Golden Circle where the tourists don't go

After such a long day yesterday, we had a shorter one today. We started on the golden circle, a key tourist destination, particularly for those who do not have as much time in Iceland as we do. However, we chose to see some of the less touristy sites.

Aegissidufoss was our starting point, a little waterfall which had anglers fishing at the bottom and an old fish ladder. It was mighty windy.

Trying to make the most of the predicted better weather this morning we then drove to the thieves waterfall, Pjofafoss. Apparently thieves were thrown into the falls here in the past!

The falls are at the bottom of the Hekla volcano and so are situated in a plain of hardened lava. The top of the volcano rises from a vast flat plain which has pumice and rock strewn everywhere with little to no real vegetation.

We then visited Fossabrekkur. Eric says this is the most pretty waterfall he has ever seen. In contrast to others perfectly clear water fell over it, it was a short drop, in a valley with vegetation which is a marked contrast to all round. Lush for Iceland and colourful. And the water fell over green moss. Such a lovely green which was made brilliant by the sparkling flow of water over it. It was a restful spot.

The next waterfall, Hjalparfoss, had two flows thundering down a large drop. The flow was mighty and very loud. I liked the autumnal colours of the vegetation behind one of the flows and the basalt rock formations round about.

Having seen some beautiful sites, we were surprised that we had not encountered many other tourists. Surely these vistas and waterfalls must be worthy of more eyes?

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