As a child, I was captivated by bedtime stories of elven treasure hidden behind majestic waterfalls. Little did I know I’d one day find myself at a place that felt ripped straight from those tales: Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most stunning and legendary waterfalls.
If there’s any place where elven riches might be concealed, this is it.
Seljalandsfoss is formed by the Seljalandsá river, which, near its end, plunges an impressive 60 meters (200 ft) over the cliffs of what was once Iceland’s coastline. Over time, volcanic eruptions have created a vast lava plain between these cliffs and the sea, adding to the dramatic landscape. As you approach the waterfall along the designated path, the view is simply breathtaking: a curtain of water cascading from the plateau, flowing through a vibrant emerald green field.
But the real magic happens when you get closer. A narrow, often slippery path winds its way between the cliff face and the thundering cascade. This path leads to a hidden gem: a small cave nestled behind the waterfall.
Standing there, enveloped by the roar of the falling water and the mist that hangs in the air, I was convinced I’d stumbled upon the elves’ secret stash. I didn’t have a shovel (unfortunately!), so a proper treasure hunt was out of the question. But I did have my camera.
The photo above captures the incredible view from behind the watery curtain – a unique perspective and a true glimpse into the heart of Iceland’s natural beauty. It’s a place that ignites the imagination and makes you believe, just for a moment, in the magic of legends.
Tips for visiting Seljalandsfoss:
- Be prepared to get wet! The mist from the waterfall is significant, especially when walking behind it. A waterproof jacket and even waterproof pants are highly recommended.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes with good grip. The path behind the waterfall is slippery and uneven.
- Bring a camera with a waterproof case or cover. You’ll want to capture the incredible views, but protect your equipment from the spray.
- Visit during off-peak hours if possible. Seljalandsfoss is a popular destination, so visiting early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid crowds.
Have you ever visited a place that felt like it belonged in a fairytale? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Did you like it? For more beautiful photos and travel stories, just use the menu above and browse the site. Do you know that you can send any of my images as an e-card?
Just choose your favourite image, press the e-card- button down on the right and that’s it, the pic is ready to be sent to your loved ones! Just give it a try, it’s fun and it’s free!
Would you also like to read all my upcoming travel stories? Just click here and subscribe to my newsletter.
I will mail you only when I release a new article. Your information is 100% safe and never shared with anyone