Hraunfossar is a uniquely beautiful series of waterfalls located on the Hallmundarhraun lava field. This lava field was created when a volcano under the Langjokull glacier erupted shortly after the settlement of Iceland. Hraunfossar is formed as several small streams flow from the lava field into the Hvitá river. The name Hraunfossar appropriately means “Lava Falls,” it is also known as “Girdingar cascade.”
Djúpavíkurfoss is a hidden gem nestled in the rugged landscape of the Westfjords region of Iceland. This breathtaking waterfall tumbles down over a cliff, ending approximately 160 meters below before it flows into the Atlantic Sea. From the seaside at Djúpavík, you can get a stunning view of the waterfall with the small town of Djúpavík in the foreground. The river Djúpavíkurá, which feeds the falls, originates from a plateau with several small lakes and mountains reaching up to 524 meters. Djúpavíkurfoss is located directly on road 643 in the village of Djúpavík, near the Reykjarfjörður fjord. If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination, Djúpavíkurfoss is definitely worth a visit.
Barnafoss is a beautiful waterfall located on the Hvitá river. Barnafoss is also next to its sister waterfall Hraunfossar, though the two cannot be more different. While technically a waterfall, Barnafoss acts more like a series of rapids that rushes through the bedrock on the edge of the Hallmundarhraun lava field. At one point in time, a natural bridge stretched over the waterfall, but it has been lost to time.
Known as ‘the Jewel of the Westfjords, Dynjandi is considered one of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls. It is located on the Arnarfjörður; the second longed fjord in the Westfjords.
Gjárfoss is one of only a few waterfalls located in the Gjáin valley. Gjáin is known for its basalt columns and lush greenery. Gjárfoss is around 49 ft (15 m) in height. While such a small waterfall may seem unimpressive, the area around Gjárfoss has been described as paradise. What makes Gjárfoss unique is the nearly perfect pool it forms at its base. While a difficult waterfall to access, the Gjárfoss offers a prime swimming hole for its visitors.
Selfoss is 36ft (11 m) tall waterfall on the river Jökulsá á Fjöllum. This waterfall sits downstream from the mighty Dettifoss, so it is often overlooked. Selfoss, while smaller in height, is immensely wider than Dettifoss, with a width of around 330 ft (100 m).