Breathtaking Hike at Kolugljúfur Gorge in Northwest Iceland

 

Waterfalls, Breathtaking Scenes, Extraordinary Rock Formations and More Captivate at Kolugljúfur Gorge

Winding down a day of travel in Iceland, we were ready to turn back to our apartment until we spotted a waterfall on the map. We have experienced many waterfalls in Iceland during our five visits to the stunning country, yet we knew that we could not miss this one. So, we headed to Kolugljúfur.

Upon embarking on our hike, we immediately found Kolugljúfur Gorge and Kolufossar breathtaking. After tracing the gorge and stepping through the waterfall's mist, I cannot decide which experience is more incredible.

Mighty Kolufossar tumbles through a striking gorge.

When visiting, the temptation is to visit the waterfall. However, do not miss taking some trails to observe the gorge from above.  The depth of the gorge accompanied by the almost fluid carved-out edges truly takes your breath away. As we walked along the gorge, we noted the different amazing views the round yet craggy edges of the canyon provided us with. There are a few points where you can walk a bit out for even more interesting perspectives of the surrounding nature.

Kolugljúfur Gorge in Northwest Iceland is spellbinding with green vegetation highlighting
canyon bends and craggy rock faces.

Several trails wind down to Kolufossar. You will want to take your time on some spots over rocks that may be loose in sections. However, once you reach the perch you are incredibly close to Kolufossar. Feeling the rush of the waterfall and the mist on your face is heavenly.

Feeling the mist of  Kolufossar while perched on a rocky overlook in Iceland.

Legend states that a giantess named Kola once lived in the canyon. The gorge is named after Kola. One of the potholes in the preserve is said to be where Kola boiled her salmon for lunch or dinner.

One of the waterfilled potholes at Kolugljúfur Gorge.

While hiking the preserve, take time to observe. You will notice a variety of potholes, interesting rock shapes, miniature waterfalls, interesting flora and so much more. What seems small may be just as grand of discovery as the main waterfall and gorge themselves. I love Iceland because you really see both the beauty of the grand and of the miniature little worlds right in the same place. 

Kolugljúfur is now part of Iceland's new Seal Circle itinerary which I will discuss in a later post. It is also easily accessible from Reykjavik and Akureyri -- about 2.5 hours from each. In fact, it is about a midway point if you are traveling between the two on the Ring Road.