Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall

Ultimate Guide to the Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland

Ultimate Guide to the Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland

Ultimate Guide to the Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland

Ultimate Guide to the Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland

Gullfoss is an epic waterfall located in the south of Iceland. This massive cascade is made up of two different falls–an upper and a lower falls. In total, Gulffos is 32 m (105 ft) high. The waterfall is incredibly broad, spanning the entirety of the Hvítá River. What’s more, these icy waters actually originate in Langjökull Glacier. Keep reading to learn all about Gullfoss waterfall.

What is the history of Gullfoss waterfall as a public attraction?

For many years, Gullfoss was privately owned by an Icelandic farmer Tómas Tómasson. In the early 20th century, an English businessman wanted to buy the land and harness the falls for use in a hydroelectric power plant. Tómasson decided to lease the land but did not realize the Englishman might still be able to build a power plant despite not actually owning the land.

Tómasson’s daughter Sigríður campaigned tirelessly to nullify the contract and prevent construction from taking place at Gullfoss. She wanted to preserve the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall and protect it from any kind of development. After many years, Sigríður’s persistence paid off and the English businessman finally withdrew claim on the lease. In 1979, Gullfoss waterfall became a permanent conservation site.

Ultimate Guide to the Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland

Gullfoss is an epic waterfall located in the south of Iceland. This massive cascade is made up of two different falls–an upper and a lower falls. In total, Gulffos is 32 m (105 ft) high. The waterfall is incredibly broad, spanning the entirety of the Hvítá River. What’s more, these icy waters actually originate in Langjökull Glacier. Keep reading to learn all about Gullfoss waterfall.

What is the history of Gullfoss waterfall as a public attraction?

For many years, Gullfoss was privately owned by an Icelandic farmer Tómas Tómasson. In the early 20th century, an English businessman wanted to buy the land and harness the falls for use in a hydroelectric power plant. Tómasson decided to lease the land but did not realize the Englishman might still be able to build a power plant despite not actually owning the land.

Tómasson’s daughter Sigríður campaigned tirelessly to nullify the contract and prevent construction from taking place at Gullfoss. She wanted to preserve the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall and protect it from any kind of development. After many years, Sigríður’s persistence paid off and the English businessman finally withdrew claim on the lease. In 1979, Gullfoss waterfall became a permanent conservation site.

Ultimate Guide to the Gullfoss Waterfall Iceland

Gullfoss is an epic waterfall located in the south of Iceland. This massive cascade is made up of two different falls–an upper and a lower falls. In total, Gulffos is 32 m (105 ft) high. The waterfall is incredibly broad, spanning the entirety of the Hvítá River. What’s more, these icy waters actually originate in Langjökull Glacier. Keep reading to learn all about Gullfoss waterfall.

What is the history of Gullfoss waterfall as a public attraction?

For many years, Gullfoss was privately owned by an Icelandic farmer Tómas Tómasson. In the early 20th century, an English businessman wanted to buy the land and harness the falls for use in a hydroelectric power plant. Tómasson decided to lease the land but did not realize the Englishman might still be able to build a power plant despite not actually owning the land.

Tómasson’s daughter Sigríður campaigned tirelessly to nullify the contract and prevent construction from taking place at Gullfoss. She wanted to preserve the beautiful Gullfoss waterfall and protect it from any kind of development. After many years, Sigríður’s persistence paid off and the English businessman finally withdrew claim on the lease. In 1979, Gullfoss waterfall became a permanent conservation site.

Gullfoss Waterfall  in winter
Gullfoss Waterfall  in winter
Gullfoss Waterfall  in winter

Can you visit Gullfoss waterfall all year?

Yes, it is possible to visit Gullfoss waterfall all year. During the summertime, glacier melt increases which means that approximately 140 cubic meters (459 cubic feet) of water cascade down the waterfall every second. Summer also offers milder temperatures and lush green hillsides that surround the falls.

During the wintertime, glacier melt decreases. What’s more, some parts of the waterfall can befrozen over. This means that the total amount of water flow decreases to 109 cubic meters (358 cubic feet) per second. However, this decrease in water flow doesn’t take anything away from the fantastic view. If you are lucky enough to visit on a snowy day, it will likely take your breathaway. Enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered hills surrounding the icy falls.

Does it cost anything to visit Gullfoss?

No, it does not cost anything to visit Gullfoss. However, there is a parking fee in the onsite parking lot. This fee is used to help maintain various facilities surrounding Gullfoss waterfall.

Can you visit Gullfoss waterfall all year?

Yes, it is possible to visit Gullfoss waterfall all year. During the summertime, glacier melt increases which means that approximately 140 cubic meters (459 cubic feet) of water cascade down the waterfall every second. Summer also offers milder temperatures and lush green hillsides that surround the falls.

