Stuðlagil Canyon — A hidden gem of Iceland

ReContent
2 min readMay 29, 2023

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Did you know that Iceland is home to one of the world’s most unique and breathtaking canyons? Meet Stuðlagil Canyon — a hidden gem nestled in the country’s northeastern part.

H. Raab via Flickr

Stuðlagil Canyon is a unique natural wonder located in the eastern part of Iceland. What makes this canyon so unique is its stunning basalt rock formations that tower above a crystal clear river. The canyon is carved by the Jökla River, and its name comes from the Icelandic words “stuðull” meaning pillar, and “gil” meaning canyon.

Stuðlagil Canyon was once covered by a glacier, but as the glacier retreated, the Jökla River started carving the canyon. The river’s water is a striking shade of blue, adding to the beauty of the area.

The basalt columns on either side of the canyon are symmetrical and seem almost perfectly designed, making the canyon a popular destination for photographers.

But Stuðlagil Canyon’s beauty isn’t the only thing that makes it special — it’s also steeped in history and folklore. According to local legend, the canyon was once home to two giant trolls who would cross the river at night to do their mischief. When the sun came up, they would turn to stone, becoming the basalt columns that now define the canyon.

Maxim Bilovitskiy via Wikimedia Commons

The Canyon has today become a popular spot for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Stuðlagil Canyon is a relatively new addition to Iceland’s many natural wonders and has become increasingly popular in recent years.

But despite its growing popularity, the canyon remains relatively unknown and unspoiled, making it the perfect escape for those seeking a truly unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.

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