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Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls” in the Hvítá River, is perhaps the most iconic and best-known Icelandic waterfall. It is on the Golden Circle route, Thingvellir, and the Haukadal geyser field.
See the golden hue of the cascading water of Gullfoss waterfall under sunlight.
Known as the “Golden Falls,” Gullfoss cascades in two stages into a rugged canyon, creating a mesmerizing display of nature. The waterfall’s name, “Golden Waterfall,” refers to the golden hue in its waters under sunlight or to the shimmering rainbows often visible above the mist. The waterfall drops 32 meters (105 feet) in two tiers. The first cascade plunges water 11 meters, and the second drops 21 meters into a 32-meter-deep canyon. It delivers about 140 m³/s of water in summer and 80 m³/s in winter.
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Fantastic photo opportunities
Gullfoss is fed by the glacial river Hvítá, which originates from the Langjökull glacier. The thundering water falling into the deep, narrow gorge is awe-inspiring, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Gullfoss also symbolizes Iceland’s commitment to preserving its natural wonders. 20th-century conservation efforts prevented it from being harnessed for hydroelectric power. Visitors get to the waterfall via walking paths that provide various viewpoints of the falls. There, you will get close-up views of this magnificent natural wonder and fantastic photo opportunities.
Conserving Iceland’s beauty
Gullfoss waterfall has special meaning for those who want to preserve Iceland’s beautiful landscapes. In the last century there were plans to dam the Hvítá river to generate electricity. Fortunately, this was fiercely opposed by a local woman Sigridur Tomasdottir (1871 – 1957) who lived in the nearby farm of Brattholt. In her early adulthood she made her living partly by guiding travelers to the waterfall but at that time it was practically in the middle of nowhere. Her herculean efforts to oppose any plans to use Hvítá or Gullfoss to generate electricity earned her the distinction of being a pioneer of environmentalism in Iceland. This was a true ‘David Vs. Goliath’ struggle, Sigridur was a regular country woman who took a stand agains the powers that be. Today, tens of thousands of people experience the majesty of Gullfoss waterfall. Sigridur would surely approve.
How to get to Gullfoss waterfall?
Drive on road 1 from Reykjavik, turn on road 35 until you reach Gullfoss waterfall.
