Search Results

Goðasteinn on the top of Mt. Eyjafjallajökull glacier and volcaon Mt. Eyjafjallajokull glacier/volcano is probably Iceland's best-known glacier. One of the main reasons is the volcano buried under the ice cap that spreads some 100 square kilometers by the south shore. Eyjafjallajokull glacier stands 1651 meters, or 5416 feet at its highest point, and the volcano has a 3-4 km, around 22 miles, diameter crater that opens towards the north. The volcano Eyjafjallajökull last erupted in 2010 , grabbing the world's attention as it severely disturbed flight schedules in Europe and the northern hemisphere. The mountain is in proximity to some of Iceland’s most impressive and beautiful natural wonders like Seljalandsfoss , Skógafoss , and Þórsmörk . The mountain's south face was once part of Iceland's Atlantic coastline, but across the millenniums, the ocean has retreated as glacial rivers have carried billions of tons of sand to the shore, leaving sheer cliffs to display magnificent waterfalls. Eyjafjallajökull is in the south on the map of Iceland Eyjafjallajokull is, first and foremost, a glacier Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in 2010 Although in its substance, Eyjafjallajökull is a mountain and a volcano, it is primarily a glacier. It is the seventh-largest glacier in Iceland and has been a spectacular white landmark by the south shore for centuries. Even though the 2010 eruption caught much attention, the volcano is never viewed as one of Iceland’s main volcanoes. It is not likely to erupt again anytime soon. The glacier has two spectacular outlet glaciers or glacier tongues, Gýgjökull and Steinholtsjökull. Both are part of the glacier's fascinating north slopes and the drive to the oasis Þórsmörk. Gýgjökull is right below the crater and is where water and ice came with force into the river Markarfljót during the eruption. The slopes are also packed with fascinating wonders like waterfalls and mystical canyons. From Seljalandsfoss all the way to Þórsmörk, a 30 kilometer, or 19 miles, drive, it is a world of history and landscape packed in one. Iceland's favorite hiking trail Fimmvörðuháls The eruption was close to the farms on the south part of Iceland Iceland's favorite hiking trail over the mountain pass Fimmvörðuháls leading into the lower part of the Highland, passes between Eyjafjallajökull glacier and Mýrdalsjökull glacier. One of the reasons for this popularity is the magnificent and unusual landscape along the way exposing new lava, beautiful mountains, ice, and highland vegetation. It starts by Skógafoss just by the Ring Road and ends in the oasis Þórsmörk. Today the track provides an excellent view of the new lava and both ice caps. The trail was closed down for some time after the eruption but has been reopened, much to the Icelander's joy. Eyjafjallajokull eruption and airplane crash history Eyjafjallajökull eruption created some spectacular photo oppertunities Although not a major player in the continuing history of eruptions in Iceland, Eyjafjallajokull had erupted on regular bases since settlement about twelve hundred years ago. The volcano erupted in 920, around 1612, in 1823, and then again in 2010. Eyjafjallajökull also seems to have a bit of a troubled history with aircraft. In 1952, a U.S. rescue plane carrying five aboard crashed into Eyjafjallajokull. One died instantly, but the other four survived only to perish on the vast glacier. Twelve years later, one body and a ring from another were found. The glacier tongue delivered the last three bodies in 1966. Then, in 1966 an American couple crashed into the icecap and was instantly killed. When you drive the Ring Road in Iceland, you can not miss Eyjafjallajökull glacier or ice cap when you approach the magnificent waterfall Seljalandsfoss and continue the south coast. It is quite visible less than an hour after you leave Reykjavik, the capital of 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.

