Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

Journey to the Heart of Askja

Today was the day I had been eagerly anticipating since we began planning this Icelandic adventure: our exploration of Askja Caldera. The sheer remoteness and raw beauty of this volcanic landscape have always captivated me, and I couldn't wait to experience it firsthand with Hans. I knew it would be a challenging day, but the promise of witnessing such unique geological wonders made every bump in the road worthwhile.



Explore Askja, Iceland's breathtaking volcanic caldera, featuring stunning lakes, geothermal springs, and unique geological landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers.

We started our day early, grabbing a quick breakfast at Klaustur Restaurant & Bar. It was a hearty meal that gave us the energy we needed for the day ahead. Setting out in our trusty 4x4, we navigated the rugged F-roads leading towards Askja. The drive itself was an adventure, with vast lava fields stretching as far as the eye could see. The landscape was starkly beautiful, a testament to the powerful forces that have shaped this island.



As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on the differences between this stark, volcanic landscape and the familiar, gentle hills of my hometown in Svendborg. It's amazing how different corners of the world can evoke such contrasting emotions, yet both hold a unique kind of beauty. This trip, in a way, is about embracing those contrasts and finding harmony in the diversity of our planet.

The beauty of Askja lies not just in its dramatic landscapes, but in the profound sense of solitude and connection with nature it inspires.

After what felt like an eternity on the rough roads, we finally reached the parking area near Askja. The air was crisp and clean, with a slight scent of sulfur hinting at the geothermal activity beneath our feet. From here, it was a 35-minute walk to Lake Askja and Víti crater. The hike was relatively easy, but the ever-changing weather kept us on our toes. One moment the sun would be shining, and the next we'd be battling a gust of wind that threatened to knock us off our feet.




Explore Lake Askja, Iceland's stunning volcanic lake, a breathtaking destination for adventure and natural beauty in the heart of the highlands.

Reaching the edge of the caldera was breathtaking. Lake Askja, a vast expanse of deep blue water, stretched out before us, surrounded by towering cliffs of volcanic rock. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of the immense power of nature. We spent some time simply taking in the view, marveling at the serenity of this remote location. It felt like we were standing on another planet, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Berlin.



Next, we made our way to Víti crater, a smaller geothermal lake nestled beside Lake Askja. The water in Víti is a milky blue color, and steam rises from its surface, creating an ethereal atmosphere. Despite the chilly air, a few brave souls were taking a dip in the warm waters. I was tempted, but the thought of changing into my swimsuit in the biting wind quickly dissuaded me. Instead, Hans and I explored the area around the crater, taking photos and soaking up the otherworldly scenery.



As we hiked back towards the parking area, the weather took a turn for the worse. Dark clouds gathered overhead, and a light rain began to fall. We quickened our pace, eager to reach the shelter of our 4x4. By the time we arrived back at the vehicle, we were both soaked and shivering. But despite the discomfort, we couldn't stop smiling. We had just experienced something truly extraordinary, a journey to the heart of one of Iceland's most remarkable natural wonders.



The drive back was long and tiring, but the memories of Askja kept us going. We stopped for lunch at Sjavarborg Restaurant, where we enjoyed a hearty meal of traditional Icelandic fare. The warm food and cozy atmosphere were a welcome respite from the harsh conditions outside. As we ate, we reminisced about our adventure, already planning our next visit to this incredible place.



Discover exquisite seafood dining at Sjávarborg Restaurant in Hvammstangi - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

Later, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Restaurant Kanslarinn. The food was excellent, and the ambiance was perfect for winding down after a long day. It was a great way to reflect on the day's adventures and appreciate the beauty of Iceland. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible landscapes with my favorite person. After dinner, we briefly considered visiting the SKY Bar for a nightcap. However, the thought of venturing out into the cold again was too much to bear. Instead, we opted for an early night, eager to rest up for tomorrow's adventure.



Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Restaurant Kanslarinn in Hella – where every dish tells a story.


Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at SKY Bar, the ultimate lounge destination in the heart of Reykjavík, Iceland.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Askja trail and Dyngjufjoll, hoping for better weather and more breathtaking views. I am particularly looking forward to hiking the Askja trail, as I've heard it offers a unique perspective on the caldera's geological formations. And of course, I'm excited to see Dyngjufjoll up close, the mountain range that surrounds Askja and adds to its dramatic beauty. I'm also hoping we can find some time to visit Thorvaldsens Bazar, a shop I've heard sells beautiful Icelandic crafts. It would be nice to bring home a little piece of Iceland to remind us of this incredible journey.



Even though I forgot to pack sunscreen and a portable cooking stove, I am very happy about today. It was a long day, but the memories we made at Askja will last a lifetime. As we drove back, I thought about how lucky I am to share these experiences with Hans. It's not just about seeing new places, but about creating shared memories and deepening our connection with each other. And, of course, making sure we have plenty of stories to tell when we get back to Berlin.


As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Iceland has a way of stripping away the superficial and reminding you of what truly matters: connection, adventure, and the simple beauty of the natural world. And I am so glad I get to experience it all with Hans by my side.