Tröllafossar – Iceland’s Hidden Waterfall Gem in West Iceland
Discover the tranquil power of Tröllafossar, a lesser‑known waterfall near Borgarnes that promises unforgettable scenery, peaceful hikes, and a taste of authentic Icelandic nature.
1. Introduction
If you’ve trekked the Golden Circle or chased the thunderous roar of Gullfoss, you might think you’ve seen every spectacular cascade Iceland has to offer. Yet tucked away in the rolling hills of West Iceland lies Tröllafossar – a series of gentle, ribbon‑like waterfalls that spill over volcanic basalt cliffs into a crystal‑clear river. With its serene ambience, easy access from the town of Borgarnes, and a backdrop of rugged lava fields, Tröllafossar is the perfect spot for travelers craving a quieter, more intimate waterfall experience.
2. About Tröllafossar
What makes Tröllafossar special?
The name Tröllafossar translates roughly to “troll waterfalls,” a nod to the folklore that trolls once roamed these mist‑laden valleys. Unlike the towering, single‑drop waterfalls that dominate travel guides, Tröllafossar is a cascade of multiple small falls that tumble over a series of basalt steps, creating a delicate veil of water that glistens in the Icelandic sun.
History & cultural significance
While there is no recorded historic event tied directly to Tröllafossar, the waterfall has long been a landmark for local farmers and fishermen traveling between the coastal settlements of Borgarnes and the inland farms of the Búrfell region. The area’s volcanic origin—part of the larger Borgarfjörður volcanic system—has shaped the landscape for millennia, and the waterfalls themselves are a living reminder of the ever‑changing Icelandic terrain.
Why it matters for travelers
- Off‑the‑beaten‑path charm – Fewer crowds mean you can linger, snap photos, and even hear the soft rush of water without a soundtrack of tour buses.
- Photographic gold – The interplay of basalt columns, moss‑covered rocks, and misty spray creates striking foregrounds for landscape photography.
- Eco‑friendly access – A short, well‑marked walking trail leads from the parking area to the viewing platform, making it an ideal stop for families and eco‑conscious travelers.
For a deeper dive into the waterfall’s background, check out the Icelandic Wikipedia entry: Tröllafossar (Wikipedia).
3. How to Get There
From Reykjavik
- Rent a car – The most flexible way to explore West Iceland. The drive from Reykjavik to Borgarnes takes about 1 hour 15 minutes (≈ 75 km) via Route 1 (the Ring Road).
- Follow signs to Borgarnes – Once you reach the town, look for the turn‑off toward Road 35 (Borgarfjörður) → Tröllafossar.
By public transport
- Bus – Strætó’s regional bus line 15 runs between Reykjavik and Borgarnes several times daily (check the latest schedule). From the Borgarnes bus stop, you’ll need a short taxi ride or a 10‑minute walk to the trailhead.
Parking & trailhead
A small, free parking lot sits at the edge of the Borgarfjörður riverbank, just a few meters from the trailhead. The path to the falls is well‑maintained, wheelchair‑accessible, and roughly 300 m round‑trip—ideal for a quick stop or a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Coordinates: 64.591574, -21.586567 – plug these into your GPS for pinpoint accuracy.
4. Best Time to Visit
| Season | What to Expect | Why It’s Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| Late Spring (May–June) | Snow melt swells the river, creating a fuller cascade. Daylight stretches to 20 hours. | Perfect for vibrant greenery and extended photo sessions. |
| Summer (July–August) | Warm, stable weather; occasional rain showers add misty rainbows. | Ideal for families; longer days make it easy to combine with nearby attractions. |
| Early Autumn (September) | Golden foliage begins to appear, and the water flow remains strong. | Photographers love the contrast of amber leaves against dark basalt. |
| Winter (December–February) | The waterfall may partially freeze, creating icy sculptures; the surrounding landscape is starkly beautiful. | For adventurous travelers who enjoy winter photography and fewer visitors. |
Tip: The waterfall is accessible year‑round, but the safest driving conditions are from late spring to early autumn. Winter road conditions can be icy, so check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) before heading out.
5. What to Expect
When you arrive at Tröllafossar, you’ll be greeted by a gentle roar as water slides over layered basalt, creating a mist that clings to the surrounding moss. The trail leads you to a low‑level viewing platform where you can:
- Feel the spray – A fine mist cools the air, especially on sunny days, making it a refreshing pause during a road trip.
- Listen to nature – Beyond the water, you’ll hear the soft chirp of Arctic terns and the occasional rustle of reindeer grazing nearby.
- Take in the panorama – The falls cascade into the Borgarfjörður river, which continues downstream toward the fjord. The surrounding hills are dotted with lava fields, giving the area a raw, otherworldly feel.
Because the height of the falls isn’t officially recorded, the experience is more about the cumulative beauty of multiple small drops rather than a single towering plunge. This makes Tröllafossar especially photogenic for long‑exposure shots that capture the silky motion of water.
6. Nearby Attractions
While Tröllafossar is a highlight on its own, the surrounding area is a treasure trove of waterfalls and natural wonders. All are within a short drive (or a brief walk) from the main site:
- [Tröllafossar (waterfall) – 0.2 km] – The main cascade you’re already visiting.
- [Tröllafossar (waterfall) – 0.3 km] – A secondary viewpoint offering a different angle of the same falls.
- [Veiðifoss (waterfall) – 0.5 km] – A modest, yet striking waterfall nestled in a narrow gorge; perfect for a quick photo stop.
- [Lækjarfoss (waterfall) – 0.5 km] – Known for its clear, turquoise pool at the base, ideal for a short picnic.
- [Kerin (waterfall) – 1.2 km] – A slightly larger cascade that drops into a moss‑covered basin, providing a serene setting for meditation or a quiet break.
(All links lead to further information on each waterfall, helping you plan a full waterfall‑hopping itinerary.)
7. Travel Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Dress in layers | Icelandic weather changes quickly. A waterproof jacket, warm fleece, and sturdy hiking boots are essential. |
| Bring a rain cover for your camera | The mist from the falls can be intense, especially in summer. A protective sleeve keeps gear safe. |
| Pack a snack & water | While there’s a small picnic area near the parking lot, there are no cafés on site. |
| Respect the environment | Stay on marked paths to protect fragile moss and basalt formations. Leave no trace. |
| Check road conditions | Use the Vegagerðin website or the “Road.is” app for real‑time updates, especially in winter. |
| Timing for photography | Early morning or late afternoon light creates the best contrast and reduces glare on the water. |
| Combine with a cultural stop | The nearby town of Borgarnes offers the Settlement Center museum, giving insight into Icelandic sagas and early settlement history. |
| Currency & payments | Credit cards are accepted everywhere; cash is rarely needed. |
| Mobile connectivity | Coverage is good along Route 35, but consider downloading offline maps just in case. |
Final Thoughts
Tröllafossar may not have the dramatic height of Dettifoss or the fame of Seljalandsfoss, but its quiet elegance, easy accessibility, and surrounding natural beauty make it a must‑visit for anyone traveling through West Iceland. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a family on a road‑trip adventure, or a solo traveler seeking a peaceful spot to reflect, Tröllafossar offers a slice of Icelandic serenity that will linger in your memory long after you leave the misty spray behind.
Pack your camera, lace up your boots, and let the gentle roar of Tröllafossar guide you to one of Iceland’s most enchanting hidden waterfalls.
