Goðafoss

The Goðafoss (Icelandic: waterfall of the gods or waterfall of the goði) is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. It is located in the Mývatn district of North-Central Iceland at the beginning of the Sprengisandur highland road. The water of the river Skjálfandafljót falls from a height of 12 meters over a width of 30 meters.

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In the year 999 or 1000 the Lawspeaker Þorgeirr Ljósvetningagoði made Christianity the official religion of Iceland. After his conversion it is said that upon returning from the Alþingi, Þorgeirr threw his statues of the Norse gods into the waterfall. Þorgeirr's story is preserved in Ari Þorgilsson's Íslendingabók.

A window in the Cathedral of Akureyri (Akureyrarkirkja) illustrates this story.

See also

  • Waterfalls of Iceland

External links

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George M.
9 March 2016
We visited during wintertime and the waterfall was half frozen, which made it extra epic. Definitely a must see in Iceland.
Nastja Stacey
14 May 2015
Amazing and huge waterfall! Really beautiful in evening
Michael Fuchs
4 November 2018
The most beautiful waterfall I got to see. Not only because it‘s so wide but also due to the dramatic setting. On top of this it comes with a story. I took nice pictures on both sides of the falls.
Mo Moghaddas
27 May 2019
"Waterfall of the Gods." A must see for anyone visiting Iceland anytime! Back in 2018, the east side was open, but now due to constructions, the only access is via the west side of the waterfall.
Mishka
16 August 2018
Such a beauty! If you will try to walk around, you will find very special peaceful and colourful spots.
Mohammed
20 September 2022
I visited most of the waterfalls in Iceland and this will always be my favorite. Spectacular!
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0.5km from Goðafoss Sightseeing, Iceland

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Hotels near Goðafoss

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Hotel Kea Akureyri

starting $208

Hotel Kea by Keahotels

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Hotel Kjarnalundur

starting $124

Hotel Akureyri

starting $173

Acco Guesthouse

starting $92

Apotek Guesthouse Akureyri

starting $71

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