One would never know that a beautiful and wide waterfall is located in what otherwise appears to be little more than a wide expanse of seemingly flat farm land — but Vatnsleysufoss or Faxi waterfall in Iceland is typically overlooked by visitors because it is hidden in plain sight despite being located near the legendary Golden Circle of Iceland.
Vatnsleysufoss or Faxi Waterfall in Iceland
Faxi waterfall is a serene waterfall of a single tier which is 80 meters wide and seven meters in height on the Tungufljót River, whose water originates from glaciers. It is often compared to Gullfoss waterfall as its smaller version that is significantly less crowded.
Also referred to as Fossin Faxi or Vatnsleysufoss, Faxi Waterfall adds beauty to the scenic landscape of the Golden Circle. The parking area itself overlooks the falls. Take the short path to the viewing deck and a picnic table with benches that also overlooks the falls.
Although no hiking is required to enjoy the scenery, you can also revel in the charm and rushing sound of this waterfall while you tour the trail. You might even be fortunate enough to spot some Icelandic horses and a variety of birds.
Adjacent to the natural waterfall is a man-made fish ladder to help salmon swim upstream, as approximately 400 salmon breed in the Tungufljót River annually.
That the area near Faxi waterfall is a popular spot for fishing should therefore be of no surprise.
The name Faxi is likely to have originated from the Icelandic word fax, which refers to the mane of a horse.
No one else was around when I visited what may be one of the best kept secrets of Iceland.
Final Boarding Call
Although no admission fee is charged to access Faxi waterfall, the parking fee at Faxi waterfall is 700 Icelandic krónur, which is approximately $4.84 in United States dollars. A small farm shop and seasonal café are located nearby.
Faxi waterfall is located along Highway 35 near Highway 358 in Reykholt approximately 104 kilometers from Reykjavik. Allow yourself a minimum of one hour and 26 minutes to drive there.
All photographs ©2018 by Brian Cohen.
