Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

A Day of Icelandic Immersion

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Icelandic culture and history. From exploring ancient turf houses to savoring local delicacies and enjoying the ethereal landscapes, every moment felt like stepping further into a living saga. It's incredible how much this small island has to offer, and I'm so grateful to be experiencing it all with Hans.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Vogafjós Farm Resort. The resort is nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Mývatn, and the views were simply breathtaking. The Vogafjós Guesthouse is family-run and has a unique natural environment. What made breakfast even more special was the chance to see the cows in the barn right next to the dining area. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the food was delicious, with most of the ingredients coming directly from the farm. I enjoyed some homemade cheese and fresh bread. It was a delightful way to start the day, feeling connected to the land and its traditions. Vogafjós is known for its clean rooms, excellent service and eco-friendliness. It was a truly unique experience, blending comfort with a touch of rural charm.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine and warm hospitality at Vogafjós Farm Resort near Myvatn Lake.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the Bustarfell Museum. This turf house museum is one of Iceland's best-preserved, offering a glimpse into the island's past. As we drove, the landscape transformed into rolling hills and verdant valleys, a stark contrast to the volcanic terrain we had grown accustomed to.


Discover the rich tapestry of Icelandic history at Bustarfell Museum, where vintage artifacts bring the past to life in a stunning natural setting.

Arriving at Bustarfell felt like stepping back in time. The turf houses, with their red gables, stood proudly against the backdrop of the Icelandic countryside. The museum is a collection of seventeen interconnected houses, each filled with artifacts and tools that depict life from 1770 until 1966. Walking through the rooms, I could almost hear the echoes of past generations, their stories woven into the very fabric of the building.

The best way to know a country is to taste its food and understand its history.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Bustarfell was learning about the self-sufficiency required to survive in such an isolated environment. The displays showcased ingenious ways of utilizing every resource, from clothing and furnishings to food preparation and preservation. It was humbling to see how resourceful and resilient people had to be to thrive in this harsh yet beautiful land.

Bustarfell has been owned by the same family since 1532. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Bustarfell was the residence of the regional Sheriff. We also learned about a local folk tale about the Sheriff's wife who saved the life of an elf woman and was rewarded with a golden cloth. The museum also has a view-dial that shows the names and heights of the surrounding mountains. It was designed in 1975 and also acts as a sundial. Mette imagined what life was like for her ancestors living in turf houses.

Next on our itinerary was Sleðaásgjá, a natural wonder known for its stunning geological formations and striking landscapes. The drive there was an adventure in itself, with winding roads and panoramic views that seemed to stretch on forever.


Discover the breathtaking fissure of Sleðaásgjá in Thingvellir National Park, where nature meets history in stunning Icelandic landscapes.

Sleðaásgjá is a captivating site, showcasing Iceland's diverse terrain with dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. The interplay of light and shadow created a mesmerizing effect, enhancing the beauty of the surroundings. As we hiked along the trails, we were surrounded by vibrant flora and fauna, a testament to the pristine environment. The area is also rich in cultural history, with local legends and tales adding an extra layer of intrigue to our visit.

For lunch, we stopped at Jon Riki, a restaurant in Höfn known for its local cuisine. I opted for a traditional Icelandic lamb dish, while Hans chose the fresh seafood. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a true taste of Iceland. Jon Riki offers vegan options and also has beer. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day of exploration.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Jon Riki in Höfn, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst stunning scenery.

As evening approached, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Randulf's Sea House in Eskifjörður. This charming restaurant is housed in a beautifully preserved shore-building, offering a glimpse into the area's herring fishing history. The warm atmosphere and beautiful decor made us feel right at home.


Savor fresh seafood and stunning fjord views at Randulf's Sea House in Eskifjörður – where Icelandic cuisine meets warm hospitality.

Randulf's Sea House is known for its Scandinavian cuisine, with dishes like catfish, meatballs, and seafood. I chose the reindeer meatballs, a local specialty, while Hans enjoyed the fresh cod. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The restaurant also has a small museum upstairs, showcasing the living quarters of a Norwegian fishing family from the late 1800s. It was fascinating to see how they lived and worked, adding another layer to our understanding of Iceland's cultural heritage.

To cap off the evening, we visited the SKY Bar in Reykjavik. Located on the top floor of Center Hotels Arnarhvoll, this bar offers stunning views of the city, including the Harpa Music Hall and the surrounding mountains. The bar has a modern yet relaxed atmosphere, with a spacious veranda where guests can enjoy their drinks.


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

We ordered some cocktails and enjoyed the breathtaking scenery. The SKY Bar offers a variety of snacks and drinks. Sipping our drinks while watching the sunset over Reykjavik was the perfect way to end our day. SKY Bar has happy hour and is near the Harpa Concert Hall. It was a memorable experience, combining great drinks with unbeatable views.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm struck by the incredible diversity of Iceland's landscapes and the richness of its culture. Each experience, from exploring the turf houses of Bustarfell to savoring local delicacies and enjoying panoramic views from SKY Bar, has added a new layer to my understanding of this remarkable island. I feel so grateful to be sharing these moments with Hans, whose curiosity and enthusiasm make every adventure even more special.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our journey, and we plan to make the most of it with a hike on the Askja trail and a visit to Lake Askja. I'm excited to see what wonders await us as we continue to explore this extraordinary volcanic region. Good night from Iceland!

P.S. I almost forgot! I realized today that I completely forgot to pack sunscreen. Note to self (and to you, dear readers): even in Iceland, sunscreen is essential, especially when hiking and exploring outdoors. And Hans keeps reminding me that we also forgot the portable cooking stove – looks like we'll be relying on restaurants for our meals!