Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
south to Kallbjarg, then turn west along the track to the abandoned site of Svínadalur,
where the canyon widens into a broad valley, and follow the western base of the Eyjan
cliffs back to the Vesturdalur parking area.
Hólmatungur
OUTDOORS
Lush vegetation, tumbling waterfalls and an air of utter tranquillity make the Hólmatungur
area one of the most beautiful in the park. Underground springs bubble up to form a series
of short rivers that twist, turn and cascade their way to the canyon. The most popular walk
here is the 4.5km loop from the parking area north along the Hólmá river to
Hólmáfossar
,
where the harsh lines of the canyon soften and produce several pretty waterfalls.
From here you head south again on the Jökulsá to its confluence with the Melbugsá
river, where the river tumbles over a ledge, forming the
Urriðafossar
waterfalls. To see
the falls, you need to walk along the (challenging) trail spur to Katlar.
For the best overall view of Hólmatungur, walk to the hill
Ytra-Þórunnarfjall
, just
south of the car park.
Hólmatungur is only accessible by 4WD. If you are travelling by 2WD, you can park
your vehicle at Vesturdalur and do a long round-trip day hike. Camping is prohibited at
Hólmatungur, but it's a great spot for a picnic lunch.
Dettifoss
The power of nature can be seen in all its glory at the mighty Dettifoss, one of Iceland's
most impressive waterfalls.
Although Dettifoss is only 44m high and 100m wide, a massive 193 cu metres of water
thunders over its edge every second, creating a plume of spray that can be seen 1km away.
With the greatest volume of any waterfall in Europe, this truly is nature at its most spectac-
ular. On sunny days, brilliant double rainbows form above the churning milky-grey glacial
waters, and you'll have to jostle with the other visitors for the best views. Take care on the
paths, made wet and slippery from the spray.
The falls can be seen from either side of the canyon. A sealed road, Rte 862, links the
Ring Road with the western bank of Dettifoss, ending in a large car park and toilet facilit-