During the wintertime, glacier melt decreases. What’s more, some parts of the waterfall can befrozen over. This means that the total amount of water flow decreases to 109 cubic meters (358 cubic feet) per second. However, this decrease in water flow doesn’t take anything away from the fantastic view. If you are lucky enough to visit on a snowy day, it will likely take your breathaway. Enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered hills surrounding the icy falls.

Does it cost anything to visit Gullfoss?

No, it does not cost anything to visit Gullfoss. However, there is a parking fee in the onsite parking lot. This fee is used to help maintain various facilities surrounding Gullfoss waterfall.

Can you visit Gullfoss waterfall all year?

Yes, it is possible to visit Gullfoss waterfall all year. During the summertime, glacier melt increases which means that approximately 140 cubic meters (459 cubic feet) of water cascade down the waterfall every second. Summer also offers milder temperatures and lush green hillsides that surround the falls.

During the wintertime, glacier melt decreases. What’s more, some parts of the waterfall can befrozen over. This means that the total amount of water flow decreases to 109 cubic meters (358 cubic feet) per second. However, this decrease in water flow doesn’t take anything away from the fantastic view. If you are lucky enough to visit on a snowy day, it will likely take your breathaway. Enjoy stunning views of the snow-covered hills surrounding the icy falls.

Does it cost anything to visit Gullfoss?

No, it does not cost anything to visit Gullfoss. However, there is a parking fee in the onsite parking lot. This fee is used to help maintain various facilities surrounding Gullfoss waterfall.

Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall

Do you need a special car to visit Gullfoss?

No, you do not need a special car to visit Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss is located just off road 35. This is a paved road that is open year-round. There is a small chance that this road could be closed should the weather conditions be very bad. However, should that be the case, the road will be closed for all vehicles.

It is always important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you visit Gullfoss waterfall. You can see weather forecasts at vedur.is and road conditions at road.is. Summers in Iceland are much milder than winters. As a result, there is more chance of road closures during winter months. Either way, there is a very good chance you will be able to visit Gullfoss waterfall on your trip to Iceland.

What other sights and activities are located near Gullfoss waterfall?

Gullfoss waterfall is located on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route. This route contains some of south Iceland’s most iconic sights. Any visit to Gullfoss waterfall is not complete without a visit to Geysir geothermal area. This area is known for its large amount of geothermal activity.

The English word geyser gets its name from the great Geysir–a famous hot spring that periodically sent huge amounts of hot water up to 70 m (230 ft) into the air. Nowadays, the great Geysir is mostly dormant. However, the smaller geyser known as Strokkur is still highly active. In fact, Strokkur erupts every 6-10 minutes to a height of 20 m (66 ft).

The Golden Circle route is also home to Þingvellir National Park. Dating back to the year 930, his historical site was the meeting place of Iceland’s Alþing assembly. The area is also known for its unique geology and stunning beauty. Þingvellir is actually located in a rift valley which marks the division between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Do you need a special car to visit Gullfoss?

No, you do not need a special car to visit Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss is located just off road 35. This is a paved road that is open year-round. There is a small chance that this road could be closed should the weather conditions be very bad. However, should that be the case, the road will be closed for all vehicles.

It is always important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you visit Gullfoss waterfall. You can see weather forecasts at vedur.is and road conditions at road.is. Summers in Iceland are much milder than winters. As a result, there is more chance of road closures during winter months. Either way, there is a very good chance you will be able to visit Gullfoss waterfall on your trip to Iceland.

What other sights and activities are located near Gullfoss waterfall?

Gullfoss waterfall is located on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route. This route contains some of south Iceland’s most iconic sights. Any visit to Gullfoss waterfall is not complete without a visit to Geysir geothermal area. This area is known for its large amount of geothermal activity.

The English word geyser gets its name from the great Geysir–a famous hot spring that periodically sent huge amounts of hot water up to 70 m (230 ft) into the air. Nowadays, the great Geysir is mostly dormant. However, the smaller geyser known as Strokkur is still highly active. In fact, Strokkur erupts every 6-10 minutes to a height of 20 m (66 ft).

The Golden Circle route is also home to Þingvellir National Park. Dating back to the year 930, his historical site was the meeting place of Iceland’s Alþing assembly. The area is also known for its unique geology and stunning beauty. Þingvellir is actually located in a rift valley which marks the division between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Do you need a special car to visit Gullfoss?

No, you do not need a special car to visit Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss is located just off road 35. This is a paved road that is open year-round. There is a small chance that this road could be closed should the weather conditions be very bad. However, should that be the case, the road will be closed for all vehicles.

It is always important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you visit Gullfoss waterfall. You can see weather forecasts at vedur.is and road conditions at road.is. Summers in Iceland are much milder than winters. As a result, there is more chance of road closures during winter months. Either way, there is a very good chance you will be able to visit Gullfoss waterfall on your trip to Iceland.

