Gljúfrabúi: The Canyon Dweller
Just a short walk from the world-famous Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrabúi remains one of the South Coast’s best-kept secrets. Its name translates to “Canyon Dweller,” a fitting title for a 40-metre cascade hidden behind a large cliff face. Most tourists visit
Seljalandsfoss and move on, completely missing the magic just 500 metres away. To see Gljúfrabúi in its full glory, you must wade through a small stream and enter a narrow opening in the rock. Inside, the canyon opens into a moss-covered, cathedral-like chamber where the waterfall plunges into a small pool. The experience of standing in this misty, enclosed space, often with only a few other people, is a stark contrast to the busy path just a stone's throw away. Waterproof shoes are essential for this mini-adventure.
Kvernufoss: The Skógar Secret
While Skógafoss thunders just a short distance away, attracting busloads of visitors, Kvernufoss offers a peaceful alternative for those willing to take a brief walk. Tucked away in a beautiful gorge, this 30-metre (98-foot) waterfall is often overlooked. The trail begins behind the Skógar Museum and follows the Kverna river for about 15-20 minutes. The hike is relatively easy and mostly flat until a final descent into the canyon. What makes Kvernufoss especially rewarding is the ability to walk behind its curtain of water, a feature it shares with Seljalandsfoss but without the queues. Standing behind the cascade, looking out at the lush, green canyon, you'll feel a world away from the crowds.
Brúarfoss: Iceland's Bluest Waterfall
Known for its strikingly vibrant, almost electric blue water, Brúarfoss is a unique sight on the popular Golden Circle route that many travellers miss. The waterfall isn't a single large drop, but a mesmerizing series of small, rushing cascades flowing into a deep gorge. The color comes from glacial meltwater from the Langjökull glacier. For years, accessing Brúarfoss required a long hike, which naturally kept visitor numbers low. While a new, official car park has made it much more accessible with just a short walk, it still sees far fewer visitors than its famous neighbours, Gullfoss and Geysir. This makes it an ideal stop for photographers and those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the Golden Circle's main attractions.
Aldeyjarfoss: A Northern Basalt Beauty
For those venturing into North Iceland, Aldeyjarfoss provides a stunning reward for going slightly off the beaten path. Located on the edge of the Icelandic Highlands, this powerful waterfall is framed by a dramatic amphitheatre of dark basalt columns, similar to the much more famous Svartifoss in the south. The journey to Aldeyjarfoss involves driving on a gravel road, which deters many casual tourists, ensuring that you can often enjoy the thunderous roar of the falls in near solitude. Its remote location between Goðafoss and Lake Mývatn means it requires a dedicated detour, but the sight of the powerful white water contrasting with the geometric black rock formations is an unforgettable Icelandic experience.
