Hraunfossar

Hraunfossar is one of the lesser-known waterfalls in Iceland. However, that doesn’t mean it’s any less beautiful or not worth a visit. Quite the opposite! This series of waterfalls, whose name means “Lava Waterfalls,” is located in the western part of the island, near the village of Reykholt. Unlike typical waterfalls that drop from a height, Hraunfossar flows directly out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field, which was formed during a volcanic eruption under the Langjökull glacier. Dozens of smaller springs flow in a wide belt into the Hvítá River, creating breathtaking cascades.

The greatest charm of Hraunfossar lies in the contrast between the dark lava, the white foam of the falling water, and the turquoise tones of the river below. A beautiful and short trail runs around the waterfall, leading you to several viewpoints of the falls and their stunning colors. We definitely recommend checking out all of them; it won’t take you more than 30 minutes.

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