What is the story behind Skogafoss in Iceland?
What is the story behind Skógafoss in Iceland?
According to legend, the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, buried a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall. The legend continues that locals found the chest years later, but were only able to grasp the ring on the side of the chest before it disappeared again.
What is seljalandsfoss known for?
Seljalandsfoss is a beautiful waterfall along the southern coast. It cascades over steep cliffs, which makes it possible for you to walk behind the waterfall. It offers a spectacular view of the waterfall itself and the surroundings.
How long do people stay at Skógafoss?
Many people visit Skogafoss Waterfall and only stay for 10-15 minutes. This certainly isn’t enough to take in the majesty that this stunning Icelandic waterfall has to offer. When visiting Skogafoss Waterfall, we highly recommend that you stay for at least an hour if not more!
Can you walk behind Skógafoss?
We have several people (including me) decide to walk around behind the waterfall. That is very much a DO thing. There is little to know ice in the “active” water part.
What waterfall can you walk behind in Iceland?
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss is located in the South Region in Iceland right by Route 1 and the road that leads to Þórsmörk Road 249. The waterfall drops 60 m (197 ft) and is part of the Seljalands River that has its origin in the volcano glacier Eyjafjallajökull. Visitors can walk behind the falls into a small cave.
Can you swim in seljalandsfoss?
What’s a piece of advice you would give visitors?: “Don’t swim or take a shower near the waterfall,” Stefán says. “The impact is too strong. We’ve only ever had one tourist try that but we like to remind visitors not to swim anyway.”
Is seljalandsfoss free?
Please note that you’ll need to pay a Seljalandsfoss parking fee. It costs only 800 ISK and will last you the whole day.
What is the waterfall in Iceland that you can walk behind?
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Walk Behind a Waterfall in Iceland Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in the South Coast of Iceland. This spectacular natural wonder drops around 60 meters into a tranquil pool below. Walk behind the waterfall to view it from a complete 360° angle!
Do you have to hike to see skogafoss?
Important Note: Since this is an out-and-back hike, you do not need to walk the entire 16 km. Simply turn around when you want to. Even just walking 30 to 45 minutes upriver from Skógafoss gets you some amazing views and lets you leave the crowds behind.
Where does the Skogafoss waterfall in Iceland come from?
Skogafoss is unique because the waterfall comes directly from two glaciers, Eyjafjallajokull and Myrdalsjokull. If you climb the 370 steps to the top of Skogafoss waterfall you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view out over south Iceland ’s coastline. This is also the start of the Fimmvorduhals pass, a popular hiking route.
What to expect when you go to Skogafoss?
Not only do you get to see Skógafoss, but you also get to explore the upper Skóga river and even see the coast on clear days. Again, Skógafoss is a very popular waterfall, so expect to see plenty of other tourists. You may see local fishermen as well!
How long is the drive from Reykjavik to Skogafoss?
Skogafoss is a two hour drive from Reykjavik (155km), and 28km from Seljalandsfoss. Follow the ring road eastwards from Reykjavik, and eventually you will be able see Skogafoss from the road.
What does the word SKOGA mean in Icelandic?
Skóga is one of the ways to change the word Skógar and fits better when put together with the word “foss.” Skógafoss, therefore, translates to Forest Waterfall. This might be a bit hard to believe, but Iceland was actually 25% covered by trees when the settlers arrived in the eighteen hundreds.