The Majestic Power of Gullfoss: Iceland’s Golden Falls and its Rich History
Gullfoss, which translates to “Golden Falls,” is one of Iceland’s most renowned and beloved waterfalls located in the Hvítá river canyon in Southwest Iceland. The Hvítá river originates from the Langjökull glacier and cascades 32 meters (105 feet) down Gullfoss’ two stages, creating a captivating display of nature’s raw power. This stunning site is a must-see for most visitors as it is on the popular Golden Circle sightseeing route.
It’s important to note that Gullfoss has two stages – the first cascade is 11 meters tall (36 feet) and the second drop is 21 meters (69 feet). The canyon walls on either side of the waterfall reach heights of up to 70 meters (230 feet), leading into the vast Gullfossgjúfur canyon. Geologists believe that this canyon was formed by glacial outbursts at the beginning of the last age.
In the summer, approximately 140 cubic meters (459 cubic feet) of water surges down the waterfall every second, while in winter the rate drops to around 109 cubic meters (358 cubic feet). Visitors should be prepared to get wet from the waterfall’s powerful spray if they get too close.
In addition to visiting Gullfoss, the Golden Circle sightseeing route also includes the Geysir geothermal area and Þingvellir National Park. Many Golden Circle tours also offer additional activities, such as ascending the nearby Langjökull glacier and exploring its ice tunnels or snowmobiling on its surface.
Gullfoss has a rich history, in the early 20th century, an English businessman named Howell sought to use the waterfall’s energy to power a hydroelectric plant. The waterfall was owned by a farmer named Tómas Tómasson, who refused to sell the land. However, Tómas later leased the land to Howell without realizing the loophole that would allow him to proceed with his plans. Tómas’ daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, fought to stop Howell’s plans and hired a lawyer using her own savings. It was a long and difficult battle but in the end, Howell withdrew from the lease in 1929 and the waterfall was returned to the Icelandic people. The lawyer who helped Sigríður, Sveinn Björnsson, went on to become the first president of independent Iceland in 1944.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Visitors can also enjoy the views from Gullfoss Cafe, a locally run restaurant, that serves a variety of refreshments and meals. Gullfoss is free to visit and open 24/7 all year round. It is about 120 km from Reykjavik and can be reached by any vehicle. It’s recommended to check road conditions before departing.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Gullfoss waterfall, Bláskógabyggð, South Iceland
- Coordinates
- 64.3266103, -20.1216821
- Access
- Gullfoss is a protected nature reserve managed by the Environment Agency of Iceland. Pedestrians may use marked paths from the upper and lower parking areas; off-road driving and walking outside marked trails are prohibited. Weather and safety can temporarily restrict paths, especially in winter. The map marker denotes the waterfall feature, not a parking lot.
- Admission
- No entrance ticket is required; Gullfoss’s operator says the public waterfall area is free and open. Parking is separate. The previously recorded September 2026 private-car tariff should be checked in Parka/on-site signage before travel because the accessible live Parka page did not expose a tariff in this check. Do not confuse the proposed 2027 infrastructure contribution reported in September with an active waterfall admission charge.
- Time needed
- About 30–90 minutes is a visitor-planning estimate depending on which marked paths are open and how long you spend at the viewpoints; it is not an official minimum. Add time for winter footing, crowds or a café stop.
- Best season
- No official best season is specified. The reserve can be visited year-round when conditions allow; summer offers longer daylight, while winter may bring ice, snow and temporary path restrictions. Check weather and road/path notices.
- Opening hours
- The waterfall itself is open 24 hours a day according to its operator. The café, restaurant and shop have separate hours, currently listed 09:30–19:00 daily; the kitchen closes one hour before closing. Weather or safety can restrict paths even while the reserve remains open.
- Location checked
- 2026-11-02
- Facts checked
- 2026-11-02
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