What other sights and activities are located near Gullfoss waterfall?

Gullfoss waterfall is located on Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route. This route contains some of south Iceland’s most iconic sights. Any visit to Gullfoss waterfall is not complete without a visit to Geysir geothermal area. This area is known for its large amount of geothermal activity.

The English word geyser gets its name from the great Geysir–a famous hot spring that periodically sent huge amounts of hot water up to 70 m (230 ft) into the air. Nowadays, the great Geysir is mostly dormant. However, the smaller geyser known as Strokkur is still highly active. In fact, Strokkur erupts every 6-10 minutes to a height of 20 m (66 ft).

The Golden Circle route is also home to Þingvellir National Park. Dating back to the year 930, his historical site was the meeting place of Iceland’s Alþing assembly. The area is also known for its unique geology and stunning beauty. Þingvellir is actually located in a rift valley which marks the division between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall

Are there any restaurants located near Gullfoss waterfall?

You can find the Gullfoss Café just a few steps away from Gullfoss waterfall. This café offers a variety of dishes including Icelandic meat soup, sandwiches, salad, handmade cakes and hot coffee. Just beside the café you will also find a gift shop filled with woolen products, clothing, jewelry and other unique souvenirs.

On your way back from Gullfoss waterfall, you can also visit Friðheimar tomato greenhouse. This cozy café is located about 25 minutes from the waterfall. Visitors actually dine inside a greenhouse filled with tomato plants. Almost all of the products on the menu are made with Friðheimar tomatoes. Enjoy tomato soup, pasta with fresh tomato sauce or even a tortilla pizza with tomato basil and mozzarella.

Skjól Bistro and Bar is located just 7 minutes from Gullfoss. This cozy bistro serves drinks, pizza, hamburgers, fish, salads and soups. What’s more, Skjól Bistro and Bar is located at Amazing Tours basecamp. Enjoy a tasty meal after your trip to Gullfoss waterfall and then go on an exciting tour with Amazing Tours.

Are there any restaurants located near Gullfoss waterfall?

You can find the Gullfoss Café just a few steps away from Gullfoss waterfall. This café offers a variety of dishes including Icelandic meat soup, sandwiches, salad, handmade cakes and hot coffee. Just beside the café you will also find a gift shop filled with woolen products, clothing, jewelry and other unique souvenirs.

On your way back from Gullfoss waterfall, you can also visit Friðheimar tomato greenhouse. This cozy café is located about 25 minutes from the waterfall. Visitors actually dine inside a greenhouse filled with tomato plants. Almost all of the products on the menu are made with Friðheimar tomatoes. Enjoy tomato soup, pasta with fresh tomato sauce or even a tortilla pizza with tomato basil and mozzarella.

Skjól Bistro and Bar is located just 7 minutes from Gullfoss. This cozy bistro serves drinks, pizza, hamburgers, fish, salads and soups. What’s more, Skjól Bistro and Bar is located at Amazing Tours basecamp. Enjoy a tasty meal after your trip to Gullfoss waterfall and then go on an exciting tour with Amazing Tours.

Are there any restaurants located near Gullfoss waterfall?

You can find the Gullfoss Café just a few steps away from Gullfoss waterfall. This café offers a variety of dishes including Icelandic meat soup, sandwiches, salad, handmade cakes and hot coffee. Just beside the café you will also find a gift shop filled with woolen products, clothing, jewelry and other unique souvenirs.

On your way back from Gullfoss waterfall, you can also visit Friðheimar tomato greenhouse. This cozy café is located about 25 minutes from the waterfall. Visitors actually dine inside a greenhouse filled with tomato plants. Almost all of the products on the menu are made with Friðheimar tomatoes. Enjoy tomato soup, pasta with fresh tomato sauce or even a tortilla pizza with tomato basil and mozzarella.

Skjól Bistro and Bar is located just 7 minutes from Gullfoss. This cozy bistro serves drinks, pizza, hamburgers, fish, salads and soups. What’s more, Skjól Bistro and Bar is located at Amazing Tours basecamp. Enjoy a tasty meal after your trip to Gullfoss waterfall and then go on an exciting tour with Amazing Tours.

view of Gullfoss Waterfall
view of Gullfoss Waterfall
view of Gullfoss Waterfall

What activities are located near Gullfoss waterfall?

If you are planning a trip to Gullfoss, we highly recommend that you make an additional stop. Go on a fun adventure tour and experience a different side of Iceland. In fact, Amazing Tours basecamp is located just 7 minutes from Gullfoss waterfall. This makes it easy to combine a visit to Gullfoss with a fun tour.

