Iceland Destinations

Discovering the Beauty of Múlagljúfur Canyon

Iceland is known for its stunning landscapes, from majestic waterfalls to towering glaciers. But one of the country's hidden gems is the Múlagljúfur Canyon. This breathtaking canyon is a must-see for any nature lover or adventure seeker. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the beauty of Múlagljúfur Canyon and why it should be on your travel bucket list.

Múlagljúfur Canyon is a deep and narrow canyon located in the southern region of Iceland. It is part of the larger Skaftafell National Park, which is known for its diverse landscapes and hiking trails. The canyon was formed by glacial meltwater from the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. The canyon is approximately 2 kilometers long and 100 meters deep, with steep walls and a winding river at the bottom.

The Legend of Múlagljúfur Canyon

According to Icelandic folklore, Múlagljúfur Canyon was created by a giantess named Múla. She was said to have been in love with a man who lived in the area, but he rejected her advances. In her heartbreak, she cried so many tears that they formed the canyon. The name "Múlagljúfur" translates to "Múla's Canyon" in English, further adding to the legend.

Why Visit Múlagljúfur Canyon?

The first reason to visit Múlagljúfur Canyon is for the stunning views. The canyon is a photographer's dream, with its dramatic cliffs, winding river, and lush greenery. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the canyon is at its greenest. However, the canyon is equally beautiful in the winter, with snow-covered cliffs and frozen waterfalls.

Hiking and Adventure

For those looking for a bit of adventure, Múlagljúfur Canyon offers several hiking trails that allow you to explore the canyon up close. The most popular trail is the Foss á Siðu trail, which takes you to the top of the canyon for a bird's eye view. The trail is approximately 4 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours to complete. For a more challenging hike, the Skaftafellsheiði trail takes you through the canyon and up to the top of the surrounding mountains.

Wildlife Spotting

Múlagljúfur Canyon is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. The canyon is home to several bird species, including the elusive golden eagle. You may also spot arctic foxes, reindeer, and even seals along the river. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready for some amazing wildlife sightings.

Peace and Serenity

One of the most appealing aspects of Múlagljúfur Canyon is its peaceful and serene atmosphere. The canyon is relatively untouched by tourism, making it the perfect spot to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature. The sound of the river and the rustling of leaves is the only noise you'll hear, making it the perfect place to relax and recharge.

How to Get to Múlagljúfur Canyon

Múlagljúfur Canyon is located in the southern region of Iceland, approximately 4 hours from Reykjavik. The easiest way to get there is by renting a car and driving along the Ring Road (Route 1). The canyon is located near the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, and there are signs along the road directing you to the canyon. Alternatively, you can book a tour that includes a stop at Múlagljúfur Canyon.

Tips for Visiting Múlagljúfur Canyon

If you plan on hiking in Múlagljúfur Canyon, be sure to dress appropriately. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it's best to wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket. The terrain can also be uneven and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots.

Other Attractions Near Múlagljúfur Canyon

Skaftafell National Park

As mentioned earlier, Múlagljúfur Canyon is part of the larger Skaftafell National Park. This park offers a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Svartifoss waterfall trail. The park is also home to the Vatnajökull glacier, where you can take a guided glacier hike or snowmobile tour.

 

Skaftafell National Park
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Located just 30 minutes from Múlagljúfur Canyon is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This stunning lagoon is filled with icebergs that have broken off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. You can take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs or simply admire them from the shore.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

About an hour and a half from Múlagljúfur Canyon is the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. This unique beach is known for its black sand, basalt columns, and towering sea stacks. It's a must-visit for any nature lover or Game of Thrones fan, as it was featured in the show's seventh season.

Black Sand Beach

Final Thoughts

Múlagljúfur Canyon is a hidden gem in Iceland that offers breathtaking views, hiking opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a place to relax, Múlagljúfur Canyon is a must-visit destination. So, add it to your travel bucket list and start planning your trip to this stunning canyon in Iceland.

About the Author

Meet Gitana, the adventurous soul behind Tripsiniceland! She has been living in Iceland since 2022, Gitana is passionate about helping travelers discover the best of this stunning country. Through her blog, she shares expert tips and insider advice to ensure you have an unforgettable Icelandic adventure. Whether you're dreaming of glaciers, volcanoes, or hidden gems, Gitana’s goal is to make your Iceland experience truly extraordinary!

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