Discover Kvernufoss: Iceland's Hidden Waterfall Gem
Adventure Destination

Discover Kvernufoss: Iceland's Hidden Waterfall Gem

Explore the 30-meter Kvernufoss waterfall near Skógar, Iceland. This easy 20-minute hike offers a unique path behind the waterfall, perfect for photography in its lush gorge. Best visited from late spring to early autumn for a quieter, scenic experience.

Hiking8.6/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

Nestled close to Skógar in southern Iceland, Kvernufoss offers a spectacular display of natural beauty just a stone's throw from the more famous Skógafoss. While many travelers flock to its larger neighbor, Kvernufoss remains a slightly hidden treasure, tucked away in a charming gorge that adds to its allure. This enchanting waterfall cascades down around 30 meters, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful moss that stand out against the classic Icelandic basalt cliffs. Its setting is intimate and offers visitors a more secluded experience compared to the bustling crowds found at more popular sites.

A unique feature of Kvernufoss is the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall, providing a magical perspective framed by curtains of water. This hidden path allows visitors to soak in the sights and sounds from an angle that is truly remarkable. The peacefulness of Kvernufoss makes it a perfect spot for nature photography and quiet reflection.

A visit to this captivating waterfall not only promises stunning scenery but also a sense of personal discovery. For those seeking an authentic slice of Icelandic nature away from the crowd, Kvernufoss proves to be a standout destination.

Editorial Assessment

Kvernufoss is a beautiful and serene location, offering a unique waterfall experience with the ability to walk behind it. While not as well-known as other Icelandic landmarks, its charm and accessibility make it a wonderful destination for those seeking a quieter adventure.

Discover Kvernufoss: Iceland's Hidden Waterfall Gem

Adventure Guide to Discover Kvernufoss: Iceland's Hidden Waterfall Gem

1

Experience Discover Kvernufoss: Iceland's Hidden Waterfall Gem

  • Special Features:

    Explore the 30-meter Kvernufoss waterfall near Skógar, Iceland. This easy 20-minute hike offers a unique path behind the waterfall, perfect for photography in its lush gorge. Best visited from late spring to early autumn for a quieter, scenic experience.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Best time to visit is during Late Spring to Early Autumn. Bring adequate water, appropriate outdoor gear, and camera.

  • Directions:

    GGH9+HWC, 861 Evindarhólar, Iceland

2

Exploring Near Skógar, Iceland

  • Local Insights:

    Offers direct access to top trails, protected natural reserves, and picturesque viewpoints across Skógar, Iceland.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Check local regulations, trail conditions, and weather before heading out.

3

Photography and Wildlife

  • Special Highlights:

    Capture panoramic sunrise and sunset views across the surrounding mountain terrain.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Arrive in early morning or late afternoon for the softest lighting and quieter trails.

Reviews

L
Lukáš Šimaňokin the last week

Very nice place, but quite bad pathway. Nout suitable for people on wheelchair, people with cane, with some kind of skills, are capable of get in there. Payed parking 750 ISK for car for 4-7 people

I
Ines Ottoin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

D
Dawid Nowackiin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

A
Anous Hain the last week

Beautiful waterfall. It was busier than we expected. Pay parking costs.

C
Claire Boothin the last week

I've been lucky enough to travel to Iceland three times, and this is my new favourite waterfall, an easy walk and not to be missed!

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Three Hours, Reykjavík Light: A Private Photographic Walk from Harpa to Hallgrímskirkja85.7 mi
Reykjavík, Reykjavíkurborg

Three Hours, Reykjavík Light: A Private Photographic Walk from Harpa to Hallgrímskirkja

A 3-hour private photographic tour of Reykjavík led by Photoexploring, focused on iconic landmarks and intimate back streets and tailored to your needs.

85.7 miView Trips & Details →
Reykjavík Under Arctic Light: A Private Polar Night Photography Tour85.9 mi
Reykjavík, Reykjavíkurborg

Reykjavík Under Arctic Light: A Private Polar Night Photography Tour

A three-hour private photography outing around Reykjavík’s harbor and cityscapes that focuses on Arctic light, tailored instruction, and—between late August and early April—the chance to photograph the Aurora Borealis.

85.9 miView Trips & Details →
Chasing Arctic Light: Reykjavík to East Greenland’s Untouched Glaciers86.2 mi
Reykjavík, Reykjavíkurborg

Chasing Arctic Light: Reykjavík to East Greenland’s Untouched Glaciers

A 9‑day guided photography tour beginning in Reykjavík that takes adult photographers to East Greenland’s glaciers, fjords, ice caves and remote settlements.

86.2 miView Trips & Details →
Tórshavn on Tap: Celebrating BeerWalks’ 5th Birthday Through the Streets and Brews of the Faroes414.6 mi
Tórshavn, Streymoyar

Tórshavn on Tap: Celebrating BeerWalks’ 5th Birthday Through the Streets and Brews of the Faroes

A guided city walk in Tórshavn tasting seven beers from OY Brewing and Mikkeller—this guide explains the route, what to expect, and practical details for the 1 April 2026 celebration.

414.6 miView Trips & Details →
Brown Trout on the Machair: Fly‑Fishing South Uist’s Alkaline Lochs587.6 mi
Stornoway, Scotland

Brown Trout on the Machair: Fly‑Fishing South Uist’s Alkaline Lochs

A focused guide to guided fly fishing on South Uist’s shell‑sand machair lochs—what to expect, what to bring, and how the estate’s ghillies and hire kit make the fishing accessible.

587.6 miView Trips & Details →
4x4 Across South Uist: Machair Meadows, White Sands and Gaelic Storytelling595.2 mi
Isle of South Uist, Scotland

4x4 Across South Uist: Machair Meadows, White Sands and Gaelic Storytelling

Half- and full-day 4x4 tours around the Isle of South Uist that combine off-road landscapes, wildlife viewing, Gaelic culture and an optional Hebridean picnic.

595.2 miView Trips & Details →