Solo Adventure in Seydisfjordur: Exploring Icelandic Beauty

A Fond Farewell to Seydisfjordur

As my Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of gratitude and nostalgia. Today was all about soaking in the last drops of Seydisfjordur's magic, venturing into its wild landscapes, and reflecting on the incredible experiences I've gathered over the past eleven days. It’s hard to believe my time here is already ending, but I’m determined to make the most of every last moment.

My final day began, as always, with a delightful breakfast at Hótel Snæfell. The spread was as comforting as ever, and I savored each bite, knowing it would be my last morning meal in this charming town.


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

After breakfast, I decided to dedicate the morning to exploring the Skálanes Nature Reserve. I packed my essentials – my camera, a notebook, and a heart full of anticipation – and set off. The reserve is about 17 kilometers east of Seydisfjordur, and the drive itself was breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the fjord. I was excited to see what this special place had in store for me.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skálanes, a nature preserve in Iceland offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and serene hiking trails.

Skálanes Nature Reserve is a sprawling 1250-hectare sanctuary, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the East Fjords region. As I stepped onto the reserve, I was immediately struck by the sheer variety of habitats – from rugged coastlines to verdant meadows. I learned that Skálanes is not just a nature reserve but also an experimental field center, hosting university students from around the world who come to study and learn about Iceland's natural and cultural environment.

I spent hours wandering through the reserve, my camera working overtime. The cliffs, soaring up to 640 meters, are home to thousands of seabirds. I spotted Arctic terns, eiders, and even some seals lounging on the rocks below. The air was filled with the calls of the birds, creating a symphony of nature that was both calming and exhilarating. I also learned that Skálanes has a rich archaeological history, with remains of old farms and turf structures scattered throughout the landscape, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who lived here centuries ago.

The journey matters more than the destination; every step reveals a new perspective, a fresh discovery, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

Leaving Skálanes, I felt a sense of accomplishment and deep connection with the Icelandic wilderness. I made a quick stop at Kiosk 108, a quirky art space housed in a transformed 1969 fishing boat captain's cabin. It was a delightful surprise, blending art, music, and a touch of maritime history. I grabbed a quick coffee and chatted with the owner, Monika, about her vision for the space. It’s places like these that make Seydisfjordur so special – a town where art and culture thrive in the most unexpected corners.


Discover Kiosk 108, a delightful art cafe in Seydisfjordur, where exceptional coffee meets a vibrant artistic atmosphere.

Next on my itinerary was Gljúfurfoss, a waterfall I’d heard whispers about but hadn’t yet had the chance to visit. After leaving Kiosk 108, I drove a short distance along Route 93, following the signs. Gljúfurfoss is tucked away just after Lake Heiðarvatn, and the small blue sign pointing to it is easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. I parked the car and walked towards the Fjarðará river, the anticipation building with each step.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Gljúfurfoss Waterfall in Seyðisfjörður, a hidden gem surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich natural beauty.

Gljúfurfoss, meaning “canyon waterfall,” is one of the many waterfalls cascading down Road 93. This hidden gem requires a short walk towards the river Fjarðará, revealing an approximately 8-meter drop of pure Icelandic beauty. While some debate its exact identity compared to another waterfall of the same name, its charm is undeniable.

The waterfall itself was a sight to behold. It wasn't as grand as some of the other waterfalls I’d seen in Iceland, but its secluded location and serene atmosphere made it incredibly special. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a gentle roar that echoed through the gorge. I spent some time simply sitting and taking in the view, feeling a sense of peace wash over me.

For lunch, I decided to try Tehúsið - Café, Bar, Guesthouse & Hostel. Though technically in Egilsstaðir, it was a convenient stop on my way back towards Seydisfjordur. This place was a delightful surprise – a combination of café, bar, guesthouse, and hostel all rolled into one. I opted for a light lunch and enjoyed the cozy atmosphere.


Experience the heart of Icelandic hospitality at Tehúsið - Café, Bar & Guesthouse in Egilsstaðir.

The afternoon was reserved for a visit to the Bjólfur Mountain Avalanche Barriers. As I drove towards the mountain, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of these structures. The barriers are designed to protect Seydisfjordur from avalanches, a constant threat in this mountainous region. The trail leading to the barriers is an F-road, a type of road that’s typically unpaved and requires a 4x4 vehicle. Luckily, the conditions were good, and I was able to drive most of the way up. The ascent took about 15-20 minutes from the Fjarðarheiði heath road, and the views along the way were simply spectacular.


Explore the stunning Bjólfur Mountain Avalanche Barriers in Seydisfjordur, Iceland – a perfect blend of nature, beauty, and engineering marvel.

Reaching the avalanche barriers was an experience in itself. Standing at such a high altitude (over 600 meters), I was treated to panoramic views of Seydisfjordur and the surrounding landscape. The town looked like a miniature village from up there, nestled between the fjord and the mountains. The avalanche barriers themselves were an impressive feat of engineering, a testament to human ingenuity in the face of nature’s power. I took some time to explore the area, snapping photos and simply soaking in the view.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back down from Bjólfur Mountain and headed towards Nordic Restaurant for my farewell dinner. The restaurant, known for its Nordic-inspired cuisine and stunning fjord views, was the perfect place to end my Icelandic adventure. I savored each bite of my meal, reflecting on the incredible experiences I’d had over the past eleven days.


Discover the essence of Icelandic cuisine at Nordic Restaurant in Seydisfjordur - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

Nordic Restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The cozy ambiance and attentive service made it an ideal spot for a refined dining experience. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the stunning views.

As I sat there, watching the sun dip below the horizon, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this journey. Iceland, and Seydisfjordur in particular, had captured my heart in a way I never expected. The stunning landscapes, the vibrant culture, and the warm hospitality of the locals had all left an indelible mark on my soul. I knew that this was not goodbye, but rather a see you later. I would definitely be back to explore more of this magical island.

Tomorrow, I will be heading back to Reykjavik, and then back to Montreal. I'm already looking forward to sharing all of my stories and photos with Jean-Pierre and with all of you. Thank you for joining me on this incredible adventure. Until next time, happy travels!

The memories I’ve made here, from the colorful streets of Seydisfjordur to the vast landscapes of Skálanes, will stay with me forever. This solo trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of self-discovery, a chance to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity to appreciate the simple joys of life. As I prepare to leave, I carry with me a piece of Iceland in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in this world. And I can't wait to share these experiences with Jean-Pierre when I get back to Montreal, and plan our next adventure together. Perhaps we'll explore more of Madagascar, sharing the beauty of my homeland with the world.

As the sun sets on my Icelandic adventure, I’m already dreaming of my return. Until then, takk fyrir, Seydisfjordur. You’ve been an unforgettable chapter in my travel story. Safe travels, everyone!

For my last night, I decided to stroll along the colorful streets of Seydisfjordur one last time. The town, with its charming wooden houses and the serene fjord, seemed to glow in the twilight. I paused to take a few more photos, wanting to capture every detail of this picturesque place. I thought about all the wonderful people I had met, the delicious food I had tasted, and the breathtaking sights I had seen. It was a perfect ending to a perfect trip.

Back at Hótel Snæfell, I packed my bags, carefully placing all my souvenirs and mementos. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I was leaving with a treasure trove of memories that would last a lifetime.