Exploring the Icy Wonders of Skaftafell with Family

A Fond Farewell to Skaftafell

As our incredible ten-day journey through Skaftafell draws to a close, I find myself overwhelmed with a mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment in having explored this mesmerizing corner of Iceland, a tinge of sadness that our adventure is ending, and an immense gratitude for the memories we've created. Today, we soaked in the last moments of this magical place, etching them into our hearts forever.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli). The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of Indian and Italian flavors filled the air. I opted for a comforting bowl of broccoli soup, while Liam chose the salmon with vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our last adventure.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore Gönguleið um Eldhraun, a trail winding through the vast Eldhraun lava field. I had read that Eldhraun, meaning Fire Lava, is the largest lava flow in the world. The eruption that created this field from 1783 to 1784 had a profound impact on Iceland, causing disease and famine. It's hard to imagine such devastation when you see the serene landscape today, covered in a thick blanket of green moss. It's truly a unique place, and I know that the Apollo 11 crew even trained here because of its similarity to the surface of the moon!


Explore Eldhraun, Iceland's breathtaking lava field, where lush moss meets dramatic volcanic landscapes, offering a unique adventure for nature lovers.
As we walked along the trail, the landscape captivated us. The moss-covered lava rocks created undulating shapes, and the sharp black lava jutted out from beneath the soft green carpet. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, hoping to convey the surreal atmosphere to you all. I was careful to stick to the path, though, since I had read that the lava field is surprisingly fragile.

The beauty of Iceland lies not only in its dramatic landscapes but also in its resilience, a testament to the enduring power of nature and the spirit of its people.

After our walk through Eldhraun, we decided to visit Sel, an old farmstead that offered a glimpse into Iceland's past. The farm, built in the 1830s after the original site of Skaftafell had to be abandoned because of the ravages of the Skeidará river, now is under the care of the National Museum of Iceland. The traditional turf-roofed buildings transported us back in time. I learned that Sel was one of three homesteads built on Skaftafellsheiði after the displacement of the river Skeiðará. The last residents left in 1946. The cow barn on the ground floor and the living quarters above offered a glimpse into how families lived and survived in this harsh landscape.


Explore Sel, an iconic historical landmark in Iceland, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich cultural heritage for an unforgettable travel experience.
For lunch, we stopped at Systrakaffi in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and we were eager to try some traditional Icelandic cuisine. Liam went for the grilled lamb, while I opted for the vegan beetroot burger. I had heard that they have vegan options available, and I was curious to try it. It was delicious! We ended our meal with a slice of apple pie and a cup of coffee, savoring the warmth and hospitality.


Discover Systrakaffi: A cozy restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur serving authentic Icelandic dishes with fresh local ingredients.
As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a final Icelandic dinner at Ishusid Pizzeria Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. I had read that the restaurant emphasizes thin stone-baked pizzas and uses high-quality local ingredients, including the famous local lobster. After our meal, we headed to Hotel Skaftafell for a final drink at their bar. Sipping on a local beer, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip.


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

Immerse yourself in Icelandic beauty and comfort at Hotel Skaftafell, your perfect base for exploring Öræfi's stunning landscapes.
Looking back on our ten days in Skaftafell, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. We've hiked through breathtaking landscapes, explored ice caves, chased waterfalls, and learned about the unique culture and history of this remarkable place. I’m so glad we decided to embrace a more spontaneous and flexible experience by not booking a hotel and perhaps camping under the stars or finding cozy local stays as we go!

Iceland has a way of captivating your soul, of reminding you of the raw beauty and power of nature. It's a place where you can disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. As we prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that a part of me will always remain in Skaftafell, among its glaciers, lava fields, and friendly people.

I am incredibly grateful for having shared this adventure with Liam. His enthusiasm for exploring new places and his unwavering support have made this trip even more special. As we embark on our journey back to Banff, I know that we'll carry these memories with us, inspiring us to continue exploring the world and cherishing the moments we have together.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, and while I'm sad to leave, I'm excited to return home to Banff and share our experiences with you all. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. Until next time, keep exploring and keep dreaming!

Our adventure might be ending, but the memories will last a lifetime. Skaftafell, you have stolen a piece of my heart, and I know I'll be back someday to explore more of your hidden wonders. For now, it's time to say farewell and begin the journey home, carrying with us the spirit of Iceland and the warmth of its people.

I’m already looking forward to planning our next adventure. Perhaps we’ll explore more of Canada, or maybe we’ll venture back to Europe. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

As I reflect on our time here, I am reminded of the importance of travel, not just for the sights we see, but for the connections we make, the lessons we learn, and the memories we create. Iceland has taught me so much about resilience, beauty, and the power of nature. I hope that my stories have inspired you to embark on your own adventures, to explore the world, and to discover the magic that awaits you.

And so, with a grateful heart and a camera full of memories, I bid you farewell from Skaftafell. May your days be filled with adventure, and may your travels bring you joy and inspiration.

Thank you for following along on our journey. It has been an absolute pleasure sharing our experiences with you. Until next time, happy travels!

I am so grateful for this experience, and I can’t wait to see what adventures await us in the future. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Until next time, happy travels!