Gljúfrabúi – Hamragarðar, Iceland - Atlas Obscura

Gljúfrabúi

Hamragarðar, Iceland

This fantastical waterfall is hidden in a cave located in a cracked cliff. 

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Waterfalls can make for some of the most magical vistas in the world as they carve solid rock into often incredible formations. Such is the case with Iceland’s Gljúfrabui waterfall, which is almost completely hidden behind a cliff face. The waterfall has carved a mossy cylindrical chamber into the rock which can only be reached through a thin crack in the outside cliff wall.

Once through the crack, explorers are hit with the incredible majesty of the hidden waterfall as it crashes into a pool at the base of the cave. The interior of the cave is nearly completely covered in a thin carpet of greenery thanks to its continually moist surroundings. These clandestine waterworks distill the natural wonder of Iceland’s scenic beauty.

Know Before You Go

This waterfall is easily accessible from Route 249 is a short distance off the Route 1 Ring Road in Iceland. It is a few hundred feet past the more famous Seljalandsfoss.

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