Solo Adventure in Vatnajokull National Park

Chasing Glaciers and Savoring Iceland

Today was all about immersing myself in the icy heart of Iceland, a journey that combined breathtaking landscapes with the comforting warmth of Icelandic hospitality and cuisine. It was a day of serene boat rides, stunning viewpoints, and delicious food – a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at the Hotel Restaurant Vatnajökull. Fuelled up, I set off towards Fjallsárlón, eager to witness the glacier lagoon's beauty. The drive itself was mesmerizing, with the Icelandic landscape unfolding in all its raw glory. The weather in October can be unpredictable, but today, I was lucky to have a mix of sunshine and dramatic clouds, which only amplified the beauty of the scenery.


Explore the stunning beauty of Fjallsárlón, Iceland's breathtaking glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs and stunning landscapes.
Arriving at Fjallsárlón, I was immediately struck by the tranquility of the place. Compared to the more famous Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón felt like a hidden gem, offering a more intimate experience with the glacial environment. The lagoon was dotted with icebergs of all shapes and sizes, each one a unique sculpture carved by nature. The towering Fjallsjökull glacier loomed in the background, a constant reminder of the immense power of ice and time.

I couldn't resist joining the Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tours. Bundled up in the provided waterproof gear, I hopped aboard a Zodiac boat ready for an adventure. The boat tour was fantastic! The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the glacier, the icebergs, and the local wildlife. We cruised around the lagoon, getting up close and personal with the icebergs. Some were pristine white, while others were streaked with blue and black, showcasing layers of volcanic ash from past eruptions. The scale of these icy giants was humbling, and the silence, broken only by the gentle lapping of water against the boat and the occasional crack of ice, was profound.

The beauty of Iceland is not just in its landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel small yet connected to something vast and ancient.

The boat tour also took us close to the glacier itself, offering a spectacular view of the ice cap. I even managed to snag a piece of glacial ice to taste – a truly unique experience! Apparently, the ice is free of air due to the compression of the glacier over hundreds of years, making it safe to eat. It tasted incredibly pure and clean, a taste of Iceland's ancient heart. As a content writer, I'm always looking for unique angles and experiences, and this was definitely one for the books!

After the boat tour, I took some time to soak in the views from the Viewpoint of Fjallsjökull. The panoramic vista of the lagoon, the glacier, and the surrounding mountains was simply breathtaking. I spent a good hour just sitting there, sketching in my travel journal and letting the beauty of the landscape wash over me. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love solo travel – the freedom to linger, to observe, and to connect with a place on my own terms.


Explore the serene beauty of the Viewpoint of Fjallsjökull, a hidden gem offering stunning glacier views and tranquil lagoons in Iceland's breathtaking landscape.
Before heading off for lunch, I made a quick stop at the Vatnajökulsþjóðgarðs Visitor Centre. I always appreciate a good visitor center, and this one didn't disappoint. I was hoping to find a portable phone charger since I had forgotten mine, but no luck. However, I did find some interesting exhibits about the park's geology and wildlife. I picked up a detailed map, plotting out potential hikes for the coming days, and browsed through the selection of local crafts and souvenirs. Although I didn’t buy anything, it’s always inspiring to see the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans.


Explore Vatnajökull National Park at the Vatnajökulsþjóðgarðs Visitor Centre, your gateway to Iceland's stunning natural landscapes and rich heritage.
For lunch, I decided to try Bjargarsteinn Mathús. The restaurant is located a bit of a drive away from the park itself, but I had read so many good things about it that I decided to make the trip. And I wasn't disappointed! The restaurant exudes a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the menu is filled with traditional Icelandic dishes with a modern twist. I opted for the seafood soup, which was packed with fresh fish, shrimp, and mussels in a flavorful broth. It was the perfect comfort food on a chilly October day. The restaurant itself has an interesting history, having been relocated from Akranes to Grundarfjörður. I really enjoyed the restaurant's commitment to using local ingredients. It's something I always look for when I travel, as it not only supports the local economy but also gives you a true taste of the region.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Bjargarsteinn Mathús with stunning views and exceptional service in Grundarfjörður.
In the evening, I drove to Höfn to have dinner at Ishusid Pizzeria Restaurant. I was initially skeptical about having pizza in Iceland, but this place came highly recommended, especially for its langoustine pizza. And wow, it was amazing! The pizza had a thin, crispy crust and was topped with generous portions of fresh langoustine. The combination of flavors was incredible, and it was definitely one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had. The atmosphere was relaxed and cozy, and the staff was friendly and welcoming.


Discover Ishusid Pizzeria in Höfn: Savor delicious pizzas and fresh seafood amidst breathtaking Icelandic landscapes.
As I drove back to my campsite under the vast Icelandic sky, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the serene beauty of Fjallsárlón to the delicious flavors of Icelandic cuisine, it was a day that nourished both my soul and my stomach. Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Skaftafell Glacier and hike the Svartifoss Trail, another adventure that I am looking forward to [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I’m also planning to stop by Jon Riki, a local bar, in the evening [Itinerary of Tomorrow].

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy sunscreen tomorrow. Despite the chilly weather, the sun can still be strong here, especially reflecting off the ice. It seems I keep forgetting that essential, a habit I need to break!

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing them fully – engaging with the landscape, savoring the local flavors, and connecting with the people and culture. And as I continue my solo adventure in Vatnajokull National Park, I'm excited to see what other wonders await me.