Best for
Wind-blown reverse effect
Wind blows the falling water back up over the cliff.
Foss á Síðu Waterfall
A thin 30-meter waterfall on the South Coast. On windy days the water blows upward and sideways instead of falling.
Region
South Iceland
A waterfall above a working farm; choose a safe designated stopping place.
Quick Answer
A thin waterfall visible from Route 1 approximately 10 km east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. In strong winds, the water blows upward and sideways instead of falling. It sits on private farmland and is viewed from the road.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. The waterfall is on private farmland; use a safe designated stopping place and respect property boundaries.
For sourcing standards and how to report an error, see the editorial policy.
Official sources to check
Access
Roadside viewing
Visible from Route 1, no hiking required.
Pro tip
Check the stopping place
Do not stop in the traffic lane or use a narrow shoulder for photographs.
What to Expect at Foss á Síðu
- A thin stream of water cascading 30m over a cliff edge
- On windy days, water blows upward in a reverse-waterfall effect
- Located on private farmland; view from the roadside
Nearby Attractions to Foss á Síðu
- Kirkjubæjarklaustur (historic village)
- Dverghamrar (dwarf cliffs basalt columns)
- Skaftafell / Vatnajökull National Park
How to Get to Foss á Síðu
- Located on Route 1 (Ring Road) approximately 10 km east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur
- Approximately 260 km east of Reykjavik
- Visible from Route 1; use a designated stopping place
- Continue driving if there is no safe place to stop off the road
Best Time to Visit Foss á Síðu
- Year-round access from Route 1
- Windy days produce the reverse waterfall effect
- Stormy weather, oddly enough, gives the best views
- Calm days show a simple thin cascade
- Check wind forecasts if you want to see the upward-blowing effect
Place it east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Visit South Iceland identifies Foss á Síðu as the farm about 10 kilometres east of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The waterfall drops from the cliffs above it, fed by Lake Þórutjörn. It belongs on the Klaustur-to-Skaftafell part of a drive, rather than the road between Vík and Klaustur.
The regional guide describes a route toward Þórutjörn, but that is separate from a brief view of the waterfall. Follow local access signs before taking it. For a nearby marked nature stop, compare Dverghamrar. As SafeTravel advises, keep your attention on driving and find a safe place off the road before admiring the scenery.
Planning help
Foss á Síðu FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
How tall is Foss á Síðu?
Foss á Síðu is approximately 30 meters (98 feet) tall. It is a thin waterfall that flows over a cliff edge visible from the Ring Road.
What is the reverse waterfall effect at Foss á Síðu?
In strong winds, the water blows upward and sideways instead of falling down, a 'reverse waterfall' effect. Do not plan a visit around dangerous wind conditions.
Is Foss á Síðu free to visit?
Yes, Foss á Síðu is free to view from the roadside. The waterfall is located on private farmland, so use a designated viewing or parking place and respect the property.
How much time do I need at Foss á Síðu?
A quick 10–15 minute stop is usually sufficient. The waterfall is best viewed from the road, so no hiking is required.
When is the best time to visit Foss á Síðu?
Choose conditions that allow safe driving and a safe stopping place. Strong wind may change the waterfall’s appearance, but it can also make the journey hazardous. Check current weather and road information.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.