Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Iceland's Highlands

Embracing the Highland's Call

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's Highlands. We ventured deep into landscapes that felt both ancient and vibrantly alive, a stark contrast to the manicured gardens I tend to back in Berlin. It was a day filled with stunning vistas, the roar of glacial waters, and a profound sense of connection with nature.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort near Lake Mývatn. The resort was cozy, clean, and full of charm. What made it unique was the lobby where you could see the cows while you eat. I enjoyed the farm-to-table experience, knowing the food was fresh and locally sourced. Hans, ever the early riser, was particularly thrilled with the strong coffee, setting us up perfectly for a day of exploration. It was a lovely experience to see the cows being milked while enjoying the breakfast.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine and warm hospitality at Vogafjós Farm Resort by Lake Mývatn.

Fueled and ready, we set off for Fjallabak Nature Reserve. The drive itself was an adventure, the landscape transforming from gentle green pastures to rugged, volcanic terrain. I couldn't help but feel grateful for our sturdy 4x4, which handled the bumpy gravel roads with ease. As we drove deeper, the colors of the landscape intensified – mountains painted in hues of red, orange, and yellow, interspersed with patches of snow and mossy lava fields. It was a visual feast that had me reaching for my camera at every turn. Fjallabak Nature Reserve is known for its rugged landscapes, colorful rhyolite mountains, volcanic formations, geothermal hot springs, and untouched wilderness.


Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Fjallabak Nature Reserve, a true Icelandic treasure for nature lovers and adventurers.

Sometimes, the most beautiful paths are the ones that require a little extra effort to reach.

The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of earth and distant snow. We decided to hike a short trail, wanting to stretch our legs and fully absorb the surroundings. The silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird and the crunch of our boots on the volcanic soil. As we climbed higher, the panoramic views unfolded before us, revealing the vastness and grandeur of the Highlands. I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling of being utterly present in the moment. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel – to escape the noise and distractions of city life and reconnect with the natural world. The reserve is located in the central Highlands of Iceland and boasts rugged landscapes, colorful rhyolite mountains, volcanic formations, geothermal hot springs, and an untouched wilderness.

Our next destination was Aldeyjarfoss, a waterfall famed for its dramatic basalt columns. The drive there was equally stunning, the road winding through valleys and over hills, offering glimpses of distant glaciers and snow-capped peaks. As we approached the waterfall, the sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the spectacle that awaited us. The beauty of Aldeyjarfoss is that it is part of the Skjálfandafljót river and boasts a drop of 20 meters into a turbulent, icy cold pool. The stunning backdrop of symmetrical, multi-colored basalt columns sets this waterfall apart.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Aldeyjarfoss, a stunning waterfall in Iceland framed by unique basalt columns and rich landscapes.

And then, we saw it. Aldeyjarfoss was even more breathtaking than the photos I had seen online. The water plunged powerfully into a pool below, framed by towering basalt columns that looked like they had been sculpted by giants. The contrast between the white water and the dark rock was mesmerizing, creating a scene of raw, untamed beauty. I spent a long time simply watching the waterfall, listening to its thunderous roar, and feeling the spray on my face. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience. Aldeyjarfoss is located in the Bárðardalur Valley in Northern Iceland. The 20-meter waterfall is surrounded by striking basalt columns, making it a perfect spot for anyone who loves nature or photography.

After soaking in the majesty of Aldeyjarfoss, we began our journey back, our hearts full of the day's adventures. We stopped for a late lunch at Moss Restaurant, and it was a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant had an exotic atmosphere and lovely decor. The prices were democratic for the delicious cod, lamb, and filet. I savored every bite, appreciating the fresh, local ingredients and the skill of the chef. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploring the Highlands.


Discover Icelandic culinary excellence at Moss Restaurant in Grindavík - where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views.

As evening approached, we found ourselves in Akureyri, Iceland's northern capital. We decided to experience the local nightlife and stopped by Ölstofa Akureyrar - Local Beer. The pub had a ton of beers and a lounge. It was a great spot to try the Einstök tasting axe. The friendly bartender and the selection of local beers made it a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and sightseeing.


Discover the best local beers and a cozy atmosphere at Ölstofa Akureyrar, the heart of Akureyri's craft beer scene.

For dinner, we chose Eldstó Art Cafe / Restaurant, a cozy spot known for its lamb stew. The lamb stew was super herbal with tons of rosemary. The perfectly salted meat was tender and the soup was flavorful. Hans enjoyed the lasagna, and we both agreed that the elderberry alice of almond cake was the perfect dessert. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. Eldstó Art Cafe / Restaurant is an unassuming spot by the road that provides an amazing experience.


Discover the culinary artistry at Eldstó Art Cafe / Restaurant in Hvolsvöllur - where fine dining meets local artistry amidst stunning Icelandic scenery.

As I sit here in our tent, writing this blog post by the light of our portable solar charger, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. The Highlands of Iceland have a way of stripping away the superficial and revealing the essence of what truly matters – connection, beauty, and the simple joy of being alive. Tomorrow, we're heading to Kerlingarfjöll and Hveravellir, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Rammagerdin Iceland Giftstore. I'm sure Hans will enjoy a visit to Dill Restaurant for breakfast.

Before drifting off to sleep, I realize I forgot the portable stove and binoculars, but I will be sure to explore the Highlands with my camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Good night from the Highlands!