Exploring the Geothermal Marvels of Kerlingarfjöll

Hot Springs and Snowy Heights

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, a true testament to Iceland's diverse and dramatic landscapes. We started with the intense heat of Europe's most powerful hot spring and ended speeding across a glacier. It's days like these that make me realize how lucky Jean-Pierre and I are to experience this together.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Ásgarður in Kerlingarfjöll. The simple, comforting meal set us up perfectly for the day's adventures. I savored every bite, knowing we'd need the energy for what lay ahead. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, made sure we had plenty of water and a few extra snacks stashed in our backpacks. He always thinks ahead, which I appreciate, especially when I'm lost in the beauty of a place and forget practicalities.


Experience breathtaking landscapes and cozy accommodations at Ásgarður in Kerlingarfjöll – an unforgettable Icelandic getaway.

First up: Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. The sheer volume of boiling water gushing from the earth was astounding. Steam rose in thick clouds, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. The air vibrated with the energy of the earth. It's hard to believe that this natural wonder heats homes and businesses in nearby towns. The hot spring is located in Reykholtsdalur, a short distance from the towns of Borgarnes and Reykholt.


Explore Deildartunguhver, Iceland's most powerful hot spring, where nature's raw energy meets breathtaking landscapes in Reykholt.

We walked around the perimeter, careful to heed the warning signs about the scalding water. The landscape around the spring was fascinating, with mineral deposits painting the rocks in vibrant hues. I was particularly intrigued by the special type of fern, sometimes called the hard fern or deer fern, that grows only in this spot in all of Iceland. It's amazing how even in such a harsh environment, life finds a way to thrive. The hot spring produces 180 liters of water per second, with the water reaching a temperature of 97°C (206°F).

Sometimes, the most incredible experiences are found in the juxtaposition of extremes.

After soaking in the geothermal spectacle, we hopped back in our trusty vehicle and headed towards Langjökull Glacier for our snowmobile tour. The drive itself was stunning, the landscape transforming from green valleys to rugged, snow-dusted terrain. As we approached the glacier, the air grew crisper, and the sheer scale of the ice became apparent. It felt like entering another world.


Discover the thrill of snowmobiling across Langjokull Glacier, an unforgettable adventure in Iceland's stunning winter landscapes.

Arriving at the base camp, we were fitted with warm overalls, helmets, and gloves. I felt a bit like an astronaut preparing for a mission to a frozen planet. Jean-Pierre, of course, looked effortlessly cool in his gear. He has a knack for pulling off any look. After a quick safety briefing and instructions on how to operate the snowmobiles, we were off.

The feeling of speeding across the vast expanse of Langjökull Glacier was exhilarating. The wind whipped at our faces, and the snow crunched beneath the tracks of the snowmobile. The landscape was surreal, a seemingly endless expanse of white stretching to the horizon. We stopped several times to take photos and simply soak in the incredible views. The panoramic views of the Kerlingarfjöll Mountains were simply breathtaking.

Jean-Pierre took the lead, expertly maneuvering the snowmobile through the icy terrain. I held on tight, laughing as we bounced over небольшие bumps and dips. It was pure, unadulterated fun. I was reminded of our youthful days, racing around on bikes without a care in the world. Even though it's October, the snow conditions were great, making for an unforgettable ride.

After our snowmobile adventure, we were both ravenous. We headed back to Ásgarður for a late lunch, devouring hearty bowls of Icelandic stew. The warm food was incredibly satisfying after our time on the glacier. We shared stories with some of the other travelers, laughing and swapping recommendations for must-see sights in Iceland.

As evening approached, we decided to check out Sæsabar - Saesi's Bar in Flúðir. It was a bit of a drive, but we'd heard great things about its cozy atmosphere and local brews. The bar is known for its warm and inviting ambiance, making it a perfect spot to unwind. It's the kind of place where you can easily strike up a conversation with locals and fellow travelers alike.


Discover Sæsabar in Flúðir, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere come together for a memorable night out in Iceland.

When we arrived, the bar was buzzing with activity. The interior was charming, with rustic decor and a friendly vibe. We ordered a couple of local beers and settled into a corner, listening to the lively chatter around us. It was the perfect way to end a day of such intense activity. I made a mental note to remember the address: Rautt hliðarhús, Smiðjustígur 10, 845 Flúðir, Iceland.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Vatnajökull National Park and Haifoss. I'm excited to explore more of Iceland's natural wonders, and I know Jean-Pierre is too. We'll be having breakfast, lunch, and dinner again at Ásgarður, so it's quickly becoming our home away from home. And who knows, maybe we'll find another hidden gem like Sæsabar to relax in the evening. For now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of Icelandic adventures.

Before drifting off to sleep, I took a moment to reflect on the incredible day we'd had. From the geothermal power of Deildartunguhver to the exhilarating heights of Langjökull Glacier, Iceland had once again captivated us with its raw beauty and dramatic contrasts. I am so glad Jean-Pierre and I are sharing this experience together. I made sure to charge my camera and portable phone charger, as well as ensuring the extra memory card is in the camera, so that I don’t forget any of my trip essentials again!