Foss á Síðu

The Waterfall That Blows Upward

Most waterfalls obey gravity. Foss á Síðu sometimes does not. This slender cascade drops from a cliff along Iceland's Route 1, falling roughly 30 metres toward the ground beside a picturesque farm. On calm days, the water reaches the base in a thin, elegant stream. But when the South Coast winds pick up — which happens frequently — the water is caught mid-fall and blown backward, sideways, and even upward. It sprays into the air like smoke, never reaching the ground at all.

This wind effect is what sets Foss á Síðu apart from Iceland's hundreds of other waterfalls. The waterfall itself is modest in size, but the sight of water defying gravity is genuinely surprising, especially if you catch it during a strong storm.

The Setting

The waterfall drops from a cliff edge that runs along the southern edge of the highland plateau. Below, the farm of Foss á Síðu sits in green pastureland, its white buildings and grazing sheep creating a scene that feels timeless. The name simply means "waterfall at Síða" — the long ridge above Route 1 between Vik and Kirkjubaejarklaustur.

The farm has been continuously occupied for centuries. In Icelandic folklore, the cliff behind the waterfall was said to house hidden people. The combination of the historic farm, the cliff, and the waterfall makes for one of the most atmospheric roadside stops on the South Coast.

Visiting

There is no formal parking area, but a wide gravel pull-off on Route 1 allows you to stop safely. The waterfall is visible directly from the road, so you do not need to hike or cross any barriers. Respect the farm property and do not enter fenced areas.

The waterfall runs year-round but varies with rainfall and snowmelt. The wind effect is most dramatic during winter storms and strong autumn winds. Even on a calm day, the slender waterfall against the cliff and farmstead is worth a brief stop.

Getting There

Foss á Síðu is on Route 1, approximately 15 kilometres east of Kirkjubaejarklaustur and 260 kilometres from Reykjavik. If driving the Ring Road, you will pass directly by it. The waterfall is on the north side of the road — easy to spot from the car. It makes a natural break on the long stretch between Vik and Hofn.