Ásbyrgi, Natural canyon in Norðurþing, Iceland.
The horseshoe-shaped depression stretches 3.5 kilometers long and 1.1 kilometers wide, with cliffs reaching 100 meters in height.
The canyon formed between eight and ten thousand years ago through catastrophic glacial flooding following a volcanic eruption beneath Vatnajökull glacier.
Norse mythology explains the canyon's formation as an imprint left by Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse of god Óðinn, during its journey across Iceland.
The canyon features multiple hiking trails, including paths to Botnstjörn lake, with a visitor center operating from May through October.
A central rock formation called Eyjan divides the canyon for half its length, creating two separate paths through the geological structure.
Location: Norðurþing
Part of: Diamond Circle
GPS coordinates: 66.01157,-16.53498
Latest update: May 10, 2025 23:58
Iceland is truly a unique island! From its exceptional geographical location to the richness of its landscapes, here is a collection of major natural sites and iconic tourist attractions. This includes glaciers, beaches, fjords, and geothermal areas to explore enthusiastically.
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Dimmuborgir
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Krafla
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Selfoss
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Grjótagjá
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The Astronaut Monument
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Myvatn Nature Baths
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Námafjall
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Jökulsárgljúfur National Park
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Húsavíkurkirkja
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Hafragilsfoss
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The Exploration Museum
36.8 km
Húsavík Whale Museum
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Jökulsárgljúfur
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Rauðhólar
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Ásbyrgisskógur
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The Transportation Museum at Ystafell
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Vindbelgjarfjall
49.5 km
Húsavíkurfjall
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Réttarfoss
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Mývatn
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Hlíðarfjall
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Æðarfossar
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Mývatnsöræfi
48.5 km
Vígabjargsfoss
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Phare de Tjörnes
35.1 km
Húsavík Lighthouse
37.7 km
Phare de Lundey
39.5 kmReviews
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