Fossabrrekkkur by the source of the river Rangá In some unexpected places in Iceland, you can find a small spot that sticks out, even a small oasis. One of these locations is Fossabrekkur, near the turn to Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri and Dómadalsleið Highland road, where two small rivers meet by the source of the river Rangá. It is located at the root of the volcano Hekla not far from the waterfalls Tröllkonuhlaup. The area is a vast spread of sand and volcanic ash with some creeks and rivers. In the middle of nowhere, as it seems, you will find this refreshing oasis, Fossabrekkur. What makes it interesting is the beauty of this small spot. At a small slope by the river, a collection of vegetation has found roots around a few small waterfalls leaking down the slope. Like many waterfalls in a horizontal position, not like Klifbrekkufossar in the East and Dynjandi at the Westfjords, where the many waterfalls are in a vertical position. And this is what makes it so interesting, the vegetation and the clear water. On a good day, the blue sky only enhances the beauty and calmness of this spectacular place. Fossabrekkur in South Region on the map of Iceland It is a good idea to stop at Fossabrekkur in the summer Fossabrekkur small vaterfalls Although someone put a sign on the road pointing to this interesting place doesn’t mean that it is always interesting. We can only recommend that you visit this place from the beginning of June until the end of August. It is not a place you want to visit during winter, even though some of the nearby places, like Þjófafoss, can be interesting during winter. This is also a great place to stop for a picnic if you are driving to Landmannalaugar or starting your journey through the North Fjallabak road. How to drive to Fossabrekkur Fossabrekkur is a kind of oasis in the middle of a ash desert The road is more or less the same from Reykjavík as driving to the start of Landmannaleið or Nyrðri Fjallabak. When you drive from Reykjavík, you look out for the road Landvegur Nr. 26 after you pass the bridge on the mighty river Þjórsá on the Ring Road Nr. 1. You need to drive approximately 50 kilometers north and by the mountain Búrfell, you will find the sign to Fossabrekkur. When you have made your stop, it is recommended to go on F225 and continue on Landmannaleið, and along the way, you can stop at some fascinating places like Rauðifoss, Ljótipollur, and of course, Landmannalaugar. But remember that for this road, we recommend a good 4X4 vehicle. 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.

Admission to Gjáin is free Visitors to Gjáin are not required to make any payment for entry. Despite the limited capacity of the parking area, it generally accommodates the number of visitors adequately without reaching full capacity. Regrettably, restroom and sanitary facilities are not provided at this natural attraction. At the edge of the Icelandic Highland at the uppermost part of Þjórsárdalur valley, you will find one of the most beautiful small oasis in Iceland. There are actually many places you label as an oasis in Iceland, and Gjáin is most definitely one of the most beautiful. One of the fascinating factors is the size. Gjáin is a tiny valley with small picturesque waterfalls, clear, tranquil ponds, and amazing delicate volcanic structures. It is like a sample of Icelandic nature. For visitors, it is almost surprising as it appears from nowhere and is only visible as you approach the edge of the tiny valley. Even the lava in this area takes on a beautiful form in Gjáin. You will find lava caves and a lot of basalt columns as well as volcanic tuft. Gjáin is in South Region on the map of Iceland A place to visit in summer Gjáin is a wonderful place to visit in summer It is a beautiful place to visit but only from the beginning of June until the beginning of October. Outside that time of year, it is either not accessible and filled with snow or simply not interesting due to dull colors and early spring water. In summer, on the other hand, the small valley is covered with lush green grass and vegetation. It is believed to have been the riverbed of the river Þjórsá in earlier days. Nowadays, it is Rauðá (the Red River) running through the valley, beautifully framed by stunning rock formations, displaying its beautiful waterfall, Gjárfoss. In popular culture A place of spring water right at the source In season 4, episode 5 of the Game of Thrones, Arya Stark and her traveling "companion" Sandor Clegane (The Hound) come to a resting place and continue their ongoing dispute. Their resting place was filmed here in Gjáin in Iceland. Gjain location Gjáin overview Gjáin's location is a mere 10-15 minutes hike from the Saga Age Farm at Stöng. It is a great addition when traveling the south countryside and visiting the waterfalls Háifoss and Hjálparfoss. It is such a beautiful, dream-like valley you'll expect to see elves and fairies playing along with the riverbanks. You might, as these tiny figures are known to reveal themselves to humans now and then. Whether you'll be able to spot them or not, you will most certainly feel the waterfall spirit as it is very powerful. 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.

