Gulfoss (Golden Falls) in Iceland

Gulfoss, or Golden Falls, in Iceland is spectacular.  It was privately owned until the early 20th century, when it was acquired by the State of Iceland.  The scale and grandeur of Golden Falls is difficult to capture in a few pictures.  The falls are located in a river canyon, in the middle of nowhere.  (Imagine that, compared to the commercialized Niagara Falls.)  The contrasting green cliffs contributes to its ranking as one of the top ten waterfalls in the world.

Volcanically formed, much of the landscape surrounding Gulfoss is moon-like.  It is not surprising that Neal Armstrong and other astronauts trained there for the moon landing.

Depending on how much time is available and how far one is willing to drive, you can also visit nearby hot springs, geysers, glaciers, glacier lakes, lava tube caves and even go inside of a volcano.  Many points of interest are unmarked, but are accessible for free exploration.