How tall is Foss á Síðu?

Foss á Síðu is approximately 30 meters (98 feet) tall. It is a thin, elegant 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, creating an extraordinary 'reverse waterfall' effect. This phenomenon makes windy days the best time to visit.

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 please stay on the road 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?

Foss á Síðu is accessible year-round. Windy days create the famous reverse waterfall effect, making stormy weather ironically the most spectacular time to visit.

Foss á Síðu Waterfall Iceland: Complete Visitor Guide

A thin, elegant 30-meter waterfall on the South Coast that defies gravity on windy days, blowing upward and sideways in a mesmerizing display.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Region

South Iceland

Roadside stop. Best on windy days for the reverse effect.

A thin, elegant waterfall visible from Route 1 between Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. In strong winds, the water blows upward and sideways, creating an extraordinary sight. Located on private farmland, it is one of Iceland's most unique roadside attractions.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This page is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. The waterfall is on private farmland—please view from the roadside and respect property boundaries.

Sources to check

Best for

Wind-blown reverse effect

Windy days create the famous upward-blowing waterfall.

Access

Roadside viewing

Visible from Route 1, no hiking required.

Pro tip

Visit on windy days

Calm days show a normal thin waterfall; storms reveal the magic.

What to Expect at Foss á Síðu

A thin stream of water cascading 30m over a cliff edge
On windy days, water blows upward creating a reverse waterfall
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) between Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Approximately 260 km east of Reykjavik
Visible directly from the road—no parking lot needed
Pull over safely on the roadside shoulder to view

Best Time to Visit Foss á Síðu

Year-round access from Route 1
Windy days create the famous reverse waterfall effect
Stormy weather ironically offers the most spectacular views
Calm days show a simple thin cascade—still pretty but less dramatic
Check wind forecasts if you want to see the upward-blowing effect

Planning help

Foss á Síðu FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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