One of Iceland’s most striking and photogenic canyons — a winding, moss-covered masterpiece carved by the Fjaðrá River over thousands of years. Located near the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, this 2-kilometer-long and up to 100-meter-deep canyon looks almost unreal, like something out of a fantasy movie (and in fact, it’s featured in Justin Bieber’s “I’ll Show You” video, which brought it sudden fame). The first thing that strikes you upon arrival is the scale — the canyon’s steep, mossy walls twist and turn dramatically as the river snakes below. Walking along the marked path above gives you breathtaking views from multiple vantage points, each one better than the last. The best viewpoints are toward the end of the trail, where the canyon opens up beautifully and you can see the river cascading down from the highlands. Because of its sudden rise in popularity, parts of the canyon have been closed at times to allow the delicate moss to recover from heavy foot traffic. Visitors are urged to stay on the marked trails and respect closures to help preserve this fragile landscape. Even with these restrictions, there’s still plenty of beauty to take in safely and respectfully. The weather here can shift quickly, and mist or light rain only adds to the canyon’s mystique — though it also makes the paths slippery, so good footwear is essential. Parking is free and conveniently located near the trailhead, and the hike itself is relatively easy, taking about 30–40 minutes round-trip depending on how often you stop to take photos (which, honestly, will be often). Fjaðrárgljúfur perfectly captures Iceland’s blend of drama and serenity — a place where nature’s artistry is on full display. It’s easy to see why it’s become such a beloved spot for travelers, photographers, and anyone who wants to feel small in the best possible way.

It's an easy hike with a few observation points along the way. It doesn't take long to see ot all. Yet another beautiful, though small canyon with great colors, rock formations, and a couple of waterfalls at the head.

Unbelievably beautiful! Would highly recommend to come early in the morning to see the sunrise! One of the most beautiful places ever!!

Absolutely stunning place! The canyon is breathtaking and 100% worth a visit! Parking costs a small fee 1000isk - I recommend parking at the top, where you’ll find the viewing platform with the best views. The toilet at the lower parking area was closed between 12:30 and 17:00, but everything else was clean and well maintained. Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but the beauty of nature makes up for it! Afterwards, continue on the F206 - a dreamy off-road adventure and pure Iceland vibes! 🚐

Beautiful, great canyon. Definitely worth a visit. Gravel path up the side of the canyon as you park at the bottom (paid parking). Views are amazing across the landscape. There are a few viewpoints at the top into the canyon.

Undeniably beautiful but Pretty crowded spot. And the cat walk bottle necks to the best views so you’ll probably find lineup of people trying to get photos

We stumbled into this spot, not knowing what awaited us, and we were all stunned at the scale of the canyon. Even the valley the canyon sits within is beautiful in its own right. We parked at the top parking site along F206, which is free, but the road is very rough. (7 Aug 2024)

In local language it’s called church floor. Though there was no church at all. Its is strange rock formation. Million years ago there was lava flow from the near by mountain. As the sea at that time was near the water covered the area soon after the deposition. Then due to the rapid cooling the rock ( basalt type) solidified quickly and crystallised in the typical form. The crystallised rock is within the soil and only the up portion is visible as such. Any one can spend 10 minutes here and take pictures. This a curious sight only for common people aside geologists.

No that much to see, but still very interesting and only a small wal away from the parking lot. A free parking lot! Time to spend: no more then a few minutes. Looks, like a lot of things in Iceland, not out of this world.

Very cool structure leftover by volcanoes. Not far off the main road and short walk to the site. Easy stop on a day trip of sight seeing.

🌍 Explore, Taste, and Travel with Us! Follow our adventures and food journeys on Insta: vibrant_wanderer_rhythm Not a necessary stop really. It is the ruins of a church. Though the small piece of land/ rocks is beautiful and is on the way with a small 500 m detour, would not say it’s a necessary stop to make. Happy exploring

Cool rock formation. Easy walk in. Only a few minutes and mostly flat. Free parking.

Neat to see. Worth the stop if you're driving by. Free parking and short walk

Fantastic landscaping in this place,all naturally land and blue sky!love this country!2025/11/15

We did the Laki crates tour with the amazing David. The tour was a great experience. We had so much fun in the beautiful Laki landscapes which includes the mountain Laki, several craters, several lakes, a canyon and a waterfall. David was an integral part of the experience - with interesting stories, great knowledge about the area, smooth driving and great sense of humor - we had a lot of fun with him. We almost didn't realize the tour was about 8.5 hours, because we really enjoyed this day. Unforgettable and unique - don't miss it!

Above expectations ! David is an excellent guide and storyteller. Tour is well balanced between hikes and car traveling. We went with 2 kids (10y & 6y) old and they loved it.

