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Waterfalls of West Iceland: Glymur

For those seeking a truly dramatic natural experience, few places can rival a visit to Glymur. Located in Botnsdalur in Hvalfjörður, the waterfall plunges 198 metres into a narrow and spectacular canyon. Long considered the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur remains one of the country’s most impressive natural landmarks. Its water originates from Hvalvatn, one of Iceland’s deepest lakes, before flowing through the river Botnsá and cascading over the cliff edge into the gorge below.
09.11.2026

Location

Botnsdalur in Hvalfjörður.

Municipality

Hvalfjarðarsveit.

Accessibility

The hike to Glymur typically takes 3-4 hours round trip. The trail is well-defined and marked in several places, but it is considered challenging, with steep slopes, loose scree, and narrow sections along the route.

What Makes Glymur Special?

It is not only the height of the waterfall that makes it remarkable, but also its surroundings. Glymur plunges into one of Iceland’s most dramatic canyons, and from the viewpoints above the falls visitors are rewarded with sweeping views over Hvalfjörður and the surrounding mountain landscape.

Did You Know?

Hvalvatn, which feeds the waterfall, is approximately 160 metres deep and is the second-deepest lake in Iceland. The area is also rich in geological history dating back to the Ice Age, when Hvalfell was formed during a volcanic eruption beneath a glacier.

Good to Know Before You Go

The hike to Glymur is one of the most popular hiking trails in West Iceland, but it can also be demanding and potentially dangerous. The route traverses steep hillsides, loose scree slopes and rocky paths along a deep canyon, often without guardrails. Extra caution should be exercised near the canyon edges, in wet conditions and whenever the trail surface is slippery.

ATTENTION!: The trail can be extremely dangerous during the winter months and should only be attempted by experienced hikers equipped with appropriate winter gear. Glymur is generally considered a summer and autumn destination, and visitors should carefully assess weather and trail conditions before setting out.

During the summer season, a log bridge with a safety cable is placed across the river Botnsá on the lower section of the trail. The bridge is removed in autumn, which means that the route may become inaccessible or highly hazardous outside the summer hiking season. Visitors are strongly encouraged to check current conditions, weather forecasts and safety information before beginning their hike.

Good hiking boots, weatherproof clothing and staying on marked trails are highly recommended. The route is not suitable for everyone and may be particularly challenging for those with a fear of heights, inexperienced hikers and families with very young children.

Photo Ideas

  1. A panoramic view of Glymur from a distance.
  2. The waterfall viewed from the southern rim of the canyon.
  3. The hiking trail with Hvalfjörður in the background.
  4. Autumn colours in Botnsdalur.
  5. The waterfall in spring when water levels are at their highest.