As if Good Friday wasn't already good enough, our last Golden Circle site of the day really iced the cake. After taking many pictures and witnessing Strokkur shoot boiling water about 20 feet in the air, we drove to Niagra Falls' biggest competitor - Gullfoss, Iceland. Gullfoss is translated as "Golden Waterfall" and is located about 40 miles away from Selfoss in the canyon of Hvítá. The name "Gullfoss" is said to likely come from the golden hue and rainbow that forms over it in the summer time. It's popularity comes from its unique form, massive size, and unmatched beauty. The river turns sharply to the left where it takes its first drop of about 35 feet. Then, the landscape forces its wide turn into the 105-foot deep crevice where it looks as though it disappears into the earth.
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| Gullfoss, Iceland |
Although Gullfoss' final descent is hidden at first view, the waterfall's power is felt immediately. The constantly roaring water forces visitors to feel it's strength. In 1907 an Englishman wanted to
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| The Final 105-Foot Fall |
make use of it's potency and use it to generate electricity. However, the owner of the land refused to sell it. Later on, it was the landowner's daughter who dedicated herself to defending the falls' preservation. After extreme measures, she earned herself the title of Iceland's first environmentalist. As an awestruck visitor, I'm certainly thankful for her efforts in guarding the unique waterfall. Its overwhelming beauty and majesty moved me in a way that I'll never forget. The sights, sounds, and power I felt in its company stirred deeply rooted humbleness and brought the words "glorious God" to my mouth. I couldn't help but repeatedly thank Him for such a magnificent sight, and be moved by His holy presence.
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| Emilia and I admiring the waterfall close up |
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