Family Adventure in the Heart of Þórsmörk, Iceland

Reykjavík Beckons!

After a smooth flight from Dresden, we've finally arrived in my beloved Iceland! There's something incredibly comforting about returning to my roots, especially with Maximilian and Clara by my side. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the vibrant energy of Reykjavík, indulging in local cuisine, and soaking in the city's unique atmosphere. It’s the first day of our family adventure, and Reykjavík has already captured our hearts.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaffivagninn, a Reykjavík institution that started as a harborside food truck in 1935. It’s the oldest restaurant in Reykjavík. Situated right on the harbor, the views were simply stunning. I opted for the smoked salmon, a classic Icelandic breakfast. Maximilian, ever the traditionalist, went for the fiskur og franskar (fish and chips), which he declared the best he's ever had. Clara, of course, chose pastries, her eyes wide with delight at the selection.

Strolling through the city, hand-in-hand, we made our way to Rammagerðin, a treasure trove of Icelandic handicrafts and design. As someone with a keen interest in Scandinavian design, I was in heaven! The store showcases the work of over 400 local designers, offering a unique chance to find pieces that are both meaningful and beautifully made. I picked up a cozy lopapeysa (Icelandic wool sweater) for Clara, ensuring she stays warm during our camping adventure in Þórsmörk. Maximilian found a beautiful hand-carved wooden bowl, a perfect memento of our trip.


Discover unique Icelandic souvenirs at Rammagerðin, a charming store near the Lava Centre, perfect for tourists seeking local treasures.

Lunchtime found us at Kaffihús Vesturbæjar, a charming French bistro in the Vesturbær neighborhood. We enjoyed delicious open-faced sandwiches, and Clara devoured a slice of their special cake. The staff was incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel before continuing our exploration.

Sometimes, the most profound travel experiences are found in the simple moments: a shared meal, a spontaneous discovery, and the joy of being together.

In the afternoon, we wandered through the colorful streets of Reykjavík, admiring the unique architecture and soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere. We stumbled upon a local market, filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and handcrafted goods. I couldn't resist buying some Icelandic chocolate and skyr (Icelandic yogurt) for our camping trip.

As evening approached, we made our way to Grillmarkaðurinn for dinner, a restaurant recommended for its modern take on Icelandic cuisine. The interior was stunning, blending contemporary style with natural elements like moss and basalt. We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey through Iceland's diverse flavors. Maximilian, always the adventurous one, tried the whale burger, while Clara surprised us all by devouring the lamb. I savored the Arctic char, perfectly grilled and bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, making our dining experience truly unforgettable.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Grillmarkaðurinn - where fresh local ingredients meet traditional grilling techniques in Reykjavík.

One of the highlights of the day was a visit to Hallgrímskirkja Church, Reykjavík's iconic landmark. We took the elevator to the top of the tower, where we were rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The colorful rooftops, the vast ocean, and the distant mountains created a breathtaking vista. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of Iceland.

While researching events, I found that October in Reykjavík offers a range of cultural experiences. There are concerts at Harpa Concert Hall , and various exhibitions around the city. It seems there's always something happening in Reykjavík, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Of course, no trip is without its little hiccups. In my excitement, I forgot to pack a portable charger and binoculars for bird watching! A mental note for tomorrow's packing list.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're embarking on our adventure to Þórsmörk! We'll be having breakfast at Volcano Huts Húsadalur, followed by exploring Þórsmörk and Básar, Þórsmörk. I'm particularly excited about hiking in this natural paradise, surrounded by glaciers and mountains. I've heard that Básar, Þórsmörk also has a bar, so perhaps we'll enjoy a relaxing drink after a long day of hiking.

As I sit here, writing in my travel journal, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share my homeland with my family. Reykjavík has welcomed us with open arms, and I know that the rest of our adventure in Þórsmörk will be just as magical. Time to rest up for tomorrow's journey into the heart of Iceland!

Before heading to bed, I spent some time knitting on Clara's lopapeysa. It's a tradition that connects me to my roots, and I hope it will do the same for her.

Reykjavík, you've been wonderful. Þórsmörk, here we come!