Glymur
Glymur is Iceland's second tallest waterfall at 198 metres, hidden inside a dramatic canyon in the Hvalfjörður fjord area north of Reykjavík. The hike to the fa…
About
About Glymur
Glymur is Iceland's second tallest waterfall at 198 metres, hidden inside a dramatic canyon in the Hvalfjörður fjord area north of Reykjavík. The hike to the falls is one of the best near Reykjavík — it takes you through a small cave, across a log bridge over a glacial river, and up steep canyon walls with sweeping views of the fjord below.
This spot offers panoramic views of Iceland's dramatic landscapes, including mountains, lava fields, glaciers, and coastline.
Background
History & Background
Until 2011, Glymur was considered the tallest waterfall in Iceland, until satellite measurements revealed that Morsárfoss in Vatnajökull National Park reaches 228 metres. Despite losing the title, Glymur remains the most accessible tall waterfall in Iceland and a popular hiking destination. The canyon was carved by the Botnsá river, which drains Hvalvatn lake — itself formed in the crater of an ancient volcanic explosion. The Hvalfjörður area was strategically important during World War II when it served as an Allied naval base.
Glymur is a scenic viewpoint in South Iceland, Iceland. This spot offers panoramic views of Iceland's dramatic landscapes, including mountains, lava fields, glaciers, and coastline.
Folklore
Story & Folklore
Glymur is a viewpoint in South Iceland that draws visitors for its panoramic perspectives over Iceland's ever-changing landscape. Iceland's weather creates dramatic, shifting light conditions — what you see from this spot on one visit will look entirely different on the next. Photographers and travellers alike make the journey here for views that can stretch across glaciers, lava fields, and coastline all at once.
Experiences
Tours Near Glymur
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Culture
Stories & Legends
Icelandic sagas and folklore from this area
Botnsá
Botnsá is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Kjalnesinga saga", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Brynjudalur
Brynjudalur: A valley echoing with tales of bravery and ancient pacts.
Neðri-Botn (nú Litlibotn)
Neðri-Botn: Where a tragic tale of a chieftain's greed and a sorcerer's curse unfolded.
Stykkisvöllur
Stykkisvöllur is a historic location in Iceland mentioned in "Harðar saga og Hólmverja", one of the ancient Íslendingasögur (Sagas of Icelanders). These medieval narratives preserve the history of Iceland's Viking Age settlement.
Location
📍 Location
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