As a child, I was captivated by bedtime stories of elven treasure hidden behind majestic waterfalls. Little did I know I’d one day find myself at Seljalandsfoss, a place that felt ripped straight from those tales. This waterfall in southern Iceland is not just one of the country’s most stunning natural wonders—it’s a place where legends feel real.
If there’s any place where elven riches might be concealed, this is it.
Seljalandsfoss is formed by the Seljalandsá river, which, near its end, plunges an impressive 60 meters (200 ft) over the cliffs of what was once Iceland’s coastline. Over time, volcanic eruptions have created a vast lava plain between these cliffs and the sea, adding to the dramatic landscape. As a result, as you approach the waterfall along the designated path, the view is simply breathtaking: a curtain of water cascading from the plateau, flowing through a vibrant, emerald-green field.
Walking Behind the Waterfall
But the real magic happens when you get closer. A narrow, often slippery path winds its way between the cliff face and the thundering cascade. Eventually, this path leads to a hidden gem: a small cave nestled behind the waterfall.
The roar of the water is deafening, a constant thunderous presence that drowns out every other sound. Meanwhile, the mist hangs thick in the air, soaking everything within seconds. It’s cold—surprisingly cold even in summer—and the spray feels like tiny needles against your skin. Nevertheless none of that matters when you turn around and see the world through a curtain of falling water.
The Cave Behind Seljalandsfoss
Standing there, enveloped by the roar of the falling water and the mist that hangs in the air, I was convinced I’d stumbled upon the elves’ secret stash. I didn’t have a shovel (unfortunately!), so a proper treasure hunt was out of the question. But I did have my camera.
Photographing Seljalandsfoss from behind presented its own challenges. The constant spray meant I had to keep wiping the lens between shots, working quickly before moisture settled on the glass. The light was tricky too—shooting into the brightness beyond the waterfall required careful exposure adjustments. But that’s exactly what made it thrilling: capturing a perspective that few waterfalls in the world can offer.
The photo above captures the incredible view from behind the watery curtain – a unique perspective and a true glimpse into the heart of Iceland’s natural beauty. It’s a place that ignites the imagination and makes you believe, just for a moment, in the magic of legends.
Discovering Seljalandsfoss
Tips for visiting Seljalandsfoss:
- Be prepared to get wet! The mist from the waterfall is significant, especially when walking behind it. A waterproof jacket and even waterproof pants are highly recommended.
- Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes with good grip. The path behind the waterfall is slippery and uneven.
- Bring a camera with a waterproof case or cover. You’ll want to capture the incredible views, but protect your equipment from the spray.
- Visit during off-peak hours if possible. Seljalandsfoss is a popular destination, so visiting early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid crowds.
Have you ever visited a place that felt like it belonged in a fairytale? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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