South Iceland · Iceland
Gullfoss
Gullfoss — 'Golden Falls' — is one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, where the Hvítá river plunges in two stages into a dramatic canyon. It is one of the three main stops on the famous Golden Circle route.
About Gullfoss
Gullfoss — 'Golden Falls' — is one of Iceland's most iconic waterfalls, where the Hvítá river plunges in two stages into a dramatic canyon. It is one of the three main stops on the famous Golden Circle route.
History & Background
In the early 20th century, a foreign investor wanted to harness Gullfoss for hydroelectric power. The landowner's daughter, Sigríður Tómasdóttir, fought to stop the project — reportedly threatening to throw herself into the waterfall if it were destroyed. She is considered Iceland's first environmentalist. The project was eventually cancelled and the falls were later donated to the Icelandic state and protected.
Key Facts
- ✔Two-stage waterfall dropping 32 meters total
- ✔Part of the Golden Circle route
- ✔Sigríður Tómasdóttir saved it from damming — Iceland's first environmentalist
- ✔The Hvítá river originates from Langjökull glacier
- ✔One of the most visited natural sites in Iceland
