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.

A river canyon with a hiking trail that takes you along the top of the canyon to a viewing platform for the waterfalls. Quite a popular spot for tourists driving the Ring Road, but it’s easy to see why. The views are spectacular and it is well worth the hike.

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.

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)

It is a giant rock. There is a rope if you want to climb up. There is no direct access. You have to park nearby and walk about 10 minutes. There is a waterfall nearby.

We tried to drive/walk/teletransport us to see this rock but it looks like now it's private land. So no chance to get close to it 😑

On private property. Maybe you can walk but we didn't want to chance it

Great little walk in through farmland. The nearby waterfall is also very beautiful.

Nice little hike past a waterfall to a big rock.

Short walk from Kirk and beautiful views if you are able to make it on top!

A short walk from the parking, passing a small riverpassing but a rewarding fall and view.

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.

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.

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.

Short but steep hike, probably 25 minutes to the top, amazing views

Very easy access, quick five minute walk to the falls. Very unique water spread.

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!

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 easy walk from the parking lot. The story behind it is very cool but it kinda just looks like a big rock and not like it was stacked. The area is very beautiful and it is on the way to kirkjugólf (church floor) which I think is worth seeing.

Tragic story behind every rock in iceland...

Very impressive place to visit for free. Has interesting history.

(Translated by Google) Absolutely worth seeing, this original plateau, full of stories and unlikely legends, is located near state road 1, towards His Majesty Vatnajökull! Once we arrive at the Kirkjugólf bílastæði car park, a small hill appears in front of us, it is the hill of Hildishaugur Burial Mound, legend has it that a pagan named Eysteinsson tried to enter what was a very Christian place, the man was killed instantly! The people of the village buried him by stacking one stone on top of another, and the mound thus became an eerie hill. A minute's walk away, the path leads to Kirkjugólf Natural Monument where it is possible to see the "church floor", a continuous and clear pavement made up of hexagonal basalt tiles which were most likely columns, either crumbled by erosion or broken by a violent earthquake. Returning to the Kirkjugólf bílastæði car park it is possible to visit the Stjórnarfoss waterfall, it does not have a large water flow, but its landscape is really very beautiful. (Original) Assolutamente da vedere questo originale pianoro, ricco di storie e improbabili leggende, si trova nei pressi della statale 1, in direzione sua maestà Vatnajökull! Arrivati al parcheggio di Kirkjugólf bílastæði ci appare davanti a noi una montagnola, è la collina di Hildishaugur Burial Mound, la leggenda narra che un pagano di nome Eysteinsson cercò di entrare in quello che era un luogo di gran lunga cristiano, l'uomo venne ucciso all'istante! La gente del villaggio lo seppellì impilando una pietra sopra all'altra, il tumulo diventò così un'inquietante collina. Ad un minuto di marcia il sentiero conduce a Kirkjugólf Natural Monument dove è possibile vedere il “pavimento della chiesa”, un selciato continuo e netto costituito da pianelle esagonali di basalto che con molta probabilità erano colonne, o sgretolate dall'erosione o spezzate da un violento terremoto. Di ritorno al parcheggio di Kirkjugólf bílastæði è possibile visitare la cascata di Stjórnarfoss, non ha una grande portata d'acqua, ma il suo paesaggio è davvero molto bello.

(Translated by Google) When you go to the church floor, Hildishaugur is in the way. Ideal to walk up to it too. (Original) Þegar farið er að kirkjugólfið er Hildishaugur í leiðinni. Tilvalið að ganga upp að honum líka.

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

This is a quick stop off site to visit. After taking a very short trail over several wooden ramps that go over small water runoffs, you arrive here. What makes it interesting is that jutting out from the ground are these hexagonal pillars in the middle of an otherwise flat empty field. This was a fun and interesting stop and highly recommended.

Small little restaurant on the South Coast with amazing food. The baked cheese was so creamy it may as well have just been a dip. We had a seat right in front of the service window so we got to watch the kitchen push out dishes all night. If we make it back to the area in the future we will definitely have to try another one of their pastas as they are absolutely smothered with freshly shredded cheese just before serving.

