Discover Brúarhlöð Canyon: A Quiet Gem Just Off the Golden Circle
Iceland's Golden Circle has three main stops and many secondary ones. But even if you’ve decided to stop in one of the lesser-known ones, you’ve probably skipped Brúarhlöð Canyon. It’s not very well-known, but this spot is worth pulling over for.
Tucked along the Hvítá River just south of Gullfoss, one of the main stops in the Golden Circle, this narrow gorge is an astonishing view. The river has sculpted a dramatic scene over centuries, and it's all so close to the main sights that you can easily add it to your day without much extra driving. It’s close to the action, but not many tourists know of its existence, so you’ll likely have a quiet and wonderful break in the middle of one of the busiest traveling destinations in the country.
Brúarhlöð feels like Iceland's little secret, so come with us to discover everything there’s to know about it.
Key Takeaways
- Brúarhlöð is a canyon on the Hvítá River, in Southwest Iceland.
- It’s considered one of the secondary stops of the famous Golden Circle.
- The name can be translated as “bridge pools.”
What's Brúarhlöð?
Brúarhlöð is a canyon on the Hvitá River. It’s pronounced, in English, something like "broo-ar-hluth,” and it can also be spelled "Bruarhlod," without the Icelandic special characters. You don’t need to worry about looking it up on the Internet or in the maps app; it’s fine this way. Either way, the name of this place means "bridge pools," which is quite a descriptive name, something that happens often with natural landmarks in Iceland.
The canyon is not huge, but it is really beautiful. The Hvítá River runs through here, slicing between tall walls and pillars of dark rock, creating a scene that makes it look like ancient ruins. The waters of the river are quite calm at this point, and, of course, there’s a bridge that spans over the canyon, hence the name of this place.
Those dark rocks we mentioned are composed of hyaloclastite, formed when lava meets ice during past volcanic eruptions. The lava cools down very quickly, forming the hyaloclastite. Over time, the river has worn down these stones, carving the canyon. One of the most striking aspects of Brúarhlöð Canyon is the color of the water, a creamy, chalky blue that contrasts with the dark rocks around.
Why Visit Brúarhlöð Over Other Attractions in Iceland?
What we love the most about this location is how it feels untouched compared to the busier Golden Circle spots. This route is one of the most visited in the entire country, and its monuments are often buzzing with tourists. However, when you get to this hidden jewel, you park your car, walk a short path, and find yourself overlooking the river below from the cliffs. And chances are you’ll find very few fellow travelers. If you’re lucky enough, you might enjoy the canyon to yourself.
It's not a huge canyon like others that can be found in Iceland. It’s about a 20-meter (66 feet) drop for most of it. On the other hand, the shape of the gorge generates a sound echo. And, as it happens with many other natural elements in this country, there’s a legend attached to Brúarhlöð. It says that two of the biggest pillars are actually trolls named Karl and Kerling. They were out causing trouble one night and got caught by the sunrise, turning them to stone forever. It's that classic Icelandic folklore that makes places like this even more fun to visit.
The bridge that goes over the canyon is part of Route 30, one of the main roads in South Iceland. It connects the eastern part of the Golden Circle with the Ring Road further south. Historically, the first wooden bridge was built in 1929 so local farmers could reach other areas without the need to take a huge detour. That original structure didn’t last long, as it was wiped out by floods. The Hvitá is a glacial river, and glacial floods are rare but devastating when they occur. They rebuilt it, but nature won again in the '50s, so the current concrete one dates to 1959. It’s a narrow, single-laned bridge used for light traffic, but it’s also shared with bikes and horses. You can even walk across it and get a whole new angle on the canyon.
There’s a gravel road that goes off Route 30 just on the eastern side of the bridge that leads to a parking area. From there, it’s a very short hike, around 1 minute, to the viewing points over the canyon. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic. There are not many noises, apart from the one from the river and occasional birds; the nature around is gorgeous, and it’s a really relaxing and peaceful place.
Overall, it’s a great stop to make as part of a road trip through this part of the country. You can stop on your way between two other destinations or just take a small detour -less than 10 minutes by car- from the Golden Circle and enjoy its unique beauty.
Where's Brúarhlöð and How to Get There
Even if Brúarhlöð feels like a remote location, it’s quite close to many famous landmarks in Iceland, making it a convenient stop in a road trip through this part of the country. In fact, there’s no better way to go there than by car. This way, you can go whenever you feel like, at your own pace, following your itinerary, and stopping at one of the many amazing things nearby. There are no public buses that go there, and not many group tours stop at Brúarhlöð.
If you’re going from Reykjavik, the canyon is about 116 kilometers (72 miles) east of the capital, right in the heart of South Iceland. It's practically on the Golden Circle loop, so if you're already heading to the Geysir Geothermal Area or Gullfoss, you're golden.
