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Writer's pictureEinar Páll Svavarsson

Foss the waterfall at Síða farm by the Ring Road

Admission to Foss á Síðu is free

Visitors to Foss á Síðu are not required to make any payment for entry. Despite the limited capacity of the parking area, it generally accommodates the number of visitors adequately without reaching full capacity. Regrettably, restroom and sanitary facilities are not provided at this natural attraction.

The waterfall Foss á Síðu is visable from the Ring Road
The waterfall Foss á Síðu is visable from the Ring Road

Foss á Síðu, also known as the Waterfall at Síða, is a charming farm nestled along the iconic Ring Road in Iceland's Southern Region. Situated about 10 kilometers to the east of the quaint village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, this picturesque location captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery and tranquil ambiance. The farm's most striking feature is the small waterfall that cascades gracefully from the majestic cliffs, adorned with delicate moss vegetation that adds a touch of natural beauty to the landscape. The harmonious blend of the cascading water, lush greenery, and rugged cliffs creates a scene that can only be described as a masterpiece crafted by nature's own hand. As visitors stand in awe of this serene setting, they are reminded of the raw power and beauty that the Icelandic landscape has to offer, making Foss á Síðu a must-see destination for anyone exploring this mesmerizing country.


Foss á Síðu waterfall is in the South Region on the Map of Iceland
Foss á Síðu waterfall is in the South Region on the Map of Iceland

Foss is mentioned in the Book of Settlement


Wind affecting the waterfall Foss á Síðu
Wind affecting the waterfall Foss á Síðu

The farm is mentioned in the Book of Settlement and has thus been here since Iceland's times of settlement in the 9th century. Placed in front of beautiful cliffs with its stunning small waterfall, it is hard to pass by without noticing. The farm takes its name after the waterfall that comes from a lake, Þórutjörn, on the top of the cliffs. The cliffs are accessible at a steep walking path right by the waterfall and are worth walking. From the top, the view is spectacular. Although the waterfall doesn't have a lot of water, it is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland.



The blown-away waterfall

Foss á Síðu seen from Dverghamrar small basalt column cliffs
Foss á Síðu seen from Dverghamrar small basalt column cliffs

Sometimes the waterfall is blown away by heavy winds when a limited amount of water is coming from the lake. According to a local folklore story, a rare kind of ghost wanders around the area around the farm Foss and the nearby farm Hörgsland. The ghost is a dog whose name is Móri, or simply Ghost, who carries a curse directed at a particular family in the 16th century. The curse was set out to last for nine generations. There are those that argue that the curse has finished its course and Móri has disappeared forever, but not all. Throughout the centuries, Móri has never done any harm to people outside this unfortunate family.


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.




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