north-iceland · Iceland
Kolugljúfur Canyon
About Kolugljúfur Canyon
Kolugljúfur is a canyon carved by the Víðidalsá river in northwest Iceland, located approximately 15 km south of Hvammstangi. The canyon is about 1 km long with walls rising 25–30 metres on either side. The river drops through a series of small waterfalls and rapids as it flows through the gorge, creating a dramatic landscape of churning water and layered basalt rock.
History & Background
The legend is tied to many Icelandic tales of helpful — but temperamental — supernatural beings. Walking trails run along both rims of the canyon, offering excellent views down into the gorge. A small parking area and information boards are located near Route 715. The site is relatively quiet and sees far fewer visitors than more famous attractions despite its beauty.
Did You Know?
- ✔Canyon depth: 25–30 m
- ✔Named after Kola the half-troll
- ✔Kolufossar waterfall
- ✔Basalt rock formations
- ✔15 km from Hvammstangi
Tours Near Kolugljúfur Canyon
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Browse Iceland Tours →About Kolugljúfur Canyon
Kolugljúfur is a canyon carved by the Víðidalsá river in northwest Iceland, located approximately 15 km south of Hvammstangi. The canyon is about 1 km long with walls rising 25–30 metres on either side. The river drops through a series of small waterfalls and rapids as it flows through the gorge, creating a dramatic landscape of churning water and layered basalt rock. The most prominent waterfall, Kolufossar, is visible from viewing platforms on both sides of the canyon. The canyon takes its name from Kola, a legendary half-troll woman who, according to folklore, lived in the gorge and helped travellers cross the river. The legend is tied to many Icelandic tales of helpful — but temperamental — supernatural beings. Walking trails run along both rims of the canyon, offering excellent views down into the gorge. A small parking area and information boards are located near Route 715. The site is relatively quiet and sees far fewer visitors than more famous attractions despite its beauty.
History & Background
The legend is tied to many Icelandic tales of helpful — but temperamental — supernatural beings. Walking trails run along both rims of the canyon, offering excellent views down into the gorge. A small parking area and information boards are located near Route 715. The site is relatively quiet and sees far fewer visitors than more famous attractions despite its beauty.
Story & Folklore
According to folklore, a half-troll giantess named Kola lived in this canyon. She was said to be helpful to travellers, ferrying them across the river on her back. But one day she grew tired of a particularly rude traveller and threw him into the canyon, where he drowned. Since then the canyon has been called Kolugljúfur — Kola's Canyon. The gorge is beautiful and wild, with waterfalls cascading over basalt shelves and the river churning through narrow channels below.
Visitor Information
Why Visit
A beautiful hidden canyon with waterfalls and half-troll folklore — dramatic and easily accessible.
Did You Know?
Kola the half-troll giantess supposedly helped travellers cross the river here by carrying them on her back.
Snorri's Pool and the Old Spirits
West Iceland is steeped in saga history, and the area around Reykholt — where the great saga writer Snorri Sturluson lived — is said to be home to the spirits of the old saga characters. According to local lore, on the longest night of winter, the ghosts of Viking-age heroes emerge from the hot springs to hold their own assembly, debating matters of honor and revenge just as they did in the sagas written about them. Snorri's medieval hot pool (Snorralaug) is considered a place where the veil between past and present is thin, and visitors sometimes report feeling an unusual sense of presence when visiting on quiet evenings.
📖 Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Hidden Gems Nearby
Off-Peak Visit
Visit this attraction during shoulder season (May or September) for a perfect balance of access and solitude.
You'll experience the site without summer crowds while still having good weather and daylight.
Local Flora
Look for the native Icelandic plants growing in the area — Arctic thyme, moss campion, and various lichens.
These resilient plants have adapted to survive harsh conditions and add subtle beauty to the landscape.
Changing Light
this attraction looks dramatically different depending on the time of day and weather conditions.
Cloud shadows, rain showers, and low-angle sunlight can transform the landscape within minutes — Iceland's famous "four seasons in one day."
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) offers 24-hour daylight; winter for Northern Lights
Duration
1-2 hours
Access
Accessible by car on paved or gravel roads. Some require short hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit?▾
Summer (June-August) offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. However, each season offers unique beauty.
Is this place wheelchair accessible?▾
Accessibility varies by location. Major tourist sites often have paved paths, while more remote areas may require hiking.
Do I need to book in advance?▾
Most natural attractions in Iceland are open access and free. No booking is needed unless it involves a guided tour.
