Exploring the Mystical Landscapes of Landmannalaugar

A Day of Highlands and Hidden Lakes

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's highlands. It was a day filled with challenging hikes, breathtaking vistas, and the simple pleasures of discovering local treasures. Emily and I ventured into the heart of Landmannalaugar, ready to immerse ourselves in its unique landscapes and experience the magic that this corner of the world has to offer.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaffihús Grund. The charming restaurant is known for its Scandinavian and Icelandic cuisine. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the adventures that lay ahead. Kaffihús Grund is known for using fresh ingredients from local farms. After our meal, we set our sights on Bláhnjúkur, also known as the 'Blue Peak'.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Bláhnjúkur, a vibrant mountain peak in Iceland, perfect for unforgettable hiking adventures and stunning panoramic views.

Bláhnjúkur: A Test of Will, A Feast for the Eyes

The Bláhnjúkur hike is not for the faint of heart. The trail is steep, and the ascent is relentless. The mountain's slopes are composed of blue-green volcanic ash, giving it a distinctive hue that sets it apart from the surrounding rhyolite mountains. It was a challenging climb, but Emily and I encouraged each other, pausing frequently to catch our breath and take in the ever-expanding views.

As we ascended, the landscape transformed. The Landmannalaugar campsite shrunk below us, and the Laugahraun lava field stretched out to the horizon like a surreal, petrified ocean. The rhyolite mountains, with their vibrant colors, stood in stark contrast to the black lava, creating a panorama that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. The weather was kind, with only a slight breeze, and the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a magical light on the landscape. I remembered to bring my camera, and Emily certainly did not let me forget it, so we took many photos.

The views from the summit were simply breathtaking. A 360-degree panorama unfolded before us, showcasing the raw, untamed beauty of the Icelandic Highlands.

Reaching the summit of Bláhnjúkur was a moment of triumph. The sense of accomplishment was palpable as we stood on the peak, gazing out at the world below. From this vantage point, we could see the sprawling Fjallabak Nature Reserve, with its glaciers, volcanoes, and colorful mountains stretching as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated awe.

The descent from Bláhnjúkur was equally rewarding. We opted for the trail that led down to Graenagil, a canyon that cuts through the mountains. The path was steep and slippery in places, but the views were worth the effort. As we descended, we were treated to a unique perspective of the landscape, with the canyon walls towering above us and the river winding its way through the valley below. I even spotted a few Arctic terns nesting on the cliffs, a welcome sign of life in this rugged terrain.

Ljótapollur: Beauty in a Crater

After conquering Bláhnjúkur, we set our sights on Ljótapollur, a crater lake known for its striking beauty. The name Ljótapollur translates to 'Ugly Puddle,' which is ironic considering the lake's stunning appearance. The hike to Ljótapollur was a welcome change of pace after the strenuous climb up Bláhnjúkur. The trail was relatively flat, winding its way through lava fields and across moss-covered plains. As we approached the crater, the landscape transformed once again, with the red volcanic rock contrasting sharply with the deep blue of the lake.


Experience the enchanting tranquility of Ljótapollur Lake, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The crater itself was formed in 1477 during a volcanic eruption and has since filled with water, creating a serene and picturesque lake. The vibrant colors of the crater walls, ranging from deep red to ochre and green, created a stunning contrast with the deep blue of the water. Emily and I walked along the rim of the crater, taking in the panoramic views and marveling at the sheer scale of the landscape. The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden light on the scene, and I was thankful I had remembered to charge my camera batteries before the trip.

I was reminded of a hike Emily and I took in the Grampians National Park in Australia, where we stumbled upon a hidden waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. The sense of discovery and awe was similar, a reminder of the hidden gems that await those who venture off the beaten path.

A Taste of Local Craftsmanship

Before calling it a day, we made a stop at UNA Local Product / Sveitabúðin Una, a charming shop in the nearby town of Hvolsvöllur. I was keen to find a unique souvenir to remind me of our time in Landmannalaugar, and Emily was eager to support local artisans. The shop was a treasure trove of Icelandic craftsmanship, with handmade sweaters, woolen goods, and locally produced food items. I ended up purchasing a hand-knitted scarf made from Icelandic wool, while Emily bought a jar of locally made jam.


Discover authentic Icelandic handmade souvenirs at UNA Local Product - a charming store in Hvolsvöllur celebrating local artisans.

UNA Local Product is housed in a bright red, corrugated Nissen hut, which was once part of the town's first shop. The shop's name is derived from an old legend about Una Álfkona, an elf woman who was said to live nearby. It's these kinds of details that add character to a place, and that make traveling so much more rewarding.

Reflections on a Day Well Spent

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Klaustur Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant is known for its authentic Icelandic cuisine. The Klaustur Restaurant emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I enjoyed some Arctic char, a rare freshwater fish. Emily opted for a hearty lamb dish. As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures and the incredible beauty of Landmannalaugar.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Klaustur Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur - where local ingredients meet tradition.

The day had been a testament to the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate. The challenging hikes had tested our physical limits, but the breathtaking vistas had rewarded us with a sense of awe and wonder. The stop at UNA Local Product had provided a glimpse into the local culture and craftsmanship, and the delicious meal at Klaustur Restaurant had satisfied our appetites and left us feeling content.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the mesmerizing Sigöldugljúfur and the cascading Sigoldufoss. I'm particularly excited about these locations, as I've heard they offer unique perspectives on Iceland's diverse landscapes. And to cap off the day, we'll be visiting Friðheimar, a wine bar and bistro, for a taste of local flavors and relaxation.


Experience fresh farm-to-table dining at Friðheimar in Reykholt - where tomatoes meet stunning Icelandic landscapes.

As I sit here, writing these words, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place. Landmannalaugar has captured my heart with its raw beauty and untamed spirit. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our exploration of this magical corner of the world.

It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about immersing myself in new cultures, challenging myself physically and mentally, and connecting with the natural world. And it's about sharing these experiences with Emily, my partner in life and adventure. As the sun sets over the Icelandic Highlands, I raise a glass to another day well spent, and to the promise of more adventures to come.