HRAUNFOSSAR / BARNAFOSS

Hraunfossar translates to Lava Falls, while Barnafossar means Children’s Falls. Barnafossar was named for children who disappeared from a nearby family farm and drowned in the river, and lore has it that the mother of the disappeared children put a curse on the falls that people should not cross the river.

This hiking trail starts from the Húsafell area and leads to the edge of Langjökull Glacier. The trail offers a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Icelandic wilderness and provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Please note that you should never walk on a glacier without a trained glacier guide. This trail takes you to the edge of the glacier, but don’t continue further.

The waterfalls are beautiful to visit in any season, especially on both rainy/sunny days when rainbows are frequently seen near the falls. Summer offers long days of sunlight and milder temperatures, while winter provides soft light and a possibly frozen landscape.

According to Icelandic folklore, the name Barnafossar originates from a tragic incident involving two children. It is said that long ago, a stone arch bridge crossed the river at this location. The children of a local family of farmers were playing near the bridge when their parents went to church. When the parents returned, they found that the children had vanished, and all that remained was the bridge. It was believed that the children had fallen into the waterfall and disappeared.

Grábrók is a volcanic crater located near Húsafell, Hraunfossar and Barnafossar. A short and relatively easy hike takes you to the top of the crater, providing views of the surrounding lava fields and the nearby fjord.

Although not directly adjacent to Hraunfossar, Glymur Waterfall is within driving distance and offers an incredible hiking experience. Glymur is one of Iceland’s highest waterfalls, and the trail takes you along a canyon, across a river, and up to a viewpoint where you can marvel at the waterfall cascading down a deep gorge. This is considered a summer hike as the log that allows you to cross the river is moved for the winter.

There are tours that go to West Iceland from Reykjavík that stop at Hraunfossar and Barnafossar, as well as other nearby sites. For instance, there are super jeep tours in the area, and most Into the Glacier tours that leave from Reykjavík visit the twin waterfalls.

Hraunfossar is easily accessible, with well-maintained pathways and viewing platforms that allow visitors to admire the falls from different angles. There are wooden walkways and bridges that provide opportunities for up-close views and fantastic photo opportunities. A walking path connects the two waterfalls, making Barnafossar equally accessible.

Numerous trails in West Iceland are relatively close to the waterfalls. Below are some suggestions to get you started on further research. Always consult maps and consider the weather and road conditions when heading out for a hike.

This coastal walking trail allows you to explore the scenic coastline of Borgarfjörður. It follows the shore, offering views of the ocean, birdlife, and charming coastal villages. The trail can be tailored to your desired length and difficulty level.