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Ljósafoss Power Station

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

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The Ljósafoss Hydropower Plant, located on the Sog River at the outlet of Lake Thingvallavatn, is one of Iceland's oldest and most architecturally significant power stations. Commissioned in 1937, it was instrumental in supplying electricity to the capital, Reykjavík, and driving the electrification of the southwestern region. The building is renowned for its clean Bauhaus-inspired design and is currently protected as an industrial monument representing the pioneering era of Icelandic energy production. Despite its modest capacity of 15 megawatts compared to modern facilities, it has reliably provided clean energy for nearly nine decades, utilizing the steady outflow from the country's largest natural lake. The plant operates with a hydraulic head of approximately 17 meters and houses three turbines that have been modernized over time to maintain operational efficiency. In addition to its role as a power generator, Ljósafoss now hosts an interactive visitor center that educates the public on the history and importance of renewable energy in Iceland. Its harmonious integration into the scenic Sog riverside makes it a popular stop for those interested in industrial heritage.

Location: Iceland
Nearby: Laugarvatn (15 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	-1	-1	0	3	6	9	11	10	8	4	1	-1
Rain mm	179	162	161	123	96	86	105	121	184	149	149	182

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

This historical power plant on the Sog River stands as a monumental landmark in Iceland's modern history, marking the true beginning of the country's large-scale electrification. It beautifully showcases early twentieth-century industrial architecture integrated with a powerful river.

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Visiting

Historically, the facility has housed an interactive exhibition about sustainable energy generation, though public viewing hours can vary significantly. Regardless of the interior access, visitors can usually walk around the perimeter to marvel at the impressive dam infrastructure.

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Where to view it

Excellent views of the turbine houses and the rushing water are available directly from the adjacent parking areas and the bridges spanning the Sog River. The contrasting colors of the vintage concrete structures against the lively blue glacial water offer great photographic moments.

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Local products

The immediate area is primarily devoted to energy production, so there are no retail shops on-site. However, the nearby towns of Selfoss and Hveragerði provide an abundance of local Icelandic goods, from greenhouse-grown vegetables to traditional dairy delicacies.

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Active season

The rushing waters and spinning turbines are a continuous force of nature and engineering throughout all seasons. A visit during the warmer summer months generally allows for more pleasant outdoor exploration and better road conditions for accessing the surrounding nature.

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Nearby

This site is exceptionally situated near the popular Golden Circle route, making it an easy addition to a day trip. You can seamlessly combine it with visits to the volcanic crater Kerið, the geothermal active town of Hveragerði, and the majestic Þingvellir National Park.

Geography

Coordinates

64.15000, -21.01100

Facts

The power plant was officially commissioned in 1937.
The total installed capacity is 15 megawatts.
The station operates with a hydraulic head of about 17 meters.
It is located on the Sog River, the outlet of Lake Thingvallavatn.
The building is a prime example of Bauhaus architectural style.
The site now features a modern interactive energy exhibition.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Þingvallavatn7 km · NWExplore →

Nesjavellir Power Station13 km · WExplore →

Thingvellir National Park13 km · NWExplore →

Hengill15 km · WExplore →

Laugarvatn15 km · NEExplore →

Hveragerði19 km · SWExplore →

Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Station23 km · SWExplore →

Selfoss Dairy Plant23 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Overnight stops

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

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Ljósafoss power plant historically important?

Operating since 1937, it was one of the first major plants to supply Reykjavík.

Is there an exhibition there?

Yes, Ljósafossstöð houses an interactive exhibition about energy and electricity.

What are the opening hours of the exhibition?

Typically daily from 10 AM to 5 PM in summer; entry is often free.

Where exactly is the power plant located?

Located by the Sog river, near Lake Úlfljótsvatn, not far from the Golden Circle.

Is it family-friendly?

Yes, the interactive stations are particularly interesting for children and school groups.

Ljósafoss Power Station: where is it located?

Ljósafoss Power Station is located in Iceland.

Ljósafoss Power Station: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Ljósafoss Power Station: why is it worth visiting?

The Ljósafoss Hydropower Plant, located on the Sog River at the outlet of Lake Thingvallavatn, is one of Iceland's oldest and most architecturally significant power stations.

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