When you drive around Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula, it quickly becomes clear why this area is often called Iceland in miniature. You’ll find dramatic cliffs, black beaches, volcanoes, vast lava fields and of course plenty of waterfalls. Some are well-known and attract many visitors, while others are more hidden or lie further off the main road, making them much quieter. From the powerful Grundarfoss to the intimate experience of the waterfall deep inside the Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge, each has its own unique charm. In this article I’ll take you along to some of the most beautiful waterfalls on Snaefellsnes, places that never fail to impress me on every visit to the peninsula.
Read this article in DutchSvöðufoss
Personally, I consider Svöðufoss one of the most beautiful waterfalls on Snaefellsnes. It sits a little further from the main road and is part of the Hólmkelsá River, not far from the village of Rif. At about 10 meters high it may sound modest compared to other Icelandic waterfalls, but its setting makes it feel imposing, as if it’s calling out: “I may be tucked away, but come and see me too!” The water plunges down along striking basalt columns. On clear days you can see the snow-covered Snaefellsjökull glacier in the background, a backdrop that makes the waterfall feel truly grand. From the parking area, a path of mats and iron walkways leads you toward the falls, making the route accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Svöðufoss can be visited year-round, but there are no facilities nearby and the path is not lit.
Grundarfoss
Grundarfoss is located in a narrow valley near the town of Grundarfjörður and, at around 70 meters high, ranks among the most impressive waterfalls on Snaefellsnes. From the parking area along Road 54, a trail follows the Grundará River and takes you to the base of the falls in about 15 minutes. The waterfall plunges down in a narrow, powerful stream into a deep gorge, making it a favorite among photographers; especially on days when sunlight reaches the valley. It’s beautiful to capture from the ground, but equally striking when photographed from the air. Also, don’t forget to capture the unique Kolgrafafjörður (Sword) Bridge nearby if you’re traveling with a drone.
Kirkjufellsfoss
Kirkjufellsfoss is without doubt the most famous waterfall on Snaefellsnes, mainly thanks to its iconic location directly opposite the striking Kirkjufell mountain. The waterfall consists of three small cascades with a combined height of about 16 meters. The water flows gently into the river that runs past the mountain and out to sea. From the parking area along Road 54, a well-maintained path takes you within minutes to the bridge above the waterfall, where you’ll find the classic viewpoint often seen in travel photos. Because Kirkjufellsfoss is so photogenic it can get quite busy, but with some patience and the right timing you’ll be rewarded with one of the most picturesque spots in Iceland. Tip: visit early or late in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a magical sunrise or sunset.
Bjarnarfoss
Bjarnarfoss is an impressive waterfall of about 80 meters high, cascading in two tiers down dark basalt columns. It is located on the southern side of Snaefellsnes, along Road 54. The waterfall is already visible from the road, but from the parking area you can follow a short trail that brings you closer to its base. The hike is easy, though the final stretch can be steep and slippery, especially when wet. On windy days there’s a good chance the spray will reach you before you get close. Sometimes the wind even blows the water sideways or upwards, creating spectacular scenes. A truly imposing waterfall!
Baejarfoss
Directly behind the church of Ólafsvík you’ll find the charming Baejarfoss. At about 30 to 50 meters high it may not be the most imposing waterfall on Snaefellsnes, but its location on the edge of the village makes it special. From the parking area by the church, a simple trail leads you in just a few minutes to the base of the falls. Along the way you have views over Ólafsvík and the sea, making the short walk surprisingly scenic. Because Baejarfoss is so centrally located yet attracts few visitors, a stop here feels more personal and peaceful than at the more famous waterfalls.
Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge
The waterfall inside Rauðfeldsgjá Gorge is not a classic waterfall out in the open. Here, the Botnsfjall mountain has split apart and water flows down into the canyon, creating an impressive fall. From the parking area you only see a narrow crack in the rock face, but the closer you get, the more water you see and the louder the roar becomes. If you climb inside and turn the corner, you enter an open space where a narrow waterfall drops from the tight passage above. The water is estimated to fall about 40 to 50 meters, although no official measurement is known. Climbing into the gorge is adventurous and often quite wet, so sturdy shoes and possibly rain gear are highly recommended. The experience is completely different from other waterfalls. Here you stand right inside the mountain, surrounded by echoes of cascading water.
