Fagrifoss is a beautiful and impressive waterfall in the Icelandic Highland. Although not a mainstream tourist attraction, many tourists visit it as it is located on the road to Lakagígar. When you reach the waterfall and stand in front of it, you understand why it is called Fagrifoss or ‘The Beautiful Waterfall’. It is not a mainstream attraction because you need to drive a rough highland F-road to visit Fagrifoss, which requires a good 4X4 vehicle. It also involves river crossing; rivers in the Highland can be unpredictable and for people only used to asphalt roads and bridges on rivers, this can be difficult. However, if you are somewhat adventurous and prepared to spend the extra money on a 4X4 car in addition to driving at a speed of 15km per hour, you should defiantly visit this waterfall. Most of those visiting Fagrifoss also continue along the Highland Road to Laki, Tjarnargígur, and Lakagígar: the craters that produced most of the surrounding lava in the massive eruption in 1784.
Among the highest waterfalls in Iceland
Fagrifoss is 80 meters high and is located in the river Geirlandsá. Although in the Highland, the waterfall is not far away from the famous Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. There is a good parking lot and a small toilet/restroom near the waterfall in an area that seems to be all flat when you drive through it. The spectacular waterfall is almost impossible to see until you stand in front of it, but when you approach, a deep gorge opens below where the river Geirlandsá falls. You can view Fagrifoss from the edge of this gorge, and just recently, an observation platform was set up which gives a fantastic view: probably the best spot to enjoy the magic of such a natural wonder.
Access is difficult but offers a new kind of fun if you are careful
The waterfall Fagrifoss is located just a few meters from Lakavegur or mountain road F206. While it is part of the Icelandic Highland, it is only 17 kilometers from Ring Road No. 1. On the south shore near the small village of Kirkjubærjarklaustur, you turn north on the Ring Road to Holtsvegur, Road no. 206. This is the same road you drive to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon. After driving just two kilometers, you turn north again to the Lakavegur Road No. F206 that will lead you to Fagrifoss.
If you're planning to tour Iceland in a rental car, make sure to read this article about the three important things you need to know and the type of car that would be best for your trip!