Fjaðrárgljúfur Viewing Platform

Damage caused by an influx of tourism

Due to overcrowding and a growing number of unofficial footpaths causing damage to the area’s fragile vegetation, the municipality decided to start construction of designated pathways and viewing platforms. One of the main challenges was to adapt the viewing platform to the area’s beautiful but harsh landscape, ensuring that it blends seamlessly with the surroundings and still lives up to  the visitors’ expectations of experiencing raw and unspoiled nature.

Revegetation and a robust and removable structure

All developments have been carried out according to an overall plan and design strategy for the area. Service buildings have been placed by the roots of the canyon, serving as a main entrance to the site. A long pathway leads visitors up and along the canyon, toward the grand viewing platform. The design had to take into account the remote location and breathtaking landscapes. The platform was therefore designed to be prefabricated in units and transported to the site, with as little disturbance as possible.

The material selection is based on optimising the appearance, strength and durability of the platform. All materials have been chosen with the aim of minimizing the visual impact and matching the colours of the natural surroundings. The choice of materials is in line with similar projects in Skaftárhreppur and Vatnajökull National Park.