The pickup went smoothly. We were collected at Tjaldstæðið Kirkjubær II, cottages and camping by Trausti with his impressive off-roader. From there, we headed straight into the highlands. On the way, Trausti shared fascinating and engaging stories about Iceland’s volcanoes. The highland area, only accessible via F-roads, is truly breathtaking — it feels as if you’ve landed on another planet. During this one-day excursion, we made several stops and were able to visit many rare spots and highlights. We are still amazed by this experience. We were a small group, a total of four couples, which made the trip very pleasant (unlike the typical mass-tourism spots). Trausti is an excellent guide, extremely knowledgeable, drives with absolute safety, and gave us one of the most memorable experiences in Iceland. The value for money is outstanding for what you get — for us, this trip is a true insider tip. Cheers from Switzerland

Fantastics tour to Laki, great organisation, interesting information passed along the way, very nice tour guide and beautiful trip. I would recommend to anyone. Hikes are not too challenging, it's possible to skip some walking if needed and still enjoy the trip. They take you far into the wilderness where there is no tourist and its an amazing experience. Very local feel and cool 4x4 :)

Okay - I rarely do reviews. But I absolutely would give 6 stars if possible. We were at the trip with David, which is cant pronounce or spell correctly :-) He managed to give a splendid ride, with great stories, lots of information. We took all the hikes, in rain, grey top view from Laki, but I absolutely would recommend it anyway to anyone. I brought my 73 year old mom, and 3 kids 3, 7 and 10. So this trip is exciting for everyone! I love how the information was about local life in Iceland, farming, culture and everything needed for a good day. Also spoke to the park rangers, seemed they had huge respect for the Secret Iceland family business! Thanks for the ride! If you visit Denmark let me know!

Fantastic tour to the Laki Craters in South Iceland. Our guide David was super knowledgeable and shared not only the history of the eruption but also entertaining local stories. I can only highly recommend the tour and Secret Iceland. Will probably do it again when we are in the region. 👏👏👏👏👏

We booked a day trip to the Laki reserve through Secret Iceland A super jeep showed up at the meeting point at the appointed time and a man named Goodman.. as his name is!! Explains and describes our way to the reserve with detailed explanations and great knowledge of the environment, life and in general… Stops along the way at places to walk, knows how to orient and wait at the end places, Everything flows and is precise. Like this throughout the day Around 8-9 hours, A wonderful day!! Thank you very much Goodman!! Highly recommend!!

It’s on the southern Iceland. It’s a low height rock with strange formation. Lava once cooled down to form this. The upper side is irregular but at the bottom its typical of basalt crystal. Some of the column has fallen over time and from these the idea of the base can be made. Almost 15 - 20 minute is required to walk encircling around this. There is a collection of some trees in one side of the rock. At the near by there is a small fall also. This is a nice place for visiting half an hour.

Get up close to dwarf-sized cliffs of basalt columns and enjoy a short loop hike. Nice stop along the ring road with no fees (also no wc).

A cool little spot to stop. A little underwhelming, but not bad. There's a short loop trail you can take. You can also get a view with columns on both sides, and a waterfall in the middle. Nothing to drive out of the way for, but since it's right on the main road it's worth a stop.

A short stop to take a walk around the two rock formations, interesting and definitely worth it. Small free parking at the spot.

Beautiful and peaceful. Definitely worth a visit. It's a very quick loop walk, with practically very little elevation. No serious hiking boots necessary. You get to see the Icelandic wonderous rock formation up close without crowds. Loved it!

Nice view. Table and stools below. Nice snack time.

Beautiful and peaceful place, it's located right next to main road - yet it's easy to miss, as you can't really see anything interesting there, while passing by. There's small parking lot, from which a path will lead you down to interesting basalt rock formations, called "Dwarf Cliffs", on the left side from parking lot there are two picnic tables, perfect place to enjoy your breakfast while being surrounded by beautiful Icelandic nature.

Cool view over the city and the waterfall from up there, beautiful easy hike.

Incredible ! Straight up and then down but wow once you’re up there. Really enjoyed the climb too, rare trees on a trail

Awesome little hike to the top of the waterfall. Such a pleasant surprise. Great view from the top of the surrounding area. Definitely worth the stop. Free parking

Moderate hike to the top that was WELL worth it. Despite the nearby campsite being packed, we were the only ones on this trail and at the top! We opted for the out and back option, and while the stairs are quite steep, it’s not long by any means with incredible panoramic views and edible, wild berries while you rest at the top.

Beautiful spot just after sunrise with the golden glow on the mountain. A lovely view from the bottom or if you’re willing to climb the 15 minutes to the top, it feels like you’re on top of the world. One of the lakes up the top in November was frozen. Very cool to see the waterfall source and enjoy the horizon landscapes from the top.

Such a striking waterfall seen from the Ring Road. We didnt take the time to try to get closer but it is most absolutely photoworthy. I read that it can dry up in summer months which seems nearly impossible to conceive when you see this amazing flow. There is a trail to the waterfall which is accessed via Road 205 off the Ring Road.

This was right by our hotel, it was so fun to hike up to, drink from the water, and enjoy the view.

Foss á Síðu is a beautiful waterfall right next to the Ring Road, cascading gracefully down a cliff. It is located on private property, so you cannot go up close, but it looks stunning even from the road. A quick but memorable stop with a fairytale-like charm.

Beautiful waterfall. Would someone please bring this cute dog some tennis balls? He loves to fetch the rocks. I bet he will really love tennis balls more.

Our visit to Foss á Síðu was an enchanting highlight of our journey through southern Iceland—a place where nature, history, and legend intertwine in breathtaking fashion. Located just off Route 1 near the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Foss á Síðu is incredibly easy to access: as you drive east from Vik, you'll spot the waterfall cascading dramatically down a sheer cliff just before the turnoff to Dverghamrar (the famous dwarf cliffs). A small parking area sits directly beside the road, and the view from there is already picture-perfect—no hike required. The waterfall, fed by the spring-fed lake Þórutjörn above, tumbles gracefully down a cliff face that’s been shaped over millennia by glacial and volcanic forces. But what makes Foss á Síðu truly unforgettable is its folklore. According to Icelandic legend, the cliffs near the waterfall were once home to a troublesome spirit or vættur, and when a local farmer's wife hung a magic book from the rafters of their nearby turf house, the spirit vanished—bringing peace to the area. Some versions even speak of hidden people (huldufólk) who live behind the falls and guard its serene waters. Whether you're drawn by its easy roadside access, its serene beauty, or the whispers of ancient myth in the air, Foss á Síðu offers a moment of reflection and wonder in the heart of Iceland’s dramatic landscape.

YOU NEED TO STOP HERE. The actual waterfall is on private property but you can get a good picture. STOP FOR THE DOG there was this adorable dog that lives on the private property that plays fetch with rocks, highlight of the trip.

The waterfall was nice but we couldn't get any closer, the road is blocked. If this is on the way, might as well, otherwise it's not worth it.

Great surprise waterfall visit with bonus dog love! West driveway (not one that says private) has small parking area with view of waterfall, stream and adorable dog. @jerryinfrontofthings

Nice place to quick stop, you can see it from car. Big waterfall and his little brother next to him. No parking fees

Impressive waterfall. Free car park a short walk away (like 1 minute of walking). Not busy at all, I don't think maybe people know of it but it's a really nice spot to stop just off of the main road.

A charming two-tiered waterfall on the Stjórn river, with a total drop of about 10 m, the lower level often appearing wider and more dramatic. The upper tier cascades gently down a vol­canic slope—only visible from a distance—while the lower plunge falls over a basalt “tongue” for a beautiful, symmetrical flow . Just ~1 km off Route 203, reached from a roundabout in Kirkjubæjarklaustur via a well-marked gravel road. Parking is available at the bridge and campground . Only a 100–200 m walk from parking, on a clear, slightly uneven path—great for a quick detour along the Ring Road . Open year-round and ideal as a refreshing stop en route to or from Skaftafell, Fjaðrárgljúfur, and other southern highlights . A peaceful hidden gem: fewer visitors, serene ambiance, and perfect for a tranquil experience . •   Photogenic in early morning or late afternoon light; recommended wearing sturdy footwear for slick terrain . •   Ideal picnic, light hike, or even a night under the stars at the nearby Kleifar campsite . Best Time Spring to early summer for lush green surroundings; summer light best for photos  Stjórnarfoss may not be colossal, but its intimate scale, two-tiered structure, and peaceful setting make it an underappreciated gem—perfect for those who appreciate serene moments in Iceland’s south. Whether as a refreshing stop on a grand road trip or a calm retreat amid more crowded attractions, it delivers beauty, ease, and tranquility.

Gorgeous toned down waterfall. I went for sunrise and the atmosphere was absolutely incredible!

Easy to park for free. In middle of November is beautiful, is semi frozen.

Fantastic secret gem. The pool below and the river were perfect for a secluded swim. The water was warmer than expected

Cute, not so known waterfall on the way to Höfn, must stop. Free parking nearby.

Beautiful waterfall, tucked away in a peaceful little nook

Very slippery... Even with good shoes, I fell many times. The Friðland að Fjallabaki sight is more welcoming !

Really interesting. Looks like an entirely different planet or time. Not a lot to see, but a great stop and a great view.

(Translated by Google) A unique place in Iceland. Huge fields covered with moss. Unesco monument. (Original) Jedinečné místo na Islandu. Obrovské lány porostlé mechem. Památka Unesco.

(Translated by Google) View of a lava field covered in Moss Beautiful, organized and neat here with an explanation of this special moss. The formations are imaginative. (Original) תצפית על שדה לבה מכוסה ב Moss יפה, מאורגן ומסודר כאן עם הסבר על הטחב המיוחד הזה. התצורות מפעילות את הדימיון.ן

(Translated by Google) Free visit to the lava fields. Very interesting, especially if the day is clear (no rain). (Original) Visitação aos campos de lava gratuita. Muito interessante principalmente se o dia estiver aberto (sem chuva).

(Translated by Google) Beautiful place please take care of the tundra (Original) 漂亮的地方 請愛護苔原

Exquisite and beautiful chapel with a concert in it

The center is brand new, modern, interactive, fantastic for both adults and kids to visit. Also a small cafe and gift shop. Toilet, water refill point, good parking. Just off the road 1, a perfect stop on the way between Vik and Jokursarlon. During this summer (2025), the national park rangers organise daily hikes (at 11am from the center) into the reserve where one is not allowed to walk by themselves. Beautiful pseudo-craters, both rangers in the center were fantastic, well informed. Our hike was instructive, it took around 1hr (with 2 kids below 10, adults may walk faster). Highly recommended.

Beautiful new building with food and coffee for purchase ..a nice little informative museum about the local scenery and landscape Helpful girls at the counter.

Great quick stop! It’s a beautiful building. The surround views are stunning, and you can fully appreciate them rather than through the car window. Visitor center has bathrooms, educational and interactive exhibits, craft items for purchase, maps, and very friendly workers.

A visitor center with great views, information, ans restroom facilities. The roof has a lawn, you can walk up the gente slope to get a view from a slightly higher vantage point.

Nice and modern information centre with toilets and cafeteria. Friendly service.

Outstandingly beautiful location. The architecture is interesting and considerate of the environment. Very clean restrooms and a nice place to stop, rest, grab a coffee and enjoy the views of the Vatnajökull glacier. 👍🏻🇮🇸

I loved this visitor center! The building design is as nice as it is on the inside. Plenty of space and well organized. The staff is very kind. Tip: the hot chocolate is just Swiss Miss that you have to make yourself. Just carry cocoa mix and hot water with you.

Real Icelandic experience, there is a waterfall in the background when you look on mountains, however you also see the concrete walls and parts of the buildings. In the swimming pool local icelandic kids are playing with a ball, no turists at all. The water has got lots of chlorine. The tempersature is perfect for simming and geting warmer after

Extremely clean facility. Entrance fee for the pool is 1100k per person. Towels for 800k each. Free lockers. Decent size swimming pool, temperature around 30 degrees. Small slide for kids. Then there are two hot tubs, 1 that is not deep and about 34-36 degrees, the other is deeper and 38-40 degrees. From the hot tub you look at a mountain with a waterfall. Where else in the world do you get that? Would definitely recommend, especially on a rainy day!

Great, clean local outdoor pools attached to the leisure centre. One small swimming pool, plus two hot tubs (34-36C, 38-40C). Lovely to sit in the hot tub and watch the waterfall in the distance. The showers and toilets were clean as was the changing area. Free lockers are provided for clothes and valuables. Free body soap at the showers. Also filter coffee available in the reception area. Entrance fee for adults was 900K, a really good value visit. Not possible to take photos because it’s forbidden inside, and a tall fence around the pools (for privacy) mean you can’t take a picture of the pools from the outside either. So - great privacy!!!

Your typical Icelandic countryside swimming pool. Theoretically, it is possible to swim laps in the pool, but the number of kids playing will add a slalom element to your laps. I recommend the hot tubs which are decently sized. Cleanliness is good and you can lock your stuff in the dressing rooms.

This tiny town of 150 people has a lovely outdoor pool with 2 hotpots. The pool is heated to around 28c, the 2 hotpots to around 35c & 40c. Its spotlessly clean & a great place to unwind. The pools look out to a lovely waterfall. Like all Icelandic pools there is minimal chlorine so cleaning properly before entering is a must. Do as the locals & wash naked before putting your swimsuit on. Cost June 2017 Free hairdryer, free lockers, free soap in the showers (just foamy handsoap )

Great place! They have 1 sports pool with slide for kids with temperature around 30 degrees Celcium, 1 kids tube 34-36 degrees, 1 tube 38-40 degrees. You can't find photos of the pool in reviews because it is forbidden to make them. Highly recommend!

900ISK for a clean shower, warm changing rooms, hot tub (38-40°) and a pool (28-30°). Lovely view of the waterfall.. I recommend going at night when it's dark. Even got a free espresso on the way out. Definitely a better choice than paying 300ISK at the camp ground for 5 minutes of showering. They have hairdryers too! (A bit hidden down the road. It's tucked behind an old ish looking building.)