Markarfljótsgljúfur, an awe-inspiring canyon located in the southern part of the Highland, is a hidden gem within Iceland's diverse and dramatic landscape. Renowned for its stunning beauty and distinctive geological features, this remarkable natural formation ranks among the country's most impressive canyons. Despite its captivating allure, Markarfljótsgljúfur remains relatively undiscovered by the public, enhancing its charm and pristine quality.
Syðri Fjallabak remote part of the Highland
The canyon is a vital component of the Highland Road Syðri Fjallabak, which serves as a gateway when entering the picturesque Fljótshlíð area from southern Iceland, particularly through the rugged terrain of Emstrur. The relatively remote location of Markarfljótsgljúfur is one of the primary reasons it has not yet become a bustling tourist hotspot. The journey to reach this hidden wonder is often challenging, as it is situated deep within the Icelandic Highland, characterized by its rugged landscapes, volcanic formations, and unpredictable weather patterns.
Markarfljótsgljúfur a sizable canyon
Although Markarfljótsgljúfur may not boast the title of the largest canyon in Iceland, it impressively reaches depths of up to 200 meters at its most profound point. This dramatic drop creates a striking visual contrast against the surrounding highlands, with steep cliffs that have been sculpted over millennia by the relentless forces of nature, including glacial meltwater and volcanic activity. The canyon stretches for approximately four kilometers, with its most popular and accessible section offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its stunning vistas.
Everyone who hikes Laugavegur hiking trail will see Markarfljótsgljúfur
This particular stretch of Markarfljótsgljúfur is also an integral part of the renowned hiking trail Laugavegur, which runs from the colorful geothermal area of Landmannalaugar to the lush valley of Þórsmörk. Hikers traversing this iconic route are afforded the unique opportunity to view the canyon from the east side, particularly when they choose to stay in the cozy mountain huts located in Emstrur. The combination of the canyon's natural beauty and the exhilarating hiking experience creates a memorable adventure for those who venture into this less-traveled part of Iceland.
Markarfljótsgljúfur has beautiful surroundings
With its captivating scenery, Markarfljótsgljúfur is not just a canyon; it is a testament to the raw and untamed beauty of the Icelandic Highland. The interplay of light and shadow on the canyon walls, coupled with the vibrant colors of the surrounding flora, offers a visual feast for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. The serene atmosphere and the sounds of nature create a tranquil escape, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the stunning environment. In summary, Markarfljótsgljúfur is a remarkable destination that deserves to be explored, revealing the hidden wonders of Iceland's natural landscape to those who are willing to seek it out.
Formed from a disaster
The canyon is believed to have been created by a flood bursting from the Mýrdalsjökull glacier following the eruption of the famous volcano Katla under the glacier. Most floods caused by Katla erupting find their way to the east side of the glacier. Occasionally, like when Markarfljótsgljúfur was formed, the flood finds its way to the west. If this geological theory is correct, you will be amazed when looking at the canyon and imagining the enormous power a single flood can have and the devastation it can leave behind. This occurred about two thousand years ago, and other geological factors have contributed to the canyon since then, such as the stone continuing to be carved by the river Markarfljót. It is this river that gave the canyon a name. The river originates in the Torfajökull area. Like many rivers, it is fed by other rivers, streams, and surface water branches, but this particular river is quite significant in Icelandic social history and geological history. It is mentioned in one of the Sagas, Njáls Saga, and is one of the rivers that has greatly affected the south shore throughout centuries.
Hard to access and requires a 4X4
You can access Markarfljótsgljúfur either by a hiking trail from Þórsmörk or on the mountain road Emstruleið F261. This is a challenging and rough mountain road with complicated and often dangerous rivers to cross, so it requires a well-equipped 4WD vehicle. Another way up is to find a good tour operator. To access the mountain road, take a left turn when coming from Reykjavík on the Ring Road by the village Hvolsvöllur to the Road Nr. 261. From Hvolsvöllur village, the drive is then about 50 kilometers.
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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