrók The view from the top is not only interesting because of the lava. It is an impressive view over the most beautiful part of the Western Region Borgarfjörður and the tiny but beautiful lake Hreðarvatn, that was formed during that eruption. To the northwest is a view to Baula a cone shaped and colorful mountain. The walk to the top is quite easy as the crater is only about 170 meters high (560 feet). There is a good path up to the top with manmade steps. It is one of the natural wonders in Iceland that has been popular among Icelanders for decades.

Inngjaldshóll church and the lupin field Ingjaldshóll is an old farm and a church that you should visit if you are traveling the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. The farm and its history can be traced back to the 10th century. It has always been an important place in the surrounding region throughout the centuries. Unfortunately, it has been deserted as a farm for fifty to sixty years because the soil quality declined due to wind erosion. But still, it can uphold its importance and role in the nearby region as it is the church's home for the communities in the twin villages of Rif and Hellissandur. The church is one of the oldest concrete buildings in Iceland, built in 1903, and Ingjaldshóll is one of the most spectacular places in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula for a grand view of the fjord Breiðafjörður and also towards the glacier, Snæfellsjokull. West Region and Snæfellsnes on the map of Iceland A place with a pile of stories and folklore The church is a short distance from the main road Ingjaldshóll is renowned for strange stories involving trolls and spells, as well as protection from the powerful spirit of Bárður Snæfellsás. One of the best-known stories is the story of the farmer Inngjaldur at Hóll and the troll Hetta. The troll woman Hetta told Inngjaldur about a prosperous fishing ground after being caught stealing his sheep. It was a change in their negotiations to soften him up. Inngjaldur believed her and soon headed to the rich fishing ground to find himself caught in a severe storm. Possibly facing his final hour, he called upon the powerful spirit Bárður Snæfellsás who came to his rescue, much to the annoyance and surprise of Hetta. This, of course, is a true story from the Saga Báður Snæfellsás. A very busy place for ages, although small today Did Christopher Columbus stay at Ingjaldshóll farm? In the 15th and throughout the 18th century, Ingjaldshóll, as well as the nearby region, was a busy place both as a trading post and as a tiny fishing village. In 1477 a young sailor came to Rif on a ship from Bristol in England. He stayed for the winter at Ingjaldshóll, eager to learn about the journeys of the Vikings to the west, Greenland, and Vineland. He was possibly visiting the not-so-distant Eiríksstaðir to know about Erik the Red and his son Leif the Lucky, who discovered America five centuries earlier. This gentleman came from Italy, and his name was Christopher Columbus. So if you stop at Ingjaldsstaðir and enjoy the magnificent view over Breiðafjörður and to the glacier Snæfellsjokull, you are in the same steps as the great explorer stood some five and a half centuries ago. Access is straightforward Many places in Iceland have an interesting history and are also floating with stories that go back hundreds of centuries. Places that had a bigger role in the past than they have today. One such place is Ingjaldshóll and the church at Ingjaldshóll. From around the 14th century until the 18th century, this was one of the largest churches in Iceland. Service was provided to a large population and a large area compared to many other churches at that time. The new church was built in 1903 and was the first church in Iceland built with concrete. The altarpiece waåås painted by Þóarinn B. Þorláksson, the painter that historians have given the honor of being the first Icelandic artist. Not to forget the surroundings, the mysterious glacier Snæfellsjökull, and its hidden power. So we recommend if you are traveling the Snæfellsnes Peninsula on the road Útvegur Nr. 574, you should look for Road Nr. 5738 to Ingjaldshóll. Today it is primarily interesting because of its history and also because of the view in any direction. Quite a scenic place 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.

