Exploring the Geothermal Marvels of Kerlingarfjöll

Golden Waterfalls and Highland Wonders

Today was a day of incredible sights and sounds, a true immersion into the raw beauty of Iceland. From the thundering cascades of Gullfoss to the serene oasis of Fossabrekkur, and finally, relaxing at our Highland Base, every moment was a reminder of why Jean-Pierre and I decided to embark on this adventure. The crisp air, the vibrant landscapes, and the sheer power of nature made for an unforgettable experience.

We started our day early, eager to make the most of our time exploring the Golden Circle. After a hearty breakfast at Ásgarður (Kerlingarfjöll) [our meals are all here at this hotel], we set off towards Gullfoss Nature Reserve.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Gullfoss Nature Reserve, where nature's power meets serene landscapes in the heart of Iceland.
The drive itself was stunning, with the Icelandic landscape unfolding before us like a canvas painted with hues of green, gold, and brown. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building as we approached the falls. It's amazing how quickly the scenery changes here; one moment you're surrounded by rocky plains, and the next, you're gazing at snow-covered mountains in the distance. As we got closer, the roar of Gullfoss grew louder, a symphony of nature that signaled the power and majesty that awaited us. Parking the car, we walked towards the viewing area, and then, there it was—Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall, in all its glory. The sheer volume of water cascading down the two-tiered falls was mesmerizing, a breathtaking display of nature's force. The water plunges 32 meters in two stages into the Hvítá River canyon. I was immediately struck by the mist rising from the falls, creating a halo of rainbows that danced in the sunlight. It was truly a sight to behold, and I felt a sense of awe wash over me. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, was busy snapping photos, trying to capture the moment, but I knew that no picture could ever truly do it justice. We spent a good hour exploring the various viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective of the falls. The paths were well-maintained, but I was glad we had our hiking boots on, as some areas were a bit slippery from the mist. I couldn't help but think of Sigríður Tómasdóttir, the woman who fought to protect Gullfoss from being harnessed for hydroelectric power. It's thanks to her dedication that we can all enjoy this natural wonder today. Standing there, feeling the spray on my face and hearing the thundering water, I felt a deep connection to the history and the spirit of Iceland.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the resilience and spirit of its people.

After soaking in the grandeur of Gullfoss, we decided to venture off the beaten path and discover a hidden gem: Fossabrekkur.

Explore the stunning waterfalls and serene landscapes of Fossabrekkur, a captivating natural attraction in the heart of Iceland.
This was a place I'd read about in a few travel blogs, a small oasis of waterfalls tucked away near the turn to Fjallabaksleið Nyrðri Highland road. It sounded like the perfect escape from the crowds, a chance to experience Iceland's natural beauty in a more intimate setting. The drive to Fossabrekkur was an adventure in itself. Leaving the main road, we found ourselves on a gravel path, winding through a landscape of volcanic ash and sand. The terrain was rugged, and I was grateful for our sturdy vehicle. As we bumped along, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement, a feeling of discovering something truly special. Jean-Pierre, who usually prefers well-paved roads and clear directions, seemed to be enjoying the change of pace, his eyes scanning the horizon with curiosity. Finally, we arrived at Fossabrekkur, and it was even more enchanting than I had imagined. A series of small waterfalls cascaded down a gentle slope, creating a lush green oasis in the midst of the barren landscape. The sound of the water was soothing, a gentle melody that contrasted with the roar of Gullfoss. We parked the car and took a leisurely stroll along the river, admiring the delicate beauty of the falls. The water was crystal clear, and I could see tiny fish darting among the rocks. Fossabrekkur felt like a secret garden, a place where time stood still. We were the only ones there, and I savored the tranquility, breathing in the fresh, clean air. I closed my eyes for a moment, listening to the water and feeling the sun on my skin, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that you stumble upon unexpectedly. As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll.

Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Highland Base in Iceland's stunning highlands, where nature meets comfort.
The Highland Base is a unique mountain retreat located in the remote Kerlingarfjoll mountain range in the Icelandic Highlands. The cozy accommodations, geothermal baths, restaurant, and access to nature activities makes it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Iceland's untouched wilderness. We decided to treat ourselves to a relaxing soak in the hot springs before dinner. Slipping into the warm, mineral-rich water, I felt my muscles relax and my mind unwind. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, a chance to reflect on all the incredible sights we had seen. Later, as we sat in the Highland Base bar, sipping on a glass of wine, Jean-Pierre and I talked about our adventures. We reminisced about the power of Gullfoss, the tranquility of Fossabrekkur, and the beauty of the Icelandic landscape. We felt grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible country together, to share in its wonders and to create memories that would last a lifetime. I made a mental note to buy an extra memory card for my camera tomorrow, as I was already running out of space from all the photos I'd taken! Tomorrow, we plan to explore Hraunfossar Waterfall and Eyvindarhellir Cave [these are near to each other], and I'm excited to see what other hidden gems Iceland has in store for us. We also plan to visit the Gullfoss Store to pick up a few souvenirs [it's close to Gullfoss, so we may as well]. For now, though, I'm content to bask in the glow of today's adventures, feeling grateful for the beauty that surrounds us and the love that we share.
It's worth noting that traveling in Iceland in October requires some preparation. The weather can be unpredictable, and some roads may be closed due to snow or ice. It's essential to check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on any journey and to be prepared for all types of weather. Having warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots is a must, as is a sense of adventure and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Despite the challenges, the rewards of traveling in Iceland are immeasurable, and I wouldn't trade this experience for anything in the world. The beauty of Iceland is that you can visit during any season, but shoulder seasons offer a sweet spot.
As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I can't help but smile. Iceland has a way of getting under your skin, of capturing your heart with its raw beauty and untamed spirit. It's a place where you can feel truly alive, where you can connect with nature on a profound level, and where you can create memories that will last a lifetime. And as I drift off to sleep, I dream of waterfalls and hot springs, of mountains and glaciers, and of all the adventures that await us in this magical land.