Exploring the Wild Beauty of Skaftafell, Iceland

Chasing Glaciers and Culinary Delights

Today was all about embracing the extremes of Iceland – the biting cold of ancient ice and the warmth of hearty Icelandic fare. It’s amazing how a landscape can be both unforgiving and breathtakingly beautiful at the same time. Liam and I set out early, eager to delve deeper into the heart of Vatnajökull National Park and experience the famed Kverkfjöll Ice Cave.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier and stunning natural wonders in Iceland.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Systrakaffi in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. It was a charming spot, and I opted for the vegan beetroot burger, while Liam enjoyed a traditional Icelandic breakfast. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, we set off towards Vatnajökull National Park. The drive itself was mesmerizing, with the landscape transforming into a vast expanse of glaciers and rugged terrain. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as we approached the park, the sheer scale of nature's artistry on full display. Having forgotten my portable phone charger, I was slightly concerned about running out of battery, especially with the amount of photos I was planning to take, but Liam assured me his was fully charged and he would share. I really need to remember my essentials!

Our main objective for the day was the Kverkfjöll Ice Cave, a natural wonder nestled within Vatnajökull. The journey to the cave was an adventure in itself, requiring a sturdy 4x4 to navigate the challenging terrain. As we drove, the landscape transformed into a surreal mix of ice and volcanic rock, a testament to Iceland's unique geology. I’ve always been fascinated by the interplay of fire and ice, and Kverkfjöll seemed to embody this dynamic perfectly. It’s a place where geothermal activity meets glacial ice, creating a landscape unlike any other I’ve ever seen. The Kverkfjöll mountains are hidden, a subglacial mountain range located between the huge Vatnajökull ice sheet. Rising to an altitude of 1920 meters, it includes volcanoes, making it the largest geothermal area in Iceland.


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

Upon arriving at the Kverkfjöll Ice Cave, we were immediately struck by its ethereal beauty. The ice glowed with a mesmerizing blue hue, a result of centuries of compressed ice. Exploring the cave felt like stepping into another world, a realm of frozen wonder. We ventured cautiously into the cave, the only sounds were the gentle dripping of melting ice and the muffled echoes of our voices. The blue reflections of the cave were absolutely magnificent, and I made sure to respect the safety distance because the site is very unstable. The mix of fire and ice is so deeply rooted in this country that it literally can be found in its core. I tried to capture the cave's beauty through my lens, hoping to convey the magic of this place to those who couldn't be here in person. It was truly a photographer's dream.

To truly appreciate nature's grandeur, one must immerse themselves in its raw, untamed beauty, embracing both its challenges and its wonders.

After spending a considerable amount of time exploring the ice cave, we decided to embark on a hike within Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell is known for its magnificent glacier hiking tours, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful works of nature in Iceland. We chose a trail that led us through a landscape of glaciers, jagged peaks, and black sands. The views were simply stunning, and I felt a profound connection to nature as we hiked along. Liam, ever the supportive partner, carried the extra camera gear, allowing me to focus on capturing the scenery. We paused frequently, taking in the panoramic vistas and marveling at the sheer scale of the glaciers before us. I found myself reflecting on the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. I really need to get back to Banff soon and do some hiking in the Rockies!

As the day wore on, our stomachs began to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We made our way to Skaftfell Bistro, and I was pleased to find vegan options available. The vegan pizza was delicious, and Liam enjoyed a hearty Icelandic dish. The Bistro presents a blend of art and culinary delights, and also hosts changing displays of works by contemporary artists, providing a visually stimulating environment for diners to enjoy. I was fascinated by the cozy library designed by artist Bjorn Roth, filled with artist books where you can explore the world of art through literature. Refueled and re-energized, we decided to make a quick stop at Glacier Goodies, a fast-food spot known for its convenient location and tasty treats. It was the perfect place to grab a quick snack before continuing our adventure. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, ideal for families, hikers, and anyone looking to recharge after a day of adventure. We treated ourselves to some local snacks and beverages, savoring the flavors of Iceland.


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

Our final stop for the day was Cafe Munkar for dinner. The Arctic char was perfectly cooked, and Liam raved about the chicken casserole. The positive aspect of this place is that the staff is professional, and the service is prompt. I enjoyed a perfectly cooked Arctic char, and Liam enjoyed the chicken and casserole. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with exploration and wonder.


Experience the perfect blend of fast food and Icelandic flavors at Glacier Goodies in Skaftafell, a must-visit for every traveler.

As we drove back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Skaftafell had exceeded all expectations, offering a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland. I found myself reflecting on the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. I am really looking forward to getting back to Banff and seeing what wildlife I can photograph back home.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Icelandic adventure, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll be heading to Skógafoss and Almannaskarð, hoping to capture even more of Iceland's breathtaking landscapes. I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Icewear / Vík Wool before we head home. I’m already anticipating the stories I’ll be able to share and the photographs I’ll be able to showcase, reminding everyone of the importance of cherishing our planet’s precious landscapes. I'm already looking forward to sharing our experiences with friends and family back in Banff, and perhaps even inspiring them to embark on their own Icelandic adventure.

It’s been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. I am really looking forward to getting back to Canada, but I will definitely be back to Iceland!