Exploring the Icy Wonders of Skaftafell with Family

A Day of Myth and Majesty

Today was a day of chasing Iceland’s raw beauty and delving into its enchanting folklore. The South Coast, even in the heart of winter, is a spectacle that never ceases to amaze. With Liam by my side, and the family bundled up in their warmest gear, we set out to explore waterfalls and basalt cliffs, all while savoring the local flavors.

Our day began, as all good days should, with a hearty breakfast. We stopped at Glacier Goodies, a food truck near Skaftafell, serving up what they call gourmet fast food. I opted for the lobster soup, while Liam went for the fish and chips. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day’s adventures.


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

Our first stop was the majestic Skógafoss. I've seen this waterfall in photos countless times, but nothing prepares you for the sheer power and beauty of it in person. The spray from the cascading water created a shimmering mist that caught the sunlight, resulting in a vibrant rainbow at the base of the falls. Even in February, Skógafoss doesn't freeze completely, but the surrounding area was covered in ice, adding to the winter wonderland feel. We made sure to wear our micro-spikes, as suggested by other travelers, and it made navigating the icy paths much easier. The kids were ecstatic, running around (carefully, of course!) and trying to catch the snowflakes on their tongues. I managed to snap some incredible photos, capturing the essence of this iconic Icelandic landmark.

The beauty of Iceland lies not only in its landscapes but also in the stories woven into its very fabric.

After spending a good couple of hours at Skógafoss, soaking in the views and capturing its beauty through my lens, we headed east towards our next destination: Dverghamrar. This site, also known as the Dwarf Cliffs, is a peculiar and beautiful columnar basalt formation. According to local folklore, Dverghamrar is home to dwarves and elves. As we approached, I could see why this place is shrouded in myth. The hexagonal basalt columns, topped with cube-jointed basalt, created an otherworldly landscape. It felt like stepping into a realm where ancient tales came to life.

We took a short walk around the cliffs, marveling at the unique rock formations. The kids were fascinated by the stories of the hidden people, their imaginations running wild as they searched for signs of the mythical creatures. Liam, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the geological explanation of how the cliffs were formed during the Ice Age. But even he couldn't deny the magical atmosphere of the place.

From Dverghamrar, we could see the Foss á Síðu waterfall in the distance. It's amazing how many waterfalls are tucked away in this part of Iceland! The setting sun cast a warm glow on the landscape, making the basalt columns appear even more enchanting.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Vik for dinner. We had heard great things about Ishusid Pizzeria Restaurant, and it did not disappoint. The pizzeria is located by the harbor in Höfn, and is known for its thin stone-baked pizzas made with local ingredients. Liam and I shared a pizza topped with the famous local lobster, while the kids opted for a classic Margherita. The pizza was delicious, and the warm, inviting atmosphere of the restaurant made it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. They even had vegan options, including sorbet for dessert!


Discover the unique blend of pizza and fresh seafood at Ishusid Pizzeria in Höfn, where local flavors meet culinary creativity.

Before heading back, we made a quick stop at The potato storage. It was more of a shop than a storage facility, and we picked up some local snacks for the road. It's always fun to try new and unique treats from the places we visit.


Discover the charm of Svínafell at The Potato Storage, a cozy guest house perfect for adventurers seeking comfort and nature's beauty.

Finally, for dinner, we decided on Skaftfell Bistro. The bistro offers an innovative menu with small plates and pizzas, emphasizing sustainability and respect for the natural environment. We started with seaweed chips and buttermilk dressing, followed by a pizza with local squid and tomato butter. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors in a cozy setting at Skaftfell Bistro - a perfect stop for tourists in Seyðisfjörður.

As we drove back to our accommodation, the Northern Lights began to dance across the sky. It was a breathtaking sight, a perfect ending to a day filled with natural beauty and mythical wonder. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Svínafellsjökull Glacier and Systrafoss waterfall. I’m particularly excited about Svínafellsjökull Glacier, as I've heard it's one of the most stunning glaciers in the area. We're also planning to have breakfast at Cafe Vatnajökull and dinner at Veitingasala Restaurant, Shop, And Gas, and Liam is keen on checking out Kaffibarinn, a local bar.

Despite the winter chill, Iceland's South Coast has warmed our hearts with its stunning landscapes and captivating stories. It's a place where nature and myth intertwine, creating an experience that is both awe-inspiring and unforgettable. I am so grateful to be sharing this adventure with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here, sipping on a warm cup of tea and reflecting on the day, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Iceland has a way of capturing your heart and soul, leaving you longing for more. And as we prepare for another day of exploration, I know that the best is yet to come.