Exploring the Geothermal Marvels of Kerlingarfjöll

A Fond Farewell

As our Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey Jean-Pierre and I have shared. Today, our final day in Kerlingarfjöll, was a bittersweet symphony of exploration and farewells. The crisp Icelandic air, the otherworldly landscapes, and the comforting presence of my husband have created memories I know I will cherish forever. Even though I am excited to return to Lyon, I know I will miss this magical place.

We started our day, as we have every other, with a hearty breakfast at Ásgarður. The familiar faces of the staff and the comforting aroma of Icelandic coffee made the impending departure a little easier to bear. After breakfast, we bundled up in our warmest gear, a necessity given the chilly October air. Today, we planned to explore Kerlingardalur and Stúfur crater, two final gems in Kerlingarfjöll’s crown.

The morning was slightly overcast, a typical Icelandic sky that added a dramatic flair to the already stunning scenery. As we set off towards Kerlingardalur, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this experience. This trip was a reminder of the beauty and power of nature, and how important it is to disconnect from our daily routines and immerse ourselves in the world's wonders.

Exploring Kerlingardalur

Kerlingardalur, often called the 'Golden Valley,' is a breathtaking ravine known for its unique geological formations, vibrant colors, and geothermal activity. The hike to Kerlingardalur from the main visitor center is a moderate 3-kilometer trek. The trails were well-maintained, but we were glad to have our sturdy hiking boots, especially with the possibility of slippery conditions.


Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Kerlingardalur, Iceland's enchanting ravine filled with geothermal wonders and breathtaking landscapes.

As we walked, the landscape unfolded before us in a tapestry of colors. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow painted the ravine, a result of the area’s rich mineral deposits. Steaming hot springs bubbled and gurgled, a testament to the geothermal activity beneath our feet. The dramatic cliffs added a sense of grandeur to the scene, making it a paradise for photographers like myself. I made sure to take lots of photos to capture the views.

We spent a couple of hours exploring Kerlingardalur, wandering along the trails and soaking in the serene atmosphere. The beauty of the ravine was mesmerizing, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. Jean-Pierre and I took our time, enjoying each other's company and marveling at the wonders of nature.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

After our hike, we drove back to Ásgarður for lunch, savoring our last meal in this remote haven. We enjoyed a hearty soup and some freshly baked bread, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the past twelve days.

Ascent to Stúfur Crater

In the afternoon, we decided to visit Stúfur crater. The drive to the parking area was scenic, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The weather was holding up nicely. From the parking lot, it’s a short, easy walk to the rim of the crater.


Explore the stunning Stúfur Crater, a majestic volcanic formation in Iceland, perfect for hiking, photography, and experiencing natural beauty.

Even though Stúfur crater is small, the view from the top was magnificent. We could see the Fjallabak region stretching out before us, a vast expanse of rugged beauty. The landscape was dotted with colorful hills, glistening glaciers, and winding rivers. We took our time at the crater, taking in the view and reflecting on our journey.

We met a couple of fellow travelers at the crater, an older couple from Germany. We chatted for a while about our respective travels and shared tips on must-see destinations in Iceland. It’s always wonderful to connect with like-minded people who share a passion for exploration.

Final Evening at Highland Base

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll. We decided to treat ourselves to a drink at the bar. Sipping on a local Icelandic beer, we watched the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and we enjoyed chatting with other guests about their adventures in Iceland. Highland Base is a comfortable place with beautiful rooms. The hotel also offers hot spring baths, which are perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at Highland Base in Iceland's stunning highlands, where nature meets comfort.

For our last dinner, we opted to dine at the hotel restaurant, Ásgarður. The menu featured local cuisine with vegetarian options, which was perfect for me. We savored each bite, knowing that it would be our last taste of Icelandic fare for a while. The staff was friendly and attentive, making our final meal a memorable one. Reviews for the restaurant are generally positive, although some found it to be a bit expensive.

After dinner, we took a final stroll around the Highland Base, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The stars were beginning to appear, and the air was crisp and clean. We found a quiet spot to sit and watch the night sky, marveling at the vastness of the universe.

Before heading to bed, I took some time to jot down my thoughts and feelings in my travel journal. I wanted to capture every detail of this incredible journey, so that I could relive it again and again in my memories. I am so thankful that Jean-Pierre and I took this trip together.

Saying Goodbye

As I lay in bed, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness that our trip was coming to an end. But I also felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. Kerlingarfjöll had captured my heart, and I knew that I would carry its beauty with me wherever I went.

Tomorrow, we will begin our journey back to Lyon. We’ll drive to Reykjavik, where we’ll catch our flight home. I’m looking forward to seeing our apartment again, but a part of me will always remain in the highlands of Iceland.

This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a journey of self-discovery. I’ve learned so much about myself, about Jean-Pierre, and about the world around me. I’ve challenged myself physically and mentally, and I’ve grown in ways that I never thought possible. I am now looking forward to planning our next adventure!

As I close my eyes, I can still see the vibrant colors of Kerlingarfjöll, feel the crisp Icelandic air on my skin, and hear the gentle bubbling of the hot springs. These memories will stay with me forever, a reminder of the magic and wonder that exists in our world.

Thank you, Kerlingarfjöll, for an unforgettable adventure.