Stuðlagil canyon is a beautiful canyon that hardly anyone knew about until recently. It is formed by numerous gigantic basalt rock columns on both sides of the river. For a long time the canyon was hidden under the water. With the introduction of an hydroelectric plant in 2009 the water level decreased drastically, which made the canyon appear. In summer, from June until the second week of August this place is even more beautiful when the color of the river is turquoise green, showing a wonderful contrast with the gigantic grey basalt columns. In the third week of August, the hydroelectric reservoir is full and the overflow sends the dirty glacial water down the river, making the water brown and dirty. Although the color of the river changes over the seasons, the beautiful basalt columns formation remains very impressive to see.

You can see the river from both the east and the west side. Viewing the canyon from the west side is much less exciting. Here, you can stand on an oddly placed platform, offering you a minimal overview of the canyon. We recommend making your way to the east side. Navigate to farm Klaustursel, where you find a bridge with a parking lot. You can either park your car here, or you can drive over the bridge, turn right and continue your way for 2 kilometers over a not so smooth dirt road towards the closest parking lot. It’s not the best road, and only recommended when driving a 4x4 or a stick shift. When you’ve parked your car you have to walk for another 2 kilometers to the canyon. On the way you pass Stuðlafoss, one of the most beautiful basalt column waterfalls. When you arrive at the canyon you can stay on top of the canyon, or you can climb down to the river to see the basalt columns from up close. But be careful because it can be wet and really slippery.