Family Adventure in the Heart of Þórsmörk, Iceland
Day 11: Chasing Waterfalls and Woolly Wonders: A Day of Icelandic Delights
Discover Iceland's hidden gems: Majestic waterfalls, charming wool studios, and culinary delights in a day of exploration with family.
A Day of Serendipitous Discoveries
Today was one of those travel days that just seemed to flow perfectly, a blend of planned activities and delightful surprises. It’s days like these that remind me why I love exploring my homeland, Iceland, especially with Maximilian and Clara by my side. The crisp October air, tinged with the promise of winter, set the stage for our adventures as we ventured out to discover more of what Iceland has to offer.
Our first stop was Fremri-Fellsfoss, a majestic waterfall cascading down the rugged cliffs. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape painted in autumn colors. Although October in Iceland means shorter days and cooler temperatures, the beauty around us was simply breathtaking.
The hike to Fremri-Fellsfoss from the Skógafoss parking lot was invigorating. The trail was well-marked, and even Clara managed it with minimal complaints, her little boots crunching on the path. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of the water grew louder, and the sight that greeted us was truly rewarding. Fremri-Fellsfoss is about 15 meters high, and it plunges into a narrow canyon, creating a cool, misty vibe. The other waterfall you see in the background from here is Innri-Fellsfoss. We spent a good hour there, taking photos and simply soaking in the natural beauty. Clara, of course, was fascinated by the rainbows that appeared in the mist, chasing them with glee.
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fremri-Fellsfoss, a stunning waterfall nestled in Iceland's Fimmvörðuháls region, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
The best journeys are the ones where you stumble upon unexpected treasures, creating memories that last a lifetime.
After our waterfall adventure, we drove to Vík í Mýrdal, a charming village known for its black sand beaches and dramatic landscapes. Our main reason for visiting Vík was to explore Katla Wool Studio. As someone who enjoys knitting traditional Icelandic sweaters, I was eager to see their collection of Lopapeysa and other wool products. The studio is a small family business that continues the work of the woollen knitting factory in Vik and Myrdal which has been operating since 1971.
The Katla Wool Studio was a delightful surprise. The shop was cozy, and the owner was incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about the local wool industry and the unique qualities of Icelandic wool. I ended up buying a beautiful skein of yarn in a deep blue hue, perfect for my next knitting project. Clara picked out a cute, hand-knitted hat with a pompom, while Maximilian found a warm scarf to protect him from the Icelandic winds. It’s wonderful to support local artisans and take home a piece of Icelandic heritage.
Discover the artistry of Icelandic wool at Katla Wool Studio, where every product embodies the warmth and beauty of Iceland's natural fibers.
Lunch today was at Hafið Bláa Restaurant With A View, and what a view it was! The restaurant is situated in a beautiful spot with panoramic views of the ocean and the countryside. We all were hungry after the hike, and the menu offered a great selection of seafood and Scandinavian dishes.
I opted for the Seafood of the Moment, which was a perfectly pan-fried cod with root vegetables. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the flavors were delicate and satisfying. Maximilian chose the lobster soup, which he declared was the best he’d ever tasted. Clara, surprisingly, went for the fish and chips and devoured every last bit. The service was friendly and attentive, and the overall atmosphere was cozy and inviting. The ocean view made the whole experience even more special.
Experience exquisite seafood and Scandinavian cuisine at Hafið Bláa Restaurant, where stunning river views enhance every meal.
In the afternoon, we took a ferry to the Westman Islands to visit Vöruhúsið, a family-run restaurant known for its diverse menu and fresh ingredients. The ferry ride itself was an adventure, with the wind whipping through our hair and the waves crashing against the boat. Clara was thrilled to spot a few puffins flying overhead, adding to the excitement.
Vöruhúsið was a great choice for dinner. The restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere, and the menu had something for everyone. Maximilian enjoyed a hearty lamb dish, while I savored a vegetarian pasta. Clara, being Clara, chose pizza from the children's corner and the restaurant creates a fun, comfortable experience for the little ones. What stood out was the friendly service and the overall family-friendly vibe.
Discover the authentic flavors of Iceland at Vöruhúsið, a charming restaurant in Vestmannaeyjabær offering fresh local cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.
Finally, we ended the day at Tjöruhúsið for a late dinner. What a unique culinary experience! Tjöruhúsið is a small seafood restaurant in Ísafjörður that serves family-style seafood meals at specific times. The atmosphere was cozy, reminiscent of an old ale house, and the staff was incredibly friendly.
We had a little bit of everything - langostine, halibut, salmon, salt cod, cod cheeks, wolffish and more. The fish soup was amazing! Everything was incredibly fresh, and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. The price was 9,000 ISK per person.
Experience authentic Icelandic seafood at Tjöruhúsið in Ísafjörður – where fresh flavors meet stunning fjord views.
As we head back to our campsite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for another incredible day in Iceland. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Þórsmörk and visit the Básar Hut & campsite, weather permitting of course. October in Iceland can be unpredictable, but that’s part of the adventure. I’m looking forward to more hiking, photography, and quality time with my family in this beautiful corner of the world. It is always a pleasure to share the beauty of my homeland with my family.
“The journey of a lifetime isn't about the destination, but the memories created along the way.”
Until tomorrow!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Þórsmörk, Iceland on a 15-day family adventure filled with hiking, photography, and sustainable travel.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Translator and Freelance Writer
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Country: Germany
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Age: 38
Hallo! Ég heiti Emilía Jónsdóttir, and welcome to my little corner of the internet! As an Icelander living in Dresden, Germany, I'm passionate about sharing my love for travel, sustainable living, and unique cultural experiences. Whether I'm exploring hidden gems in Europe with my family or revisiting the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, I'm always seeking authentic adventures. Join me as I share practical tips, personal stories, and a touch of Scandinavian inspiration to help you create your own unforgettable journeys!
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