The best waterfalls in Northeastern Region

This was a spontaneous stop we made while driving along Iceland’s Ring Road in the north. It’s very easy to find right by Route 1, and there are clear road signs. We noticed a lot of people stopping here, so we decided to check it out as well.

Godafoss (the “Waterfall of the Gods”) is about 12 meters high and 30 meters wide. It is formed by the Skjálfandafljót glacial river and is one of the most famous waterfalls in northern Iceland, and indeed one of the most iconic in the entire country.

According to history, the first settlers of Iceland were mostly Norwegians who believed in the ancient Norse gods. Around 930 AD, the Icelandic Commonwealth was established, and Christianity from mainland Europe began to exert pressure on Iceland.

Dettifoss, the filming location of the movie *Prometheus*, feels like a truly desolate wilderness where there is almost no one around. Along the road, there are only occasional wooden poles with yellow-painted tops to guide the way.

Clambering over dark volcanic rocks, I felt like a small creature moving through an ancient, untamed landscape. I took many live photos, trying to preserve this moment—the sound of the wind, the roar of the water, my footsteps, even the friction of my clothes.

The slanted sunlight seemed to reveal the shape of the wind itself. In that moment, I was so overwhelmed by the experience that I almost teared up.

Iceland, from Goðafoss heading south, drive along Road 842, then turn onto F26 and continue for about 4 km to reach Aldeyjarfoss. We didn’t see a single person along the way. From the parking area, it’s about a 10-minute walk down to the viewpoint overlooking the waterfall—and the moment we saw it, we were completely stunned. This is near the Lake Mývatn area, and we visited during a week when Iceland had unusually perfect weather, with sunshine and over 20°C across the country.

We took advantage of the good conditions and drove to Aldeyjarfoss. This waterfall is located in North Iceland’s Skjálfandi region, dropping about 20 metres as powerful water surges through ancient basalt columns. The dark hexagonal rock formations contrast sharply with the white rushing water, creating a dramatic scene that looks like a bride’s veil cascading over volcanic stone.

The location is remote and quiet, requiring a drive deep into the highlands via F821 (4WD is essential). In winter, the road is often closed due to weather, so it’s mostly accessible in summer. For those wanting to escape crowds and experience something raw and untouched, Aldeyjarfoss is highly recommended—it feels like a cold, powerful poem waiting for the right traveller to stop and listen.