Exploring the Icy Wonders of Skaftafell with Family

Embracing the Ice and Serenity of Skaftafell

Today was a day of stark contrasts and stunning beauty, a true testament to Iceland's dramatic landscapes. We ventured into the heart of Skaftafell, eager to explore more of its glacial wonders and serene waterfalls. From the crunch of crampons on ancient ice to the gentle cascade of water amidst basalt columns, every moment felt like stepping into a living postcard.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Vatnajökull. It's conveniently located, and I needed a strong cup of coffee to prepare myself for the glacier hike. Liam and I shared a couple of pastries and planned out the rest of our day. We were able to get a table by the window, which offered a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. I made sure to try their locally sourced coffee blends.


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

Fuelled and ready, we headed towards Svínafellsjökull Glacier. The drive itself was breathtaking, with snow-dusted mountains rising on either side of us. As we approached the glacier, its sheer scale was humbling. Svínafellsjökull is truly a sight to behold, a river of ice carving its way through the landscape. I was excited to finally hike on one of Iceland's glaciers, especially after hearing so much about the blue ice formations that are visible during winter.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland's Vatnajokull National Park, a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

We joined a guided glacier hike, a must for anyone wanting to explore these icy giants safely. Strapping on crampons felt like preparing for an otherworldly expedition. The crunch of the metal against the ice was strangely satisfying. Our guide, Jóhann, was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the glacier's formation, its movements, and the impact of climate change. It’s hard not to feel a sense of responsibility when confronted with the reality of these melting landscapes. Jóhann told us that Svínafellsjökull is a popular filming location. He mentioned that it has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including Game of Thrones.

The glacier was like a frozen ocean, its waves sculpted by time and the elements.

The hike itself was physically demanding but utterly rewarding. We navigated crevasses, marvelled at ice formations that resembled sculptures, and even peered into ice caves shimmering with blue light. The landscape was surreal, a mix of pristine white snow, electric blue ice, and dark volcanic ash. At one point, we stopped to simply take in the silence, broken only by the occasional crackle of the glacier shifting beneath our feet. I took so many photos, trying to capture the essence of this icy wilderness. I was glad I remembered to bring extra camera batteries; I had almost forgotten them!


After our glacial adventure, we drove to Kirkjubæjarklaustur to see Systrafoss waterfall. The village itself is charming, nestled amidst rolling hills and lava fields. The waterfall is easily accessible, just a short walk from the road. Systrafoss, also known as the Sisters’ Falls, has a serene beauty that contrasts sharply with the raw power of the glacier. The story behind the name, linked to the nuns who once lived in a local convent, added a layer of mystique to the place.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Systrafoss Waterfall, a serene hiking area in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

The waterfall tumbles down a mountainside in two distinct streams, creating a picturesque scene. I can imagine it would be even more impressive during the spring or summer when the water flow is at its peak. Even in the heart of winter, the partially frozen falls had a unique charm. The surrounding landscape was equally captivating, with basalt columns framing the waterfall and a forest of planted trees adding a touch of green to the otherwise stark landscape. I took a short hike to get a better view of the falls, enjoying the crisp air and the peaceful atmosphere. I read that you can continue hiking to the top of the waterfall to see the lake that feeds it, but we decided to skip that hike due to time constraints.


For lunch, we drove to Höfn to try Pakkhús Restaurant. Liam had heard great things about their langoustine dishes, and since Höfn is known as the langoustine capital of Iceland, we had to give it a try. We were not disappointed. The restaurant had a cozy and authentic vibe, with mini string lights adding a romantic touch. We ordered the baked brie and the langoustine soup, both of which were absolutely delicious. The cuisine focuses on local products from the region. It was definitely one of the best meals we've had in Iceland so far. The restaurant overlooks the harbor in Höfn, which provided a great view while we enjoyed our meal. We didn't have a reservation, so we had to wait at their bar downstairs for about an hour, but it was definitely worth it.


Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine with stunning coastal views at Pakkhús Restaurant in Höfn.

As evening approached, we found ourselves back in the Skaftafell area, looking for a place to have dinner. We decided to try Veitingasala Restaurant, Shop, And Gas, which was conveniently located. It's a casual spot, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal after a long day of exploring. I opted for a hearty lamb stew, while Liam chose a burger. The food was simple but delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Veitingasala Restaurant in Svínafell – where delicious flavors meet stunning landscapes.

To cap off the day, we decided to check out Kaffibarinn, a local bar that Jóhann had recommended. However, I discovered that Kaffibarinn is actually located in Reykjavik, not Skaftafell, so we skipped it. Instead, we headed back to our accommodation, feeling content and exhausted. The plan for tomorrow is to explore Morsárfoss and Fjallsárlón. I am excited to see what other adventures await us in this land of fire and ice. I am particularly excited to see Morsárfoss, as it is Iceland's tallest waterfall.


Experience the heart of Reykjavík's nightlife at Kaffibarinn, a cozy bar perfect for mingling and enjoying local drinks.

Today was a reminder of why I love Iceland so much. The country's ability to combine raw, untamed landscapes with moments of serene beauty is truly remarkable. From the icy expanse of Svínafellsjökull to the gentle cascade of Systrafoss, Skaftafell has a way of captivating the soul. And sharing these experiences with Liam makes it all the more special. I am grateful for another day of adventure, another day of creating memories that will last a lifetime.