This was my most memorable meal in Iceland by far. The restaurant is very cozy and if you are lucky enough to sit by the window, you can get a magnificent view of the waterfall. I ordered the grilled lamb and then a rhubarb dessert. Both were excellent choices. I also got to sample the seafood pasta and can recommend that too. I arrived at around noon and by the time I left, the restaurant was pretty packed. Definitely try to get here early if you want a good spot since this restaurant doesn't take reservations.

This was my favorite meal on our trip to Iceland. The shrimp toast was lights out, I almost ordered a second one for desert. The rest of the food was great as well. We also had top 10 espresso martinis so can’t say anything more about this spot.

Definitely a must go!!! Absolutely outstanding!! My boyfriend and I came here after traveling around the diamond beach, black sand beach and other spots nearby! Hospitality was amazing they were so friendly and nice to us! We got the artic char with potatoes and the grilled lamb with potatoes! The artic char was incredible! One of the best meals I’ve had in my life! We also got the rhubarb crumble and the tiramisu which were both delicious!! Best restaurant we went to on the island! You also just can’t beat the view of Systrafoss waterfall in the background of your phenomenal meal! Will definitely be going again when we come back to Iceland!

The best restaurant we went to on our tour of the southern coast! The server and chef were super friendly and engaging. Everything we ordered was delicious, but the lamb and the char can’t be beat. The atmosphere inside is great and we loved watching the chef at work. The view of the waterfalls outside is amazing, and I highly recommend you save time to go on a short hike along the forest trail - they have the tallest trees in Iceland!

We found this hidden gem on our way back from Jökulsárlón glaciers to Vík, and it was an unforgettable surprise. We ordered six main dishes — fish, meat, and vegetarian, (they also offer vegan options). All perfectly cooked, rich in flavor, and beautifully served. The open kitchen added a lovely touch, service was flawless; when a wrong dish was prepared, they quickly fixed it and even gifted us the extra one. The desserts were excellent too, the rhubarb crumble was delicious. A truly outstanding experience — warm, generous, and delicious!

It’s very rare to find a place where you can simply enjoy truly delicious food. The food here was absolutely amazing! On a rather rough day, this restaurant completely turned our mood around. We’re so happy we chose this place. The presentation of the dishes, the service, and the lovely surprise of a complimentary dessert really impressed us. Thank you for such a wonderful experience!

We stopped here right before they close as they were the only open restaurant in the area driving back towards Vik from Diamond beach. The staff were very kind and welcomed us. Food was okay. The cheese pizza bread was very flavorful. My mushroom tagliatelle was just okay. Nothing super special. My friend got fish and chips and said they were okay as well- not the best or worst.

Delicious food! Everything we tried was tasty, high-quality, and beautifully presented. The lamb, the fish prepared in different ways (including Arctic char), risottos, soups, and fish & chips were all excellent. Prices are on the higher side, but that’s normal in Iceland. Service was efficient, and the food arrived quickly, even though the place was always busy. Clearly, it’s a popular spot — and for good reason!

Nice spot if you’re in the mood for a proper meal 🍴. The service was super professional and the restaurant has a really good vibe 🎶🕯️. We ordered the tomato soup 🥣 (came with 2 breads with butter 🥖🧈 – 2,100 ISK), tagliatelle with creamy mushroom & garlic sauce and parmesan 🧀 (3,850 ISK), Arctic char 🐟 (5,200 ISK), risotto with sweet potato purée and vegetables 🥔🥦 (3,800 ISK), and fish & chips 🍟🐠. It’s definitely quite pricey , but worth it if you want something warm and high-quality ⭐

From the outside it looks like a street food location, but you will be surprised, when you step into the restaurant. Good food, specials of the day and hot coffee. Had the pasta with king prawns - excellent!

The food was great, and it was a very cosy environment. We got the fish & chips and the lamb sandwich. The lamb was incredibly tender and juicy. The fish was nicely battered and crispy with a delicious side pesto salad. It was quite busy, but they moved people through. Thanks for a wonderful meal!

