Iceland is a dreamland of waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and volcanoes. But beyond the famous Golden Circle and the busy Blue Lagoon, there are quiet, magical places that many travelers miss. These hidden gems are where you can feel the real heart of Iceland. I want to share some of these secret spots that I visited or discovered while planning my trip. If you love peace, mystery, and raw beauty, you’ll want to explore these places too.
Gjáin – A Fairytale Canyon
Gjáin is a small valley in the Þjórsárdalur region, about two hours from Reykjavik. It’s not a common stop, but it should be. You won’t believe how pretty it is until you see it with your own eyes. Waterfalls tumble down mossy rocks, clear streams wind through the green, and strange rock formations rise all around you.
There’s something magical here. It feels like stepping into a storybook. You can walk along tiny footpaths, cross small wooden bridges, and explore in every direction. In summer, the wildflowers bloom everywhere. You might even recognize it if you’ve watched Game of Thrones. One of the scenes with Arya Stark was filmed right here.
To get to Gjáin, you’ll need a 4×4 car, especially if you’re visiting outside of summer. The gravel roads can be rough. But the peaceful, untouched beauty is worth the effort.
Hvitserkur – The Dragon Rock of the North
On the Vatnsnes Peninsula in North Iceland stands a strange rock formation called Hvitserkur. It looks like a giant creature drinking from the sea. Some say it’s a dragon. Others think it looks like a dinosaur. It’s about 15 meters tall and very dramatic during sunset or when the tide is low.
Hvitserkur isn’t on the usual tourist path. You’ll need to drive a little out of the way, but the route itself is stunning. Seals often swim in the waters nearby. Bring a camera and a warm jacket—the wind can be sharp.
There’s a small path that leads down to the beach if you want to see the rock up close. The sand is black, the waves crash loudly, and the rock just stands there like a lonely beast. It’s one of those places that feels almost forgotten.
Borgarfjörður Eystri – Elves and Colorful Mountains
In East Iceland, far from the crowded tourist spots, lies Borgarfjörður Eystri. This is a quiet village surrounded by colorful rhyolite mountains. The locals believe elves live in the rocks here. In fact, there’s a small hill called Álfaborg (Elf Rock) where the Queen of Elves is said to live.
What makes this place really special are the hiking trails. There are valleys, waterfalls, and even puffin colonies nearby. One of the best hikes is the trail to Stórurð (The Giant Boulders). It takes a few hours, but you’ll see turquoise lakes, grassy meadows, and giant mossy stones that look like they were dropped from the sky.
There’s a calm here that’s hard to explain. Maybe it’s the mountains, or maybe it’s the belief in elves. Either way, it’s a place that stays in your heart.
Seljavallalaug – A Secret Pool in the Mountains
Seljavallalaug is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland. It was built in 1923 and is hidden in a narrow valley near Skógafoss. Most travelers don’t know about it, so it feels like a secret.
To get there, you have to walk about 15–20 minutes from the parking area. You’ll follow a small river and walk between tall, dark mountains. Suddenly, the pool appears. It’s long and narrow, with hot water flowing from a natural spring.
The pool isn’t very fancy. Algae sometimes grows on the bottom. But that’s part of its charm. You’re swimming in warm water, surrounded by cliffs and sky, far from everything. It’s completely free and always open. Just remember to be respectful—don’t leave trash or loud music.
Stuðlagil Canyon – Hidden Columns of Stone
Stuðlagil Canyon is located in East Iceland. It was hidden for years under a glacial river, but when a nearby dam changed the water flow, the canyon was revealed. What makes it so amazing are the basalt columns—tall, straight stone pillars that line the river.
The water is a bright blue-green color, especially in summer. It flows between the dark columns like a ribbon of color. To reach the best view, you’ll need to hike from the east side of the canyon. It takes some time, and the trail can be rocky, but it’s not difficult.
Not many tour buses go here yet. That’s why it still feels wild. If you visit early in the morning, you might be the only one there. It’s a perfect place for quiet moments and breathtaking photos.
