Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

A Day of Mythical Landscapes and Volcanic Majesty

Today, Hans and I ventured deeper into the Icelandic highlands, a realm of stark beauty and geological wonders. Leaving behind the comforts of civilization, we embraced the rugged terrain and the promise of unforgettable sights. It was a day filled with mythical landscapes, volcanic majesty, and the simple joy of shared exploration.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Randulf's Sea House. I savored the moment, knowing that the day ahead would be physically demanding, and a good breakfast was essential. We enjoyed some delicious Icelandic specialties, fueling up for our explorations. Randulf's Sea House exuded a warm atmosphere, making us feel relaxed and ready for the day. As we ate, we looked out at the water, excited for another day of Icelandic adventure.


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

After breakfast, we set off towards Dyngjufjoll, a mountain range that promised breathtaking views and a challenging hike. The drive itself was an adventure, with the landscape transforming into a vast expanse of volcanic rock and windswept plains. As we approached Dyngjufjoll, the peaks loomed in the distance, their jagged silhouettes a testament to the powerful forces that shaped this land.


Discover the awe-inspiring Dyngjufjoll peak in Iceland, a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking stunning views and unique geological wonders.

The hike up Dyngjufjoll was invigorating. The trails were well-marked, and we took our time, soaking in the panoramic views that unfolded with every step. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird or the crunch of our boots on the rocky path. Being surrounded by such raw, untouched beauty made me feel incredibly small yet deeply connected to the natural world. I paused to take a few photographs, trying to capture the essence of this majestic place, but no image could truly do it justice. I made a mental note to myself to try and capture what I felt, rather than what I saw, in my photographs. I think that will make for better memories.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After conquering Dyngjufjoll, we drove towards Drekagil, also known as Dragon's Gully, a canyon renowned for its dramatic lava formations. The name itself conjured images of mythical creatures and hidden realms, and I was eager to see what awaited us. The drive to Drekagil was an experience in itself, requiring a sturdy 4x4 vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain.


Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Drekagil Ravine, a serene escape in Iceland with stunning landscapes and rich geological history.

As we entered Drekagil, I was immediately struck by the otherworldly atmosphere. The canyon walls rose sharply on either side, adorned with twisted lava formations that resembled strange creatures and fantastical beings. The sunlight filtered through the narrow opening above, casting eerie shadows that danced across the rocks. It felt like stepping into a forgotten world, a place where legends came to life. NASA even used this location to simulate navigating a rover across the surface of Mars, which I found fascinating.



Hans and I hiked through the narrow gorge, marveling at the bizarre basalt formations and the hidden gems that lay around every corner. We climbed over minor rocks, following a small stream that led to a waterfall enclosed in an almost cave-like cliff at the deep end of the gorge. The hike was slow, as we stopped frequently to speculate on the poetic motives behind nature's artistry. It was easy to see why this place was called Dragon's Gully; the lava formations truly resembled dragons watching over the canyon.



For lunch, we stopped at Jon Riki, a family-run restaurant and brewery. The green, wooden building, once a tractor shed, had been rebuilt into a cozy spot with magnificent views of three glaciers. We enjoyed seasonal food and innovative craft beer, all made with first-class produce and quality malts. It was a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complemented our day of exploration. I opted for a light salad, made with fresh, local ingredients, while Hans chose a hearty lamb dish. We both agreed that the craft beer was exceptional, a testament to the brewery's commitment to quality.


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

Before heading back to our campsite, we made a stop at Shopicelandic. I wanted to find a small memento of our trip, something that would remind me of the incredible landscapes and the sense of adventure we had experienced. The store was filled with unique Icelandic gifts and souvenirs, from traditional crafts to contemporary artworks. I finally settled on a handcrafted ceramic piece, its design inspired by the volcanic landscapes we had explored. Hans picked up a warm, woolen hat, knowing that it would be perfect for the chilly evenings ahead. I also had a peek at some Icelandic wool sweaters, but I think I'd rather knit one myself. It would be a good way to use my knitting hobby and create a practical and unique souvenir of our trip.


Discover unique Icelandic souvenirs at Shopicelandic in Reykjavík, featuring local crafts and contemporary designs to cherish your memories.

For dinner, we dined at Drangar Restaurant. The restaurant's modern Icelandic cuisine, made with fresh local ingredients, was a perfect end to our day. The service was excellent, and the hearty portions of seafood more than filled our bellies. I particularly enjoyed the ambiance of the restaurant, with its stylish yet welcoming atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling windows that captured the rugged landscapes of Vík.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Drangar Restaurant in Vik – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

As the day drew to a close, we returned to our campsite, the sky ablaze with the colors of the setting sun. We sat outside our tent, sipping hot tea and reflecting on the day's adventures. We were both filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such incredible beauty and to share it with each other. The stars began to emerge, twinkling in the clear night sky, and we knew that tomorrow would bring new adventures and new discoveries in the heart of Askja Caldera. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Askja and Lake Askja, and I am already eager to see what wonders await us.



Back at our campsite, I realized I had forgotten sunscreen. It is not something I normally use, but considering the lack of shade and the strong sun, it would have been useful. I will have to be more careful tomorrow.




What a day!