Exploring the Wild Beauty of Skaftafell, Iceland

A Day of Ice and Water

Today was a tapestry of Iceland's raw beauty, woven with threads of glacial ice, cascading water, and the warmth of local craftsmanship. Liam and I set out early, eager to explore more of what Skaftafell had to offer. It was a day of contrasts, from the stark, icy landscapes to the gentle, moss-covered farmlands. And with my camera in hand, I was ready to capture it all.

Our first stop was Svínafellsjökull útsýnisstaður, the Svínafellsjökull viewpoint. The drive there was an adventure in itself, the road winding through rugged terrain, a prelude to the glacial majesty that awaited us. As we approached, the glacier loomed into view, an immense river of ice snaking down from the mountains. The sheer scale of it was breathtaking, a reminder of the powerful forces that have shaped this land.


Explore the enchanting Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland, a breathtaking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

I learned that Svínafellsjökull has earned its place on the silver screen, featuring in movies like Interstellar and Batman Begins, as well as the TV series Game of Thrones. Knowing that I was standing in a landscape that had captivated filmmakers added another layer of excitement to the experience. Though I read that hiking on the glacier is currently discouraged due to safety concerns, just viewing it from a safe distance was enough to fill me with awe. The glacier's sculpted form, with its seracs and ice caves, was a photographer's dream, especially in the soft Icelandic light.

We spent a good hour there, snapping photos from every angle, trying to capture the immensity and the intricate details of the ice. Liam, ever the patient companion, explored the area with me, sharing my enthusiasm for the stunning vista. It's moments like these that make our travels so special, sharing the wonder of nature together.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its grand landscapes, but in the quiet moments of connection with nature and each other.

Next on our itinerary was Foss á Síðu, a waterfall cascading down a cliff face near a charming farm. The contrast between the icy glacier and the verdant farmland was striking, showcasing the diverse beauty of Iceland. As we drove along the Ring Road, the waterfall came into view, a delicate ribbon of water against the backdrop of towering cliffs.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Foss á Síðu, a captivating waterfall in Iceland that showcases nature's grandeur and tranquility.

We parked the car and took a short walk to get a closer look. The waterfall, though not the largest I've seen, had a unique charm. It dropped about 268 feet, with the main drop plunging 238 feet before hitting a sloped bedrock. The surrounding cliffs were covered in moss, adding a touch of green to the scene. I read about the local folklore surrounding Foss á Síðu, including the legend of a ghost dog named Móri, which added a mysterious layer to the site.

I spent some time photographing the waterfall, experimenting with different angles and exposures to capture its essence. Liam, meanwhile, enjoyed the peaceful surroundings, watching the sheep grazing in the fields. It was a tranquil scene, a moment of serenity amidst our adventurous journey.

For breakfast, we stopped at Cafe Munkar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The cafe was cozy and inviting, a perfect spot to warm up with a hot cup of coffee and some pastries. It was a delightful way to start our day, surrounded by the aroma of freshly baked goods and the friendly chatter of locals and tourists alike. I learned that Cafe Munkar is known for its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients, which added to the appeal. The pastries were delicious, and the coffee was strong and flavorful, just what we needed to fuel our adventures.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Cafe Munkar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where culinary tradition meets modern comfort.

Lunch was at Hvönn Restaurant, near Skálholt, and the restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that highlight the unique flavors of Iceland. The restaurant was very cozy, and we enjoyed the meal very much.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hvönn Restaurant in Skálholt – where local flavors meet contemporary dining.

Our final stop for the day was UNA Local Product / Sveitabúðin Una, a local shop in Hvolsvöllur. I had read about this place and was eager to find some authentic Icelandic souvenirs. The shop was a treasure trove of handmade goods, from woolen sweaters and scarves to jams, teas, and spices. It was a delight to browse through the items, each one telling a story of Icelandic craftsmanship.


Explore the charm of Icelandic craftsmanship at UNA Local Product in Hvolsvöllur, where every purchase tells a story.

I ended up buying a hand-knitted scarf for myself and some rhubarb candy for my family back home. It felt good to support local artisans and bring home something truly unique from our travels. UNA Local Product is known for supporting local artists and makers, which made the shopping experience even more meaningful.

Dinner tonight was at Pakkhús Restaurant in Höfn. This restaurant is known for its stunning coastal views and its emphasis on local ingredients from the Vatnajökull region. We indulged in some langoustine, a local specialty, and savored the flavors of Iceland as we watched the sunset over the harbor. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the food was simply divine.


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

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the beauty and wonder of Iceland. From the icy expanse of Svínafellsjökull to the tranquil cascade of Foss á Síðu, every moment was a testament to the raw power and delicate charm of this land. And with Liam by my side, every experience was made even more special.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tours. I can't wait to see the icebergs up close and experience the magic of these glacial lagoons. I've heard that Jökulsárlón is a photographer's paradise, and I'm eager to capture its beauty through my lens. After our icy adventures, we plan to unwind at Ölverk Pizza & Brewery, a local spot known for its delicious pizza and craft beer. It sounds like the perfect way to end another day of exploration in Iceland.

Until then, goodnight from Skaftafell.