Set your foot into the Land of Fire and Ice, where glaciers float brilliantly on the sea and geothermal heat creates fascinating springs and geysers. Otherworldly – that is the one word that describes Iceland. For that reason, a lot of people put Iceland into their bucket list. When arranging an Iceland itinerary, travelers would put the Northern Lights, Reykjavik, and Sejlandfoss Waterfall. However, if joining a huge crowd of tourists is not your thing, you might want to walk off the beaten path. These hidden gems in Iceland are for you to check out!
Hidden Gems in Iceland – Summary
- Gljufrabui Waterfall
- Nauthusagil Waterfall
- Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
- Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
- Hrunalaug Hot Spring
Gljufrabui Waterfall
Iceland is a treasure trove of spectacular waterfalls – that is a popular fact! When planning an Iceland itinerary, travelers won’t forget to include the cascading Seljalandsfoss and the well-loved Skofagoss. However, checking out the hidden waterfalls is an amazing way to level up your trip. Gljufrabui Waterfall beckons you to unveil its beauty. It is tucked 750-meter away from the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, obscured in a mossy cave.
Gljufrabui Waterfall fits the category ‘Iceland hidden gems’ perfectly. The entrance of the waterfall comprises gigantic stone walls forming a small gapping cave. You would never guess that the moss-dotted cave keeps a bewitching wonder. Gljufrabui Waterfall cascades from the top of the stone walls, streaming down to the damp cave. You can stand underneath the waterfall, feeling splashes of cold water on your skin and hearing the stream roars.
Nauthusagil Waterfall
Southern Iceland never fails to amaze us with its collection of waterfalls – including the quaint Nauthusagil Waterfall. Sitting on the untouched corner of the Stóra-Mörk Farm, the waterfall is only known to a handful of people. Nauthusagil Waterfall is tucked inside a ravine with the same name. With no sign available, the waterfall is truly a hidden gem in Iceland.
Nauthusagil Waterfall can be reached by following the winding slopes of the ravine, going way down. You need to scramble on rocky, ladder-like trails to reach the main waterfall. Thus, wearing waterproof boots and holding the installed ropes can help you walk down easier. Then, you have to pass through a shallow river. As you arrive in the waterfall, get ready to be captivated by its cascading streams, mossy surroundings, and the rowan tree roots jutting from above.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Set your imagination free in this off-the-radar canyon. You might draw a picture of a dragon flying over the moss-covered canyons or a family of elves hiding inside the jagged slopes. After all, Fjadrargljufur Canyon looks otherworldly. The canyon comprises uniquely shaped valleys, dark rock walls, and verdant canyons. The 9,000 year-old Fjadra River runs through it, completing the extraordinary view. With the canyon’s exquisite looks, it is no surprise that the producers of “Game of Thrones” choose to film there.
Fjadrargljufur Canyon is accessible from the main ring road. So, you can park your car in the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and walk to the canyon. Fjadrargljufur Canyon beckons you to take a short hike and explore its hilly area. Make sure to take a lot of pictures and make your Instagram followers jealous! Therefore, Fjadrargljufur Canyon is one of the most stunning hidden gems in Iceland.
Stakkholtsgjá Canyon
Another breathtaking canyon in Southern Iceland is Stakkholtsgjá. It comprises an extensive hiking trail adorned with pebbles and enclosed by towering rock walls. Moss and meadows cloak a huge portion of the rock walls, creating a wonderful contrast. Moreover, the trail leads you to a small waterfall and river that send a magical vibe. Furthermore, Stakkholtsgjá Canyon looks twice as wonderful during winter with snow-coated walls and the possibility of Northern Lights dancing in the sky. Whether you are an outdoor junkie or a casual traveler, the Stakkholtsgjá Canyon will take your breath away. It is one of the must-see hidden gems in Iceland.
Hrunalaug Hot Spring
An unmissable thing to do is Iceland is dipping yourself into the hot springs. Feel the healing properties of Iceland’s geothermal heats to soothen your muscles and improve your skin condition. Then, we recommend you to head to Hrunalaug Hot Spring. The private-owned hot springs date back to 1890 and once belonged to a family of farmer. Now, the off-the-radar hot spring is open to the public and beckons you to visit.
‘A nice warm dip in the middle of nowhere’ – that is the slogan of Hrunalaug Hot Spring. Well, technically you are enjoying a hot spring in a remote area. Surrounded by hills and meadows with no tourist in sight, Hrunalaug Hot Spring offers the best relaxation. Although it is one of the hidden gems in Iceland, it is quite accessible. The hot spring is tucked 13 kilometers away from the Golden Circle Route and only requires an one-hour drive from Reykjavik.
Iceland never ceases to amaze us with its spectacular natural landscapes. Morever, its hidden gems are something you should put on your bucket list. Do you want to explore Iceland and see the amazing hidden gems? We have a great idea for you!
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