Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Iceland's Highlands

Highland Waterfalls and Ancient Echoes

Today was a day of dramatic landscapes, delicious food, and a fascinating glimpse into Iceland's Viking past. The Highlands have truly captured my heart with their raw beauty, and I'm so excited to share our adventures with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast before setting off to see two of Iceland's most stunning waterfalls: Haifoss and Granni. The drive itself was an adventure, navigating the rugged terrain in our trusty 4x4. The Highlands in May are still a bit unpredictable, and we were grateful for the sturdy vehicle.


Discover the breathtaking Haifoss waterfall, one of Iceland's tallest and most stunning natural attractions, set amidst dramatic landscapes.

The weather was a mix of sunshine and showers, which only added to the dramatic atmosphere. As we approached Haifoss, the landscape opened up to reveal a breathtaking view of the waterfall cascading down from a height of 122 meters. The power and beauty of nature were on full display. Just next to it was Granni, a stunning waterfall at 101 meters high. The weather was around 3°C, and there was a 55% chance of snow.


Explore Granni Waterfall, a hidden Icelandic gem featuring breathtaking cascades and stunning landscapes perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

We spent a good amount of time simply taking in the view and snapping photos. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for being able to witness such incredible natural wonders. The wind was strong, and the spray from the waterfall created a constant mist in the air, making the experience even more immersive. I made sure to bundle up in my layers to keep warm.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

After our waterfall adventure, it was time to indulge in some delicious Icelandic cuisine. We drove to Fjöruborðið for breakfast, a restaurant known for its langoustine. The restaurant is located in the small village of Stokkseyri in South Iceland. We started with their famous langoustine soup, which was creamy, flavorful, and utterly divine. For the main course, we had langoustine tails sautéed in garlic and butter. Every dish was a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. It was the perfect way to warm up after our morning in the Highlands.


Experience authentic Icelandic seafood at Fjöruborðið in Stokkseyri—home to delicious dishes and stunning coastal views.

Next on our culinary journey was Ingólfsskáli Viking Restaurant for lunch, a unique establishment that promised a taste of Iceland's Viking heritage. From the moment we stepped inside, we were transported back in time. The restaurant is designed as a Viking longhouse, complete with turf walls, wooden beams, and traditional decor.


Discover authentic Viking cuisine at Ingólfsskáli Restaurant - an immersive dining experience steeped in Icelandic heritage.

We decided to try the Viking tasting platter, which included dried fish, fermented shark, and a shot of Brennivín. It was definitely an experience! The fermented shark was… interesting, to say the least. But it was all part of embracing the local culture. For the main course, Hans ordered the lamb fillet, which he declared was some of the best lamb he'd ever eaten. I opted for a traditional fish dish, which was equally delicious. The owner, Gunnar, uses local ingredients and hunts the meats himself.

The staff were dressed in traditional Viking clothing and were incredibly knowledgeable about Icelandic history. They shared stories and legends, bringing the Viking era to life. It was fascinating to learn about the customs, beliefs, and way of life of these ancient people. The atmosphere was lively and engaging, making it a truly memorable dining experience.

Our final stop for dinner was Matarlist, a restaurant that came highly recommended for its modern take on Icelandic cuisine. Unfortunately, Matarlist may be closed. We were hoping to try the restaurant's vegan options. Instead, we opted for a cozy meal at our campsite.


Discover the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Matarlist in Hellissandur—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

To cap off the day, we decided to visit the Jungle Cocktail Bar in Reykjavik. This bar is known as one of the most exciting cocktail lounges in Iceland. It is tucked away on the second floor of Austurstræti 9. The atmosphere was eclectic and inviting, with lush greenery and vintage furniture. The mixologists were true artists, crafting unique and flavorful cocktails with a passion. I tried a cocktail made with Brennivín, which was surprisingly refreshing. Hans enjoyed a gin-based concoction with basil and lime. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our incredible day.


Discover the ultimate cocktail experience at Jungle Cocktail Bar in Reykjavík, where creativity and ambiance blend for a night to remember.

As I sit here in our tent, the wind howling outside, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a whirlwind of experiences, from the awe-inspiring waterfalls to the delicious food and fascinating history. The Highlands have a way of captivating you, of making you feel both small and connected to something much larger than yourself.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our Highland adventure, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll be heading to Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe's largest glacier. I'm excited to explore the icy landscapes and witness the power of the glacier firsthand. We'll also be visiting Fjaðrárgljúfur, a stunning canyon with dramatic cliffs and winding rivers. Sjávarkjallarinn will be our breakfast location. For lunch, we'll try The Highland Center Hrauneyjar, and for dinner, we'll dine at Drangar Restaurant. Before heading to the airport, we are planning to stop by The Handknitting Association of Iceland to pick up some souvenirs.

Before drifting off to sleep, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible journey. The Highlands have exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to share more stories and photos with you in my next post. Goodnight from Iceland!