Goðafoss Waterfall

Nicknamed “The Beauty” in contrast to Dettifoss’ “The Beast,” Goðafoss means “The Waterfall of the Gods. ”This elegant waterfall is one of the highlights of the Diamond Circle in North Iceland. Its history is tied to Iceland’s conversion to Christianity around the year 1000. Þorgeir Þorkelsson, the Lawspeaker of Alþingi, decided the nation would embrace Christianity while allowing pagans to worship privately. To mark this choice, he cast his pagan idols into Goðafoss, giving the waterfall its name. The semicircular falls create a dramatic stage, with colors shifting from bright blue and green in sunshine to darker hues on overcast days.
Goðafoss is stunning year-round, but in spring, icicles add a magical touch. In 2000, a church by Lake Ljósavatn was built to honor Þorgeir and the 1000-year anniversary of Christianity in Iceland.
Visitors can view the waterfall from both sides: the right gives a panoramic view, while the left offers a closer perspective down by the river. Caution is needed on the steep paths—and unlike Þorgeir, no one should throw anything into the falls today!
Next to the waterfall is a little restaurant and guesthouse named Fosshóll. With views across to the falls, they also provide free wi-fi access to customers.
There is also a gas station, public toilet and shop where souvenirs and local handicrafts are being sold.