Gjáin
Explore Gjáin, an oasis in the heart of the Þjórsárdalur valley. This verdant gully, a rarity in Iceland, seems to emerge from nowhere in the midst of barren lava fields. Long unknown to tourists, Gjáin, meaning “rift” in Icelandic, gained in popularity after its appearance in the “Game of Thrones” series.
This small valley offers a striking contrast between its lush greenery, dark volcanic structures and strikingly blue waterfalls. The Rauðá river feeds several waterfalls at Gjáin, including the majestic 15-metre-high Gjárfoss, pouring its waters from volcanic rock into a pond.
Viewpoint technical sheet
Remarks
How to get there: The route to Gjáin doesn't take an F-road, but it does take some very bumpy tracks. A 4WD vehicle is therefore strongly recommended.
Nearby hikes
Hikes to discover
Let chance guide your steps: discover a random selection of the best hikes in Iceland.
Leirhnjúkur Hike
- Difficulty : Easy
- Duration : 1 h 45
- Distance : 4.6 km
- Elevation gain : 100 m
Suðurnámur Hike
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Duration : 3 h 30
- Distance : 10.1 km
- Elevation gain : 510 m
Thingvellir National Park Hike
- Difficulty : Very easy
- Duration : 1 h 30
- Distance : 5.1 km
- Elevation gain : 80 m
Zone géothermique de Hverir
Sveinstindur Hike
- Difficulty : Easy
- Duration : 2 h
- Distance : 3.5 km
- Elevation gain : 420 m
Tindfjöll Circuit Hike
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Duration : 3 h 30
- Distance : 8.8 km
- Elevation gain : 380 m