There are two routes of the same distance that you can follow from Reykjavik. The first one starts by taking the Ring Road (Route 1) heading north. Just after the city of Mosfellsbær, turn right onto Route 36. This road is the first part of the Golden Circle, passing through Þingvellir National Park. Drive for 45 kilometers (28 miles) on said road and then take Route 365 to Laugarvatn. There, head north via Route 37, which will transition into Route 35. A couple of kilometers after passing by the Geysir Geothermal Area, turn right onto Route 30. The parking area is by a short gravel road on the right-hand side just after crossing the bridge over the Hvitá River.
The other option is taking Route 1 eastbound from Reykjavik and driving for 55 kilometers (34 miles). Just before hitting Selfoss, the main city in South Iceland, turn left onto Route 35, going north. Drive for some time and take Route 358, which will lead to Route 30 just before the bridge.
Either way, the whole drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes, depending on stops and traffic. Fuel up in Laugarvatn if you take the first itinerary, or in Selfoss or Hveragerði in the southern route; there's nothing right at the canyon.
What to See and Do Near Brúarhlöð
Brúarhlöð is a magical place by itself. However, as we have already mentioned, it’s practically part of the Golden Circle, a 300-kilometer (186-mile) loop that connects some of the best things to see in this part of the country. Also, apart from the Golden Circle, the canyon is also close to other monuments in South Iceland that deserve your attention.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Less than ten minutes away from Brúarhlöð we can find one of the most active geothermal areas in Iceland. It gets its name from the Great Geysir, now extinct, a powerful geyser that gave the name to this feature worldwide. Today, the star is another geyser called Strokkur, which erupts every five to ten minutes sending water up to 20 meters (66 feet) into the sky. But that’s not all to it. There are colorful mineral and sulfur deposits, steam vents, and bubbling mud pots. Some of the parts look really strange, like from another planets. There are several boardwalks to see it all. You can’t step outside them to preserve this geological wonder and also because the floor is hot at certain points.
Gullfoss Waterfall
There are many spectacular waterfalls in Iceland and, without a doubt, Gullfoss is one of the most famous and spectacular of them all. It’s quite close to Brúarhlöð, just a few kilometers upstream, they are both part of the same river. It’s a two-tiered waterfall with a total drop of 32 meters (105 feet), and the volume of water is impressive. The name Gullfoss means “golden falls,” as the mist from the water creates a colorful effect when the sun is out. There are two viewing platforms to fully enjoy the experience. One is on the higher level, from where you’ll get a panoramic view of the cascade and its surroundings. The other one gets you closer to the water. It’s a good idea to visit the waterfall wearing waterproof clothes, as the power of the water can soak you.
Brúarfoss Waterfall
If you want to see another but completely different waterfall, you’re in luck. Brúarfoss is one of the secondary stops in the Golden Circle, and is not as visited and known as other places in this route. This one is much smaller than Gullfoss, but its looks are astonishing. This horseshoe shaped waterfall, whose name means “bridge waterfall,” drops 3 meters (10 feet) in multiple smaller cascades. What really stands out is the color of the water, of a turquoise hue. There’s a parking area by the road and, from there, it’s a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) trail.
Þingvellir National Park
The third main stop in the Golden Circle (the other two are Geysir and Gullfoss) is this amazing national park, one of the three that can be found in Iceland. Þingvellir, which can also be spelled Thingvellir, is a UNESCO Heritage Site of high importance at geological and historical levels. Here, you can see the separation between the North American and the Eurasian tectonic plates. On the ground, you can walk between two continents in the Almannagjá gorge. Underwater, one of the most attractive features of the park is the Silfra fissure, where you can swim between both plates at the same time. At a historical level, Þingvellir is the place where the Alþingi, or Althing, Iceland’s parliament, was first established in the year 930 AD. Chieftains from all over the island used to gather here to settle disputes, debate, and create new laws. Don’t miss Öxarárfoss, a lovely waterfall inside the park.
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
One of the nicest experiences a trip to Iceland must have is a relaxing geothermal bath. And, luckily for you, there are two great options near Brúarhlöð. One is the Secret Lagoon, Gamla Laugin in Icelandic, the oldest geothermal pool in the country. Established in 1891, the main bathing area is fed by a natural hot spring and maintains a constant temperature throughout the year at 38-40°C (100-104°F). The facilities include changing rooms, showers, and a small café. Towel and swimsuit rentals are available if you need them. You should book ahead, particularly during the summer, as the lagoon can get crowded with tour groups.
Faxi Waterfall
Another waterfall in the area, just by Route 35, only 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Brúarhlöð. It’s not huge, but is in a turn of the river and the natural surroundings are breathtaking. There’s a parking area off the road, so it’s a perfect place to make a quick stop and take some pictures.
Laugarvatn Fontana
The other option for a geothermal bath in the region, in the heart of the Golden Circle. The Laugarvatn Fontana, on the shore of the lake of the same name, has two main pools, called Lauga and Sæla, at 36°C and 40°C (97°F and 104°F), respectively. There’s also a hot tub with views of the lake, and steam rooms, built directly over the hot springs, so the steam is not artificial. For this reason, the intensity of the steam varies depending on the time and day. The most distinctive element of the Laugarvatn Fontana is that it has a bakery that cooks bread using geothermal heat. They bury the dough in the ground for 24 hours, and you can taste it afterwards with a bit of butter.
