Solo Expedition to Vatnajökull: An Icelandic Adventure

A Day of Glaciers and Gastronomy

Today was nothing short of spectacular. Immersing myself in the raw beauty of Skaftafell, a part of Vatnajökull National Park, reminded me why I set out on this solo adventure in the first place. The crisp air, the stunning vistas, and the sheer magnitude of the glaciers – it was a feast for the senses. Forget the portable charger I left back in Kelowna; the natural beauty here is enough to power anyone's soul.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities at Skaftafell National Park, Iceland's nature jewel with glaciers, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli). I was eager to try some authentic Icelandic flavors. Given my love for vegetarian options, I was thrilled to find a place offering such variety. I opted for a traditional Icelandic breakfast, which included skyr (Icelandic yogurt) with fresh berries and a slice of rye bread. It was the perfect fuel for the day’s adventures.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Saatvik Restaurant, where culinary delights meet breathtaking natural beauty.

With a full stomach and a sense of excitement, I set off to explore Skaftafell. The Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Centre was my first stop. The rangers were incredibly helpful, providing maps and insights into the various hiking trails. They highlighted a few trails, including the popular Svartifoss trail and the Skaftafellsjökull Glacier trail. I learned about the area's history, geology, and the impact of climate change on the glaciers. It was fascinating to learn that the basalt columns at Svartifoss inspired the design of Hallgrímskirkja Church in Reykjavík.

I decided to start with an easy hike to Svartifoss. The trail was well-marked and offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike took me through lush greenery, past smaller waterfalls, and finally to the majestic Svartifoss, cascading over basalt columns. I spent some time there, taking photos and soaking in the serene atmosphere. The power and beauty of the waterfall were truly captivating, and the geometric basalt columns added an extra layer of intrigue. I can see why they inspired the architecture of Reykjavik.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Next on the agenda was Svínafellsjökull Glacier. I drove to the parking area, which was easily accessible from the Ring Road. The weather in June is quite mild, with average highs around 9°C (48°F), but I layered up just in case. The glacier was a short hike from the parking lot, and as I approached, its grandeur became apparent. Svínafellsjökull is an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, and its dramatic ice formations and deep crevasses made it a sight to behold. I decided to take a guided glacier hike, as venturing onto a glacier alone can be dangerous.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Svínafellsjökull Glacier, a must-visit natural wonder in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, offering stunning views and adventure.

The tour guide was knowledgeable and provided us with crampons and ice axes. He explained the history of the glacier, its formation, and the impact of climate change. Hiking on the glacier was an exhilarating experience. The blue ice, the ridges, and the crevasses created a surreal landscape. I felt like I was walking on another planet. The guide pointed out various ice formations and explained how they were formed. It was both educational and awe-inspiring. I even got a chance to try ice climbing, which was a thrilling challenge.

After the glacier hike, I was famished. It was time for lunch, and I headed to Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant. The restaurant overlooked the Fjallsárlón iceberg lagoon, providing stunning views while I ate. The restaurant offered a buffet-style selection of hot and cold items, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. I opted for oven-baked cod with rice and salad. It was delicious and filling, just what I needed after a morning of hiking. I paired it with a local Icelandic beer, which complemented the meal perfectly.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine with breathtaking glacier views at Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant.

In the late afternoon, I decided to explore more of Skaftafell. I chose a longer hike that led to Sjónarnípa, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. The hike was challenging, but the views from the top were worth it. From Sjónarnípa, I could see Skaftafellsjökull, Morsárjökull, and the vast expanse of Vatnajökull. It was a breathtaking sight, and I spent some time there, taking photos and simply enjoying the view.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant for dinner. I had heard great things about their traditional Icelandic cuisine, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant was cozy and welcoming, with a rustic charm that added to the ambiance. I ordered grilled lamb, a local specialty, served with potatoes, gravy, and rhubarb jam. The lamb was tender and flavorful, and the rhubarb jam added a sweet and tangy contrast. I also tried their seafood soup, which was rich and creamy, filled with shrimps, char, and cod. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


Discover comfort and authentic cuisine at Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant, your perfect base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.

After dinner, I decided to check out Ölstofa, a local bar in the area. I was curious to see what the Icelandic nightlife was like. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a good selection of local craft beers. I struck up a conversation with a local, who recommended a few brews to try. I sampled a couple of them and enjoyed the lively atmosphere. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of hiking and exploring.


Discover the lively atmosphere of Ölstofa, Reykjavík's vibrant bar offering a taste of Icelandic culture and an impressive selection of local brews.

As I sit here, writing this in my travel journal, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences of today. Skaftafell is a truly magical place, and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to explore it. The glaciers, the waterfalls, the hiking trails, and the local cuisine – it was all unforgettable. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures, which include kayaking in Heinabergslón and exploring Hvannagil – The Golden Valley. But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.

Tomorrow, I plan to kayak in Heinabergslón and explore Hvannagil - The Golden Valley. Before that, I'll have breakfast at the Glacier World Guesthouse.

The events of today reminded me of something Olivia once said, how important it is to sometimes disconnect from the world to connect with nature. I miss her and Ethan, but I know they'd be thrilled to hear about my adventures. Maybe one day, I'll bring them here, and we can explore this beautiful place together.

Tonight, as I reflect on the day, I realize how much I appreciate these solo journeys. They allow me to immerse myself fully in the experience, to connect with nature, and to discover new things about myself. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we take alone.

The weather forecast for tomorrow predicts light rain, so I'll make sure to pack my rain gear. But whatever the weather, I'm determined to make the most of my time here and continue exploring the wonders of Vatnajökull National Park.