Hraunfossar, meaning "Lava Falls," is a stunning series of waterfalls in Iceland, located in the west near the town of Húsafell. What makes Hraunfossar truly unique is the way the water cascades out of the Hallmundarhraun lava field, flowing in hundreds of rivulets over a distance of about 900 meters (3,000 ft). The water emerges from beneath the lava, having traveled from the Langjökull glacier, and gently tumbles into the Hvítá River below. The contrast between the dark lava rocks, the clear, blue water, and the surrounding greenery creates a breathtakingly beautiful scene that is both serene and captivating.
Nearby, just a short walk upstream, is Barnafoss, or "Children’s Falls," a more turbulent waterfall with a tragic folklore tale associated with it. The two waterfalls together make for a memorable visit, offering different perspectives of Iceland’s natural beauty.
Hraunfossar is easily accessible and is a popular stop for travelers exploring the western part of Iceland. The viewing platforms provide excellent vantage points for photography and simply soaking in the beauty of this unique natural wonder.
Hraunfossar Facts
- Place: western Iceland, near Borgarfjörður.
- Falls Length: 900 meters (3,000 ft)
- Natural Waterfall feeding on: Groundwater which originates from the porous lava fields of Hallmundarhraun.
- Nearby waterfall: Barnafoss, a few minutes from there by foot.
How long do you need at Hraunfossar?
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour at Hraunfossar, viewing the falls, taking photos and strolling to nearby Barnafoss.
How long is the hike to Hraunfossar?
The hike to Hraunfossar is nearly non-existent. A short stroll from the car park leads straight to the main viewpoint, and is effortlessly appropriate for visitors of every age.
Where is Hraunfossar?
Hraunfossar lies in western Iceland, near Borgarnes in Borgarfjörður, about 120 km (75 miles) north of Reykjavík. It is located along the Hvítá River, nestled within Hallmundarhraun Lava Field.
Hraunfossar GPS Coordinates: 64°42'10.6"N 20°58'37.6"W
Getting to Hraunfossar
From Reykjavík: Driving to Hraunfossar from Reykjavík, take Route 1 northwards and turn onto route 50, follow by taking Route 518 heading towards Húsafell. Teh drive usually takes 1,5 - 2 hours, and longer when seeing the picturesque view of Iceland's countryside on the way.
From Borgarnes: The distance from Borgarnes is around 70 Km, and it takes you about an hour to reach Hraunfossar. Drive on Route 50 and then onto Route 518 in the direction of Húsafell.
What to Expect On-Site
When you get to Hraunfossar, there is plenty of free parking that will take you just meters away from the viewpoint. From the car park you’ll already hear the rushing water of the falls. From the viewing platform you will have a perfect view of the waterfall, where you can see the water rushing from a lava field into Hvítá river.
From the viewpoint you’ll see a well marked path to a pedestrian bridge that crosses the river, providing access to the nearby Barnafoss waterfall, also fantastic and just a 10-minute walk from Hraunfossar. When translated, Barnafoss is "Children's Falls"; it takes its name from an old legend of two boys who fell into the river.
Next to the car park you’ll find Hraunfossar Restaurant & Café, a cozy place where you can find good food, restrooms and other basic facilities.
Map of Surrounding Attractions
Beyond Hraunfossar and Barnafoss there are a number of other sights in the vicinity worth exploring. We recommend visiting these places, if you’re up for a day trip.
Húsafell
Húsafell, only 15 minutes from Hraunfossar, is a small settlement renowned for its wooded areas and geothermal hot springs. There are walking trails, geothermal pools and art installations displayed throughout the area for visitors to enjoy.
Víðgelmir Lava Cave
Víðgelmir Lava Cave is located a short drive from Hraunfossar and is one of the largest and most impressive lava tubes in Iceland. An exploration of the cave through guided tours tells you a lot about Iceland's geological past with ingenious rock formations and vibrant colors.
Reykholt
About a 20-minute drive from Hraunfossar and featuring another Icelandic composer, Reykholt is the historic site of a medieval scholar and writer known as Snorri Sturluson. Stop and check out Snorralaug, which is an old bathhouse hot spring, or visit the Snorrastofa, a cultural center focusing on medieval history.
Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
Deildartunguhver, another must-see attraction just 30 minutes away from Hraunfossar, is Europe's most powerful hot spring. Krauma's nearby geothermal baths are the perfect place to soak in water that gets heated directly from the spring.