Discovering Hraunfossar Waterfall: The Lava Falls

Why is Hraunfossar Worth a Visit?

Hraunfossar, which means "Lava Falls," is a stunning series of waterfalls where water flows out of a lava field and into the Hvítá River. The sight of water streaming straight out of the lava is unique and beautiful. The calm, gentle waterfalls of Hraunfossar are very different from the nearby Barnafoss’s wild rapids, showing off Iceland’s amazing natural variety. This makes Hraunfossar a must-see spot and earns it a place in the best Iceland waterfall list.

The combination of the waterfalls, the surrounding lava fields, and the lush greenery makes for a picture-perfect scene. Whether you’re a photographer looking for stunning landscapes or just someone who enjoys beautiful natural sights, Hraunfossar offers plenty of eye-catching views.

Hraunfossar is worth visiting in any season. In the summer, the lush greenery and blooming wildflowers create a vibrant scene. In the winter, the waterfalls surrounded by snow and ice offer a magical, fairy-tale-like landscape. Each season brings its own unique charm to the area.

Hraunfossar Facts & Features

Get your Hraunfossar facts straight before visiting the waterfall. Here are some interesting things to know.

Height and Width

Hraunfossar isn’t very tall, but it’s about 900 meters wide. This wide spread of small waterfalls creates a peaceful and beautiful view.

Name Meaning

"Hraunfossar" means "Lava Falls" because the water comes from the Hallmundarhraun lava field. This lava field was made by an ancient volcanic eruption, and the water comes out from under the hardened lava, making for a cool natural wonder.

Geology

The waterfalls at Hraunfossar are created by water flowing through porous lava rock and then cascading into the Hvítá River. This process forms many small, lovely waterfalls that together make up Hraunfossar.

Where’s Hraunfossar and How to Get There

Hraunfossar is in West Iceland, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Reykjavik. The drive from Reykjavik takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. To get there, take Route 1 (Ring Road) north, then Route 50 towards Borgarnes, and finally Route 518 towards Húsafell. The waterfall is well-marked and easy to reach by car all year round.

What to Wear When Visiting Hraunfossar

Iceland’s weather can change quickly, so it’s important to dress in layers. Here are some tips on what to wear:

• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: To stay dry and comfortable.
• Sturdy Hiking Boots: For walking on uneven ground.
• Warm Clothes: Even in summer, it can be cool, so bring warm layers.
• Hat and Gloves: To protect against wind and cold.

Dressing properly will help you have a comfortable and enjoyable visit, no matter the weather.

Surrounding Sites & Things to Do in Hraunfossar

While in the area, don't miss the chance of visiting these other natural wonders:

Barnafoss

A short walk from Hraunfossar, Barnafoss (Children's Falls) has strong rapids and a sad story. The legend says that two children fell from a natural stone bridge into the waters below, and their mother destroyed the bridge in her grief.

Víðgelmir Lava Cave

One of Iceland’s largest lava tubes, Víðgelmir offers guided tours to explore its impressive formations. Visiting this cave gives you a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic history.

Húsafell Canyon Baths

These geothermal pools are in a beautiful canyon, perfect for relaxing after exploring the waterfalls. The warm waters and lovely surroundings make it a great experience.

Deildartunguhver

Europe’s highest-flowing hot spring, Deildartunguhver is another nearby attraction. Its powerful geothermal activity is amazing to see and offers a chance to experience Iceland’s natural hot springs up close.

Langjökull Glacier

Langjökull Glacier, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, is close to Hraunfossar. You can take glacier tours, including snowmobiling and ice cave exploration. It's a thrilling way to experience Iceland’s icy wilderness.

Reykholt

Nearby Reykholt is a historic site that was once home to the famous medieval writer Snorri Sturluson. You can visit the Snorrastofa Cultural and Medieval Centre, explore the hot spring pool Snorralaug, and learn about Icelandic history and culture.

Krauma

Krauma is a modern geothermal spa near Deildartunguhver. It offers hot baths, a relaxation room, and a restaurant. The spa uses water from the hot spring mixed with cold water from Ok Glacier to create the perfect bathing temperature. It’s a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate.

Discover Iceland by car

10 years of epic journeys with over 400,000 explorers

Other Unique Facts About Hraunfossar Waterfall

These are even more unique facts. You'll leave everyone in awe when you recite them back while witnessing the waterfall, so pay attention.

Formation Over Centuries

Hraunfossar has been formed over thousands of years, starting from a single lava flow from the Hallmundarhraun lava field. This lava field was created by volcanic eruptions in the Langjökull glacier area around 800 AD. Over time, the lava hardened and allowed water to seep through, creating the beautiful waterfalls we see today.

Microhabitats

The area around Hraunfossar is home to unique microhabitats. The mix of lava rock, flowing freshwater, and surrounding plants creates a special environment where mosses, lichens, and small plants thrive. These plants love the moist, shaded conditions, making the area green and vibrant.

Water Source

The water at Hraunfossar comes from the Langjökull glacier. It travels underground for a long distance, filtering through the porous lava rock. This natural filtration makes the water incredibly clear and clean by the time it emerges at the falls.

Cultural Significance

Hraunfossar and the nearby Barnafoss have a special place in Icelandic literature and folklore. The calm flow of Hraunfossar and the wild rapids of Barnafoss often represent the peaceful and furious sides of nature in various tales.

Conservation Efforts

The area around Hraunfossar is part of a protected nature reserve. Iceland is dedicated to preserving its natural wonders, so there are efforts to maintain paths, prevent erosion, and minimize visitor impact. This helps protect the delicate ecosystem for future generations.

Geothermal Activity

Even though it’s not obvious at Hraunfossar itself, the area is geothermally active. Nearby hot springs, like Deildartunguhver, show that there’s geothermal activity beneath the surface.

Hydrological Research

Hraunfossar is an important site for hydrological research. Scientists study how the water moves through the lava fields to better understand underground water flow in volcanic regions. This research helps us learn more about the unique water dynamics in places like Hraunfossar.

From Lava to Water

Hraunfossar is more than just a series of waterfalls; it's a testament to the incredible natural beauty and geological wonders that Iceland has to offer. From its unique formation and serene atmosphere to the rich cultural stories and nearby attractions, Hraunfossar provides a memorable and enriching experience for all visitors. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Iceland, the charm and beauty of Hraunfossar are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hraunfossar Waterfall