Plizio Visual Lab

Glymur

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Glymur was long considered the highest waterfall in Iceland until the discovery of Morsárfoss at the Vatnajökull glacier in 2011. With a total drop of 198 meters, it plunges into a narrow, deep canyon located at the inner end of Hvalfjörður ('Whale Fjord'). The waterfall is fed by the Botnsá river, which originates from Lake Hvalvatn, a body of water formed when an ancient lava flow from the Hvalfell volcano blocked the valley. The hike to Glymur is widely regarded as one of the most rewarding day trips from Reykjavík, though it is moderately challenging as it involves passing through a cave and crossing a river over a log bridge. During the summer, the canyon walls are alive with nesting fulmars, adding a dynamic biological element to the stark geological landscape. Because the falls are hidden deep within the gorge and are not visible from the main road, they offer a sense of seclusion and raw wilderness that is highly prized by hikers and photographers alike.

Location: Iceland
Top sights: Hvalfell · Glymur
Nearby: Laugarvatn (32 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-4	-3	1	4	9	10	9	6	1	-2	-3
Rain mm	160	148	141	111	87	77	92	101	155	123	129	159

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The waterfall can be visited after a moderate hike. The viewpoints at the top and bottom are freely accessible.

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Typical hours

Access is generally possible around the clock. Daylight hours are significantly longer during the summer months.

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Photography

A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the full drop height. Early morning or late afternoon light is often particularly soft.

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Time needed

Allow around two to three hours for the round-trip hike. Extra time for photography and rest is recommended.

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Combine with

Combining with the nearby Hvalfjörður fjord is a good idea. Other waterfalls in western Iceland can also be easily linked.

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Getting there

The trailhead is reachable by car from the Ring Road. A marked path leads from there to the waterfall.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be slippery in places. Check the weather forecast for the area in advance.

Geography

Coordinates

64.39140, -21.25030

Facts

Glymur features a total vertical drop of 198 meters.
It held the title of Iceland's tallest waterfall until 2011.
The waterfall is located at the innermost head of the Hvalfjörður fjord.
The river Botnsá flows from Lake Hvalvatn, which is 160 meters deep.
The hiking trail famously passes through the small cave called Þvottahellir.
The steep canyon walls serve as a major nesting site for fulmars in summer.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Hvammsvik Settlement History5 km · SWExplore →

Þingvellir16 km · SExplore →

Esja24 km · SWExplore →

Þingvallavatn24 km · SExplore →

Hengill24 km · SExplore →

Skjaldbreiður24 km · EExplore →

Grundartangi Industrial Center26 km · WExplore →

Kaldidalur29 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Glymur (2)

Hvalfell📍 landmark

Mountain peak near the Glymur waterfall.

Glymur 🌿 nature

A viewpoint offering striking views of Iceland's Glymur waterfall.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Do you have to cross a river?

Yes, in summer there is usually a log with a wire cable across the river.

How long does the entire hike take?

Plan for about 3 to 4 hours for the full loop hike.

Is the hike safe in winter?

No, the path can be icy and dangerous; the log is removed in winter.

Is Glymur the highest waterfall in Iceland?

It was for a long time, but has been surpassed by Morsárfoss (228m).

Are there parking fees?

Currently, parking at the Glymur hike trailhead is free.

Glymur: where is it located?

Glymur is located in Iceland.

Glymur: what is there to see?

Highlights include Hvalfell, Glymur.

Glymur: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Glymur: why is it worth visiting?

Glymur was long considered the highest waterfall in Iceland until the discovery of Morsárfoss at the Vatnajökull glacier in 2011.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Glymur

Best time to visit & climate