Exploring the Icy Wonders of Skaftafell with Family

Beneath the Glacier's Gaze

Today was a symphony of blues and whites, a true immersion into the glacial heart of Iceland. From the mesmerizing depths of ice caves to the cozy embrace of Icelandic wool, Skaftafell offered a day of stark contrasts and unforgettable experiences. I felt so alive today, exploring these natural wonders with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Vatnajökull. The warmth of the cafe, nestled at the foot of Vatnajökull glacier, was a welcome contrast to the frosty adventure that lay ahead. Sipping on strong Icelandic coffee and enjoying a traditional pastry, Liam and I discussed our plans for the day, while the kids were excitedly pointing at the glacier visible from the window. It’s moments like these, sharing simple joys with my family, that make these trips so special.


Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at Café Vatnajökull, your perfect stop in Öræfi.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore the famed Blue Ice Cave. The journey there was an adventure in itself, the landscape transforming into a seemingly endless expanse of ice and snow. The air was crisp, biting at our cheeks, a stark reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped this land. The kids were bundled up in their warmest gear, their eyes wide with anticipation.


Explore the stunning Blue Ice Cave in Iceland, a breathtaking hiking area filled with mesmerizing blue ice formations and rugged natural beauty.

As we ventured deeper into the cave, the world transformed. The sunlight filtering through the ice painted the walls in hues of sapphire and azure, creating an ethereal glow that seemed to emanate from within. It was like stepping into another world, a realm of frozen beauty and ancient secrets. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional drip of melting ice, a reminder of the glacier's slow, relentless movement. The scale of the Crystal Ice Cave is astonishing, and it was roomy enough to accommodate many people at a time. The kids were absolutely mesmerized, running their gloved hands along the smooth, icy walls. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and humility in the face of such natural grandeur. I spent what felt like hours capturing the play of light and shadow, the intricate patterns etched into the ice. It was a photographer's dream, a chance to capture the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's glacial landscapes.

The beauty of an ice cave lies not just in its stunning visuals, but in its ephemeral nature, a reminder of the constant change that shapes our world.

Next on our list was the Kverkfjöll Ice Cave. This cave presented a different experience altogether. Formed by geothermal activity beneath the earth's crust, it was a testament to the powerful forces at play beneath the icy surface. Reaching it required a bit more of a trek, but the reward was well worth the effort. The Kverkfjöll cave is extremely hidden and access to it is often difficult. Inside, a river of hot water flowed through the cave, creating a surreal juxtaposition of fire and ice. The air was noticeably warmer, carrying the faint scent of sulfur, a reminder of the volcanic activity simmering beneath our feet. It was a truly unique experience, a chance to witness the raw power of nature in all its glory. Unlike the ice caves on the southern side of Vatnajökull, the Kverkfjöll Ice Caves are not stable enough to enter.


Discover the enchanting Kverkfjöll Ice Cave in Iceland, where breathtaking ice formations meet stunning glacial landscapes in a unique natural wonder.

By lunchtime, we were famished. We made our way to Glacier Goodies, a charming fast food restaurant located in the heart of Skaftafell, and rewarded ourselves with hearty burgers and fries. This eatery offers a range of quick bites that celebrate local flavors and ingredients. Glacier Goodies strives to offer fast food prepared with local ingredients. The kids were thrilled with their deep-fried ice cream, a local delicacy that was surprisingly delicious. Refueled and refreshed, we were ready for the next leg of our adventure.


Experience delicious fast food at Glacier Goodies while exploring the stunning landscapes of Skaftafell National Park.

Our afternoon was dedicated to exploring the local crafts, and what better way to immerse ourselves in Icelandic culture than with a visit to the KIDKA Wool Factory Shop? We drove to Hvammstangi, where the shop is located and were immediately enveloped in the comforting aroma of lanolin and raw wool. The clothes and accessories surprise with a big variety of designs that are inspired by traditional Nordic patterns as well as modern fashion trends and colors. KIDKA stands for beautiful and high-quality knitwear that is both fashionable and comfortable to wear and is 100% made in Iceland. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted sweaters, scarves, and hats, each piece a testament to the skill and artistry of Icelandic knitters. I found myself drawn to a beautiful Lopapeysa sweater, its intricate patterns telling a story of Iceland's rich cultural heritage. I decided to buy it, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time here. KIDKA's forty year-old tradition in producing knitted wool goods has made them an important employer in this region. The kids, of course, were more interested in the colorful woolen toys, each one a miniature representation of Iceland's unique wildlife. We left with our bags full of woolen treasures, our hearts warmed by the cozy embrace of Icelandic craftsmanship.


Explore KIDKA Wool Factory Shop: A Treasure Trove of Authentic Icelandic Wool Products in Hvammstangi.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Systrakaffi in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for dinner. Systrakaffi is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary destination that captures the essence of Icelandic dining. This restaurant is renowned for its warm ambiance and a menu that celebrates traditional Icelandic ingredients with a creative twist. We settled into a cozy corner, the aroma of traditional Icelandic dishes filling the air. I opted for the lamb, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor, while Liam chose the fresh fish, a testament to Iceland's bountiful seas. The kids, surprisingly, devoured their plates of plokkfiskur, a traditional fish stew that was both comforting and delicious. We laughed and shared stories of our day, our hearts full of joy and gratitude. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover Systrakaffi: A cozy restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur serving authentic Icelandic dishes with fresh local ingredients.

Tomorrow, we plan to chase waterfalls, visiting Skaftárhreppur Waterfall and Fossálar Waterfall. I can't wait to see what other natural wonders Iceland has in store for us. And perhaps, we'll end the day with a relaxing drink at Systrakaffi, reminiscing about our adventures.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a sensory experience, a chance to connect with nature and immerse ourselves in Icelandic culture. It was a day of contrasts, of icy blues and cozy wools, of breathtaking landscapes and heartwarming encounters. It was a day that will forever be etched in my memory, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that awaits those who dare to explore beyond the familiar.

The sun has now set, casting long shadows across the Icelandic landscape. I'm sitting by the window, sipping on a cup of herbal tea, the Lopapeysa sweater draped over my shoulders. The kids are fast asleep, their dreams filled with icy caves and woolen creatures. Liam is snoring softly beside me, his face relaxed and content. I can't help but feel a sense of peace and gratitude. We are so lucky to be here, experiencing the magic of Iceland together. And as I close my eyes, I know that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish.