Paradísarlaut
A tranquil, hidden lake near Glanni waterfall, offering a secluded spot for cold therapy and peaceful picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery & fewer crowds
Paradísarlaut
Best Time
Lush greenery & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, hidden lake near Glanni waterfall, offering a secluded spot for cold therapy and peaceful picnics.
"A quiet, beautiful place in the middle of nowhere, perfect for a picnic and a cold dip."
🎯 Follow the unmarked path
No signs! Park and walk towards Glanni waterfall, then look for the unmarked trail to Paradísarlaut.
🧺 Pack a picnic
There are no benches or tables, so bring your own setup for a serene meal.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Secluded Lake
Middle of the woods
A small, clean lake surrounded by nature, perfect for a quiet picnic or a bracing dip.
Glanni Waterfall Views
Adjacent to Paradísarlaut
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Glanni waterfall, often overlooked by visitors heading straight to Paradísarlaut.
Rock Jumping
The lake
For the adventurous, jump from the surrounding stones into the deep, cool waters of the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding Paradísarlaut
Best Time for a Dip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Follow the unmarked path
No signs! Park and walk towards Glanni waterfall, then look for the unmarked trail to Paradísarlaut.
🧺 Pack a picnic
There are no benches or tables, so bring your own setup for a serene meal.
🥶 Embrace cold therapy
The water is deep and refreshing, perfect for a quick, invigorating dip.
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The walk to the lake is short but can be uneven.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Follow the unmarked path
No signs! Park and walk towards Glanni waterfall, then look for the unmarked trail to Paradísarlaut.
🧺 Pack a picnic
There are no benches or tables, so bring your own setup for a serene meal.
🥶 Embrace cold therapy
The water is deep and refreshing, perfect for a quick, invigorating dip.
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The walk to the lake is short but can be uneven.
📸 Capture the tranquility
This spot is ideal for peaceful nature photography away from the usual tourist spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Paradísarlaut's serene beauty and secluded atmosphere, often calling it a hidden gem. The opportunity for a refreshing cold dip and peaceful picnics are highlights, though the lack of signage and amenities means a bit of adventurous spirit is needed. It's a tranquil escape often missed by those focused solely on the nearby waterfall.
"An amazing place tucked away from civilization on the route from Reykjavik to Akureyri, a bit past Borgarnes at the Glanni waterfall. You have to park in a parking lot not far from the main road and walk to the trgo point, which has no markings or signposts. The whole area is interesting to explore. I recommend especially in summer, when the plants around turn green."
Ss Ss
"I have been there many times. Short walk and and nice place for cold therapy in the water. The water is deep so it’s nice to jump from the stone. I am afraid of heights so I didn’t jump of the cliff."
Solrun Arsaelsdottir
"Very quite and beautiful place. Very few people comes here because everyone turns left to see the waterfall & then heads back to the car. We enjoyed our picnic here, with no one around. Take note, there is no benches and tables here"
Valters Sproģis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Paradísarlaut is located near Glanni waterfall, a bit past Borgarnes on the route from Reykjavik to Akureyri. You'll need to park in a lot off the main road and then walk. There are no specific signposts for Paradísarlaut itself, making it a bit of a hidden gem.
Yes, there is a parking lot near the main road that serves as the starting point for the walk to Paradísarlaut and Glanni waterfall.
The walk is short and unmarked from the parking area. It leads you to the 'trio point' where you can access both Glanni waterfall and Paradísarlaut.
While possible, summer is recommended for the best experience due to lush greenery. Winter visits might be more challenging with potential snow and ice.
Yes, Paradísarlaut can be incorporated into a day trip along the west coast of Iceland, especially if you're also visiting Glanni waterfall and other nearby attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Paradísarlaut is a natural attraction and does not require any tickets or admission fees. It's a free-to-access natural wonder.
As a natural outdoor location, Paradísarlaut is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for Paradísarlaut. Access to the lake and surrounding area is free for all visitors.
Yes, swimming or 'cold therapy' in Paradísarlaut is a popular activity. The water is deep and refreshing.
There are no facilities like restrooms or changing rooms directly at Paradísarlaut. It's a natural, undeveloped spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful picnic, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, or simply relax and soak in the serene natural surroundings. Some visitors enjoy jumping from the rocks. +1
Paradísarlaut is known for being very quiet and uncrowded, as many visitors miss it or head straight for Glanni waterfall. You'll likely have the place to yourself.
The area is characterized by lush greenery in summer, with small fish visible in the lake. It's a beautiful natural setting.
Absolutely! It's a perfect spot for a picnic, but remember to bring your own seating as there are no benches or tables.
The water is deep, and while many enjoy jumping from the rocks, it's advisable to assess the depth and your own comfort level before jumping.
📸 📸 Photography
The tranquil lake surrounded by greenery, the reflections on the water, and the adjacent Glanni waterfall offer beautiful photographic subjects. 
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light for photography, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the location.
Drone regulations in Iceland can be strict. Always check current rules and restrictions before flying a drone in natural areas like Paradísarlaut.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, and a polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
The area around the lake offers various vantage points. Exploring the path towards Glanni waterfall also provides different perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While not a typical playground, the natural environment provides opportunities for exploration. Kids might enjoy spotting small fish in the lake or exploring the rocks around the water's edge. Packing a picnic is a must, as there are no amenities, making it a great spot for a relaxed family lunch amidst nature.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's the perfect spot to read a book, meditate, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the Icelandic landscape. The refreshing dip in the lake can be a powerful, solitary experience, offering a sense of rejuvenation and accomplishment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Cold Therapy
While the idea of cold water immersion might seem daunting, it's a practice embraced by many for its purported health benefits, including improved circulation and mood enhancement. The natural setting of Paradísarlaut, away from any man-made structures, amplifies the raw, elemental experience. Jumping from the surrounding rocks into the clear water is a popular, albeit daring, way to embrace this unique aspect of the location.
It's important to approach cold water swimming with caution. Assess the depth and your own capabilities before entering. The tranquility of Paradísarlaut makes it an ideal spot to connect with nature and challenge yourself in a beautiful, secluded environment.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Paradísarlaut vs. Glanni
This oversight is precisely what makes Paradísarlaut so special. It offers a peaceful escape, a quiet spot for a picnic or contemplation, with very few people around. The lake itself is small and clean, with visible small fish growing within its depths before they mature and flow into the river alongside Glanni.
To truly experience the area, it's recommended to visit both. Take in the visual spectacle of Glanni waterfall, and then seek out the hidden tranquility of Paradísarlaut. This dual discovery provides a more complete and rewarding experience of this unique natural setting.
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