Hjalparfoss (Hjálparfoss) Waterfall

Hjalparfoss (Hjálparfoss) Waterfall

Close to the bridge over the river Fossa you can take a short detour on road 3361 to Hjalparfoss, a pretty waterfall surrounded by basalt columns.

This is a lovely symmetrical waterfall and the story behind its name is interesting. When a famine spread over the valley following the 1104 eruption of Hekla, the locals gathered by the falls to discuss a plan of action. 

To their delight, they noticed the pool below the waterfall was full of fish and the name ‘Helping Falls’ comes from this event.

Note that the gravel access road may not be passable in winter but the waterfall only about 1km from the main road. There are no toilets at Hjalparfoss - the nearest are at Stong and nearby Þjodveldisbaerinn.