Exploring the Icy Wonders of Skaftafell with Family

A Day of Frozen Wonders

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Skaftafell. It’s amazing how quickly you can become accustomed to landscapes that feel otherworldly. Leaving Banff had me wondering if anything could compare to the Rockies, but Iceland keeps proving itself, day after day.
With Liam and the family, we set out to explore some of the park's most stunning sights, and I was eager to capture it all through my lens.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Glacier Goodies.
Fueling up is essential when you know you'll be spending the day hiking and exploring in the cold. The reviews online were good, and it seemed like the perfect place to start our day. We enjoyed some warm pastries and strong coffee, which gave us the energy boost we needed. It's funny how even familiar foods taste different – somehow more satisfying – when you're surrounded by such incredible scenery.

First on the agenda was Morsárfoss, Iceland's tallest waterfall.
The journey to get there was an adventure in itself, and while a helicopter ride would have been amazing, we opted for a more grounded approach.
We drove as close as we could and then embarked on a challenging hike towards the Kristinartindar peaks, knowing that they offered the best distant views of the falls. The weather was crisp, with temperatures hovering around freezing, but thankfully, there was no snow.
The trail was rugged, and at times, I felt a pang of longing for my forgotten travel guidebook, but the views were more than worth the effort. Reaching the vantage point, we were rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Morsárfoss cascading down the cliffs.
Even from a distance of 6 kilometers, its power was evident. I set up my camera, and Liam helped me adjust the settings to capture the scene perfectly. The kids were fascinated, and we spent a good hour just taking in the view and snapping photos. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love wildlife photography – capturing the essence of nature's grandeur and sharing it with others.


Experience the serene beauty of Morsárfoss, a stunning waterfall in Iceland, where nature's tranquility meets breathtaking landscapes.

The beauty of Morsárfoss, even viewed from afar, was a humbling reminder of nature's power and artistry.

Next, we headed to Fjallsárlón, a glacier lagoon that's often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Jökulsárlón.
But I had read that Fjallsárlón offered equally stunning views and a more intimate experience. We arrived in the early afternoon, and I was immediately captivated by the sight of icebergs floating serenely on the water. The lagoon wasn't entirely frozen, which meant we couldn't experience the unique winter activity of staying in heated igloos on the ice, but it did allow for better reflections in the water, which was perfect for photography.

The kids were thrilled to spot seals swimming among the icebergs. I managed to capture a few shots of them, their sleek bodies gliding effortlessly through the icy water. Liam, ever the adventurer, was keen to explore the shoreline, and we spent a pleasant hour walking along the black sand beach, admiring the ice formations and breathing in the fresh, clean air. The weather was surprisingly mild, and the sun even peeked through the clouds for a brief moment, casting a magical glow over the landscape.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fjallsárlón, Iceland's serene glacial lagoon with stunning icebergs and picturesque landscapes.

For lunch, we stopped at Cafe Munkar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
I had read some good reviews and was curious to try their fish stew. The cafe was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered the fish stew, while Liam opted for a sandwich. The kids were happy with their choices, and we all enjoyed a satisfying meal. The fish stew was hearty and flavorful, a perfect complement to the chilly weather outside. I made a mental note to try and recreate it when we got back to Banff.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Cafe Munkar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where culinary tradition meets modern comfort.

After lunch, we decided to do a bit of shopping at Random Klausturbúð, a quirky little store in town.
I always enjoy finding unique souvenirs to remind me of our travels, and this place did not disappoint. We browsed through a variety of handcrafted gifts, local art, and traditional Icelandic products. I picked up a beautiful woolen scarf for myself and a few small trinkets for friends back home. It’s always nice to support local artisans and bring back something that truly reflects the culture of the place we're visiting.


Explore the charm of Icelandic craftsmanship at Random Klausturbúð, your go-to gift shop in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for unique souvenirs and local treasures.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Hvönn Restaurant for dinner.
Located in Skálholt, this restaurant is known for its authentic Icelandic cuisine with a modern twist. The reviews I had read online mentioned traditional lamb dishes and innovative seafood offerings, and I was eager to try them out. The restaurant had a warm and welcoming ambiance, and the staff were attentive and knowledgeable. We ordered a variety of dishes, including the lamb and the braised fish, and each one was a culinary delight. The flavors were rich and complex, and the presentation was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hvönn Restaurant in Skálholt – where local flavors meet contemporary dining.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how fortunate we were to experience the beauty of Skaftafell with my family.
The majestic Morsárfoss, the serene Fjallsárlón, and the delicious local cuisine all contributed to a day that will be etched in my memory forever. As we head towards our final day tomorrow, I'm excited to see what other wonders Iceland has in store for us. We plan to explore Gönguleið um Eldhraun and Sel, and I'm already looking forward to capturing more of Iceland's stunning landscapes through my lens. Maybe we'll even stop by Hotel Skaftafell for a nightcap. I’ve heard good things about their bar. It's hard to believe our adventure is almost over, but I'm determined to make the most of every moment.

Tonight, as I edit photos and jot down notes, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Iceland has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you with a longing to return. I know that this is just the beginning of our exploration of this magical island, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us in the future.