Hraunfossar and Barnafoss

Nature’s Sapphire Symphony

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss 

Embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of West Iceland, where Hraunfossar and Barnafoss create a mesmerizing duo of waterfalls, painting the canvas of the Hvítá river with sapphire-blue cascades. As you wander the meandering paths for an hour or more, these natural wonders unfold, revealing a tapestry of beauty carved by the hands of time.

Lava Falls Unveiled

Hraunfossar, aptly named ‘Lava Falls,’ welcomes you with a unique spectacle. A series of interwoven streams gracefully descend directly from a lava field, spanning an impressive width of around 900 meters (2,950 feet). The falls delicately roll into the turquoise embrace of the river below, creating an ethereal sight that captures the essence of Iceland’s natural splendor.

Children’s Falls – Barnafoss

Further upstream, the journey unfolds to Barnafoss, translating to ‘Children’s Falls.’ This powerful cascade, with its relentless force, has sculpted its path through volcanic rock. Above the falls, a stone arch stands sentinel, entwined with a folk tale that echoes through the ages. The combination of Hraunfossar and Barnafoss weaves a breathtaking narrative, forming one of Iceland’s most captivating waterfall sets.

Easy Access to Nature’s Masterpiece

Accessible with a mere half-hour drive off the Ring Road, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss invite travelers to add a touch of wonder to their West Icelandic road trip. As you navigate the scenic routes, the falls unfold their majestic allure, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of those fortunate enough to witness their beauty.

The Legend of Barnafoss – A Tale of Tragedy and Curse

Entwined with the falls is the haunting legend of Barnafoss. Two young boys from a nearby farm, tempted by curiosity, ventured after their parents who crossed a stone bridge over the falls on their way to church. Ignoring their parents’ instructions to stay home, the boys met a tragic fate, falling into the depths below. In grief and rage, their mother placed a curse on the bridge, ensuring that anyone who dared to cross it would meet a watery demise. The tale takes a dramatic turn when an earthquake shatters the stone bridge, sealing the curse and etching the legend into the very fabric of the falls.

A Symphony of Sapphire

Hraunfossar and Barnafoss stand as a testament to the sublime beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders. The sapphire-blue hues of the cascading waterfalls echo the poetry of nature, inviting all who stand before them to witness the timeless symphony crafted by the hands of Earth itself.