Family Adventure in the Heart of Þórsmörk, Iceland

Highland Adventures and Culinary Delights

Today was a symphony of contrasts, a dance between fire and ice, rugged landscapes and cozy corners. As I reflect on our adventures, I am reminded once again why Iceland holds such a special place in my heart. It's a land where the unexpected is always around the corner, and today was no exception.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Eldstó Art Cafe / Restaurant in Hvolsvöllur. This charming spot is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience. The cafe is owned by a potter and a pottery artist, and all the tableware is handmade on site. I savored every bite of my traditional Icelandic breakfast, served on a plate crafted with volcanic glaze. Clara was fascinated by the videos playing on the big screen, showcasing the artists at work. Maximilian enjoyed the strong coffee, which he declared was the perfect fuel for our adventurous day ahead. It's these little unique places that really make a trip memorable.

Discover culinary delights at Eldstó Art Cafe, where fine dining meets local artistry in Hvolsvöllur.
Fueled and ready, we set off towards Tindfjöll. The drive itself was stunning, with the landscape transforming into a rugged, mountainous terrain. Tindfjöll, meaning Peak Mountains, certainly lived up to its name. Although reaching the mountains can be challenging, requiring an F-Road-approved vehicle, the journey was well worth it. The mountains are located in the southern highlands of Iceland, northeast of Eyjafjallajökull volcano. We didn't attempt to scale the highest peak, Ýmir, at 1,462 meters, but the views were incredible nonetheless. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer power of nature, knowing that these mountains were formed in an eruption 54,000 years ago. We spent a good portion of the morning hiking around the base, snapping photos and simply soaking in the majestic scenery.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Tindfjöll, a majestic mountain peak in Iceland, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature exploration.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet solitude of nature, far from the beaten path.

Next on our itinerary was Hrafntinnusker, a mountain known for its geothermal activity and obsidian formations. Reaching Hrafntinnusker required a bit of a trek, as it's only accessible by hiking. As we hiked, the landscape transformed into a surreal, otherworldly scene. Steam vents and hot springs dotted the area, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The ground was covered in shimmering black obsidian, a volcanic glass that gave the mountain its name, Obsidian Skerry. Clara was especially fascinated by the obsidian, collecting small pieces to take back as souvenirs. The vibrant rhyolite mountains added a splash of color to the landscape, making it a photographer's dream. We explored the geothermal area, marveling at the bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. The air was thick with the smell of sulfur, a reminder of the volcanic activity beneath our feet. Hrafntinnusker is part of the Torfajökull Volcanic System, one of Iceland's most active geothermal zones.

Discover the stunning beauty of Hrafntinnusker, an iconic mountain peak in the Icelandic Highlands, known for its unique obsidian formations and breathtaking views.
After our invigorating hike, we were ready for a late lunch. We stopped at Heima Bistro in Þorlákshöfn, a cozy spot known for its delicious comfort food. The bistro had a welcoming atmosphere, and the staff was incredibly friendly. Maximilian opted for the fish and chips, while Clara devoured a cheeseburger. I decided to try the local specialty, Plokkfiskur, a traditional Icelandic fish gratin. It was the perfect comfort food after a day of hiking in the highlands. It's always a pleasure to find little gems like Heima Bistro, where you can experience authentic Icelandic cuisine and hospitality.

Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Heima Bistro in Þorlákshöfn - where every dish tells a story.
In the late afternoon, as we made our way back towards Þórsmörk, we decided to make a detour to Vík í Mýrdal, a charming village known for its black sand beach and basalt columns. It was time to sample some local brews at Smiðjan Brugghús. This brewpub is a local favorite, offering a variety of craft beers and hearty food. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we quickly struck up a conversation with some locals. Maximilian, a beer enthusiast, was in his element, sampling the different brews and chatting with the bartender about the brewing process. Clara enjoyed a juicy burger, while I opted for their homemade spare ribs cooked in milk stout. Smiðjan Brugghús is more than just a place to grab a beer; it's a community hub, a place where locals and travelers come together to share stories and enjoy good company. I feel like this is a great way to meet the locals and learn about their culture.

Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine and craft beer at Smiðjan Brugghús in Vík, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a fine dining experience at Kol Restaurant in Reykjavík. Situated in the heart of the city, Kol is known for its modern Icelandic cuisine with an international twist. The restaurant has a stylish and sophisticated ambiance, with an open kitchen and a lively bar. The cocktail menu is extensive, with creative concoctions crafted by skilled bartenders. We started with some expertly mixed cocktails before moving on to our main courses. Maximilian chose the charcoal-grilled steak, while I opted for the reindeer, a unique Icelandic delicacy. Clara enjoyed a simpler dish of grilled langoustine. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. Kol Restaurant is a culinary gem, a place where you can savor the flavors of Iceland in a refined and elegant setting.

Experience the essence of Icelandic fine dining at Kol Restaurant, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures, from the rugged peaks of Tindfjöll to the geothermal wonders of Hrafntinnusker, the cozy comforts of Heima Bistro to the craft brews of Smiðjan Brugghús, and the fine dining experience at Kol Restaurant. It was a day of contrasts, a day of exploration, and a day of culinary delights. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Þrastaskógur and Ægissíðufoss Waterfall. And perhaps a little shopping at Icewear.