Oxararfoss

South

The Öxará river was diverted — most likely after the Alþingi was established in 930 AD — to flow over the lava cliffs at Almannagjá, creating Öxarárfoss and providing fresh water for the assembly gatherings. The falls drop around 13 meters and are modest in scale, but the setting inside the rift canyon is what earns a visit: dark basalt walls on both sides and the knowledge that you are standing on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. In winter the cascade frequently freezes into ice columns. The walk from the Þingvellir visitor center parking area is easy and takes about 15 to 20 minutes each way, running along the edge of Almannagjá before descending into the canyon. The valley gets busy at midday with Golden Circle tour coaches; arriving early or in the evening means quieter trails. Þingvellir is roughly 45 minutes from Reykjavík on Route 36. Entry to the national park is free, though parking carries a fee. Most visitors fold Öxarárfoss into a broader walk combining it with views over Þingvallavatn and the historic parliament site below.

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