Selvallafoss Waterfall

Basic Information

GPS: 64.94145, -22.90707
19 meters at height.
Hidden Waterfall.
Waterfall is not listed on maps.
You can walk behind the waterfall.

Iceland is a magnificently stunning place that never fails to attract seasoned travelers, globetrotters, and even the environmentalists. The mysterious yet calming natural environment gives you the chance to spend some quality time with your family and friends that rejuvenates you and refreshes you in the best way possible. Scrolling over the Internet, you might have seen those gorgeous pictures of Iceland with snow-capped mountains, steaming geysers, massive volcanic fields, crystal clear ice caves, and not just this, the Icelandic horse-riding tours at the beach, whale watching tours, and the Viking history, you have got everything to explore in Iceland. There are innumerable places to visit when you are in Iceland and it is always recommended to take out sufficient time to feel more closer to nature.

Now, amidst many other things to explore, what strikes us first is visiting a waterfall. Iceland has an infinite number of large and small waterfalls, some are huge and beyond your imagination, while others are small cascade style, and few are still hidden in the lap of nature. One such waterfall is Selvallafoss Waterfall that is hidden and is kept unexplored by the visitors for a long time. So, why not explore this beautiful waterfall in the Snæfellsnes area. Let’s get to know more about this waterfall and the surrounding area.

Selvallafoss: The Sheep’s Waterfall

Selvallafoss waterfall is more commonly known as “Sheep’s Waterfall”; though it is isolated from nearby area, the scenic views and the natural beauty that surrounds this place makes it worth visiting. The total height of the waterfall is nearly 63 feet (19 meters), and the tallest drop is 35 feet (11 meters), while the other one is 11 feet, which is immediately after the first one and there are major 3 drops that looks majestic. The cascade style waterfall is a treat to watch. The water comes along the stream Fossá and apart from the smaller ones, the three larger cascades add up to the beauty of this waterfall. While you circumnavigate the Snæfellsness Peninsula area, you will come across this majestic waterfall.

There are multi-step cliffs too and makes it even more visually appealing, a perfect place for photography. The short walking distances over the cascades will allow you to cross the puddles and get clicked right in front of the waterfall. And the best thing, you can even walk behind this waterfall, there is a trail that leads just behind the waterfall, but watch your steps, the area is a bit slippery and has moss, mud that can be dangerous if not paid attention. Capture the beautiful tiers, either from behind the fall or from the front. Carry a raincoat or wear suitable clothes, when you try to go near the waterfall as the water drizzles over from the waterfall. Wear suitable boots or sturdy shoes that provide you perfect grip even on the slippery trails.

Not just this, you can even hike up the waterfall, the surrounding area, though a bit muddy and slippery, but it won’t take much effort to climb up on the top of the Selvallafoss, it will indeed give a beautiful panoramic view to capture. When in Snæfellsnes Peninsula, sheep’s waterfall is a must-visit. Since it is not visited by many people, there are fewer chances you get to interact with any other tourist.

How to Reach Selvallafoss waterfall?

If you are traveling from Reykjavík, the capital city of Iceland, then it will take you approximately 1 hour and 57 minutes to cover nearly 153 kilometers. Selvallafoss waterfall is located off the Road-56. It is not listed on any maps so it is ideal to have the GPS coordinates with you. You can start your drive from Reykjavík by following Suðurgata to Hringbraut/Route 49 and then, continuing on Þjóðvegur 1, Þjóðvegur and then, finally Snæfellsnesvegur to Vatnaleið, Vesturland. This route will take you towards the car parking area that is near the waterfall and, from there you can hike till the Selvallafoss waterfall.