south iceland
About
Öxarárfoss is located in Þingvellir National Park where the Öxará river drops into Almannagjá rift canyon. Key features: - Height: ~20 metres - Flows through rift valley - Accessible via short walking trail - Historical connection to Alþingi parliament Access: - 10-minute walk from Þingvellir visitor center - Marked trail - Free (part of national park) Nearby: Þingvellir assembly site, Silfra diving, Hakið viewing platform Visit duration: 20–30 minutes (including walk).
📖 Story
As Vikings gathered at Þingvellir for annual parliament, they needed fresh water. Legend says they diverted the Öxará river to flow through the assembly grounds and over the rift valley cliff. Today Öxarárfoss cascades 20 metres into the Almannagjá gorge formed by tectonic plates pulling apart. It's a short walk from the main Þingvellir viewpoint and one of the park's prettiest features.
✈️ Why Visit
Walk to a historic waterfall in Þingvellir's rift valley — legend says it was diverted to supply Viking parliaments.
💡 Did You Know?
The Öxará river may have been artificially diverted over 1,000 years ago to provide water for Alþingi gatherings.
Key Facts
20-metre waterfall
Þingvellir National Park
Flows through rift canyon
Legendary Viking-era diversion
10-min walk from parking
📍 GPS Location
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