Is this waterfall free to visit?

Most waterfalls in Iceland are free to visit, though some may have a small parking fee.

Can I visit this waterfall in winter?

Yes, most waterfalls are accessible year-round, though surrounding paths may be icy in winter. Wear proper footwear with good grip.

Is there parking near the waterfall?

Most popular waterfalls have dedicated parking areas. Some charge a small parking fee.

How long does it take to visit?

Plan for 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you want to spend photographing and exploring the area.

Iceland/west-iceland

Öxarárfoss

Cascada pintoresca en el Parque Nacional Þingvellir con formaciones de basalto.

At a Glance

Visit time

15–20 minutes

Best season

Year-round

Access

Short walk from Þingvellir National Park parking areas. Free with park admission.

GPS

64.2658, -21.1180

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About

About Öxarárfoss

Cascada pintoresca en el Parque Nacional Þingvellir con formaciones de basalto.

Witness history and geology collide at this stunning Icelandic landmark.

Background

History & Background

Öxarárfoss ha sido un sitio importante en el paisaje de Islandia. A lo largo de los años, este lugar ha desempeñado un papel importante en la cultura y la historia natural de Islandia.

Öxarárfoss es una atracción notable en Islandia. Este lugar ofrece una experiencia única. Los visitantes encontrarán paisajes únicos y oportunidades para fotografías memorables.

Folklore

Story & Folklore

Öxarárfoss es una hermosa cascada en Þingvellir donde el río Öxará cae en la fisura de Almannagjá. La cascada es especialmente impresionante en invierno cuando está parcialmente congelada. Es un punto destacado popular del Círculo Dorado.

💡 Did You Know?

Öxarárfoss is fed by the Öxará river, which flows from Lake Þingvallavatn. The name 'Öxará' translates to 'Axe River,' hinting at its past connection to the Alþingi (parliament).

Local Legend

The Hidden Folk of Öxarárfoss

Local folklore tells of hidden people (huldufólk) who live in the cliffs surrounding Öxarárfoss. According to legend, these elves protect the waterfall and its surroundings. Travelers who show respect to nature may catch glimpses of mysterious lights near the falls at dusk, believed to be the hidden folk tending to their homes in the rocks.

Culture

Stories & Legends

Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area

icelandic saga

Almannagjá

Walk where Iceland's ancient parliament, the Alþingi, once convened.

icelandic saga

Gjábakki

Gjábakki is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Harðar saga og Hólmverja, Njáls saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.

icelandic saga

Grettishaf við Sleðaás

Grettishaf við Sleðaás is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Grettis saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.