Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Iceland's Highlands

Highland Waterfalls and Woolly Wonders

Today was a day of chasing waterfalls and embracing the raw, untamed beauty of the Icelandic Highlands. After a hearty breakfast, we set off to explore some of the region's most stunning hidden gems. It's days like these that remind me why Hans and I crave these adventures – the feeling of being utterly immersed in nature's grandeur is simply unparalleled.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Old Iceland. Despite being miles from Reykjavik, we found a charming spot that lived up to its name, serving traditional Icelandic fare. It felt like a warm hug on a chilly morning, fueling us up for the day's adventures. I opted for the skyr with berries, while Hans enjoyed the hearty fish stew, both of which gave us a taste of authentic Icelandic comfort.

First on our itinerary was Sigöldugljúfur, a canyon that I had seen pictures of, but nothing could have prepared me for the reality. The drive itself was an adventure, navigating the rugged F-roads in our trusty 4x4 rental. The weather was on our side, with clear skies that highlighted the dramatic landscapes. As we bumped along, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, wondering what awaited us around each bend. According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, we were fortunate to have relatively mild conditions for the Highlands in May.

Reaching Sigöldugljúfur felt like stepping into another world. The canyon, often called the 'Valley of Tears,' is a hidden oasis of vibrant blue waters and countless waterfalls cascading down its walls. The sheer scale of the place was breathtaking, and the sound of the water was incredibly soothing. Hans, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the stunning scenery from every angle. I, on the other hand, simply stood in awe, soaking in the tranquility and marveling at nature's artistry. We spent a good couple of hours exploring the canyon, hiking along the rim, and taking in the panoramic views. It's a place that truly stays with you long after you leave, a reminder of the unspoiled beauty that exists in this world.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sigöldugljúfur, a tranquil scenic spot in Iceland's Highlands, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that are hidden away, waiting to be discovered.

After Sigöldugljúfur, our next destination was Ófærufoss, another stunning waterfall located in the Highlands. The drive was equally scenic, with vast lava fields and snow-capped mountains stretching as far as the eye could see. As we approached Ófærufoss, the landscape transformed once again, with lush green meadows and wildflowers dotting the hillsides.

Ófærufoss was once famous for its natural stone arch that spanned the two sections of the waterfall, but sadly, it collapsed in the early 1990s. Despite the missing arch, the waterfall is still a sight to behold, cascading into a deep gorge with immense power and beauty. We hiked to a viewpoint overlooking the falls, where we could fully appreciate the raw energy of the water as it plunged into the depths below. I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for the forces of nature that have shaped this landscape over millennia. The paths were a bit steep and slippery in places, so we had to tread carefully, but the views were well worth the effort.


Discover the stunning Ófærufoss, a captivating waterfall in Iceland that showcases the country's breathtaking natural beauty and tranquil landscapes.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we made our way to Svarta Kaffið in Reykjavik for a warm soup. This cozy little restaurant is known for serving traditional Icelandic soup in a bread bowl, which sounded like the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. I opted for the lamb soup, while Hans went for the vegetarian option. Both were absolutely delicious, hearty, and flavorful, and the bread bowl was a fun and unique touch. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Svarta Kaffið – cozy soup restaurant serving delicious dishes in freshly baked bread bowls.

With our bellies full and our spirits lifted, we decided to do some shopping. I had been wanting to pick up a traditional Icelandic wool sweater, so we stopped by Icewear / Vík Wool. While the shop had a wide selection of sweaters and other wool products, I couldn't help but feel a bit underwhelmed. I had read online that some of their products are not made with authentic Icelandic wool, which was a bit disappointing. However, I did find a lovely lambswool beanie that caught my eye, so I decided to purchase that as a souvenir. I made a mental note to seek out smaller, local shops in Vík for a truly authentic Icelandic sweater.


Discover high-quality Icelandic wool clothing and outdoor gear at Icewear / Vík Wool, your go-to destination in Vík for all things adventure.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back towards our campsite, stopping at Daddi's Pizza for dinner. After a day of hiking and exploring, we were craving something comforting and familiar, and pizza seemed like the perfect choice. The pizza was delicious, with fresh ingredients and a crispy crust. It was the perfect way to end a long and fulfilling day.


Experience the best pizza in Mývatn at Daddi's Pizza – where flavor meets comfort in every slice.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Haifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland, and Granni, another nearby waterfall. We're also hoping to check out Jungle Cocktail Bar for a nightcap.

Back at the campsite, as I write this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. The Icelandic Highlands have a way of captivating you, of making you feel small yet connected to something much larger than yourself. It's a place of raw beauty, of untamed wilderness, and of endless adventure. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As I reflect on our day, I realize that it's not just about seeing the sights, but about immersing ourselves in the culture and connecting with the people. It's about savoring the simple moments, like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, or a friendly conversation with a local shopkeeper. It's about embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the journey, wherever it may lead.

Before drifting off to sleep, I double-checked the weather forecast for tomorrow. While the overall outlook is decent, there's a chance of showers in the afternoon. I also checked road.is to ensure that the F-roads we plan to travel on are still open and accessible. It's essential to stay informed and prepared when exploring the Highlands, as conditions can change rapidly.

As I close my eyes, I can still hear the sound of the waterfalls, feel the wind on my face, and smell the fresh, clean air of the Highlands. These are the memories that I will carry with me long after we leave Iceland, a reminder of the untamed beauty that exists in this world, waiting to be discovered. And I know that this is just the beginning of our Highland adventure. Tomorrow, we'll continue to explore, to discover, and to embrace the magic of Iceland.

The Highlands have a certain magic about them, a sense of serenity that you won’t find anywhere else. It's a place where the landscapes are raw, untouched, and incredibly beautiful. It’s a reminder of why Hans and I are so passionate about sustainable travel—preserving these precious environments for generations to come.

Goodnight from the Icelandic Highlands. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you tomorrow!