Skálholt Cathedral
For a historical visit, go to Skálholt, Iceland's bishop's seat since 1056. The modern cathedral, built in the 1950s, has an exhibition about Iceland’s religious past and its role in shaping national identity. The remains of the old cathedral can still be seen.
Where to Stay Near Brúarhlöð
The area around the Golden Circle has plenty of places to spend the night. If you are looking for accommodation near Brúarhlöð, here we have selected a few that are very good and also quite close to the canyon.
Torfhús Retreat is one of the most unique. Drawing from Viking inspiration, it has eight wooden turf houses (torfhús, in Icelandic) with modern amenities. It’s a luxurious hotel, featuring a basalt hot pool and a very good restaurant.
Mengi Kjarnholt is a nice bed and breakfast in a traditional Icelandic house, part of a farm. It’s in the middle of a green meadow, close to a river. It has comfortable rooms with a shared bathroom. It has a hot tub outside and, of course, breakfast is included.
Camping culture is strong in Iceland, and there are two good options 10 minutes away from Brúarhlöð. Geysir Camping Ground is just next door to the geothermal area and has toilets, showers, electricity, Wi-Fi, and a washing machine. There’s a restaurant across the road, and there’s even a golf course nearby. The setting makes it unique, but it can get quite busy during peak season.
Not far from it, halfway between Gullfoss and Geysir Geothermal Area, Skjól is a well-equipped campsite with toilets, showers, electricity hookups, free Wi-Fi, a BBQ area, and a playground for children. It also has a bar that serves food and drinks.
Hotel Geysir, a family-run establishment opposite the camping ground, has modern and comfortable rooms with views of the geothermal area. It has a very good restaurant and access to the golf course.
Close to the famous waterfall, Hotel Gullfoss offers simple and comfortable rooms. The hotel has a bar and a restaurant open from 18:00 - 21:00 every day.
The Weather in Brúarhlöð
When traveling to Iceland, it’s essential to take the weather as a crucial factor, especially when most of the things you’ll want to see are in the open air. The climate on this island is unpredictable, and it's constantly changing, so check the forecast every morning.
Winter (November to March): Short days (4-5 hours of light) and temperatures from -1°C to 3°C (30-37°F). Everything is covered in snow, and the frosted rock pillars in the canyon look straight out of a fairy tale. If the night is clear, there is a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights.
Spring (April and May): Warming to 1-7°C (34-45°F), with longer days and fairer weather. The snow starts to melt, giving way to the green fields around Brúarhlöð. The river is at full flow, especially late in the season. It rains often, leaving the trails and roads muddy and slippery.
Summer (June to August): The best time weather-wise. The temperatures are mild, around 10-15°C (50-59°F), and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring late in the evening. The weather is stable, but there are always chances for sudden rain. It’s peak season, so expect more tourists, although Brúarhlöð remains relatively quiet. In this season, it’s highly recommended to book accommodation well in advance in the Golden Circle.
Autumn (September and October): The temperatures gradually cool down, staying normally at 3-9°C (37-48°F). Rain and wind become more common and stronger, and the days grow gradually shorter. It’s the season with fewer tourists.
What to Pack to Visit Brúarhlöð
Brúarhlöð's trails and temps call for smart packing—think versatile layers for wet winds and that ever-shifting light. Here's what'll keep you comfy and ready:
- Waterproof boots with good grip and proper ankle support.
- Layered clothing. It’s the best way to adapt to the ever-changing Icelandic weather. Thermal base; wool or fleece for intermediate; waterproof on the outside.
- Hat, gloves, and a scarf; especially outside summer.
- Backpack stocked with water and snacks. There are no shops at Brúarhlöð.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen. Even if it’s not hot, the UV rays can be very strong in the warmer months. In winter, the reflection off the snow can be quite harmful.
- Swimsuit and towel for the geothermal baths.
Travel Tips
- Drive carefully on gravel roads. A regular car can cope with the roads in the area; there’s no need for a 4x4 vehicle. But if it rains, these roads can become very difficult.
- Don’t leave marked paths and take all the trash with you.
- Even if it’s not a very visited place, early mornings or late evenings mean a less-crowded canyon.
- Don’t rely only on online maps. Cell phone signal can be low in some areas, so a paper map or offline ones can save the day.
- Fuel up in cities or towns, as gas stations are scarce along the Golden Circle route.
Conclusion
There are some places in Iceland that not many people have heard of but that are absolute gems. The Golden Circle is one of the most famous routes in the country, and some of its monuments are famous. But not Brúarhlöð. This canyon is far from the crowds, yet is a wonderful surprise that will do nothing but enhance your travel experience.