Family Adventure in the Heart of Þórsmörk, Iceland

Whispers of the Wild

Today was a day of gentle exploration, a symphony of soft footsteps on mossy paths and the soothing rush of water over ancient stones. We ventured into the embrace of Þrastaskógur and sought the quiet beauty of Ægissíðufoss, finding solace and wonder in Iceland's serene landscapes. It's days like these that remind me why I fell in love with this land in the first place.


Explore the stunning hiking trails of Þrastaskógur, a serene Icelandic paradise blending breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Hvönn Restaurant in Skálholt [i]. Maximilian and Clara were excited, especially after hearing about Hvönn's focus on traditional Icelandic food with a modern twist. The restaurant was charming, and I savored the familiar tastes of home, reimagined with innovative fermentation techniques. I opted for the Plucked fish. Tomato & onion butter sauce, diced tomato, rye bread & butter. Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, tried the Cooked Lamb Legs, while Clara enjoyed a simple waffle with cream and rhubarb jam. It was the perfect start to a day immersed in nature. The weather forecast predicted a mix of clouds and sunshine, with temperatures hovering around 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F), so we layered up in our warmest gear.

Our first destination was Þrastaskógur, a hiking area near Selfoss. As we drove, I shared stories with Clara about my childhood in Ísafjörður, how I used to play in forests much like Þrastaskógur, imagining myself as a Viking explorer. The drive itself was picturesque, with rolling hills and the sky a canvas of grey and blue. When we arrived, the air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of damp earth and pine.

Þrastaskógur is a nature lover's paradise, with trails suitable for all levels of experience. We chose a leisurely path, the Birkistígur, knowing Clara's little legs wouldn't manage anything too strenuous. The forest was enchanting, with diverse flora and fauna creating an immersive experience. Sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the mossy ground. Clara was fascinated by the vibrant colors of the leaves, now in their autumnal glory. She collected fallen leaves, each one a unique masterpiece of nature. Maximilian, ever the photographer, captured the scene, promising to add the photos to our family album.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

We spent a couple of hours wandering through the forest, enjoying the tranquility and the fresh air. There were other hikers, but the forest was spacious enough that we felt like we had the place to ourselves. Clara was particularly delighted by a small playground we found, complete with swings and a slide. It was a perfect spot for a break, and we enjoyed a picnic lunch of sandwiches and Icelandic Skyr.

Leaving Þrastaskógur, we set our sights on Ægissíðufoss Waterfall, a hidden gem near Hella. The drive was short, and soon we were following a small path along the Ytri-Rangá river. The path was a bit muddy, but easily manageable. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ægissíðufoss Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland, perfect for photography and nature lovers.

Ægissíðufoss is not one of Iceland's grandest waterfalls, but it possesses a unique charm. It's a gentle cascade, more wide than tall, with the water flowing smoothly over the rocks. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, creating a peaceful oasis. We spent some time simply watching the water, listening to its soothing rhythm. Clara, of course, wanted to get as close as possible, and Maximilian had to carefully guide her to ensure she didn't slip.

One of the most remarkable things about Ægissíðufoss is its accessibility. It's just a short walk from the parking area, making it easy for anyone to visit. Despite its proximity to the Ring Road, it feels secluded and untouched. We were lucky enough to have the place almost entirely to ourselves, adding to the sense of tranquility.

On our way back, we stopped at Icewear. I wanted to pick up a few extra pairs of warm socks, and Clara was determined to get a Lopapeysa like the one I knit for her last winter. We found an Icewear store and stocked up on essentials. Clara proudly chose a miniature Lopapeysa with a bright pink pattern. It was a perfect souvenir of our Icelandic adventure.

For dinner, we decided to try Valhalla Restaurant in Hvolsvöllur. The restaurant is Viking-themed, which Clara found incredibly exciting. The interior was decorated with long tables and benches, reminiscent of a Viking hall. The menu featured hearty dishes, perfect after a day of hiking. I ordered the Viking steak made of pork, while Maximilian opted for the homemade smoked pulled pork sandwich. Clara, predictably, chose a burger. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was lively and fun. There was even a museum on-site, which we explored after dinner. Clara was fascinated by the exhibits about Viking history, and Maximilian and I enjoyed learning more about our heritage.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the simple joys of exploring Iceland with my family. The gentle beauty of Þrastaskógur and Ægissíðufoss, the warmth of Icelandic hospitality, and the laughter of my daughter – these are the moments that make life truly special.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Höfðabrekkuheiði and Reynisfjall [i]. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Iceland's dramatic landscapes and sharing these experiences with you all. The forecast predicts similar weather to today, so we'll be sure to pack our warmest clothes and our sense of adventure.

Before drifting off to sleep, I journaled about today's adventures, capturing every detail so I could share it with you. It's these moments of connection with nature and family that fuel my passion for travel and writing. Goodnight from Þórsmörk!

On a personal note, I’m finding that these moments reconnecting with my homeland are incredibly important. As someone who grew up in Ísafjörður and now lives in Dresden, Germany, with Maximilian, it’s vital that I keep in touch with my roots. I want Clara to know and love Iceland as much as I do, and I’m so grateful for these opportunities to share my heritage with her.