Solo Adventure in Seydisfjordur, Iceland

Day 5: Chasing Waterfalls and Icelandic Charm

Discover the magic of Hengifoss, Gufu, and Klifbrekku waterfalls in Iceland, a day of natural beauty and local flavors in Seydisfjordur.

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A Day of Cascades and Icelandic Dreams


Today was all about chasing waterfalls and soaking in the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland. Leaving the cozy embrace of Hótel Snæfell, I set out with a sense of anticipation, ready to witness the majestic Hengifoss and the other hidden gems nestled in this enchanting landscape. I was particularly excited to see Hengifoss, with its striking basalt columns and the contrasting red clay layers.

Experience the charm of Seydisfjordur at Hótel Snæfell, where comfort meets local culture. Enjoy cozy accommodations, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
Experience the charm of Seydisfjordur at Hótel Snæfell, where comfort meets local culture. Enjoy cozy accommodations, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort. It’s always a treat to start the day with fresh, local produce, especially when you know it comes from just a few steps away. The Vogafjós Farm Resort was very charming, and I enjoyed the rustic setting. After breakfast, I headed towards my first major stop: Hengifoss. The drive itself was a treat, with the Icelandic landscape unfolding in all its glory. The winding roads offered panoramic views of the fjords and mountains, making me feel like I was in a movie.

The hike to Hengifoss was moderately challenging, but every step was worth it. The trail meandered through lush greenery and rocky terrain, offering glimpses of smaller waterfalls along the way. As I approached Hengifoss, the sheer scale of the waterfall became apparent. The water cascaded down the cliff face with tremendous force, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The basalt columns surrounding the waterfall added a touch of drama, while the red clay layers provided a unique contrast, making it a photographer’s dream.

Explore Hengifoss, one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, and embark on a scenic hike through stunning landscapes to witness nature's grandeur.
Explore Hengifoss, one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, and embark on a scenic hike through stunning landscapes to witness nature's grandeur.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After spending a good amount of time at Hengifoss, soaking in its beauty and capturing as many photos as possible, I made my way to the next destination: Gufu waterfall. This waterfall was a bit more off the beaten path, requiring a short detour and a bit of navigation. But the effort was well rewarded. Gufu was smaller and more intimate than Hengifoss, but it had a charm all its own. The water flowed gently over the rocks, creating a soothing melody that was incredibly relaxing. I sat there for a while, just listening to the sounds of nature and enjoying the tranquility of the moment.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gufu Waterfall in Seydisfjordur, a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning cascades and serene surroundings.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gufu Waterfall in Seydisfjordur, a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning cascades and serene surroundings.

For lunch, I stopped by Tehúsið - Café, Bar, Guesthouse & Hostel. This quirky little spot offered a cozy atmosphere and a selection of delicious sandwiches and snacks. It was the perfect place to recharge before continuing my waterfall adventure. The café had a very laid-back vibe, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals and fellow travelers. It’s always interesting to hear other people’s stories and perspectives, especially when you’re traveling solo.

Next up was Klifbrekku Waterfall, a series of waterfalls cascading down the mountainside near Seydisfjordur. The drive to Klifbrekku was an adventure in itself, with steep, winding roads offering breathtaking views of the fjord. The road leading to the waterfall is quite the experience, a narrow, winding path with a series of 11 hairpin turns that climb up the mountainside. Each turn offers a unique vantage point, making the ascent as rewarding as the destination itself. The cascading waters create a stunning visual display, and the surrounding landscape is pristine and untouched.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Klifbrekku Waterfall in Fjordhur, Iceland, where nature's power meets serene landscapes.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Klifbrekku Waterfall in Fjordhur, Iceland, where nature's power meets serene landscapes.

Klifbrekku Waterfall is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland. The falls consist of a series of smaller cascades, each with its own unique character, tumbling down the mountainside in a symphony of water and sound. The surrounding landscape is lush and vibrant, with wildflowers dotting the hillsides and moss-covered rocks adding to the enchanting atmosphere. I spent a good hour here, simply taking in the views and breathing in the fresh, crisp air. It’s moments like these that make traveling so worthwhile.

