Gullfoss

Gullfoss

Gullfoss is located in the Haukadalur Valley in southwestern Iceland and is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. The Haukadalur Valley extends to the south, and the river makes a sudden left turn about one kilometer above Gullfoss before plunging into a curved three-tiered “staircase,” instantly cascading down into two lower steps measuring 11 and 12 meters respectively, and then flowing into a 32-meter-deep rift in the canyon, forming the magnificent Gullfoss. This rift is 20 meters wide and 2.5 kilometers long, situated precisely at the river’s bend. The average water flow of Gullfoss is 140 cubic meters per second in summer and 80 cubic meters per second in winter, with a recorded historical maximum of 2,000 cubic meters per second.

With its grand momentum and spectacular scenery, the rushing waters of Gullfoss cascade down over a drop of more than 50 meters into the canyon, creating a deafening roar. In sunlight, golden droplets shimmer in the rising mist, while rainbows appear faintly, making the entire waterfall seem as if it were forged from gold—hence its name “Gullfoss,” meaning “Golden Falls.” It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and the country’s second-largest.

GullFoss

Must-visit reason: One of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls

Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Iceland[Iceland]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Vesturland Region [Western Region]