About
About Litlanesfoss Waterfall
Litlanesfoss: East Iceland's basalt column masterpiece.
Witness nature's perfect geometry carved in stone.
Background
History & Background
This site has been a landmark in East Iceland for centuries, known to early Icelandic settlers who traveled these routes. The waterfall's name appears in historical records and local folklore, reflecting its importance to the communities that lived nearby. During the settlement era (874-930 AD), waterfalls like this served as natural boundaries between farmsteads and were often referenced in land claims recorded in the Landnámabók (Book of Settlements). Through the centuries, the waterfall has been a source of fresh water, a gathering place, and a symbol of the raw power of Icelandic nature. Modern visitors can now access the site easily, but the waterfall remains as awe-inspiring as it was to the first settlers who beheld it over a thousand years ago.
Litlanesfoss is located on the trail to Hengifoss in East Iceland, approximately 20 minutes' walk from the trailhead. Key features: - Height: ~30 metres - Exceptional basalt column formations - On trail to Hengifoss - First waterfall encountered on hike Access: - Same trailhead as Hengifoss - 20-minute walk from parking - Viewpoint platform Combine with: Hengifoss (continue 20 min further) Visit duration: 10–15 minutes (or part of Hengifoss hike).
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Hikers to Hengifoss often rush past Litlanesfoss, but it deserves its own stop. The waterfall is smaller (~30 m) but surrounded by some of Iceland's finest basalt columns — vertical geometric formations rising like organ pipes. The columns are more pronounced and accessible here than at bigger waterfalls, making Litlanesfoss ideal for close-up geology appreciation.
💡 Did You Know?
The hexagonal basalt columns surrounding Litlanesfoss are formed by cooling lava, showcasing a natural process that creates striking symmetry and geometric patterns.
Local Legend
The Elves of the Eastern Fjords
The steep mountains and narrow fjords of East Iceland are considered one of the most enchanted regions of the country. Local tradition holds that entire communities of elves (álfar) live inside the mountains, with their own towns, churches, and social structures mirroring human society. Fishermen in eastern fjord villages have long reported seeing lights in the mountainsides on dark winter nights — the windows of elf houses, they say. Some families maintain that their ancestors had regular contact with the elf-folk, trading goods and sharing knowledge. The belief is so persistent that construction projects in the region still sometimes account for known elf dwellings.
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Bessastaðir
The historic seat of power, a witness to centuries of Icelandic governance.
Gilsáreyri
Gilsáreyri is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Hrafnkels saga Freysgoða", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Hrólfsstaðir (síðar Hrólfsgerði)
Hrólfsstaðir (síðar Hrólfsgerði) is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Hrafnkels saga Freysgoða", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Explore
Hidden Gems Nearby
✦ Early Morning Visit
Visit this attraction at sunrise or early morning for the most magical light and fewer crowds.
The morning light creates stunning rainbows in the mist, and you may have the waterfall entirely to yourself.
✦ Nearby Trails
Explore the lesser-known walking trails around this attraction that most tourists skip.
These trails offer unique perspectives of the waterfall and surrounding landscape that you won't find in guidebooks.
✦ Winter Transformation
this attraction takes on an entirely different character in winter when partially frozen.
The ice formations create a spectacular natural sculpture, and the contrast with the flowing water is breathtaking.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Location
📍 Location
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