Skarðsvík cove Snæfellsnes Peninsula Skarðsvík is a small and rather exceptional beach in the landscape of Iceland. Surrounded by harsh and bare black lava, the soft orange-yellow beach conveys a convenient contrast to the surrounding landscape. In Iceland, one would expect a black beach instead of a beach that looks like a beach in the southern part of Europe, in Spain or Portugal. But, although beautiful, this is absolutely not a typical sunny beach. Due to the depth and the bright and clean Ocean by the beach, the color is a bit light blue and turquoise, only enhancing the whole experience of visiting the beach. Because of its location in front of the mighty Atlantic Ocean, it is recommended to visit the place at low tide. The waves can be pretty aggressive and even dangerous when high tide and strong winds play together and anger the Ocean. A spectacular sight also but a game you would prefer to view from a distance. Snæfellsnes on the map of Iceland The road and the pagan grave In 1962 when the road was built, a man operating the bulldozer discovered a skeleton by Skarðsvík cove. It was a remarkable discovery as it was ancient and below the lava. When an archaeologist had researched the bones, it was concluded that it was a pagan grave and the bones belonged to a young boy of who was 14 years old at the time of his death. He had been buried more than one thousand years ago at the time of settlement. A spear and a sword were also found in the grave. Part of the beauty and scenic drive around the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Skarðsvík cove and beach From the main road around the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, called Útnesvegur in Icelandic, Nr. 574, the distance to Skarðsvík is short when you take a turn west of Öndverðarnesvegur Nr. 579. The road to Skarðsvík has asphalt, although further driving in 579 is a narrow gravel road. So the drive to Skarðsvík is quite simple and easy for any vehicle. It is a place where you can see the kind of artwork Mother Nature puts to display, giving you one of those places that are immensely relaxing. Particularly when the weather is calm and sunny, and the tide is low. So if you are driving the Snæfellsnes Peninsula Drive, you should take the short drive to Skarðsvík. Other interesting places on Road Nr. 579 Skarðsvík and view to Öndverðarnes peninsula If you choose to continue on the gravel road, it will take you to other exciting places here at the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. For example, the lighthouse at Svörtuloft and the Saxhóll cliffs, in addition to Faxi, well to name a few. Near Skarðsvík, you will find also find interesting tracks leading through the lava if you have more time to spend at the tip of Snæfellsnes Peninsula. 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.

Rauðfeldsgjá gorge Snæfellsnes Peninsula Rauðfeldsgjá is a deep, high and narrow gorge in the cliffs south of the glacier Snæfellsjökull with a dramatic story and family tragedy attached to its name. The location is near the tiny hamlet of Arnarstapi. Seen from the road, it looks like a small crack in the berg that slid just a bit, enough for people to enter and observe. There is a parking lot by the road and a five to ten minutes walk to the entrance of the gorge. Rauðfeldsgjá is part of the Snæfellsnes Road Trip, which is described in more detail in a separate article. Snæfellsnes and west region on map of Iceland A narrow path for those who dare Rauðfeldsgjá entrance Although entering the gorge Rauðfeldsgjá is a bit of a clamber it is worth it when you come into the main entrance. It is almost like a small and wonderful temple. For those who dare, a further clamber into the narrow crack following the water is possible. It will lead you to a rope where you can pull yourself up a small waterfall, and even go further into the gorge. A very narrow path with cliffs all around you and a view high up to the open air. Those who take this challenge will possibly sense the spirits of the brothers Rauðfeldur and Sölvi, who met their fate in this place about twelve hundred years ago as is documented in a true story the Icelandic Sagas. A dramatic event that had tremendous consequences Climbing into the crack at Rauðfeldsgjá gorge Rauðfeldur and Sölvi came with their father Þorkell, the half-brother of Bárður Snæfellsás, who was half man, half-troll to Iceland as children and lived at Arnarstapi. They often played with Bárðurs many beautiful daughters. One day, they lured one of the girls, Helga, out to an iceberg in an innocent game and pushed her on the iceberg out to the open Ocean. Unfortunately, high winds blew the iceberg quickly from shore and out to the open sea, and she disappeared. The news of her fate and journey on the ice never reached her father, as communication was different at that time. In everyone's mind, she was lost and deceased. Apparently, as the story in the Saga Bárðar Saga Snæfellsás, she reached Greenland seven days later and lived a good life with the family of Erik the Red, father of Leif the Lucky, for many years. In a poem she wrote and had been preserved in the Sagas, one can sense that she missed her father, family, and country. A life-changing event for Bárður Snæfellsás, the half-troll half man When Bárður Snæfellsás learned of the disappearance of his daughter he completely blew up in anger, to put it mildly. He grabbed the two brothers, one at the age of eleven and the other twelve, and climbed to the cliff above the gorge. In his uncontrollable anger, he threw Rauðfeldur into the gorge and to enhance the madness he threw the other brother Sölvi of the cliff. Needless to say, both boys lost their lives, but their names have lived as the gorge, and the cliff bears their names; Rauðfeldsgjá and Sölvahamar. After this incident, Bárður lost his mind and eventually walked up to the glacier where he built an ice cave where he has lived for many centuries and according to popular believe, still does to this very day. 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.

