Barnafoss Waterfall, known as “Children’s Falls,” is one of West Iceland’s most intriguing and picturesque natural attractions. Situated in the Borgarfjörður region and just a stone’s throw from the famed Hraunfossar Waterfalls, Barnafoss is celebrated not only for its dramatic beauty but also for the haunting legend that gives the site its name. With its foaming blue waters rushing through a narrow, rocky gorge, surrounded by ancient lava fields and mossy landscapes, Barnafoss is a must-visit destination for those exploring the wonders of Iceland. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Barnafoss Waterfall: its history, attractions, things to do, practical travel tips, and more.
History of Barnafoss
Barnafoss translates to “Children’s Falls,” a name rooted in a tragic Icelandic legend. According to local folklore, two children from the nearby Hraunsás farm were left at home while their parents attended Christmas Mass. Bored and restless, the children ventured outside and tried to cross a natural stone bridge that spanned the river above the waterfall. Sadly, they fell into the turbulent waters below and drowned. Overcome with grief, their mother ordered the bridge destroyed to prevent future tragedies. Some versions of the tale claim she placed a curse on the bridge, causing it to collapse by spell or earthquake.
This legend has been passed down through generations, adding a poignant and mystical dimension to the already captivating landscape. The story also serves as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of Iceland’s natural environment. Visiting the Hraunfossar waterfall provides an unforgettable experience, where guests can witness the stunning cascade of water streaming through the lava fields. As you explore the area, keep in mind essential hraunfossar waterfall travel tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty while respecting the natural surroundings and the local heritage.
Attractions at Barnafoss Waterfall
- The Waterfall: Barnafoss is not a towering waterfall; its main drop is about 10 meters (33 feet) high. Instead, its allure lies in the way the Hvítá River’s glacial blue waters churn violently through a narrow, twisting canyon of black lava rock. The contrast between the vivid water and the dark, rugged landscape creates a scene that is both dramatic and serene.
- Nearby Hraunfossar: Just a few minutes’ walk from Barnafoss is Hraunfossar, a series of gentle, crystal-clear waterfalls that seep through the Hallmundarhraun lava field. The juxtaposition of Barnafoss’s wild rapids and Hraunfossar’s tranquil streams showcases the diversity of Icelandic scenery.
- Viewing Platforms and Trails: Well-maintained paths and several viewing platforms provide spectacular vantage points for photographing the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. The easy trails are suitable for all ages and abilities, making Barnafoss an accessible destination for families and travelers of all kinds.
Things to Do at Barnafoss Waterfall
Hiking: Enjoy a short, easy hike (about 2.1 km out-and-back) from the parking lot to Barnafoss and Hraunfossar. The trails are generally flat and well-marked, though they can be muddy in places.
Photography: Capture the stunning blue rapids against the black lava and green moss, especially in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon.
Nature Observation: Watch for native birds and unique Icelandic flora along the riverbanks.
Legend Exploration: Read the on-site signs detailing the folklore and geology of the area, adding depth to your visit.
Picnicking: There are picnic spots near the parking area, perfect for a scenic outdoor meal.
Barnafoss – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
Barnafoss is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, except during extreme weather conditions that may make the roads or trails unsafe. The site is particularly beautiful during daylight hours, which vary dramatically between seasons:
Summer (May–September): Long daylight hours and milder weather make this the best time to visit
Winter (October–April): The falls are accessible, but daylight is limited and trails may be icy. The snow and ice add a magical quality to the landscape.
How Long to Spend at Barnafoss Waterfall
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to 1 hour at Barnafoss, often combining their visit with Hraunfossar and other nearby attractions for a half-day or full-day excursion. If you enjoy photography, hiking, or picnicking, you may wish to linger longer.
How to Get There
- By Car:
- From Reykjavík: Drive north on the Ring Road (Route 1) toward Borgarnes. Take the Hvalfjörður Tunnel for a faster route. Before reaching Borgarnes, turn right onto Road 50, continue for about 25 minutes, then turn onto Road 518 and follow it for roughly 15 minutes to the Barnafoss parking lot.
- Distance: About 126 km (78 miles) from Reykjavík; approximately 1.5 hours’ drive.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the site.
- By Bus or Guided Tour:
- Bus: There is no direct public bus to Barnafoss. The nearest town, Borgarnes, is accessible by bus from Reykjavík, but you will need a car or taxi for the final stretch.
- Guided Tours: Many tour operators offer day trips from Reykjavík, often including Barnafoss, Hraunfossar, and other nearby sights. Tours typically pick up from central Reykjavík between 8:30 and 9:00 am.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available from Reykjavík or Borgarnes, but this is a more expensive option and less flexible than self-driving or joining a tour.
- By Train or Boat: There are no train or boat services to Barnafoss. The only practical options are by road.
Eateries Nearby Barnafoss Waterfall
While there are no restaurants directly at Barnafoss, several excellent options are available in the surrounding area and in nearby towns:
Hraunfossar Restaurant: Located at the Hraunfossar parking area, this restaurant offers Icelandic dishes, sandwiches, coffee, cakes, and ice cream, with a terrace overlooking the falls.
Húsafell Bistro: In the Húsafell area, this bistro serves Icelandic and international cuisine in a cozy setting.
Rock’n’ Troll Café (Borgarnes): Known for authentic Icelandic fare and friendly service.
Hótel Hamar Restaurant (Borgarnes): Offers elegant dining with local ingredients and beautiful views.
Englendingavík (Borgarnes): A charming restaurant by the harbor, specializing in seafood and Icelandic classics.
The Settlement Center Café (Borgarnes): Famous for homemade soups, bread, and cakes; perfect for a light meal or coffee break.
Other Attractions Nearby Barnafoss Waterfall
Hraunfossar Waterfalls: Just a short walk from Barnafoss, these gentle, wide falls are a must-see for their unique beauty and contrast to Barnafoss.
Deildartunguhver Hot Spring: Europe’s most powerful hot spring, located about 34 km (21 miles) away, with geothermal baths and spa facilities.
Reykholt: A historic village associated with medieval scholar Snorri Sturluson, featuring cultural sites and a hot spring.
Víðgelmir Lava Cave: Iceland’s largest lava cave, offering guided tours for adventure seekers.
Húsafell: A scenic area with hiking, geothermal pools, and access to glacier tours.
Glanni Waterfall: Another beautiful waterfall near Bifröst, ideal for a quick stop.
Barnafoss is a beautiful waterfall located in Iceland, known for its powerful flow and striking natural surroundings. This captivating waterfall, often visited together with the nearby Hraunfossar falls, offers visitors a glimpse into Iceland’s unique volcanic landscape. Barnafoss is famous not only for its scenic beauty but also for the legend associated with it, which adds to its charm and mystique. Whether you’re exploring the area for hiking or photography, Barnafoss provides an unforgettable experience amidst Iceland’s rugged wilderness. Iceland’s breathtaking goðafoss waterfall is another stunning destination that draws nature lovers from around the globe. The powerful cascades create mesmerizing rainbows on sunny days, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere. Visitors often find themselves entranced by the roar of the water and the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.