Family Adventure in Skaftafell National Park

Chasing Glaciers in Iceland
Today was a day of icy marvels and breathtaking landscapes. We ventured into the heart of Iceland's glacier country, and the experience left me utterly speechless. It’s incredible how nature can carve such stunning vistas, and I'm so glad I could share this with Ana and Luka. From gliding through glacial lagoons to savoring local flavors, every moment was a testament to Iceland's raw beauty.

Our day began early with a hearty breakfast at Veitingasala Restaurant, Shop, And Gas. It might sound like an odd combination, but this place had a surprising charm. Filled up with coffee and pastries, ready for adventure!

The drive to Jökulsárlón was scenic, with the vast Icelandic landscape unfolding before us. Patches of green moss met black volcanic rock, and the distant mountains seemed to whisper ancient stories. It’s a starkly beautiful country, and I found myself lost in thought, contemplating the forces that shaped this land.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours and Cafe

Our first major stop was the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. I had seen pictures, of course, but nothing prepared me for the sheer scale and beauty of this place. Icebergs of all shapes and sizes floated serenely in the water, some a brilliant blue, others streaked with black volcanic ash. It was like sailing through a surreal dreamscape. We opted for one of the boat tours, eager to get a closer look at these icy giants.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where floating icebergs meet stunning landscapes in Iceland's natural wonder.

As we boarded the boat, Luka's eyes widened with excitement. He pointed at a seal lounging lazily on an iceberg, and Ana and I exchanged smiles. This was exactly the kind of family experience we had hoped for. The boat glided smoothly through the lagoon, and our guide shared fascinating facts about the glacier and its surroundings.

The beauty of Jökulsárlón is not just in its visual splendor, but in the profound sense of connection it fosters with the natural world.

I learned that Jökulsárlón started forming in the 1930s, as the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier began to recede. Today, it's the deepest lake in Iceland, and it continues to grow as the glacier melts. It's a stark reminder of the effects of climate change, but also a testament to nature's resilience and constant evolution.

The boat tour lasted about 40 minutes, and every second was mesmerizing. We navigated between the icebergs, marveling at their unique shapes and textures. Some were smooth and rounded, while others were jagged and sharp. The sunlight danced on the surface of the water, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and humility in the face of such natural grandeur.

After the boat tour, we explored the Jökulsárlón Cafe. I grabbed a coffee and Luka insisted on trying an Icelandic pastry called a snúður. It was a delicious, cinnamon-spiced treat that gave us the energy we needed for our next adventure.

Viewpoint over Jökulsárlón

Next, we headed to the viewpoint overlooking Jökulsárlón. From this vantage point, the entire lagoon stretched out before us, a vast expanse of ice and water framed by distant mountains. It was a photographer's dream, and I spent a good hour capturing the scene from every possible angle.


Experience the stunning beauty of Iceland at Jökulsárlón Viewpoint, where icebergs meet the glacial lagoon for breathtaking views.

Ana and Luka explored the shoreline, collecting small pebbles and shells. Luka even tried to build a miniature iceberg out of sand, but it quickly crumbled under the weight of his imagination. It was a simple, joyful moment, and I cherished the opportunity to connect with my family in such a stunning setting.

From the viewpoint, we could see the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier in the distance, a massive river of ice flowing slowly towards the sea. I imagined the countless years it had taken for this glacier to form, the relentless pressure and cold that had transformed snow into solid ice. It was a humbling thought, and I felt a deep respect for the power of nature.

One of the most striking features of Jökulsárlón is the contrast between the icebergs and the black sand beach nearby. This beach, often called Diamond Beach, is where the icebergs wash ashore after drifting out to sea. The sight of these glistening ice chunks scattered across the black sand is truly unforgettable.

We spent some time wandering along Diamond Beach, marveling at the icebergs that had come to rest there. Some were small and crystal clear, while others were massive and opaque. The waves crashed against the ice, creating a constant symphony of sound. It was a sensory experience like no other, and I felt grateful to be able to share it with my family.

According to the interpretive program in Vatnajökull National Park, today, June 16th, is the Day of the Wild Flowers. Wish we had time for the interpretive walk at 13:00, but we will make sure to check the program next time.

Lunch at Glacier Goodies

By lunchtime, we were all feeling a bit peckish, so we decided to grab a bite at Glacier Goodies. This fast-food spot in Skaftafell is known for its quick and satisfying meals. I opted for a burger and fries, while Ana chose a salad. Luka, of course, went for the chicken nuggets. It wasn't gourmet cuisine, but it hit the spot, and we appreciated the chance to refuel before our next adventure.


Experience quick and delicious fast food at Glacier Goodies in Skaftafell – perfect for adventurers exploring Iceland's stunning landscapes.

As we ate, we chatted about our favorite moments of the day so far. Luka was still buzzing from the boat tour, while Ana was captivated by the beauty of Diamond Beach. I found myself reflecting on the sheer scale of the landscape, the way it made me feel both insignificant and connected to something larger than myself.

Dinner at Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant

For dinner, we decided to try Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant. I had read great reviews about its Scandinavian and Icelandic cuisines, and we were eager to experience some local flavors. The restaurant is well known for its great service and friendly staff, and the atmosphere is pretty.


Savor authentic Icelandic cuisine at Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant with breathtaking views of glaciers and serene landscapes.

The restaurant overlooked the Fjallsárlón lagoon. We had a salad, chicken, and fish soup. For dessert, we had the chocolate cakes and muffins. The waiter recommended some local beer that tasted pretty good.

Evening Drinks at Cafe Vatnajökull

To cap off our day, we stopped by Cafe Vatnajökull for a relaxing evening drink. This cozy spot is known for its warm atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. I ordered a local Icelandic beer, while Ana opted for a glass of wine. Luka, of course, stuck with his usual apple juice.


Discover the flavors of Iceland at Cafe Vatnajökull, a charming cafe surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, perfect for a relaxing break.

As we sipped our drinks, we watched the sun slowly dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the glaciers and mountains. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such beauty with my family.

Tonight, we are staying at a hotel near Skaftafell. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Svínafellsjökull Glacier and Foss á Síðu. I'm excited to see what other wonders this incredible country has in store for us. I am a bit concerned about not packing sunglasses, but I guess we will manage.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of contentment and awe. Iceland has a way of getting under your skin, of reminding you of the power and beauty of the natural world. I'm so glad I decided to bring my family here, to share these experiences with them. These are the memories that will last a lifetime.

Until tomorrow, Takk fyrir! (Thank you!)