I was surprised by how popular sourdough pizza is in Iceland, but it's pretty ubiquitous! I had the grænmetispizza (vegetarian, arugula-based), and our party also ordered the exorcist (pepperoni and jalapeño), margherita (with pepperoni and extra cheese add-ons), and the Arctic char. The grænmetispizza was very similar to something I'd get in the United States. The arugula stood out to me as being a bit stronger (ie, more bitter) than what I'd find in the US, though that didn't bother me. The pizza was more than enough for me to take home for another meal, though a larger, hungrier person could also polish off the whole thing. The Arctic char was a slightly smaller portion size. It's virtually indistinguishable from salmon in taste.

Excellent food and service at this restaurant, location is next to a pleasant waterfall, just off the main road. Highly recommended for a visit during your road trip.

Delicious and budget friendly food options, if you want to get the question of food quick out of the way and just drive further on the 1. We took the family pack which seembed just perfect.

Simple and appetizing. Fries were crispy, fish sandwich was fresh. Chicken tenders were great too! Probably the most satisfying meal in Iceland thus far.

Had a very tasty and reasonably priced meal here after a long day. Portions were really generous. There’s not a menu available online, so I have attached photos of the entire menu taken in June 2024 for your convenience.

I ordered a bottle of water, a fish burger, and a latte. Even though my English was terrible, they kindly helped me place my order. The food was delicious and I really enjoyed it!

Today, due to road closures caused by snow, we took a rest here. The owner warmly welcomed us, and luckily, we get the last serving of fish and chips. The mushroom soup was delicious, and in the cold weather, freshly made hot meals were truly delightful. Even the kids enjoyed it. The restaurant is clean, and the owner ensures proper disinfection of tables. Free restroom facilities are provided, and there's a variety of groceries and beverages available. The chef has much passion for his food.

Just a little place to eat quickly, the meal was enough for us. The guy is not happy but he make his job. You can also buy something for your car. Fish and chips was good

I went and got the fish burger meal. For a gas station fish burger it was good but the fries that came with the burger were stale and lacked flavour. Service was excellent. Employees smiled throughout my entire order and seemed to all and all like their work The atmosphere wasn’t all that good. The people were fine but the decor always never seemed that great. Skaftárskáli was good all and all and receives a 4/5 rating from me.

Hunkubakkar is a quiet, cozy farm with plenty of cabins to stay in and enjoy the great scenery. Our pillows in our room were small and lackluster, but that has been the case in most places we've stayed in so it may be a cultural difference. We had an excellent view of the mountains/hillside with plenty of cute sheep. The dinner was fantastic and the grilled arctic charr was perfect. Breakfast was great as well, but no eggs or meat other than ham if you are a hearty breakfast enjoyer.

The guesthouse is located in the tourist area, near Kirkjubæjarklaustur canyan. The guest house cottages are scatted in the natural surroundings, very quiet and beautiful. Hotel staff are very nice and helpful, especially manager Kasper. He helped us arrange a room we like, ordered and delivered our dinner to our room while he was very busy taking care of hotel guests. Highly recommend.

Loved this little guest house supper friendly. Very accommodating went above & beyond getting us a breakfast to go as we were leaving so early the next day ...Had a lovely relaxing gathering room & a lovey resturants..I can't say enough about this place ..loved it !!!!

One of the best stays we had in Iceland! We booked a cabin with two bedrooms, a bathroom with plenty of hot water, and a small kitchenette — perfect for making a simple dinner after a long day of exploring. The cabin was clean, cosy, and so comfortable that we instantly felt at home. We were genuinely impressed with how well kept and welcoming the place was — it exceeded our expectations. The location is peaceful and surrounded by beautiful scenery, which made it even more special. We were honestly delighted with the cabins and would happily stay here again.

Spent only one night here, very friendly people telling us where what was, great breakfast, clean, a little bit too much light in the room (midnight sun... ) but minor inconvenience. Not far from Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, just a 5 minute drive.

Rustic cabins but clean. Quiet. Excellent service and great restaurant. The lamb steaks were amazing, raised and processed across the road.

The staff were quite accommodating when we arrived. The food for the evening was good, I recommend the lamb. Seriously let down by the breakfast. This was the 12th BnB on our trip and this was by far the worst. Only basic ham and cheese dumped on a plate from a packet. Yogurts in large cartons and spreads in their plastic pots. On other farms the breakfast has included locally produced produce