Bárður Snæfellsás troll The huge statue of Bárður Snæfellsás that is so noticeable when you drive into the small village or hamlet Arnarstapi was made by Ragnar Kjartansson, one of Iceland's most renowned sculptures. The statue is his interpretation of the giant character that dominates the area around Snæfellsjökull glacier. Snæfellsnes Peninsula West Region on map of Iceland Bárður, the half man half troll Sitting by the statue of Bárður Snæfellsás at Arnarstapi Bárður is an extraordinary being from the time of settlement in Iceland. His story was written in Medieval times in the fifteenth century and is part of the Icelandic Sagas. His mother was one of the tallest and most beautiful women in her days, but his father, Dumbur, was a half-giant or a half-troll. Bárður was also considered extremely handsome with a large presence. In his youth, he was fostered by Dofri, the mountain-dweller of Dovrefjell in Norway, and received an excellent education and training. Bárður married Dorfi's daughter Flaumgerður and had three tall and beautiful daughters by her. Like he, she also had a human mother. After she had passed away, he married Herþrúður, his second wife who was human; he had six more daughters by her. Settled in Iceland after fleeing the tyranny of Harald king in Norway Along with his wife and daughters and some friends, Bárður emigrated to Iceland and settled at Djúpalón on the south coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Bárður's half-brother Þorkell also emigrated with his family and settled at Arnarstapi. They were fleeing the tyranny of Harald, the king of Norway. His brother Þorkell had two sons, Sölvi and Rauðfeldur. Driven to madness because of a prank Bárður Snæfellsás and Mt. Stapafell at Arnarstapi Snæfellsnes Peninsula Following an altercation after a rather dangerous prank played on Bárður's daughters by the half-brother's sons, Bárður was provoked to the point of uncontrollable anger. An event that made him extremely depressed, and he totally lost his mind in the end. Finally, he gave away all his land and all his earthly belongings and vanished into the Snæfellsnes Glacier. In the glacier, rumor has it, that he built an ice cave more in line with his troll or giant side. There, he became known as the Guardian Spirit of Snæfell as the locals worshiped him and looked at him as their savior. For centuries, they would call upon him in times of hardship and trouble. Bárður wandered the region wrapped in a gray cowl held together by a walrus-hide rope. In his hand was a cleft staff with a long and thick gaff for mounting the glacier. A true story, although sounds like a fantasy Bárður's cave is still in situ, and his story is a timeless, fantastic read. It is, of course, a true story written about events that occurred in Iceland more than eleven hundred years ago, written about six hundred years ago. Many names of many places in the area around Snæfellsjökull glacier are related to Bárður Snæfellsás and his story. 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.

Svöðufoss waterfall north of Snæfellsjökull glacier Waterfalls are probably one of the most popular attractions in Iceland and Icelandic nature. A trip to view and experience a waterfall is always rewarding. Watching a waterfall is both fascinating and relaxing. One of the waterfalls drawing more and more visitors is Svöðufoss, a beautiful waterfall at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Although the waterfall has been there for many centuries, only recently has the interest started. And recently, a parking lot has been built near the waterfall, so today, it is fairly easy to visit and enjoy. The walk from the parking lot to the waterfall is only about half an hour. Snæfellsnes Peninsula on the map of Iceland Set in a beautiful landscape Svöðufoss waterfall Svöðufoss is a beautiful waterfall where the river Hólmkelsá, sometimes also called Laxá. The waterfall is 10 meters high and falls off a beautiful basalt column cliff. The walking path from the parking lot is on the east side (left side when walking towards the waterfall from the parking lot) of the river, and you can easily walk up to see the waterfall from above. On a clear and sunny day when you can see the magnificent Snæfellsnes glacier towering above and in the background, which gives the waterfall a unique place among waterfalls in Iceland. Taking a photo of Svöðufoss waterfall, including the basalt column and the glacier, is probably going to give you a result that can not go wrong. Driving to Svöðufoss Snæfellsjökull glacier and Svöðufoss waterfall Svöðufoss waterfall is located at Snæfellsnes Peninsula south of the small village Rif. When driving the road Útnesvegur Nr. 574 coming from the west part or tip of the Snæfellnes Peninsula you will drive through the tiny village Hellissandur and then Rif. Just after you pass Rif, there is a sign and a road on your right that will take you to the waterfall Svöðufoss. 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.