Solo Adventure in Vatnajokull National Park

Chasing Glacial Dreams and Star Wars Echoes

As my incredible solo journey through Vatnajökull National Park draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences that have filled the past ten days. Today was a fitting farewell, packed with icy adventures and a touch of otherworldly magic. I can't wait to share all the details with you!

My final day began with a hearty breakfast at Fosshotel Vatnajökull. I savored the last moments of the serene views overlooking the glacier, fueling up for the day's explorations. The hotel offered a delightful spread, and I made sure to enjoy a bit of everything before heading out.


Discover breathtaking glacier views and authentic Icelandic hospitality at Fosshotel Vatnajökull in Höfn.

First on the agenda was Sólheimajökull, a glacier known for its accessibility and stunning ice formations. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape transforming into a rugged, icy wonderland. Although it's October, the weather held up nicely, which was a relief. Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the glacier's unique characteristics. Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, which also covers the active volcano Katla. The glacier's surface was a mesmerizing mix of gleaming white, electric blue, and ash black, a result of past volcanic activity.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sólheimajökull glacier, where adventure and stunning Icelandic landscapes await every visitor.

While I opted not to do a guided hike this time, I spent a good amount of time simply admiring the glacier from a safe distance. I soaked in the views of the ice ridges and the crevasses snaking across the surface. The sheer scale of the glacier was humbling, a powerful reminder of nature's force and beauty. I could easily see why Sólheimajökull is a popular spot for glacier hikes, and I made a mental note to return with proper gear for a guided excursion.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet contemplation of nature's grandeur.

After spending a few hours at Sólheimajökull, it was time to head to my next destination: the Yoda Cave. This unique cave, also known as Gígjagjá, is located near Vík village and Reynisfjara beach. The drive itself was an adventure, taking me along a gravel road with stunning views of the surrounding black sand plains. A 4x4 isn't strictly necessary, but I felt much safer navigating the terrain with it.


Discover the enchanting Yoda Cave in Iceland, a breathtaking tourist attraction perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

The Yoda Cave is nestled at the base of Hjörleifshöfði mountain, a 221-meter-high volcanic hill. As I approached the cave, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The area around the cave was used as a filming location for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, adding to its allure. From the outside, the cave isn't particularly impressive, but as I stepped inside, I immediately understood why it's called the Yoda Cave. The entrance perfectly resembles the face of the Jedi Master, with its slanted eyes and pointed ears carved naturally by volcanic activity and erosion.

The cave itself is quite deep, and I could hear my echoes as I ventured further in. Water dripped from the ceiling, adding to the cave's mystical atmosphere. I found a large stone at the entrance, which made for a perfect photo opportunity, framing myself within the iconic Yoda-shaped opening. It was a truly surreal experience, standing inside this natural formation that so closely resembled a beloved character from a galaxy far, far away. The area around Yoda Cave is part of one of the most scenic stretches along Iceland's South Coast. The black sand beaches and mountains offer good hiking and photography spots. You can even hike up Hjörleifshöfði for panoramic views.

After exploring the Yoda Cave, my stomach started to rumble. It was time for lunch, and I had heard great things about Mia's Country Van - Local Fish & Chips. Luckily, it was located on the way, so I didn't have to go too far out of my way. Mia's is a small food truck in the town of Skógar, known for serving some of the best fish and chips in Iceland. I arrived around noon, just in time to grab a bite before they closed up for the day.


Experience the best fish & chips at Mia's Country Van in Hvolsvöllur - fresh, delicious, and uniquely Icelandic.

I ordered the classic fish and chips, and it did not disappoint. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the batter was perfectly crispy. The chips were also delicious, and I appreciated the variety of sauces and homemade salts available. I opted for the Icelandic tartar sauce and some black lava salt, both of which were excellent. Mia's Country Van is definitely a must-visit for anyone traveling through the area.

With a full belly and a happy heart, I began my journey back towards Reykjavik. But before heading back to the airport, I decided to make one last stop in the city. I wanted to experience a bit of Reykjavik's nightlife before saying goodbye to Iceland. I stopped by Kaffibarinn, one of the oldest and most iconic bars in town. It was a Tuesday, so the bar was open from 3:00 PM to 1:00 AM. I arrived in the evening and found the atmosphere to be warm and inviting.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reykjavík at Kaffibarinn, where locals and tourists alike gather for great drinks and lively atmosphere.

Kaffibarinn is known for its cozy charm and hipster vibe. I ordered a local beer and soaked in the atmosphere, chatting with some fellow travelers and locals. It was the perfect way to end my trip, experiencing a bit of Reykjavik's culture and nightlife before heading back to Berlin. I enjoyed their happy hour, which runs from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The bar offers a variety of beers, cocktails, and coffee drinks.

As I sit here, reflecting on my ten-day solo adventure in Vatnajökull National Park, I am filled with gratitude and awe. From the majestic glaciers to the otherworldly caves, Iceland has captivated my senses and touched my soul. I'm already planning my return, eager to explore more of this incredible island. And who knows, maybe next time Hans and Sofia will join me for the adventure!

Tomorrow, I will be heading back to Berlin, filled with memories and stories to share. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey. Stay tuned for more adventures to come!