Solo Adventure in Seydisfjordur: Exploring Icelandic Beauty

Finding Inspiration in the Icelandic Highlands

Today was a day of chasing dreams and breathtaking vistas. As a travel blogger, I'm always searching for that perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, and today, Iceland delivered in spades. From standing where Walter Mitty found his inspiration to witnessing the raw power of Haífoss, every moment was a reminder of why I embarked on this solo adventure.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Hótel Snæfell. Fuelling up with some traditional Icelandic fare was essential before heading out to conquer the day's itinerary. The hotel's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff always make me feel right at home, a comforting thought as I prepared to explore more of Seydisfjordur's wonders.


Experience the charm of Seydisfjordur at Hótel Snæfell, where comfort meets local culture. Enjoy cozy accommodations, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.

First on the agenda was the Walter Mitty longboard viewpoint. As a big fan of the film, I was eager to stand where Ben Stiller filmed that iconic scene. The drive up was scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the fjord below. Arriving at the viewpoint, I was immediately struck by the panoramic vista. The dramatic cliffs, the vibrant greenery, and the shimmering waters of the fjord created a mesmerizing landscape. I could almost feel the spirit of Walter Mitty urging me to embrace the unknown and seek out adventure. I took some time to simply soak it all in, breathing in the fresh mountain air and capturing the stunning views with my camera. It was easy to see why this spot was chosen for the film; the sheer beauty of the location is incredibly inspiring. I even imagined Jean-Pierre would have loved this place, even though he is more of a homebody than me. He would have definitely enjoyed the view and taken some amazing photos.


Explore the breathtaking Walter Mitty Longboard Viewpoint, a scenic gem in Seydisfjordur, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Sometimes, all you need is a change in scenery to find a new perspective on life.

Next, I set off for Haífoss, one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls. The drive was an adventure in itself, taking me through Iceland's rugged interior. The landscape transformed from lush coastal views to stark, volcanic terrain. The weather, as always in Iceland, was unpredictable, with moments of sunshine interspersed with light rain. I was grateful for my layers of warm clothing, a lesson I've learned well on this trip. The journey took me about 2 hours from Seydisfjordur, but the views along the way were worth it.

Arriving at Haífoss, the sight was simply awe-inspiring. The waterfall plunges down into a deep gorge, creating a dramatic display of nature's power. The wind whipped around me, carrying the mist from the falls, and I felt a sense of exhilaration standing at the edge of the canyon. I hiked along the trail to get different perspectives of the waterfall, each view more stunning than the last. I could have spent hours there, simply listening to the roar of the water and marveling at the sheer scale of the landscape. The hike itself was relatively short, about 2 kilometers each way from the parking lot, but the terrain was rocky, so I was glad I had my hiking boots.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Haifoss, Iceland's majestic waterfall, and immerse yourself in the serene landscapes of Þjórsárdalur valley.

On the way back, I made a stop at Heavier Mountain, an art installation by local artist Davíð fra Davíðsstaðir. The twelve concrete cubes, standing stark against the landscape, are meant to represent the relationship between the residents of East Iceland and the long, dark winters. I found the installation thought-provoking, a reminder of the resilience and creativity of the human spirit in the face of challenging conditions. It was interesting to learn that originally, each cube had a television on it. It definitely adds another layer of meaning to the artwork.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Heavier Mountain, Iceland’s stunning tourist attraction offering spectacular views and adventure-filled hiking trails.

For lunch, I stopped at Randulf's Sea House in Eskifjordur, a charming restaurant with a rich history. Located in a beautifully preserved shore-building, Randulf's Sea House offered a glimpse into the region's maritime past. I savored some delicious Icelandic dishes, including fresh seafood and reindeer meatballs. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day of exploring. It was fascinating to learn that the building was built in 1890 by a Norwegian fisherman and served as a herring fishery. The maritime history of the area is palpable, and it adds to the charm of the dining experience. I made sure to save room for dessert and tried the white chocolate skyr with sweetened rhubarb and oat crumble, which was absolutely divine.


Discover exquisite seafood dining at Randulf's Sea House in Eskifjörður, where local flavors meet stunning fjord views.

As evening approached, I made my way back to Egilsstaðir for dinner at Lyng restaurant. The restaurant is known for showcasing the best of Icelandic cuisine, and I was eager to try their menu. I opted for a set dinner that included an arctic char appetizer, lobster soup, lamb, and crème brûlée. The arctic char was definitely the highlight, perfectly tender and flaky with a delicious sauce. The lobster soup was creamy and rich, although a bit too salty for my taste. The lamb was cooked to perfection, and the crème brûlée was a delightful way to end the meal. The staff were attentive and friendly, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Lyng Restaurant in Egilsstaðir - where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.

To cap off the day, I decided to experience the local nightlife at Feiti Fíllinn - BAR NIGHTCLUB. It was a fun and lively spot, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the music and drinks. I enjoyed a local Icelandic cocktail and soaked in the vibrant atmosphere. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of exploring and to get a sense of the local culture. The bar transformed from a relaxed spot in the early evening to a pulsating nightclub later on, and it was interesting to see the transition.


Discover the heart of Egilsstaðir’s nightlife at Feiti Fíllinn, where great drinks and great music await every visitor.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible country. Iceland's natural beauty and cultural richness continue to inspire me, and I am eager to see what tomorrow brings. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Klifbrekku Waterfall, Borgarfjörður Eystri, and Hengifoss, and I am excited to discover more of Iceland's hidden gems. I am also planning to stop by Markadur for some local shopping.

I am also grateful that I remembered to pack my hiking boots, but I am definitely missing my sunglasses and portable phone charger. I will have to make a stop at a local store to pick them up.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and today, I took many steps towards discovering the magic of Iceland. Good night from Seydisfjordur!