Öxarárfoss

Öxarárfoss sits within Þingvellir National Park — Iceland’s most historically significant landscape — where the Öxará river spills over a low but picturesque ledge before winding through the rift valley floor. The falls are small in scale but richly atmospheric, framed by moss-covered lava walls and birch woodland in autumn colour.

Because Þingvellir draws visitors for its history and geology, Öxarárfoss is often overlooked in favour of the famous Almannagjá gorge and Silfra diving site — but the short walk to the falls is a worthwhile detour. The surrounding rift valley, straddling the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, adds a layer of geological drama to even the simplest stroll.

The falls are reached via the main Þingvellir visitor centre car park (paid parking) and a signed trail along the river — roughly 15 minutes on foot. Open all year as part of Þingvellir National Park.