Kerlingarfjöll – Steam, Snow, and Silence
Kerlingarfjöll is a geothermal mountain range in the Highlands. Not many people make the journey because the roads are rough and it’s far from the main cities. But if you love hiking, this is paradise.
The ground is full of colors—red, yellow, white, and orange. Steam rises from vents in the earth. Snow still sits on the slopes, even in summer. There’s something almost otherworldly about it.
You can walk the trails alone or with a guide. Some paths lead past boiling hot springs and bubbling mud pools. Others take you high up where you can see the entire valley. It feels like you’ve left Earth and stepped onto another planet.
There’s even a small mountain resort where you can stay the night. It’s basic but cozy. Watching the stars from here is unforgettable.
Thakgil – A Quiet Camping Spot Near Vik
If you’ve visited the black beaches of Vik, you’ve probably seen Reynisfjara and Dyrhólaey. But few people know about Thakgil, which is just a short drive inland. This little canyon is hidden between steep cliffs and moss-covered hills.
There’s a small campsite here, and the air is so quiet you can hear your own heartbeat. You can hike up the nearby hills or just sit and enjoy the peace. On cloudy days, the mist rolls through the canyon, making it feel like a dream.
The best part? Hardly anyone else is there. You can cook over a fire, sleep in a tent or a cabin, and wake up to the sound of birds. It’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever found in Iceland.
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss – Waterfalls in the Lava
Most travelers stop at Gullfoss, but if you want to see waterfalls that are truly different, head to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss. They’re located in West Iceland near the town of Reykholt.
Hraunfossar is a series of small waterfalls that flow right out of a lava field. It looks like water is pouring from the rocks themselves. Just a short walk away is Barnafoss, a faster, more dramatic waterfall with a sad story. The name means “Children’s Falls.” According to legend, two children died here while crossing a natural stone bridge that has since disappeared.
The area around the waterfalls is perfect for a slow walk. The water is clear and icy blue, and the lava fields are covered in moss. It’s quiet, beautiful, and full of nature’s small details.
Kvernufoss – A Hidden Waterfall Behind the Cliff
Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. It’s huge and powerful, and there are always people around. But just around the corner, there’s a little waterfall called Kvernufoss that hardly anyone visits.
To reach it, you’ll walk through a small gate beside the Skógar Museum and follow a river through a narrow canyon. After about 10 minutes, you’ll see the waterfall. It’s about 30 meters tall and drops into a quiet pool. The best part? You can walk behind it.
It’s not as big as Skógafoss, but it feels more personal. You can sit near the edge, feel the mist, and listen to the soft roar. It’s one of those secret places that makes you feel lucky to have found it.
Fjaðrárgljúfur – The Canyon from the Sky
Fjaðrárgljúfur is a beautiful canyon in South Iceland. It got very popular after Justin Bieber filmed a music video here. But it’s still easy to enjoy if you go early or late in the day.
The canyon is deep and winding, with steep green walls and a clear river at the bottom. There’s a walking path along the top with several viewing points. The view from above is what makes this place special. It looks like something carved by time and nature together.
The hike is short and easy, and the photo spots are amazing. Even though it’s more known now, it still feels peaceful compared to other big attractions.
Dynjandi – The Jewel of the Westfjords
Dynjandi is one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls, but it’s far away in the Westfjords. That’s why fewer people go there. It looks like a giant bridal veil, spreading wide at the top and narrowing as it falls.
To get there, you’ll drive along fjords and cliffs, often without seeing another car. When you arrive, there’s a short trail that leads past several smaller waterfalls before reaching Dynjandi itself. The sound grows louder with every step.
Standing in front of Dynjandi is unforgettable. You feel small, but also full of wonder. The Westfjords in general are wild and untouched. If you want to feel alone with nature, this is where to go.
These hidden places in Iceland gave me memories I’ll always keep. They’re quiet, surprising, and full of magic. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, don’t just follow the crowd. Take a little detour. You’ll find some of the most beautiful moments where no one else is looking.
