Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Landmannalaugar

Highland Hues and Hidden Falls

Today was a day of vibrant contrasts and serene discoveries as Emily and I ventured deeper into the Icelandic Highlands. Leaving behind the familiar landscapes, we set out to explore the raw, untouched beauty that this region is so famous for. Little did we know, we were about to witness nature's artistry in its full glory, a spectacle of colors and cascading waters that would leave us breathless.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Stracta Bistro. I opted for the traditional Icelandic skyr with berries, while Emily enjoyed a plate of smoked salmon and rye bread. Stracta Bistro offered a delightful start to the day, and the drive that followed was a scenic prelude to the adventures that awaited us. It was a bit of a drive, but as I always say, the best views come after the hardest drives!

Our first stop was Rauðauga, also known as the 'Red Eye'. The drive there was an adventure in itself, navigating the rugged F-roads that demanded respect and a sturdy vehicle. The landscape transformed into a surreal panorama of volcanic rock, moss-covered hills, and distant glaciers. We were so glad we remembered to rent a 4x4 for this portion of the trip, as it was definitely needed. The anticipation grew with every kilometer, fueled by the promise of a unique natural phenomenon.

Reaching the trailhead, we set out on foot, the air crisp and clean against our faces. The hike to Rauðauga was relatively easy, a gentle trek through a landscape that seemed to belong to another world. The ground was soft underfoot, a mix of volcanic ash and hardy vegetation that clung tenaciously to life. As we rounded a bend, the 'Red Eye' revealed itself in all its glory.


Discover the vibrant landscapes and serene beauty of Rauðauga, a nature preserve showcasing Iceland's breathtaking wilderness and rich biodiversity.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

The sight was truly mesmerizing. The riverbed and waterfalls were stained a deep, rusty red, a result of the high iron content in the water. It was as if the earth was bleeding, a vivid display of nature's raw power. The contrast between the red earth and the surrounding green hills was striking, a scene that demanded to be captured through the lens of my camera. I spent what felt like hours photographing every angle, trying to convey the sheer uniqueness of this place. Emily, ever the historian, mused about the geological processes that had created this phenomenon, her mind already piecing together the story of this landscape.

After Rauðauga, we continued our journey towards Huldufoss Waterfall. The drive was equally stunning, each turn revealing a new vista of Icelandic grandeur. Huldufoss, also known as Silfurfoss, is a bit of a hidden gem, tucked away from the main tourist routes. As a result, it felt like we had discovered our own private paradise.

The hike to Huldufoss was short but enchanting, leading us through a lush, green gorge. The sound of rushing water grew louder with each step, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaited us. And then, there it was – Huldufoss, a graceful cascade of water plunging into a serene pool below. The surrounding cliffs were adorned with vibrant moss and wildflowers, creating a scene of idyllic beauty. I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me, a feeling of being completely immersed in nature's embrace. Emily pointed out a few different species of wildflowers, which I tried to photograph, but my aging eyes were having trouble focusing on the smaller things.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Huldufoss Waterfall, an enchanting natural wonder in Iceland surrounded by stunning landscapes.

We spent a good hour at Huldufoss, simply soaking in the atmosphere. I took more photos, of course, trying to capture the essence of this hidden oasis. Emily sat by the pool, lost in thought, perhaps contemplating the ancient forces that had shaped this landscape. It was moments like these that made our travels so special – the shared experience of witnessing nature's wonders, the quiet contemplation, and the unspoken connection that grew stronger with each passing day.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way towards Gullfoss for dinner at the Panorama Restaurant. The drive was long, but the anticipation of a good meal kept us going. The Panorama Restaurant lived up to its name, offering breathtaking views of the Gullfoss waterfall. The menu was varied, featuring traditional Icelandic dishes with a modern twist. I opted for the lamb soup, a hearty and flavorful concoction that warmed me from the inside out. Emily chose the salmon dish, which she declared to be perfectly cooked and seasoned. The food was excellent, but the view was the real star of the show. Watching the cascading waters of Gullfoss as the sun set was a truly unforgettable experience.

After dinner, we decided to stop by Höllin for a nightcap. The bar had a cozy and welcoming vibe, and we enjoyed a couple of local beers while chatting with the friendly bartender. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, a chance to unwind and reflect on the incredible sights we had witnessed.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kýlingavatn lake and Danau Frostastaoavatn. I'm also hoping to stop by Woolmarket Local Store to pick up a few gifts for Oliver. I'm sure he'd appreciate a warm Icelandic sweater, especially since he's heading off to university soon.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such incredible places. The Icelandic Highlands have a way of humbling you, of reminding you of the raw power and beauty of nature. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a place that calls you back to explore its hidden corners and witness its ever-changing landscapes. And I know, without a doubt, that this is just the beginning of our Highland adventure. I'm so glad I get to share these experiences with Emily, who always offers a different perspective on our travels. I'm looking forward to what tomorrow brings!