Exploring the Wild Beauty of Skaftafell, Iceland

Day 5: Echoes of Iceland's Past

Today was a journey into the heart of Icelandic folklore and natural beauty, a day where the whispers of the past seemed to echo in the wind. Liam and I set out, eager to explore the unique landscapes that define this region. It's days like these that remind me why I love blending photography with travel, capturing not just the sights, but the very essence of a place.

Our first stop was the captivating Dverghamrar, also known as the Dwarf Cliffs. As we approached, the hexagonal basalt columns rose before us like a surreal sculpture garden. The air felt different here, charged with a sense of ancient mystery. It's easy to see why this place is steeped in legend. The cliffs are said to be home to elves and dwarves, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of their presence as we wandered among the towering stones.


Explore Dverghamrar, the Dwarf Rocks of Iceland, where stunning basalt formations meet enchanting folklore in a serene natural setting.

The geological formations are stunning, a testament to the powerful forces that shaped Iceland during the Ice Age. Liam, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the science behind the basalt columns, explaining how the rapid cooling of lava created these geometric wonders. I, on the other hand, was more drawn to the folklore. I read about a story from the early 1900s, where a girl heard singing coming from the cliffs, a Christian hymn no less, attributed to the hidden folk residing within the rocks. It’s tales like these that make Iceland so enchanting.

We spent a good hour exploring Dverghamrar, climbing on the columns, taking photos from every angle, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The way the sunlight played on the basalt was magical, highlighting the unique shapes and textures. From the cliffs, we could see the nearby Foss á Síðu waterfall cascading down the hillside in the distance, a reminder of the ever-present water that sculpts this land.

After our mystical encounter at Dverghamrar, we drove towards Systrafoss, the Sisters’ Falls, located in the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The waterfall is right in the middle of the village, making it easily accessible. What's special about Systrafoss is that it features two waterfalls side by side, almost like twin rivers flowing down the mountain slope.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Systrafoss Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts visiting Iceland.

We parked the car and took a short walk to the base of the falls. The sound of the water was incredibly soothing, a gentle roar that filled the air. The story behind the name Systrafoss is quite intriguing. It refers to the nuns who once lived in a convent at Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Legend has it that the lake above the waterfall, Systravatn, is where one of the nuns was swallowed after bathing in the lake, and she was carrying gold and a comb.

The landscapes of Iceland have a way of weaving themselves into your soul, leaving an indelible mark on your memory.

We decided to hike up to Systravatn. The trail was steep in places, with steps carved into the hillside, but the views from the top were well worth the effort. From up there, we could see the lake that feeds the waterfall, a serene body of water reflecting the sky above. The hike was invigorating, and the fresh air filled our lungs as we took in the panoramic views.

Back in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, we stopped for lunch at Hvönn Restaurant. I opted for a traditional Icelandic lamb dish, while Liam chose the fish stew. The food was hearty and delicious, a perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures. The restaurant itself was cozy and welcoming, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home.


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

In the afternoon, we took a detour to the KIDKA Wool Factory Shop. As a knitter myself, I was excited to see the local wool products. The shop was a treasure trove of beautifully crafted sweaters, scarves, and yarns, all made from Icelandic wool. I couldn't resist buying a few skeins of yarn in earthy tones, already dreaming of the cozy sweaters I would knit when I got back home. Liam, surprisingly, was also drawn to the shop, admiring the intricate patterns of the traditional Icelandic sweaters. He even tried one on, looking quite dashing in the warm wool.


Explore KIDKA Wool Factory Shop: A Treasure Trove of Authentic Icelandic Wool Products in Hvammstangi.

For dinner, we decided to try Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli), located near the Skaftafell Visitor Center. This family-run business offers vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside Italian-style cuisine. I was intrigued by their menu, which featured a variety of options catering to different tastes, from spicy curries to mild masalas. We enjoyed a delicious meal in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with a stunning glacier view as our backdrop.


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

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we stopped at Cafe Vatnajökull for a late evening coffee. This charming cafe is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere and its delicious pastries. As we sipped our coffee, we reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Iceland together.


Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at Café Vatnajökull, your perfect stop in Öræfi.

As I write this, the sky outside is dark, and the wind is howling. Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Vatnajökull National Park, including the Kverkfjöll Ice Cave. I'm excited to see what wonders await us, and I'm sure Iceland will continue to surprise and inspire us with its raw beauty.

The landscapes of Iceland have a way of weaving themselves into your soul, leaving an indelible mark on your memory. Today was a perfect example of that, a day filled with folklore, natural wonders, and the simple joy of shared experiences. As we continue our journey, I know that these memories will stay with us long after we leave this enchanting island.