Gjáin

Gjáin is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets — a small but enchanting lava canyon tucked away in the Þjórsárdalur valley, just a short walk off the main track. The gorge is laced with multiple small waterfalls, clear turquoise pools, and walls of sculpted lava draped in thick green moss.

The otherworldly scenery feels like stepping into a fairy tale, and the sheltered microclimate means the vegetation is unusually lush. In summer, the air hums with insects and birdsong, making the contrast with the surrounding barren lava plateau even more dramatic. The gorge was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Park near Route 32 in Þjórsárdalur and follow the signed trail (roughly 15 minutes on foot). The path requires some light scrambling. Combine with Hjálparfoss and Háifoss for a full day in the valley.