**Barnafoss Waterfall** A milky-blue river suddenly rushes down through a narrow basalt canyon, crashing into striking white rapids. The water is so vividly blue it feels like Iceland’s sky has been crushed and dissolved into the river itself. From the nearby twin waterfalls, following the river valley leads you to the village of Reykholt. This is the birthplace of the legendary Icelandic scholar Snorri Sturluson. Between the ancient stone buildings and the surrounding wilderness, it almost feels like you can still hear echoes of medieval skalds chanting their poetry. Deeper into the valley lies Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. Boiling water bursts out from deep underground, carrying the heat of the earth’s interior. In the cold air, it rises into steaming mist, a constant reminder of Iceland’s raw geological power.
Barnafoss
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Barnafoss
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Barnafoss famous?
Barnafoss (Children's Falls) is famous for its tragic legend: two children from nearby Hraunsás farm drowned here when crossing a natural stone bridge, which their mother later had destroyed. The waterfall is also renowned for its striking milky-blue glacial water rushing violently through narrow basalt gorges.
Can you swim at Barnafoss?
No. The current is extremely strong and dangerous; swimming is not permitted. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Barnafoss?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails and viewing platforms. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Barnafoss free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entry fee or permit required to visit Barnafoss. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Barnafoss?
Free parking lot directly at Barnafoss/Hraunfossar with space for dozens of cars. The viewing platforms are a very short walk (under 100 meters) from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Barnafoss?
Roadside access – approximately 50-100 meters walk from the car park to viewing platforms. No hike required. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Barnafoss hike difficulty
Roadside (no hike). Short flat walk on paved/gravel paths to viewing platforms with some steps. Accessible for most visitors. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Barnafoss?
May to September for best weather and accessibility, though the falls are dramatic year-round. Winter visits possible but roads may be icy. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Barnafoss
From the main car park, walk towards the river on marked paths. Follow signs to Barnafoss viewing platforms which offer views of the rapids and blue water churning through narrow rock formations. The site is connected to Hraunfossar by a short walking path along the river. Wooden viewing platforms and footbridges provide safe vantage points.
Barnafoss official website
Attractions near Barnafoss
- •Hraunfossar – Adjacent lava waterfalls flowing from beneath a lava field (50m walk)
- •Deildartunguhver – Europe's most powerful hot spring (15 km away)
- •Krauma Geothermal Baths – Spa fed by Deildartunguhver hot spring (15 km)
- •Reykholt – Historic village, home of medieval writer Snorri Sturluson (25 km)
- •Víðgelmir Lava Cave – One of Iceland's largest lava tubes (30 km)
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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