Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss, located in southwest Iceland, is one of the country’s most iconic and spectacular waterfalls. Also known as the “Golden Waterfall,” Gullfoss is part of the famous Golden Circle, a tourist route that also includes Þingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. This waterfall not only enchants with its natural beauty, but also carries a rich and significant history that intertwines geological, artistic, political, and social aspects. Gullfoss is fed by the Hvítá river, which flows from the heights of the Langjökull glacier. The waterfall consists of two main drops, the first of which is 11 meters high, while the second measures 21 meters. The tumultuous waters plunge into a deep gorge about 32 meters deep, creating an imposing vision of power and natural beauty. The name “Gullfoss” comes from the golden light that reflects in the water when the sun shines, giving the waterfall a magical and iridescent appearance. The geological history of Gullfoss is closely linked to the formation of the Icelandic landscape. The waterfalls were formed during the glacial era, when glacier meltwater began to erode volcanic rocks, creating deep gorges and canyons. This erosion process is still ongoing, continuously shaping the structure of the waterfall and the gorge. The rock formations around Gullfoss tell an ancient story of volcanic activity and glaciation, providing a natural laboratory for geologists and scholars. Politically, Gullfoss has a history of conservation that has become a symbol of the fight for environmental protection in Iceland. In the early 20th century, there was a project to use the waterfall for hydroelectric power production. Sigríður Tómasdóttir, the daughter of the local landowner, strongly opposed this project, fearing that the waterfall would be destroyed. Sigríður even threatened to throw herself into the waterfall in protest. Her determination and passion for nature conservation led to the cancellation of the project and the protection of Gullfoss as a nature reserve. Sigríður’s story is commemorated with a plaque at the waterfall and remains a powerful example of how individual commitment can make a difference in environmental protection. An interesting anecdote about Gullfoss concerns its impact on Icelandic tourism. The waterfall was one of the first natural attractions to be promoted abroad as part of Iceland’s natural heritage. In the 1920s and 1930s, photographs of Gullfoss were used in tourist brochures to attract international visitors, helping to promote Iceland as an ecotourism destination. This led to an increase in tourism and strengthened the importance of conserving the country’s natural resources.