Gljúfrabúi waterfall This waterfall is sometimes described as a treasure in the Icelandic landscape and the flora of natural wonders. Its nearby sibling, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, only a short walking distance away, is one of Iceland's most renowned attractions. Gljúfrabúi is, on the other hand, gaining more and more attention, and most of the visitors viewing Seljalandsfoss also take the time to look at Gljúfrabúi. Although coming from the same cliff, there are some striking differences between the two waterfalls. Gljúfrabúi is in the South Region on the map of Iceland A beautiful name and a stunning waterfall The fissure and the waterfall Gljúfrabúii There is something wonderful about the Icelandic name Gljúfrabúi. It means Gorge Dweller. It conveys the feeling of a peaceful being living in this cave-like place with water falling from the 40-meter cliff. The name is not very old and is believed to originate in a poem by Iceland's most beloved poet Jónas Hallgrímsson, a natural scientist. And this is the reality of the waterfall rimmed in a narrow gorge producing its drizzle and this cold dampness like a cold sauna. You need to be prepared to enter this wet world of the Gorge Dweller. The crack is narrow, and the open cave is muggy. It is not an easy entrance but once inside, you might think of a cathedral for creatures from another world. Although mostly dark inside and under the waterfall, there is a lot of vegetation on the rocks because of the constant moisture. In addition to the inside viewing, you can also climb the narrow path on the outside and up to the cliff in front of the waterfall and view it from above. Both places require extreme caution and good hiking shoes. Access to get there is easy Gljúfrabúi is only a few minutes away from Seljalandsfoss waterfall This waterfall, like Seljalandsfoss, is conveniently located a short distance from the Ring Road, Road Nr. 1, in the southern region of Iceland. It is only one and a half kilometers from the intersection of Road Nr. 1 and Road Nr. 249 Þórsmerkurvegur, the road leading to Þórsmörk in the Icelandic Highland. 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.

Kvernufoss waterfall you can walk behind In walking distance, east of the famous waterfall Skógafoss in the Southern Region of Iceland is a beautiful waterfall that few people visit. The name of the waterfall is Kvernufoss, and it is about 40 meters high. Although the waterfall is visible from a narrow angle from the main road, it is almost hidden in a beautiful gorge. The fall is in the river Kverná tracing its origin to the south slopes of Eyjafjallajokull, and the gorge also bears the name Kvernugorge or Kvernugil. Not only is the waterfall beautiful, but also the narrow gorge. The path to the waterfall is only about 600 meters. It is a joy to walk as the whole surrounding becomes a bit isolated and quiet as you approach the waterfall. It is a combination of palagonite cliffs, rocks, and vegetation. Kvernufoss on the South Shore on the map of Iceland Seljalandsfoss little sister Kvernufoss waterfall The waterfall bears many similarities to the famous Seljalandsfoss and could easily be its little sister. Like the famous Seljalandsfoss, you can also walk behind this waterfall, although everything is smaller and more narrow. The walk behind and near the waterfall is quite slippery, and attention is needed along with good hiking shoes. It is not an easy walk and might not be wise in the winter unless equipped with ice spikes. But for serious photographers, it is an excellent challenge. Because of the narrow gorge, the best time of day to take photos would be in the middle of the day if the sky is clear. This way, you get rid of the sharp shadow. Access is easy and simple Kvernufoss waterfall Access to Kvernufoss is quite simple as it is located a few hundred meters from the Ring Road Nr. 1. If you drive to Skógar and Skógafoss, the best option is to skip the turn to Skógafoss after turning from the Ring Road north towards Skógar and head to the Skógar museum. From the parking lot at the museum, you walk to the east over the fence and onto an almost unclear path, as this is not a mainstream tourist attraction. This route will take you to the gorge, and from there, it is impossible to miss the waterfall Kvernufoss. 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.

