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Writer's pictureEinar Páll Svavarsson

Svöðufoss waterfall

Updated: Jun 19


Svöðufoss waterfall north of Snæfellsjökull glacier
Svöðufoss waterfall north of Snæfellsjökull glacier

Waterfalls are probably one of the most popular attractions in Iceland and Icelandic nature. A trip to view and experience a waterfall is always rewarding. Watching a waterfall is both fascinating and relaxing. One of the waterfalls drawing more and more visitors is Svöðufoss, a beautiful waterfall at the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Although the waterfall has been there for many centuries, only recently has the interest started. And recently, a parking lot has been built near the waterfall, so today, it is fairly easy to visit and enjoy. The walk from the parking lot to the waterfall is only about half an hour.


Snæfellsnes Peninsula on the map of Iceland
Snæfellsnes Peninsula on the map of Iceland

Set in a beautiful landscape

Svöðufoss waterfall
Svöðufoss waterfall

Svöðufoss is a beautiful waterfall where the river Hólmkelsá, sometimes also called Laxá. The waterfall is 10 meters high and falls off a beautiful basalt column cliff. The walking path from the parking lot is on the east side (left side when walking towards the waterfall from the parking lot) of the river, and you can easily walk up to see the waterfall from above. On a clear and sunny day when you can see the magnificent Snæfellsnes glacier towering above and in the background, which gives the waterfall a unique place among waterfalls in Iceland. Taking a photo of Svöðufoss waterfall, including the basalt column and the glacier, is probably going to give you a result that can not go wrong.


Driving to Svöðufoss

Snæfellsjökull glacier and Svöðufoss waterfall
Snæfellsjökull glacier and Svöðufoss waterfall

Svöðufoss waterfall is located at Snæfellsnes Peninsula south of the small village Rif. When driving the road Útnesvegur Nr. 574 coming from the west part or tip of the Snæfellnes Peninsula you will drive through the tiny village Hellissandur and then Rif. Just after you pass Rif, there is a sign and a road on your right that will take you to the waterfall Svöðufoss.


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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