Gullfoss Waterfall

Gullfoss Waterfall, widely regarded as the most famous of Icelandic waterfalls, is located on the famous Golden Circle, Iceland's most popular tourist circuit. The Geysir Geothermal Area and Thingvellir National Park are also included in this circle. Gullfoss waterfall in South Iceland is fed by the Hvita glacial river and cascades 105 feet (32 meters) over two stages into a small river canyon. In clear conditions, you can even stroll close enough to feel the water spray on your face. In the summer, the waterfall averages 141 cubic meters (5,000 cu ft) per second and 80 cubic meters (2,800 cu ft) per second in the winter. The highest flood measured was 2,000 cubic meters (71,000 cu ft) per second.

There was much conjecture about using Gullfoss to generate power during the first part of the twentieth century and for a few years into the late twentieth century. During this time, the waterfall's proprietors, Tómas Tómasson and Halldór Halldórsson rented it out indirectly to foreign investors. However, the investors' endeavors were unsuccessful, owing in part to a shortage of funds. The waterfall was eventually sold to the Icelandic government and is now protected.