The old school at Laugarvatn - iconic for the Hamlet Laugarvatn means a "lake for bathing." The lake itself in southwest Iceland is only two square km in size and quite shallow. But, the lake bottom is riddled with hot springs, making it suitable for bathing throughout the year. Curiously enough, these qualities didn't attract people to settle in the area. For centuries, only farmland and moors surrounded the lake until 1928, when a boarding school was built at Laugarvatn. Laugarvatn hamlet is in the south region on the map of Iceland Soon a small village developed. Realizing the lake's potential, the newcomers built a small sauna hut on the lakeshore. It became increasingly popular amongst the Icelanders, and Laugarvatn developed into the number one summer holiday destination on the island. So much so that a permanent caravan site developed on the outskirts of the village. The geothermal hot bath at Laugarvatn - Laugarvatn Fontana Further schools were built in Laugarvatn: A college of further education and a school for homemakers. The latter was shut down late last century, and its buildings were sold to the University of Iceland. It now houses the Sports and Health Science faculty. Laugarvatn is a great place to take a break and relax when traveling around Iceland. It has an excellent swimming pool with a very good sauna. You will find hotels and guesthouses, restaurants and a grocery shop, cafés, handicraft shops, and a great camping site. 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.

Öxarárfoss waterfall in Þingvellir National Park The waterfall Öxaráfoss (The waterfall in the Ax River) in the ravine Almannagjá at Þingvellir is one of the best-known waterfalls in Iceland, at least among Icelanders. Like everything related to Þingvellir and Almnnagjá, the waterfall has a sentimental reference and historical value. It is an important place in our most precious and sacred place Þingvellir. It is positioned inside Almannagjá in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The waterfall is rather small, only about 20 meters high, but is an important part of the overall natural wonders in the Þingvellir National Park. Depending on the season, the waterfall may differ in volume as the source, the river Öxará or Ax river, is quite different from one season to the next. Öxarárfoss is in the South Region on the map of Iceland Not entirely the work of mother nature Frozen Öxarárfoss waterfall at sunrise in winter Interestingly the waterfall Öxarárfoss is actually a human-made waterfall. As strange as this may sound, geologists and historians have discovered that the river Öxará was moved hundreds of years ago to channel the water into the ravine Almannagjá in the ninth century. The purpose was to provide water for the members and visitors of the Icelandic parliament Althingi in the 9th century. This was documented in the saga Sturlunga, written in the 12th and 13th centuries. According to folklore, the name came from an Ax that killed a notorious and unstable female troll famous for killing and terrorizing visitors, inhabitants, and travelers in the Hengill area not far from Þingvellir. Long after the blade was put into her back, between her shoulder blades, it surfaced near the place where Öxarárfoss is now. According to another folklore, the river changes to wine on new year's eve. If true, you should be able to sit by Öxarárfoss and drink good wine from the waterfall until midnight, when the river changes back to wine. Not something we recommend as king winter has all the power at Öxarárfoss and Þingvellir at that time. He might be drinking from the waterfall and probably quite drunk. Access is relatively simple but requires a short walk Öxarárfoss waterfall in summer When driving from Reykjavík, you take the Ring Road Nr. 1 through Mosfellsbær and take a turn west on Þingvallavegur Nr. 36. When you reach a sign that says Öxarárfoss near the entrance to Þingvellir National park, you park the car. You can also go to the Service Center for Almannagjá and walk through the riff to Öxarárfoss. 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.

Behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall Admission to Seljalandsfoss is not free Please be informed that there is a mandatory entrance fee for visiting Seljalandsfoss waterfall. The minimum cost for entry by an ordinary family car is ISK 1,000 ($6.00) and is collected at the parking lot entrance. The fee is processed through an application provided by Parka, which has received criticism due to its poorly designed user interface. Additionally, your entrance and license plates are monitored by surveillance cameras. Regrettably, despite the collection of relatively high fees, the parking infrastructure, pathways, information services, and, least of all, restroom facilities do not meet expected standards. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Iceland and the second-best-known waterfall in our country, next to Gullfoss. It is a beautiful waterfall, and it also has an amazing quality that people love. It is a place where you can experience something amazing and a place where your childhood dream can come through. At the same time, it is a beautiful, mystical, and exciting place. It is much more than a waterfall to stand in front of and look at, and for all those reasons, Seljalandsfoss is probably the most favorite and feel-good tourist destination in Iceland. Seljalandsfoss is on our list of 10 most interesting waterfalls in Iceland. Seljalandsfoss is in the South Region on the map of Iceland The origin of Seljalandsfoss waterfall is not Eyjafjallajökull glacier The waterfall Seljallandsfoss and the river There is an almost endless number of waterfalls in Iceland. High and low, broad and narrow, and all with different volumes of water. It has been estimated that we have more than 1600 waterfalls that are higher than 2 meters. But where do they originate? There are mainly three sources of water for the rivers and streams in Iceland that feed the waterfalls. Glacial rivers , direct runoff streams , and spring-fed rivers . Many tourist writers with limited local knowledge and a lack of research ability claim that the river comes from Eyjafjallajökull glacier. That is why many tourists and even Icelanders assume that Seljalandsá, which feeds the waterfall Seljalandsfoss is a glacial river that originates in the glacier. One reason might be that the glacier is so visible when looking at the waterfall from a distance on the main road: the Ring Road nr. 1 , when coming from Reykjavík. The river Seljalandsá is, on the other hand, a spring-fed river. Originating under the lava about seven kilometers up on the moors above the waterfall called Hamragarðaheiði. If the river were glacial, the waterfall would lose at least half of its beauty as the glacial river water is packed with ash, rocks, mud, and dirt. As a spring-fed river, it delivers this clean and beautiful water. The only exception is in spring when the melting snow from Hamragarðaheiði fills the river with soil and dirt and partly becomes a direct runoff stream. In contrast, the river Hvítá that feeds Gullfoss is, to a large extent, a glacial rive r and is seldom very clean and clear. The unique features of Seljalandsfoss Seljalandsfoss waterfall in the evening sun Seljalandsfoss is a striking and majestic 62-meter-high waterfall. It is also unique and probably on the list of Iceland's most photographed natural wonders. And always on the list of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. Not only is the waterfall captivating, but you can also walk behind it on an easily accessible walking trail . When you walk the path, you are actually walking around the waterfall—a kind of three-dimensional experience. The experience and feeling is a kind of mysterious. Many visitors have told me that they dreamed about this experience in their childhood. It is part of some fairy tale or adventure story, so most people find the walk to be fascinating, even though it is a bit wet. Thus, a light rain-resistant layer is required on the track, at least the part behind the waterfall. The trail is often slippery, a bit narrow, and also a bit steep. Once there, you will get wet (not soaked) from the drizzle and the ever-so-light breeze from the falls. During winter, the whole surrounding and the trail behind the waterfall are very slippery and require crampons. Sometimes during winter, over some time, the track behind the waterfall is closed because of the danger from the slippery path and falling iceless. Though the trails are wet and a bit slippery, venturing behind Seljalandsfoss is by no means dangerous. You have to be careful with your step, and hiking shoes are preferred. Seljalandsfoss is a striking and majestic 62-meter-high waterfall. It is also unique and probably on the list of 10 most photographed natural wonders in Iceland Possibly the most photogenic waterfall on the planet and the best time