Fardagafoss is a small waterfall located a short distance from the town of Egilsstaðir in the East Region. Visiting the waterfall is like a short hike but worth it as the waterfall is always a delightful and enlightening experience. Although not a long hike, the rocky and partly steep path by the river seems harder to climb than it is. Yet, don’t hesitate to go all the way up. You can feel your bloodstream moving as you walk along a river upstream, and you get to see another stunning waterfall along the way. Fardagafoss is perfect for this kind of outdoor activity and, therefore, a good alternative for families and children traveling in Iceland. It is an outdoor activity with an adventure and takes between an hour to ninety minutes. It is a great venue if you are traveling along the ring road in the Eastern Region, and you need to release some energy before proceeding ahead. Along the way up the gully, you should definitely stop for a moment at the other waterfall—Gufufoss. At this point, you will also enjoy a great view of Egilsstaðir town and the beautiful valley of Fljótsdalur as well as get a glimpse of Snæfell mountain in the eastern part of the highland.
Fardagafoss and the stories
Apart from being a natural wonder, the waterfall also has a remarkable story about a mysterious cave behind the falling water. For centuries, a troll supposedly lived in the cave behind the waterfall and guarded Fardagafoss until the cave collapsed. Although you can still crawl behind the waterfall and view the remains of the cave, the cave was much bigger and deeper in the past. It was even thought to have a tunnel going through the mountain and all the way to Seyðisfjörður fjord. The story of the troll makes the waterfall an even better option for families and people traveling with children. It is not only a waterfall but also a part of mystical folklore.
Fardagar refers to old laws and regulations
The name refers to the period in history when people who had nothing were bound by law to live in one place or a particular farm. During May and June every year, a frame opened for farmworkers to change their home address and place of residence. It may seem strange today, but it was part of an agrarian society in need of labor stability. It was unfair and an obstacle to development toward industrialization that occurred rather late in Iceland. However, in Fardagar, you had a short window to move to another farm, and for some reason, the waterfall is named after that time. Fardagafoss and Gufufoss are located only five kilometers from the town and are among the places you should visit if you are in the area, or at least if you are planning on visiting the beautiful fjord and town of Seyðisfjörður.
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!
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