Exploring the Geothermal Marvels of Kerlingarfjöll

Highland Base Adventures

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Kerlingarfjöll. Jean-Pierre and I woke up early, eager to make the most of our penultimate day in this geothermal wonderland. The forecast promised a mix of sunshine and snow showers , so we layered up, grabbed our hiking boots, and set out to explore. I was especially excited, having heard so much about the views from Panorama Ridge.

Our day began, as it has most days here, with breakfast at Ásgarður. The hearty meal fortified us for the adventures ahead. The Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll has become our little haven; it’s amazing to find such a comfortable spot in the middle of the highlands. After breakfast, we decided to spend some time at the Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll shop. I wanted to pick up a small, local souvenir to remember this incredible trip. I finally settled on a beautiful, hand-knitted wool scarf, perfect for the chilly Lyon winters. Jean-Pierre found a detailed map of the Kerlingarfjöll trails, already planning our return trip, I suspect!


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Panorama Ridge, a must-visit tourist attraction in Iceland's Central Highlands, offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures.

With our purchases in hand, we set off towards Panorama Ridge. The crisp air was invigorating, and the landscape was breathtaking. The vibrant rhyolite mountains, dusted with snow, created a surreal and magical atmosphere. The trails were well-marked, making our hike both enjoyable and safe. As we ascended, the views became increasingly stunning. I couldn’t resist stopping every few minutes to snap photos, trying to capture the essence of this otherworldly place. Jean-Pierre, ever the patient one, simply smiled and waited, occasionally pointing out interesting geological formations.

It's in moments like these, surrounded by nature's grandeur, that I feel most alive and connected to the world.

Reaching Panorama Ridge was an experience I’ll never forget. The panoramic views were simply spectacular. We could see for miles in every direction, taking in the vast expanse of the Icelandic Highlands. The colorful mountains, the glistening glaciers, and the winding rivers created a tapestry of natural beauty. I felt a sense of awe and gratitude, humbled by the sheer magnificence of the landscape. Jean-Pierre and I sat there for a long time, simply soaking it all in. We shared stories, laughed, and marveled at the wonders around us. It was a perfect moment, a memory I will cherish forever.

We spent a good portion of the afternoon simply wandering around the area near Ásgarður, taking in the sights and sounds. The geothermal activity was fascinating, with steam rising from the ground and bubbling hot springs dotting the landscape. It felt like we were walking on another planet, a world of fire and ice coexisting in perfect harmony. I found myself reflecting on our journey so far. Eleven days in Kerlingarfjöll had flown by, filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking scenery. I felt a sense of accomplishment, having explored this remote and challenging landscape. I was also filled with a sense of gratitude, thankful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty.


Explore the stunning geothermal landscapes and cozy accommodations at Ásgarður (Kerlingarfjöll), a must-visit destination in Iceland's breathtaking nature.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Ásgarður for dinner. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant was a welcome respite from the chilly weather outside. We enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Icelandic cuisine, savoring the flavors and reminiscing about our adventures. Over dinner, we discussed our plans for tomorrow, our final day in Kerlingarfjöll. We decided to explore Kerlingardalur and the Stúfur crater, eager to discover even more of this incredible region. We also talked about how much we've enjoyed the Highland Base. It's provided comfortable accommodations, and the staff have been incredibly friendly and helpful. The fact that it's located in such a remote and beautiful location makes it even more special.

After dinner, we strolled around the Highland Base one last time, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and the stunning views. The sky was clear, and the stars were shining brightly. I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that we had made the most of our time in Kerlingarfjöll. As I looked up at the stars, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for our next adventure. But for now, I was happy to simply be here, in this moment, surrounded by the beauty of the Icelandic Highlands.

Back in our cozy room, I journaled about the day's adventures, capturing the memories and emotions that had filled my heart. As I wrote, I couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness that our trip was coming to an end. But I also knew that we would carry the memories of Kerlingarfjöll with us forever, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world. Jean-Pierre was already fast asleep, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures, no doubt. I smiled, turned off the light, and drifted off to sleep, eager to see what our final day in Kerlingarfjöll would bring. It has been nice to disconnect from my translation work, and for Jean-Pierre to have a break from his software engineering. We both needed this!

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Kerlingardalur and Stúfur crater. I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Kerlingarfjöll has in store for us. And perhaps we'll even stop by the Highland Base bar for a celebratory drink, to toast to a trip well-spent.

As I close my eyes, I think about how lucky Jean-Pierre and I are to share these experiences together. Traveling as a couple has its challenges, but the rewards are immeasurable. Discovering new places, overcoming obstacles, and creating lasting memories – it all strengthens our bond and deepens our love. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that our journey together is far from over.