Solo Adventure in Seydisfjordur, Iceland

Echoes of Iceland: Sound, Art, and Fjords

Today, I embarked on a journey through Seydisfjordur that was as much about sound and art as it was about the breathtaking landscapes. It was a day of discovery, where each location resonated with its unique charm and offered a new perspective on this enchanting Icelandic town. From singing in concrete domes to reflecting by a solitary phone booth, the day was a testament to Iceland's ability to blend nature and creativity seamlessly.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Lyng restaurant. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Icelandic coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration. I opted for the traditional skyr with berries and granola, a hearty and delicious way to fuel up before heading out. It reminded me of the breakfasts I prepare for Astrid before her school outings, always ensuring she has the energy for her adventures. I made a mental note to try and recreate this skyr recipe back in Bamberg; Maximilian would love it.

First on the itinerary was Tvísöngur, the intriguing sound sculpture nestled on the hillside overlooking Seydisfjordur. The walk up was invigorating, a gentle climb that offered increasingly stunning views of the fjord below. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the distant sound of the sea. As I walked, I thought about how much Astrid would enjoy this little hike; she loves exploring and discovering new things, just like her mother.

Reaching Tvísöngur was like stepping into another world. The sculpture, a collection of five interconnected concrete domes, stood starkly against the verdant landscape. Each dome is designed to resonate with a different tone in the Icelandic musical tradition of five-tone harmony. I ventured inside each one, experimenting with my voice and listening to the unique echoes and reverberations. The acoustics were incredible, transforming my simple humming into something ethereal and otherworldly. I even tried singing a few Swedish folk songs, curious to hear how they sounded within the concrete chambers. It was a playful, almost meditative experience, a chance to connect with sound and space in a truly unique way.


Experience the captivating blend of art and nature at Tvísöngur, a unique sound sculpture in Seydisfjordur, Iceland, where every echo tells a story.

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.”

The experience at Tvísöngur was more than just a visit to a sculpture; it was an immersion into Icelandic musical heritage. The artist, Lukas Kühne, has created a space where sound becomes tangible, where the wind and the landscape contribute to the symphony. It's a testament to the power of art to connect us to our surroundings and to our cultural roots. I spent a good hour there, simply listening and experimenting, feeling the vibrations in my chest and the crisp Icelandic air on my skin. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the noise of everyday life and connect with something deeper.

Next on my list was the Sculpture of telephone booth, a solitary structure that stands as a monument to Iceland's telecommunications history. It's a poignant reminder of a time before smartphones and instant communication, a time when a phone booth was a lifeline to the outside world. The booth itself is weathered and worn, a testament to the harsh Icelandic climate, yet it possesses a certain charm, a quiet dignity that speaks to its past.


Explore the Sculpture of a telephone booth in Seydisfjordur, Iceland, a unique blend of art and local culture amidst stunning landscapes.

The phone booth sculpture, created by Guðjón Ketilsson, commemorates the first international telegraph cable in Iceland, which connected the country to Scotland. Inside the booth, a plaque reads, Hvernig gengur?, which translates to How's it going? It’s a simple question, yet it carries a profound weight, a reminder of the importance of connection and communication.

Standing there, by the lonely phone booth, I couldn't help but think about Maximilian and Astrid. I imagined calling them from this remote location, sharing my experiences and hearing their voices on the other end of the line. It made me realize how much I miss them, even though I know this solo journey is important for me. I took a moment to simply breathe and appreciate the solitude, the vastness of the landscape, and the quiet beauty of the phone booth itself. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to center myself and reconnect with my inner thoughts.

The final stop of the day was the Walter Mitty longboard viewpoint, a location made famous by the film *The Secret Life of Walter Mitty*. As a film enthusiast, I was excited to see this iconic spot and experience the views that inspired the movie's breathtaking scenery. The drive to the viewpoint was stunning, winding along the edge of the fjord and offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.


Explore the breathtaking Walter Mitty Longboard Viewpoint, a scenic gem in Seydisfjordur, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.

The viewpoint itself was even more impressive than I had imagined. From this vantage point, Seydisfjordur stretched out below, a tapestry of colorful houses nestled between the fjord and the mountains. The view was simply breathtaking, a scene of such serene beauty that it felt almost unreal. I could see why this location was chosen for the film; it perfectly captures the magic and wonder of Iceland.

I spent a long time at the viewpoint, simply soaking in the scenery and taking photographs. The light was perfect, casting a golden glow over the landscape and highlighting the vibrant colors of the town. I imagined Walter Mitty himself standing there, contemplating his life and dreaming of adventure. It was a moment of inspiration, a reminder that life is full of possibilities and that we should never be afraid to chase our dreams.

As the sun began to set, I made my way back down to Seydisfjordur, my heart full of gratitude for the experiences of the day. I decided to have dinner at Old Bank - Hotel Aldan, a restaurant known for its delicious Icelandic cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I ordered the Arctic char, a local specialty, and savored every bite, reflecting on the day's adventures. The fish was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the accompanying vegetables were fresh and vibrant. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the unique blend of history and modern comfort at Old Bank - Hotel Aldan in beautiful Seyðisfjörður.

After dinner, I decided to check out Feiti Fíllinn - BAR NIGHTCLUB, a local haunt known for its lively atmosphere and friendly locals. I wasn't planning on staying out late, but I wanted to experience a bit of Seydisfjordur's nightlife. The bar was buzzing with energy, filled with laughter and music. I ordered a local beer and chatted with some of the locals, learning about their lives and their connection to this unique town. It was a fun and engaging experience, a chance to connect with the community and feel like a part of something special.


Discover the heart of Egilsstaðir’s nightlife at Feiti Fíllinn, where great drinks and great music await every visitor.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the natural wonders surrounding Seydisfjordur. I'm particularly excited about visiting Hengifoss and the other stunning waterfalls in the area. I've heard they are truly spectacular, and I can't wait to witness their beauty firsthand. I'll also be sure to stop by Vogafjós Farm Resort for breakfast, eager to sample their local farm-to-table cuisine.

Today in Seydisfjordur was nothing short of magical, a symphony of sound, art, and natural beauty that resonated deep within my soul. It was a day of exploration, reflection, and connection, a reminder of the power of travel to inspire and transform. As I drift off to sleep tonight, I carry with me the echoes of Iceland, the haunting melodies of Tvísöngur, the quiet dignity of the telephone booth, and the breathtaking vistas of the Walter Mitty viewpoint. These are the memories that will stay with me long after I leave this enchanting place.

And as I prepare for another day of adventure, I'm reminded that the true beauty of travel lies not just in the places we visit, but in the experiences we create and the connections we make along the way.