Family Adventure in Seydisfjordur, Iceland

Nature's Majesty and Culinary Delights

Today was all about embracing Iceland’s raw beauty and savoring its unique flavors. From the towering heights of Hengifoss to the quaint charm of Seydisfjordur’s local eateries, it was a day of exploration and indulgence. The family and I were keen to make the most of our time, soaking in every moment of this Icelandic adventure.

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Hótel Snæfell. I always appreciate a good breakfast to fuel a day of hiking and exploration, and the hotel certainly delivered. Sofia, of course, made a beeline for the pastries, while Lena and I opted for something a bit more substantial – skyr with fresh berries and a few slices of rye bread. It's amazing how a simple meal can feel so special when you're surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Iceland.


Experience the charm of Seydisfjordur at Hótel Snæfell, where comfort meets local culture. Enjoy cozy accommodations, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
With our bellies full, we set off for Hengifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest and most striking waterfalls. The drive itself was an experience, winding through valleys and alongside fjords, with the weather alternating between sunshine and light drizzle – typical Icelandic summer! As we got closer, the landscape transformed into a dramatic gorge, carved out over centuries by the relentless force of the river.

The hike to Hengifoss was a bit challenging, especially with Sofia in tow, but the views along the way were more than worth it. The trail led us past Litlanesfoss, another beautiful waterfall framed by basalt columns. Sofia was fascinated by the hexagonal shapes, and I found myself explaining the geological processes that formed them. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so rewarding – seeing the world through her eyes and sparking her curiosity.

Finally, after a good hour of hiking, we reached Hengifoss. And wow, it was a sight to behold! The waterfall plunges 128 meters down a sheer cliff face, with striking red stripes of clay between the basalt layers. The sheer scale of the falls, combined with the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape, was truly awe-inspiring. We spent a good while just taking it all in, snapping photos, and feeling the mist on our faces. Sofia was particularly excited, pointing out the tiny birds nesting in the cliffs and the rainbows forming in the spray.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After descending from Hengifoss, our stomachs were rumbling, so we headed back towards Seydisfjordur in search of lunch. We decided to try Randulf’s Sea House, a charming little restaurant right on the harbor. The place was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the fresh seafood on offer. I ordered the fish soup, Lena went for the grilled cod, and Sofia, predictably, opted for fish and chips. The food was delicious, simple, and fresh, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.


Discover exquisite seafood dining at Randulf's Sea House in Eskifjörður, where local flavors meet stunning fjord views.
Randulf's Sea House felt like stepping back in time. The building itself is an old wooden structure, weathered by years of sea spray and wind. Inside, the walls are adorned with nautical artifacts, old photographs, and fishing nets, giving it a cozy and authentic feel. It was the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Seydisfjordur.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore the town a bit. Seydisfjordur is known for its vibrant arts scene, and we were keen to check out some of the local galleries and installations. We strolled along the colorful streets, admiring the traditional wooden houses and the stunning views of the fjord. We popped into Markadur, a local shop selling handmade crafts and souvenirs. Lena found a beautiful hand-knitted scarf, and I picked up a few postcards to send to friends back in Berlin.


Explore Markadur in Seyðisfjörður for unique Icelandic souvenirs and local crafts that capture the spirit of your travels.
Our next stop was Klifbrekku Waterfall, another gem hidden in the hills above Seydisfjordur. This waterfall is quite different from Hengifoss; instead of one dramatic plunge, it cascades down a series of smaller tiers, creating a beautiful and serene scene. The hike to Klifbrekku was shorter and easier than the one to Hengifoss, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. Sofia loved splashing in the shallow pools at the base of the falls, while Lena and I enjoyed the peace and quiet of the surrounding forest.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Klifbrekku Waterfall in Fjordhur, Iceland, where nature's power meets serene landscapes.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Seydisfjordur for dinner. Tonight, we had reservations at Fancy Sheep, a restaurant known for its modern take on Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, rustic décor and a friendly atmosphere. We started with some local craft beers, then ordered a selection of dishes to share. The lamb was, of course, the star of the show, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Sofia surprised us all by trying (and enjoying!) a bite of the smoked arctic char. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine at Fancy Sheep in Seydisfjordur—where local flavors meet contemporary dining.
Reflecting on our adventures today, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of Iceland's landscapes. From the towering heights of Hengifoss to the gentle cascades of Klifbrekku, each waterfall has its own unique charm and beauty. And the food, oh, the food! From the simple, fresh seafood at Randulf’s Sea House to the innovative dishes at Fancy Sheep, every meal has been a culinary adventure.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore Borgarfjörður Eystri and tackle Heavier Mountain, hoping the weather holds up for another day of hiking and breathtaking views. We'll be starting the day again with breakfast at Hótel Snæfell, followed by lunch at Nordic Restaurant and dinner at Tehúsið - Café, Bar, Guesthouse & Hostel. I am also hoping to sneak out to Skaftfell Bistro for a nightcap. It’s hard to believe that our trip is already nearing its end. I'm determined to make the most of every remaining moment, soaking in the beauty and magic of this incredible island. We almost forgot the sunscreen and extra memory cards for the camera, but we were able to get them at the local store, Markadur.

Back at Hótel Snæfell now, Sofia is already fast asleep, dreaming of waterfalls and Icelandic delicacies. Lena and I are enjoying a quiet moment in our room, sipping on some herbal tea and reflecting on the day's adventures. It's moments like these that I cherish the most – the simple, quiet moments of connection and gratitude. Berlin feels so far away right now, but I know that we'll be taking a little piece of Iceland back with us when we return. The memories, the landscapes, the flavors – all will stay with us long after we've left this magical place.

And who knows, maybe one day we'll be back. Iceland has a way of getting under your skin, of calling you back to its rugged shores and its breathtaking landscapes. Until then, I'll keep sharing our adventures here, hoping to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world with open hearts and open minds. After all, that's what travel is all about – expanding our horizons, connecting with new cultures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

And now, it's time for me to sign off and get some rest. Tomorrow is another day, another adventure, another opportunity to discover the magic of Iceland. Goodnight from Seydisfjordur!