Before heading back to Hótel Snæfell, I made a quick stop at Kiosk 108 for a few souvenirs and snacks. I always like to pick up a few little things to remind me of my travels, and Kiosk 108 had a great selection of local crafts and treats. Plus, supporting local businesses is always a good thing.

Discover Kiosk 108, a delightful art cafe in Seydisfjordur, where exceptional coffee meets a vibrant artistic atmosphere.
Discover Kiosk 108, a delightful art cafe in Seydisfjordur, where exceptional coffee meets a vibrant artistic atmosphere.

Dinner tonight was at Nielsen restaurant, a local gem known for its delicious Icelandic cuisine. I opted for the lamb dish, which was cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.

Discover the authentic taste of Iceland at Nielsen Restaurant in Egilsstaðir—where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.
Discover the authentic taste of Iceland at Nielsen Restaurant in Egilsstaðir—where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.

As I sit here in my room at Hótel Snæfell, reflecting on the day’s adventures, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Iceland. The waterfalls, the landscapes, the people – everything has been so incredibly special. And as much as I’ve enjoyed today, I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventure in Borgarfjörður Eystri. I plan to explore the charming village, hike around Heavier Mountain, and see the Bjólkur Mountain Avalanche Barriers. I also plan to check out Skaftfell Bistro in the evening for a drink. It promises to be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. I'm also curious about the puffin colony in Borgarfjörður Eystri. Maybe I'll get lucky and see one!

Tomorrow is the penultimate day of my solo adventure here in Seydisfjordur, and I am already feeling a little sad about the trip coming to an end. I have really enjoyed my time here, and it has been a welcome break from my translation work in Bamberg. I am sure Maximilian and Astrid are missing me, and I am looking forward to seeing them soon. But for now, I am going to enjoy every last moment of this incredible journey.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” This is something I’ll remember as I think about the hike to Hengifoss. What an incredible journey this has been so far!

Go to day 4 A Symphony of Sound and Serenity: Discovering Seydisfjordur's Artistic Soul
Go to day 6 Puffins, Peaks, and Protective Barriers: A Day of Exploration in East Iceland
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Solo Adventure in Seydisfjordur, Iceland

Explore the breathtaking fjords and vibrant culture of Seydisfjordur, Iceland, on a solo adventure filled with scenic hikes and local experiences.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Elin Karlsson
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Translator and Travel Blogger
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 37

Hej! I'm Elin Karlsson, a Swedish translator and travel blogger currently living in Bamberg, Germany, with my wonderful husband, Maximilian, and our energetic daughter, Astrid. Growing up in Eksjö, Sweden, instilled in me a love for nature and a curiosity about the world. While I enjoy the stability of translation work, my true passion lies in exploring new cultures, tasting exotic cuisines, and capturing the beauty of our planet through my lens. On my blog, I share practical travel tips, personal anecdotes, and insights into sustainable and culturally immersive travel. I aim to inspire young professionals and families to embark on authentic adventures, embrace responsible tourism, and create lasting memories.

Interests:
  • Photography
  • Languages
  • History
  • Culinary Arts
  • Sustainable Living
More about Elin Karlsson

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Explore locations from this diary

  • Hótel Snæfell

    Experience the charm of Seydisfjordur at Hótel Snæfell, where comfort meets local culture. Enjoy cozy accommodations, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.

  • Hengifoss

    Explore Hengifoss, one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls, and embark on a scenic hike through stunning landscapes to witness nature's grandeur.

  • Gufu waterfall

    Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gufu Waterfall in Seydisfjordur, a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning cascades and serene surroundings.

  • Klifbrekku Waterfall

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of Klifbrekku Waterfall in Fjordhur, Iceland, where nature's power meets serene landscapes.

  • Vogafjós Farm Resort

    Discover the charm of Vogafjós Farm Resort, where authentic Icelandic cuisine meets breathtaking views near Lake Mývatn.

  • Tehúsið - Café, Bar, Guesthouse & Hostel

    Experience the heart of Icelandic hospitality at Tehúsið - Café, Bar & Guesthouse in Egilsstaðir.

  • Nielsen restaurant

    Discover the authentic taste of Iceland at Nielsen Restaurant in Egilsstaðir—where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.

  • Kiosk 108

    Discover Kiosk 108, a delightful art cafe in Seydisfjordur, where exceptional coffee meets a vibrant artistic atmosphere.

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