Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is a popular tourist place located in southern Iceland. This waterfall is approximately 60 meters tall, but the reason behind this fall’s popularity is not only its height. Seljalandsfoss Fall is famous for its unique feature that allows visitors to walk behind the cascading water. The guests are offered a unique opportunity to feel the impressiveness of the waterfall, one of Iceland’s scenic attractions.
Location and Access
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is located between the towns of Hvolsvöllur and Vík. Visitors can also see nearby attractions, such as Skógafoss, another famous waterfall, and the Reynisfjara black sand beach. The surroundings of Seljalandsfoss are well known for their beauty; green slopes and high cliffs make visiting such places remarkable.
Seljalandsfoss from Reykjavik
Seljalandsfoss from Reykjavik is a very remarkable journey. Tourists can enjoy the scenic views of Iceland from Reykjavik to Seljalandsfoss by taking Route 1. The route is well-marked and takes less than 2 hours to reach this beautiful waterfall from Reykjavik. On reaching the Seljalandsfoss, visitors must move onto paved road number 249 which leads directly to the parking area.
A normal fee of around 5-6 dollars can be paid by credit card. Facilities at the parking lot include a cafe, toilet, and many more making it convenient for visitors before and after their visit to the falls.
Many tours feature Seljalandsfoss as a stop
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is a prime part of many tour itineraries, especially those concerning the area of the greater south coast of Iceland. Tour buses frequently stop at the waterfall, so the tourists can walk behind and explore the surrounding area of Seljalandsfoss. This compulsory step taken in many tours describes the importance of fall in the list of Iceland’s most scenic attractions.
For tourists, there are several possibilities of visits; a full day visiting several places, as the Golden Circle or the whole South Coast. There are even some specialized tours that include Seljalandsfoss in the tour and take people to other places of interest such as Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach.
Tourists can also rent a car to travel on their own. However, for those who are unfamiliar with Iceland’s route or wish to learn about the region, its advised to book guided tours to learn from knowledgeable guides.
About Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Located in Southern Iceland, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall stands at a height of about 197 meters. The source of the waterfall is Mount Eyjafjallajökull. It’s an inactive volcanic mountain that has however been capped by ice and snow that erupted in 2010 thus disrupting flight in the European region.
Seljalandsfoss is supplied with water from the Seljalandsá River which originates from the Eyjafjallajökull glacier. As the river cascades down the hill, it creates a curtain-like structure that falls into the pool below. The width of the falls enhances the creation and the beauty of the falls making it one of the most gorgeous falls one could ever imagine.
Seljalandsfoss is among the most powerful and beautiful signs of nature’s strength. Due to its height, the beautiful waterfall, and the stunning beauty of the south of Iceland, it is one of the attractions that tourists must not miss when visiting the country.
Walking Behind the Falls
An appealing feature that makes the Seljalandsfoss a must-visit attraction is the opportunity to walk behind the falls. Stairs and a well-maintained path allow the visitors to walk into the cave behind the falls to enjoy the stunning views of waterfalls from different positions.
Stairs and Well-maintained Path
The path begins near the parking area on the right side of the falls, which takes the visitors to the cave behind the falls. The visitors will follow a trail that is well-marked to ensure that they have to walk along the face of the cliff and some stairs. But it’s important to remember that stairs can be slippery because of mist. So it’s important to tightly hold the handrails provided especially in the winter season.
The path continues when tourists reach the top of the stairs. Continue following the path will take the visitors in the cave area behind the falls. It’s the area where they stand behind the beautiful curtain of water to look at the stunning views of the falls.
Recommendation
Its recommended to start your hiking in a clockwise direction from the right side of the falls. This approach will provide you the best experience to easily walk the trail without passing the other people coming from the opposite direction. Because of some additional stairs on the right side, it will also help you to exit easily.
Because of the mist and spray from the falls, tourists will get wet. It’s advised to wear proper rain gear including waterproof jackets, pants, and shoes to stay comfortable. It’s also important to protect your electronic devices including cameras, phones, etc with the help of a waterproof bag or by using a rain cover.
Best Times to Visit
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is always accessible to visitors throughout the year. It provides an organized experience every month and every season of the year. However, there are some features one has to focus on that can namely improve your stay. Following the given options several factors may influence your decision such as crowd, lighting, and the absence or the presence of a rainbow at a particular location.
Early Morning
An early morning visit is an ideal time for those who want to avoid the crowd. An early morning visit offers a more peaceful and serene experience. Especially in the summer months, sun rising experience is also beautiful in early visits.
Sunny Days
To capture the beauty of falls in its full bloom, then sunny days are the best time. Mist from the falls and the sunlight can form rainbows adding more charm to the beauty of the waterfall.
For Sunset Lovers
Seljalandsfoss also offers the opportunity for sunset lovers to watch the serene beauty of falls at the time of sunset. At the time of sunset, the warm light of the sun creates a golden glow on the curtain of water and the surrounding landscape. This time of the day is also popular for photographers as the sunlight enhances the overall beauty of the falls.
Conclusion
Seljalandsfoss is much more than the sight of a beautiful waterfall, it is more like an overwhelming experience that makes people never forget the beauty they saw. This waterfall is one of the most beautiful sights offering a magnificent view of the water falling from a great height as well as the possibility to visit the cave behind the cascade all framed by the nature of Iceland. As you are looking for a thrilling experience, a serene environment, or, an amazing view, Seljalandsfoss does not disappoint. This waterfall is a site to see when you are on your travel exploring the beauty of the country of Iceland.