to photograph Seljalandsfoss waterfall in winter Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the whole surrounding area is a great place to take photos. From a distance, you see the river falling from the mountain cluster called Eyjafjöll (Island Mountains). Mountains and cliffs that define the waterfall. It is also interesting to visualize that at the end of Ice Age, about 10 thousand years ago, the waterfall fell straight from the cliffs to the ocean as our mighty volcanos had not yet formed the landform and soils below. As you approach, you can use distinctive features around the waterfall, like vegetation, the river, the slope on each side, and the track that leads around the waterfall to enhance your photo. It is also quite popular to take pictures from behind the waterfall. It is an extraordinary experience of being able to observe and capture the surroundings of nature's backstage. For those who are planning a photo tour visiting the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, you should schedule your visit after 6 PM. This is crucial if you want the sun to shine on the area around Seljalandsfoss. You should also visit the waterfall in the timeframe between the middle of May until the beginning of September. Seljalandsfoss is excellent for photography, especially in the evening with the Midnight Sun shining from the West. For those who are planning a photo tour visiting the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, you should schedule your visit after 6 PM If you want to take a photo where the sun shines through the waterfall, you need to visit from 9 PM and 11 PM from June 15th and through July 115th. I know this sounds strange to many visitors, but remember that during summer, Iceland has sunlight for 24 hours. How to go to Seljalandsfoss waterfall Seljalandsfoss waterfall Driving to the Seljalandsfoss waterfall is rather simple. Most people start in Reykjavík and drive 130 kilometers east on Road nr. 1 – the main road that circles around the island and is often referred to as the Ring Road. When you reach the intersection of Road 249, you are there. There is a parking lot, and you need to pay a parking fee . It is a good idea to park the car and walk from the parking lot to the service center. Although the service center is a bit primitive for an attraction of this magnitude, there are good toilets and also a small shop and small coffee stand. Once you have parked the car, you can stay as long as you like. On a good day, you can walk the other neighboring waterfall, Gljúfrabúi. It is only around 10 minutes’ walk (650 meters) and enjoyable. 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. How much does it cost to view the waterfall Seljalandsfoss? Although viewing the waterfall is free, you need to pay the 800 ISK—1000 ISK parking fee ($6 - $8) for your vehicle at the parking lot by the waterfall.

Skógafoss waterfall Skógafoss (Forest waterfall) is often referred to as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. It has all the ingredients of a great natural wonder. The amount of water is excessive, the form of the waterfall is almost perfect in its rectangular shape, the 60-meter drop makes it impressive, and the width of 25 meters puts it into a great perspective. On the ground in front of the waterfall, the amount of spray continuously produced by the falling water quite often creates both a single and a double rainbow visible on any given day when the sun is shining. The rainbows are quite vivid and fall-bound enough to be almost touchable. Skógafoss waterfall on the South Shore on the map of Iceland A feast of waterfalls in the Skógá river Frozen Skógafoss waterfall in winter The cliffs around the waterfall are former sea cliffs when the shoreline was by Skógarfoss but has now moved five km south. On the eastern side of the waterfall, you'll find steps to the most popular hiking routes in Iceland, towards the Fimmvörðuháls pass. Once there, you are halfway to the beautiful Highland oasis of Þórsmörk. Hiking the Skógaheiði moors, you will be amazed at the sheer number of waterfalls and rapids adorning the Skógá River. Indeed, 22 of them are more beautiful than the other. It is really a feast of waterfalls. Accessible for everyone on the Ring Road in Iceland Skógafoss waterfall in summer Mind you, you don't have to undertake heavy trekking to enjoy the Skógafoss waterfall. Skógarfoss is only two kilometers from the Ring Road in Iceland and easily accessible and visible from the main road, the Ring Road in Iceland. It is quite an experience to stand next to the mighty fall. It puts the world in a brand new perspective, and one tends to feel a bit insignificant. Climb the steps to enjoy the fall from the top and the view towards the Atlantic Ocean is a bonus. 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.

