The most powerful waterfall on the European continent is located in Iceland. Dettifoss translates to the Collapsing Waterfall and it plummets 144 feet down into an abyss spanning 330’.
Its impressive volume pours 96,500 gallons of water a second leaving a trail of mist that swirls for miles.
The waterfall is along the Jökulsá á Fjöllum glacial river flowing from Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, protected in Iceland’s largest national park, Vatnajökull National Park.
After swallowing your astonishment, head upriver to visit the neighboring falls Selfoss. It is approximately half a mile of mild hiking to reach this second waterfall and well worth your time.
Along the way the view of the waterfall slowly comes into sight, it is a charming path beside stark cliffs.
Leading up to the main falls, there are a series of additional spouts pouring off the side of the cliff as some of the water is diverted into a spur stream before it drops. The milky glacial water against the grey stone on a dreary morning gave stellar experience.
If you parked on the west side for your hike, it is possible to stand right beside one of the little falls.
Stunning and unique, Selfoss is wider (330 feet) than it is tall (36 feet).
Seeing both falls you can create a two mile loop.
Which side to visit?
+The East Side: Road 864
This route is a gravel road that is long and bumpy. No problem in a 2WD, but you must drive slow, so it is time consuming. From this side you can see the waterfall from the road. Access is immediate and you can climb right up to the top of the top of the falls. Informational panels and restrooms are available.
+The West Side: Road 862
From this side it is an easier drive due to the stretch of pavement, though visitors must make a short hike to reach the falls.
Restrooms are available. If you plan on visiting Vesturdalur, you must take this road and it becomes gravel, which is extremely degraded and can be managable for a 2WD with extreme caution – but it is questionable. Asbyrgi can be reached by either side.
Fun Fact: Dettifoss was featured in the science fiction film Prometheus.