Islannin piilotetut helmet

Iceland's Hidden Gems

This collection features remote sites across Iceland, including the 128-meter Hengifoss with its distinct red clay layers and the basalt-columned Aldeyjarfoss in the Highlands. Geothermal highlights include the hikeable hot river of Reykjadalur and the historic Snorralaug pool in Reykholt. The list also covers architectural history at Grafarkirkja, Iceland's oldest turf church, and secluded natural wonders like Gljúfrabúi, a waterfall tucked inside a narrow canyon near the southern coast.

Martin Kucera / CC-BY-SA

A

Reykjadalur

A hiking area featuring natural hot baths in a scenic valley north of Hveragerði.

Hansueli Krapf / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Gljufrabui

A 40-meter waterfall partially hidden within a short canyon, accessible by trail and staircase.

Gunnar Gunnarsson / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Hengifoss

Hengifoss is the third highest waterfall in Iceland, 128 meters. It is located in Hengifossá in Fljótsdalshreppur, East Iceland.

Grunkhead / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Thjofafoss

Þjófafoss is located on the river Þjórsá on the east side of the Merkurhraun lava fields in the south of Iceland, at the southwest tip of…

Óðinn / CC BY-SA 2.5 ca

E

Gunnuhver

Geothermal area consisting of mud pools and steam vents.

Javier G. R. / CC BY-SA 3.0

F

Aldeyjarfoss

The Aldeyjarfoss waterfall is situated in the Highlands of Iceland at the northern part of the Sprengisandur Highland Road.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

G

Grafarkirkja

Iceland's oldest turf church, dating back to the late 17th century. Located in Skagafjörður, it features intricate wood carvings and was restored by the National Museum of Iceland in 1950.

Bromr / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Snorralaug

A circular, stone-lined geothermal pool in Reykholt, used since the 12th century. It is famously associated with the medieval scholar and saga writer Snorri Sturluson.