Kvernufoss Waterfall | The Secret Neighbour to the Famous Skógafoss

You might have heard about the famous Skógafoss Waterfall on the south coast of Iceland. One of the country’s most photographed waterfalls. But did you know that Skógafoss has a very beautiful neighbour called Kvernufoss Waterfall? Well, now you know! If the plan is to make a stop at Skógafoss on your trip along the Icelandic scenic south coast, you might want to check this one out too. Well worth the short walk if you ask me.

How to Find Kvernufoss Waterfall

Kvernufoss Waterfall is tucked away and not clearly visible from the main road like Skógafoss. But it’s easy to find when you know where to look. All you have to do is find Skógar Museum which is located to the right of Skógafoss. Then you park as far away from the gate as you can. Just drive past the museum buildings until you can’t come any further. There you should see a sign that says Kvernufoss.

Or you could just write “Kvernufoss parking” in google maps and voila, google will take you to the right spot. I should probably have led with that one… Well, at least now you know what to expect on your way there 🙂

The walk to Kvernufoss Waterfall is an easy one (not really a hike even though I put this post also in that category). It’s about 1km (0.6mi) each way and the gravel trail is wide and even until you get closer to the waterfall. Then it becomes a bit more narrow but still a very good trail.

Please watch your step though as the surroundings get wet and slippery near the waterfall.

When you start the walk it doesn’t look like anything special. But then all of a sudden, when you’ve walked a few meters along the small creek, an amazing spot starts to unfold. Kvernufoss Waterfall is tucked away in the bottom of a small but beautiful ravine. You can get very close to it and even walk behind it which always adds to the experience when visiting a waterfall. It may also make you a little wet so be prepared for that!

A Hidden Gem in Plain Sight

I’ve truly enjoyed my few visits to Kvernufoss. Find it to be a little magical place hidden in plain sight. The waterfall itself is small but the moss covered rock walls and green grass around it make it really beautiful. At least in summer. I haven’t been there in any other season yet, but I should do something about that. Definitely also beautiful. Just different. Will add some photos when I do.

So if you’re planning on visiting Skógafoss you might also want to add Kvernufoss to your list. Or if you’ve already seen Skógafoss, and didn’t plan on stopping there again, I recommend you make a stop here instead. Stretch your legs a little while checking this little hidden beauty of a waterfall.

Like by many others sites around Iceland, parking at Kernufoss is no longer free. The easiest way to pay for it is via an app called Parka. In 2024, the parking was 750 ISK.

If you liked this post and think some of your friends might be interested in reading it too, please help me spread the word. I’d really appreciate it if you’d share it on social media.

Until next time!