Exploring the Geothermal Marvels of Kerlingarfjöll

A Day of Discovery on the Golden Circle

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in Iceland's iconic Golden Circle, a journey filled with historical significance, natural beauty, and unexpected culinary delights. Jean-Pierre and I set out early, eager to explore Thingvellir National Park and the Öxarárfoss waterfall, followed by a relaxing evening at a unique wine bar. The weather was crisp, with that familiar Icelandic wind nipping at our cheeks, but the stunning landscapes more than made up for it.

Our first stop was Thingvellir National Park, a place where history and geology collide. As a linguistics enthusiast, I was immediately captivated by the park's historical importance. It's where the Alþingi, the world's oldest parliament, was established around 930 AD. Imagine, Jean-Pierre, the Vikings gathering here to make laws and settle disputes! Walking through the Almannagjá gorge, the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, was surreal. You could literally see the earth being pulled apart. The autumn colors were starting to paint the landscape in hues of orange and amber, making it even more picturesque. We spent a good couple of hours wandering the trails, soaking in the history and the stunning views. It was easy to imagine the echoes of the past resonating through the valley.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iceland, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the stories etched into its very soil.

Next, we made our way to Öxarárfoss, a waterfall with a fascinating story of its own. What many don't realize is that this waterfall is actually man-made. In the 10th century, Icelanders redirected the Öxará River to provide water for the Alþingi. It's amazing how they engineered this centuries ago. The waterfall itself, though not the highest at only 44 feet, is incredibly scenic, cascading over basalt columns into a rocky pool. The walk to the waterfall from the parking area was short and easy, about 10-15 minutes, even with the autumn chill in the air. I made sure to bundle up with my warmest scarf and gloves. Jean-Pierre, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the falls from every angle. We spent some time just taking in the view, the sound of the water a soothing backdrop to our conversation.


Discover the enchanting Öxarárfoss waterfall in Thingvellir National Park, a stunning fusion of nature and history in Iceland's breathtaking landscape.
After a day of exploring, we were ready for a cozy and relaxing evening. So, we headed to Vínstofa Friðheima - Winebar & Bistro, which is near the Friðheimar Tomato Farm. This place is truly special. It’s a wine bar and bistro located inside one of the oldest greenhouses. The atmosphere was incredibly charming, with grape vines literally growing above our heads. We arrived around dinner time, and the aroma of fresh tomatoes filled the air.


Discover the charm of Icelandic cuisine at Vínstofa Friðheima, a unique wine bar and bistro with a commitment to fresh, local ingredients.
We started with their famous tomato soup, made with tomatoes grown right there in the greenhouse. I opted for the one with basil oil and Jean-Pierre had the one with stracciatella cheese. Both were absolutely divine. The soup was rich, flavorful, and incredibly comforting after a day spent outdoors. We also shared some bruschetta, which was equally delicious, with the freshest tomatoes and herbs. Of course, we had to try some of their wine. The wine selection was excellent, with a variety of options to complement the food. I chose a crisp white wine that paired perfectly with the tomato soup, while Jean-Pierre went for a local beer.

The ambiance of Vínstofa Friðheima was just as delightful as the food and wine. The greenhouse setting created a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere. It felt like we were dining in a secret garden. The staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our day of adventures. As we sat there, sipping our wine and enjoying the peaceful surroundings, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. It's moments like these that make traveling so worthwhile. I can see why this place is an award winning restaurant.

Before heading back to our campsite in Kerlingarfjöll, we took a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the evening. The stars were beginning to emerge, and the air was filled with a sense of calm. I made a mental note to bring an extra memory card for my camera tomorrow, as I’m sure there will be plenty of photo opportunities. As we drove back, Jean-Pierre and I chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We're heading to Hjálparfoss and Gjáin, two more natural wonders that I'm excited to explore. And perhaps we'll find a cozy little shop to pick up a wool sweater, something to keep me warm during these chilly Icelandic nights. I'm already looking forward to another day of discovery in this beautiful country.

Our day on the Golden Circle was a perfect blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. From the historical significance of Thingvellir to the man-made beauty of Öxarárfoss and the cozy charm of Vínstofa Friðheima, it was a day filled with unforgettable experiences. Iceland continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.