The name "Silfurfoss waterfall" (somtimes also called Huldufoss) is almost unknown, as it is still an unofficial name but the most common refference to this waterfall. The name "Silfurfoss" or "Silver waterfall" refers to the mighty Gullfoss—the waterfall of gold—the most famous waterfall in Iceland. Like many visitors who visit the Silfurfoss waterfall experience, there is a certain resemblance between the two. However, Silfurfoss does not have as many visitors as Gullfoss, which is one of the major attractions in Iceland. Nevertheless, Silfurfoss, the surrounding area, and the relatively short hiking trail could be a fantastic choice for those who seek to stay out of mainstream tourism and experience the wonders of unexplored nature quietly and peacefully.
Located near the camping site Hólaskjól:
Silfurfoss is situated in the Highland and part of the Fjallabak Nyrðri highland drive. It is located at the edge of the Icelandic Highland near Hólaskjól. The camping site marks the beginning of one of Iceland's most popular Highland roads—Nyrðri Fjallabaksleið—which marks one of the entrances to the Highland. The waterfall is part of the river Syðri Ófæra, a fascinating river that originates much higher in the Highland at Syrði Fjallabak and the Torfajökull glacier area. By Silfurfoss, the river runs through a small fissure, which is located near the hiking trail. It is a beautiful place to take an evening or morning hike when you plan to drive Nyrðri Fjallabaksleið and a wonderful place to take children, although caution is recommended when near the waterfall. Moreover, there are other cracks and fissures nearby with unusual basalt column formations. It will undoubtedly be a great addition to your tour and a relaxing hike, even though the waterfall is not a mainstream attraction like Gullfoss. However, the name "Silfurfoss" is becoming better known and will probably be the name that will stick to this waterfall.
How to get to Silfurfoss waterfall and Hólaskjól:
If you plan to visit Silfurfoss or Hólaskjól, you should plan to drive Nyrðri Fjallabak. The best way to access the road to Hólaskjól is from the Ring Road, some 23 kilometers west of the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Here, you take a turn north on Road Nr. 208 and drive approximately 16 kilometers until you take a left turn and enter Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri (F208). You need to go about 20 kilometers on this road to reach the Hólaskjól camping site and Silfurfoss waterfall. And remember, Hólaskjól is an excellent place to camp overnight, as the camping site has superb facilities and magnificent landscape and surroundings.
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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