Northwestern Iceland

Waterfalls and lakes in Northwestern Iceland

Northwest Iceland's aquatic landscape ranges from the massive Blöndulón reservoir to the geothermal wonders of Hveravellir. This collection features the Kolugljúfur canyon waterfalls, the bird-rich wetlands of Gauksmýrartjörn, and deep glacial lakes like Svínavatn. Visitors can find natural hot springs at Hveravellir and Reykjafoss, while the region's lakes offer significant fishing opportunities and views across the surrounding highlands and coastal plains.

Waterfalls and Lakes — Map

Bromr / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Reykjafoss

Waterfall on the Svartá river, located immediately adjacent to the Fosslaug natural geothermal hot spring.

The Evil IP address / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Kolufossar

A series of waterfalls cascading into the rugged Kolugljúfur canyon, named after the legendary giantess Kola.

Hansueli Krapf / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Vesturhópsvatn

Large lake in the Húnaþing vestra district, situated between the Vatnsnes peninsula and the Vididalur valley.

Zelmira Rodriguez / CC-BY-SA

D

Reiðketilstjörn

Small lake located in the Húnaþing vestra region near Vesturhópsvatn.

E

Blöndulón

At 57 km2, Blöndulón is one of Iceland's largest lakes. It was created in 1984-1991 as a reservoir for the Blönduvirkjun power plant, and…

F

Hveravellir

Highland geothermal area between Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers featuring natural hot pools, smoking fumaroles, and sinter mounds.

G

Svínavatn

Twelve-square-kilometer lake reaching depths of 38 meters, known for its population of Arctic char and brown trout.

H

Gauksmýrartjörn

Restored wetland and pond area managed for birdwatching, specifically known as a nesting site for the Slavonian grebe.

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