Faxi Waterfall – A Hidden Gem in South Iceland

Discover the serene charm of Faxi, a 7‑metre cascade just outside Selfess, and why it deserves a spot on your Iceland itinerary.

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Introduction

Imagine standing on a quiet riverbank, the gentle roar of water filling the crisp Icelandic air, and a misty veil of spray catching the low sun. That’s the moment you get at Faxi Waterfall (also known as Faxafoss), a modest yet mesmerizing cascade tucked away in the lush countryside of South Iceland. While Iceland is famous for its thunderous giants like Gullfoss and Dettifoss, Faxi offers a more intimate experience—perfect for travelers who crave tranquility, photo‑ops without the crowds, and a taste of authentic Icelandic nature.

If you’re planning a road trip from Reykjavik, a day‑trip from the town of Selfoss, or a detour on the famous Golden Circle, add Faxi to your list. In this guide we’ll dive into everything you need to know: the waterfall’s story, how to get there, the best seasons to visit, what you’ll see, nearby attractions, and handy travel tips.

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About Faxi

A Brief Description

• Location: Selfoss, South Iceland
• Coordinates: 64.225115 N, ‑20.336498 W
• Height: 7 meters (≈23 ft)
• Type: River waterfall (waterfall 🌊)

Faxi sits on the Faxi River, a tributary that eventually joins the mighty River Ölfusá. The cascade drops a gentle 7 metres over a broad, moss‑covered slab, creating a wide curtain of water that spreads across the river’s width. Unlike the vertical plunge of many Icelandic waterfalls, Faxi’s “step‑like” fall makes it ideal for walking right up to the edge, feeling the spray on your face, and even wading into the shallow pool at its base during warm summer days.

History & Significance

While Faxi does not have a dramatic legend like some of Iceland’s folklore‑rich sites, its name—derived from the Icelandic word fax meaning “hair” or “tassel”—aptly describes the thin, hair‑like streams that fan out from the lip of the fall. Historically, the surrounding valley was used for sheep grazing and small‑scale farming, with the river providing a reliable water source for both livestock and early settlers.

Today, Faxi is a favorite stop for locals seeking a peaceful picnic spot and for travelers who want to experience an authentic, low‑key waterfall away from the tourist throngs. Its proximity to Selfess (just a short drive) makes it an accessible “off‑the‑beaten‑path” destination that still feels like a secret find.

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How to Get There

By Car

1. Start in Selfoss – From the town centre, head east on Route 30 (Þjórsárdalurvegur).
2. Turn onto Route 32 – After about 3 km, take the right‑hand turn onto Route 32 toward the village of Hella.
3. Follow the signs to Faxi – After another 4 km, you’ll see a small parking area marked “Faxi” on the left side of the road. The waterfall is a short, well‑marked footpath from the lot.

• Distance from Selfess: ~7 km (≈4.3 mi)
• Driving Time: 10 minutes on paved roads

Public Transport

Public buses in the South Iceland region do not stop directly at Faxi. The most convenient option is to rent a car or join a guided day‑tour that includes the waterfall as part of a South Iceland itinerary.

Walking & Cycling

For the adventurous, the Þjórsárdalur Valley offers scenic cycling routes. The road to Faxi is relatively flat and bike‑friendly, though weather can change quickly, so bring waterproof gear.

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Best Time to Visit

Season	What to Expect	Why It’s Ideal
Late Spring (May–June)	Snowmelt swells the river, creating a fuller cascade. Daylight > 20 hrs.	Perfect for photography; vibrant green surroundings.
Summer (July–August)	Warm temperatures (10‑15 °C) allow picnics and wading.	Ideal for families; long days for extended exploration.
Early Autumn (September)	Golden foliage adds colour; fewer visitors.	Great for serene walks and sunset shots.
Winter (November–March)	Ice may form on the edges; the waterfall can appear partially frozen.	For photographers seeking dramatic contrast—requires sturdy footwear and caution.

Tip: The waterfall is accessible year‑round, but the safest and most comfortable visits are from May through September when the trail is clear of snow and the river flow is moderate.

