Gljúfrabúi waterfall in a fissure

Gljúfrabúi waterfall

This waterfall is sometimes described as a treasure in the Icelandic landscape and the flora of natural wonders. Its nearby sibling, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, only a short walking distance away, is one of Iceland's most renowned attractions. Gljúfrabúi is, on the other hand, gaining more and more attention, and most of the visitors viewing Seljalandsfoss also take the time to look at Gljúfrabúi. Although coming from the same cliff, there are some striking differences between the two waterfalls.

Gljúfrabúi is in the South Region on the map of Iceland

A beautiful name and a stunning waterfall

The fissure and the waterfall Gljúfrabúii

There is something wonderful about the Icelandic name Gljúfrabúi. It means Gorge Dweller. It conveys the feeling of a peaceful being living in this cave-like place with water falling from the 40-meter cliff. The name is not very old and is believed to originate in a poem by Iceland's most beloved poet Jónas Hallgrímsson, a natural scientist. And this is the reality of the waterfall rimmed in a narrow gorge producing its drizzle and this cold dampness like a cold sauna. You need to be prepared to enter this wet world of the Gorge Dweller. The crack is narrow, and the open cave is muggy. It is not an easy entrance but once inside, you might think of a cathedral for creatures from another world. Although mostly dark inside and under the waterfall, there is a lot of vegetation on the rocks because of the constant moisture. In addition to the inside viewing, you can also climb the narrow path on the outside and up to the cliff in front of the waterfall and view it from above. Both places require extreme caution and good hiking shoes.

Access to get there is easy

Gljúfrabúi is only a few minutes away from Seljalandsfoss waterfall

This waterfall, like Seljalandsfoss, is conveniently located a short distance from the Ring Road, Road Nr. 1, in the southern region of Iceland. It is only one and a half kilometers from the intersection of Road Nr. 1 and Road Nr. 249 Þórsmerkurvegur, the road leading to Þórsmörk in the Icelandic Highland.

If you're planning to tour Iceland in a rental car, make sure to read this article about the type of car that would be best for your trip.