Gullfoss, Iceland

The real national symbol of Scotland is Gullfoss waterfall (“Golden Falls”) located on the river Hvita. This waterfall has a very unusual structure. It consists of two massive ‘’staircases’’ that have a height of 21 and 11 meters. No less interesting is the fact that the “staircases’’ are disposed at right angles to each other.

The strength of the stream began to attract people more than a hundred years ago. There was much speculation about using Gullfoss to generate electricity. In 1920 a hydroelectric power station was under development in this area. As it turned out during the preparatory work the construction of power station threatened the existence of the unique natural object, so the advanced ideas were denied.

Many beautiful legends are connected with the waterfall. According to one of them a local girl named Sigriudyur Toumasdouttir was so worried about the fate of the waterfall that threw herself down its highest ledge in desperation. No official confirmation of the tragic events is known, however, one can see a beautiful statue of Sigriudyur on one of the ledges. The locals consider her the patroness of nature. Many travellers are seeking to visit the Gullfoss in summer when it demonstrates its real power during a flood. The waterfall is really sledgehammer so the sky above is rarely clear. Evaporation level is so high that thick clouds are formed incessantly and a thick fog hovers over the waterfall in calm weather. Next - Rideau Falls