Skjöldólfsstaðir

Stuðlagil is a spectacular canyon in East Iceland, lined with tall, regular columns of basalt that rise from a bright turquoise river. The columns look like a natural cathedral, with moss and grass growing at the top. It is remote and photogenic, and is quickly becoming one of the most famous sights in the east.

The waterfall drops about 128 metres, and the red layers are ancient soil that formed between lava flows millions of years ago. These bands record long periods of volcanic quiet between eruptions. The surrounding area is home to Hallormsstaður forest and the long lake of Lagarfljót, which legend says holds a monster.

The forest has been protected since the early 20th century, and it includes both native birch woodland and trees planted from other countries to test which species grow well in Iceland. It is a rare reminder of how forested the land once was before settlers cut down much of the original birch. Folklore tells of a monster in the nearby lake.