Exploring the Wild Beauty of Skaftafell, Iceland

Skaftafell's Embrace

As I sit here, nestled in our cozy rented car, the memories of our first day in Skaftafell flood my mind. The crisp Icelandic air still tingles on my skin, and the panoramic views of glaciers meeting rugged landscapes are forever etched in my memory. Today was a day of immersion, a day where Liam and I truly connected with the raw beauty of this unique corner of the world.

Our journey began with a hearty breakfast at Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli), a charming spot near the visitor center. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the anticipation of the day ahead. I opted for a vegan cheesecake, while Liam enjoyed a traditional Icelandic pastry. Energized, we set off towards our first destination: Skaftafellsjökull glacier.

The Skaftafellsjökull gönguleið, or Glacier Trail, was an easy and accessible path that allowed us to approach the glacier safely. The trail was well-maintained, a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, making it suitable for a leisurely hike. As we walked, the landscape unfolded before us, revealing the powerful impact of the receding glacier. Kettle holes and glacier gardens dotted the terrain, each a testament to the glacier's slow but relentless retreat. The weather was brisk, around 24°F (-4°C), but the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a magical glow on the icy expanse. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the forces that shaped this land.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the humbling realization of nature's power.

Reaching the end of the trail, we stood in awe before Skaftafellsjökull. The glacier loomed large, its icy surface shimmering in the sunlight. We took countless photos, trying to capture the immensity of the glacier and the surrounding mountains. It was a moment of pure connection with nature, a reminder of the fragility and strength of our planet. I felt a surge of inspiration, eager to capture this majestic scene with my camera.

After spending a couple of hours at the glacier, we decided to embark on the Svartifoss Trail. This trail promised a visit to the iconic Svartifoss waterfall, known for its dramatic basalt columns. The hike started with a gentle incline through a charming forest. The air was filled with the scent of pine and damp earth. As we ascended, the trees gradually gave way to open vistas, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

The trail was moderately challenging, with a few steep sections, but the anticipation of seeing Svartifoss kept us motivated. Along the way, we encountered other hikers, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement. There was a sense of camaraderie among us, a shared appreciation for the beauty that surrounded us. I was grateful that I had packed my hiking boots, waterproof jacket and thermal layers, as suggested in my pre-trip planning. However, I did realize I had forgotten my portable phone charger and an extra memory card for my camera.

Finally, after about an hour of hiking, we reached Svartifoss. The waterfall was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. The water cascaded down from a height of about 20 meters, framed by towering basalt columns that resembled a natural cathedral. The contrast between the black basalt and the white water was striking, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. We spent a long time at Svartifoss, marveling at its unique geological formations. I experimented with different camera angles, trying to capture the essence of this natural wonder. Liam, ever the patient companion, waited patiently as I snapped away, offering occasional suggestions and words of encouragement.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to the visitor center, our hearts full of memories and our cameras full of photos. Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by the Skaftafell shop. I picked up a small, hand-carved wooden bird as a memento of our day, while Liam chose a local wool scarf to ward off the Icelandic chill.

For dinner, we decided to try Skaftfell Bistro, drawn in by the promise of local cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. We shared a delicious pizza, savoring the flavors of Iceland. The bistro was warm and inviting, a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. As we ate, we chatted about our experiences, reliving the highlights of the day and planning our adventures for tomorrow. I made a mental note that the Skaftfell Bistro I had visited today was in the Skaftafell National Park, and not the Skaftfell Bistro in Seydisfjordur, as I would not be able to make it to Seydisfjordur during this trip.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tours. I am particularly excited about the boat tours, as they will give us a unique perspective on the icebergs and glaciers. Liam is looking forward to visiting the local product shop, UNA Local Product / Sveitabúðin Una. We also intend to grab a bite at Cafe Munkar for breakfast, Systrakaffi for lunch, and Ishusid Pizzeria Restaurant for dinner.

As I reflect on our first day in Skaftafell, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. This is a place of unparalleled beauty, a place that inspires and rejuvenates the soul. I am so grateful to be able to share this experience with Liam, my partner in life and adventure. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our journey through the wild beauty of Skaftafell. I am also glad that we chose not to book a hotel, as it has given us a more flexible and spontaneous experience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings. We are considering camping or staying in local guesthouses for the rest of our trip, depending on the weather and availability. The average temperature in Skaftafell in April is around 40°F (4°C), so we need to be prepared for cold and wet conditions. However, the beauty of the landscape makes it all worthwhile. I am excited to continue sharing our adventures with you, as we explore the hidden gems of Iceland and capture the essence of this magical land. I hope that our experiences inspire you to embark on your own journey of discovery, to connect with nature, and to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

Thinking back to growing up in Kongsvinger, Norway, surrounded by forests and lakes, I realize that my love for nature has always been a part of me. This trip to Skaftafell is a way for me to reconnect with my roots, to immerse myself in the landscapes that resonate with my soul. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with Liam, who has always supported my passion for wildlife photography and my desire to explore the world. Together, we are creating memories that will last a lifetime, and I am excited to see what the future holds for us, as we continue to explore the world and capture its beauty through our lenses.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafellsjökull, a premier hiking destination in Iceland's stunning landscapes.


Experience the breathtaking Svartifoss Trail in Skaftafell National Park, where stunning waterfalls and unique basalt columns await every hiker.


Discover delicious local cuisine at Saatvik Restaurant while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell National Park.


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


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafell, a nature preserve in Iceland with stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.