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What to Expect

The Senses

• Sight: A broad, 7‑metre sheet of water flowing over a dark basalt ledge, framed by moss‑covered rocks and occasional wildflowers. In summer, the surrounding meadow bursts with pink and yellow lupines.
• Sound: A gentle, continuous rush that is loud enough to mask distant traffic yet soft enough for conversation.
• Touch: A fine mist that cools the skin; the pool at the base is shallow enough for a quick dip on warm days.
• Smell: Fresh, crisp river air with hints of pine and wet stone.

Facilities

• Parking: A small gravel lot (capacity ~15 cars).
• Path: A short, well‑maintained trail (≈200 m) leading from the lot to a viewing platform. The trail is wheelchair accessible for most of its length, though the final steps to the water’s edge may be uneven.
• Restrooms: None on site; the nearest facilities are in Selfess.

Photography

• Best Angles: Stand on the left bank for a wide‑angle shot that captures the full width of the fall; move to the right bank for a close‑up of the water’s texture.
• Golden Hour: The waterfall faces slightly east, making sunrise light ideal for warm tones. Sunset can also produce dramatic silhouettes if you position yourself on the opposite bank.

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Nearby Attractions

While you’re in the area, make the most of the natural bounty that surrounds Faxi. All distances are as‑the‑crow‑fly from the waterfall.

Attraction	Type	Distance	Why Visit	Link
Dimmufoss	Waterfall	7.4 km	A slightly taller cascade (≈10 m) tucked in a narrow gorge.	Dimmufoss Wikipedia
Reykholtshver	Spring	7.5 km	A crystal‑clear spring ideal for a refreshing drink or a quiet meditation spot.	Reykholtshver Wikipedia
Unnamed Spring	Spring	8.9 km	A hidden spring surrounded by birch woods—perfect for nature lovers.	(no dedicated page)
Hlauptungufoss	Waterfall	9.3 km	Known for its powerful roar and rugged basalt cliffs.	Hlauptungufoss Wikipedia
Selfoss Town Centre	Town	7 km	Shops, cafés, and the Selfoss Church—a great place to refuel.	Selfoss Wikipedia

Suggested Mini‑Itinerary:
1. Start at Faxi early morning.
2. Drive 7 km to Dimmufoss for a quick waterfall hop.
3. Continue to Reykholtshver for a spring‑side snack.
4. Loop back to Selfess for lunch before heading home.

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Travel Tips

Tip	Details
Dress in layers	Icelandic weather changes fast. A waterproof jacket, warm fleece, and sturdy hiking boots are essential.
Bring a reusable water bottle	The nearby springs (e.g., Reykholtshver) provide fresh, safe drinking water.
Check road conditions	The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) updates road status, especially in winter.
Respect the environment	Stay on marked paths, avoid stepping on delicate moss, and pack out all trash.
Timing	Arrive early (before 9 am) during summer to avoid the small local crowd that gathers for picnics.
Photography gear	A wide‑angle lens (16‑35 mm) captures the full cascade; a polarizing filter reduces glare on the water.
Safety	The pool at the base can be slippery; watch children closely and avoid crossing the river during high flow.
Currency & Payments	Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK). Most places accept credit cards, but the parking lot at Faxi is free and unmanned.
Cell coverage	Mobile signal is generally good along Route 32, but consider offline maps for remote sections.
Local cuisine	After your waterfall tour, try a traditional Icelandic lamb soup or fresh fish at a Selfess café.

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Final Thoughts

Faxi may not boast the towering height of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, but its accessible charm, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful surroundings make it a standout stop on any South Iceland road trip. Whether you’re a photographer hunting soft‑light cascades, a family looking for a safe nature playground, or a solo traveler seeking a quiet moment beside a gentle river, Faxi delivers.

Combine it with nearby gems like Dimmufoss, Reykholtshver, and Hlauptungufoss, and you’ll have a full day of Icelandic water wonders without the crowds. So fuel up, hit Route 32, and let the mist of Faxi refresh your spirit—one of Iceland’s best‑kept secrets is waiting.

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Keywords: Faxi waterfall, South Iceland waterfall, Selfess attractions, Iceland travel guide, Iceland waterfalls, Þjórsárdalur valley, Dimmufoss, Reykholtshver spring, Hlauptungufoss, Iceland road trip, Iceland nature photography