Amazing Tours offers a variety of excellent tours suited for families, couples or individuals. Go on an epic buggy adventure and experience Iceland’s beautiful landscape from a different perspective. Drive across wild terrain and experience stunning views of Langjökull Glacier and Skjaldbreið Volcano. If the conditions are right, you might even make a small river crossing.

If you are interested in Iceland’s icy glaciers, try a glacier snowmobiling and ice cave tour with Amazing Tours. Zoom across the snow-covered Langjökull Glacier and see wonderful views of Eiríksjökull Glacier, Hofsjökull Glacier and the Kerlingafjöll Mountains. Next, explore a mysterious ice cave with an expert guide. You will get suited up with all the proper safety gearand then head inside this incredible natural structure.

If you are interested in a truly unforgettable experience, try a private tour into the Icelandic highlands. You will adventure into Landmannalaugar–a highland oasis filled with rhyolite mountains and beautiful hiking trails. This area is also known for a large amount of geothermal activity and has a hot spring with perfect temperatures for a good soak. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit!

A Visit to Gullfoss Waterfall–An Unforgettable Experience

All in all, a visit to Gullfoss waterfall is a must on your trip to Iceland. Enjoy splendid vistas of the beautiful cascade in a magnificent setting. Then, head out on an epic adventure with Amazing Tours.

What activities are located near Gullfoss waterfall?

If you are planning a trip to Gullfoss, we highly recommend that you make an additional stop. Go on a fun adventure tour and experience a different side of Iceland. In fact, Amazing Tours basecamp is located just 7 minutes from Gullfoss waterfall. This makes it easy to combine a visit to Gullfoss with a fun tour.

Amazing Tours offers a variety of excellent tours suited for families, couples or individuals. Go on an epic buggy adventure and experience Iceland’s beautiful landscape from a different perspective. Drive across wild terrain and experience stunning views of Langjökull Glacier and Skjaldbreið Volcano. If the conditions are right, you might even make a small river crossing.

If you are interested in Iceland’s icy glaciers, try a glacier snowmobiling and ice cave tour with Amazing Tours. Zoom across the snow-covered Langjökull Glacier and see wonderful views of Eiríksjökull Glacier, Hofsjökull Glacier and the Kerlingafjöll Mountains. Next, explore a mysterious ice cave with an expert guide. You will get suited up with all the proper safety gearand then head inside this incredible natural structure.

If you are interested in a truly unforgettable experience, try a private tour into the Icelandic highlands. You will adventure into Landmannalaugar–a highland oasis filled with rhyolite mountains and beautiful hiking trails. This area is also known for a large amount of geothermal activity and has a hot spring with perfect temperatures for a good soak. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit!

A Visit to Gullfoss Waterfall–An Unforgettable Experience

All in all, a visit to Gullfoss waterfall is a must on your trip to Iceland. Enjoy splendid vistas of the beautiful cascade in a magnificent setting. Then, head out on an epic adventure with Amazing Tours.

What activities are located near Gullfoss waterfall?

If you are planning a trip to Gullfoss, we highly recommend that you make an additional stop. Go on a fun adventure tour and experience a different side of Iceland. In fact, Amazing Tours basecamp is located just 7 minutes from Gullfoss waterfall. This makes it easy to combine a visit to Gullfoss with a fun tour.

Amazing Tours offers a variety of excellent tours suited for families, couples or individuals. Go on an epic buggy adventure and experience Iceland’s beautiful landscape from a different perspective. Drive across wild terrain and experience stunning views of Langjökull Glacier and Skjaldbreið Volcano. If the conditions are right, you might even make a small river crossing.

If you are interested in Iceland’s icy glaciers, try a glacier snowmobiling and ice cave tour with Amazing Tours. Zoom across the snow-covered Langjökull Glacier and see wonderful views of Eiríksjökull Glacier, Hofsjökull Glacier and the Kerlingafjöll Mountains. Next, explore a mysterious ice cave with an expert guide. You will get suited up with all the proper safety gearand then head inside this incredible natural structure.

If you are interested in a truly unforgettable experience, try a private tour into the Icelandic highlands. You will adventure into Landmannalaugar–a highland oasis filled with rhyolite mountains and beautiful hiking trails. This area is also known for a large amount of geothermal activity and has a hot spring with perfect temperatures for a good soak. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit!

A Visit to Gullfoss Waterfall–An Unforgettable Experience

All in all, a visit to Gullfoss waterfall is a must on your trip to Iceland. Enjoy splendid vistas of the beautiful cascade in a magnificent setting. Then, head out on an epic adventure with Amazing Tours.

tourists at Gullfoss Waterfall
tourists at Gullfoss Waterfall
tourists at Gullfoss Waterfall

Read more about amazing iceland

Read more about amazing iceland