Bæjarstaðarskógur Iceland is full of surprises. You are walking along a great stretch of sand, minding your own business in the arms of a glacier. Only three colors to take in, white, gray and black when suddenly you are faced with lush green mixed with a myriad of colors. In the middle of the 10 km long Morsárdalur, you have come upon Bæjarstaðarskógur, a small forest of willows and birches close to a sublime geothermal pool. Bæjarstaðarskógur is on the South Shore on the map of Iceland Bæjarstaðarskógur is a small forest at the edge of a glacier The bridge to cross over to Bæjarstaðarskógur This 22-hectare forest is the most robust birch forest in Iceland, its birches reaching 12 meters high. They are also the island's straightest birches and the most precious. Bæjarstaðaskógur also has rowans and the most beautiful display of Icelandic wildflowers. Even the Icelanders wonder how a forest came to be in the remote and isolated area; The only means to get there is by foot – and it will take you approximately three hours from the Visitor's Centre in Skaftafell. An old farm, an oasis in a landscape of change A great hike to Bæjarstaðarskógur The forest's name suggests there used to be a farmstead here during the Middle Ages. Indeed, its ruins were quite visible until the 18th century. Bæjarstaðaskógur is a beautiful oasis in the vast spread of sand. The hike from the Visitor's Centre is relatively easy and pleasant. You have a stunning view of Morsárdalur the whole time - and might even want to venture further than the forest. 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.

Eystrahorn in the southeast part of East Iceland Icelanders have always been keen mountain climbers; they have even written poems about climbing mountains, falling, scraping, and cutting themselves – but always getting to the top. Still, there is at least one mountain in Iceland you simply can't climb: Eystrahorn in the southeast part of East Iceland. It is a mere 756 m, but made up of gabbro and granophyre and extremely steep; landslides are almost a constant, so much so that even the great Sysiphus wouldn't even be able to get started. Eystrahortn on the South East part of Iceland Unusual materials that give Eystrahorn a wonderful color Eystrahorn is a popular place for Photography Still, Eystrahorn is impressive to look at. During the ages, precious minerals, such as gold, silver, and mercury, have been found there. Much to the Icelander's dismay, only in small quantities, so don't even take out your teaspoon to embark on a quest to get rich quickly. Those minerals give Eystrahorn a wonderful color, emphasized by the black, sandy beach running all the way to its sister mountain, Vestrahorn. The whole surrounding is a feast for the eye and photographers Mt Eystrahorn The area between the mountains Vestrahorn and Eystrahorn is called "Lón," meaning lagoon, and sports an incredibly varied birdlife. It is the first stop after a very long flight for millions of migratory birds. It is usually packed with birdlife and quite an impressive stop. When you pass the slopes at Eystrahorn on the Ring Road heading further east, an even more impressive sight opens up. It is fully worthed to stop and view the cliffs by the shore. There are at least three stops where you can take your time and view the magnificent cliffs that are constantly being battered by the Atlantic Ocean. 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.

Dverghamrar small basalt columns cliffs Sometimes the Icelanders find it mind-boggling to figure out how their nature and landscape ended up the way they did. Sometimes totally chaotic and menacing, and then sometimes beautifully carved and mesmerizing. Icelandic folklore will, of course, provide you with excellent explanations concocted throughout the ages; tales of trolls, giants, and elves, as well as the hidden people and the dwarfs. Dverghamrar is in the South Region on the map of Iceland Dverghamrar is one of many basalt column formations Dverghamrar and the famous Foss (waterfall) á Síðu One of Iceland's most stunning rock formations is Dverghamrar (The Dwarf Cliffs), some 10 km east of the Kirkjubæjarklaustur village right on the Ring Road. The cliffs are hexagonal columns of basalt, topped with cube-jointed basalt, shaped like a horseshoe. Inside the cliffs are home to both dwarfs and elves, according to folklore. But mind you, quite a number of Icelanders still believe it to be true, and the rest can't prove it isn't. So, Dverghamrar is treated with great respect – just to be on the safe side. You never know what those superhuman beings are capable of doing. Learn about the discovery of Stuðlagil Canyon. Folklore vs. geological explanation Basalt columns at Dverghamrar - dwarf cliffs Even if the Icelanders would like to tell you superhuman beings built Dverhamrar, the geologists will tell you otherwise. This extraordinary landscape is believed to have formed during the Ice Age. At the time, the sea level was much higher, and the sea waves are believed to be the force behind the peculiar façade of the rocks. Columnar basalt forms through the cooling of the lava and a build-up of contraction forces. Today Dverghamrar is a protected natural monument. 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.