Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

A Final Day in Askja's Embrace

As our Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the raw, untamed beauty of Askja Caldera. Today was all about soaking in those last moments, etching the volcanic landscapes into our memories. It's amazing how a place so remote can feel so deeply personal, a testament to the power of nature and the joy of shared experiences.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Gígur. Although Gígur is actually located in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, the name is still stuck in my head from researching restaurants, so I felt like I was eating there! We savored every bite, knowing that the day ahead would be filled with exploration and a touch of melancholy, as we prepared to say goodbye to this incredible place. I made sure to have an extra cup of coffee; I knew I'd need the energy for our hike and for the long journey back to Reykjavik tomorrow.

Our main goal for the day was to hike the Askja trail, a path that promised stunning views of the caldera and Lake Askja.


Experience the breathtaking Askja Trail in Iceland, where stunning volcanic landscapes and serene lakes await your exploration.

The weather in Askja can be unpredictable, and today was no exception. We layered up, thankful for the warm clothing we'd packed, and set off with a sense of anticipation. The trail wound its way through volcanic terrain, a landscape sculpted by centuries of eruptions and geological activity. The views were simply breathtaking, a panorama of craters, lava fields, and the serene blue of Lake Askja.


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

Hans, ever the supportive partner, made sure I took plenty of photos. He knows how much I love capturing these moments.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but think about the sheer scale of Askja. The caldera spans 50 square kilometers, a vast expanse of volcanic majesty. It's hard to fathom the forces that shaped this landscape, the eruptions and collapses that created such a unique and awe-inspiring place. We paused frequently, just to take it all in, to feel the wind on our faces and the volcanic earth beneath our feet.

The beauty of Askja lies not just in its dramatic landscapes, but in the profound sense of peace and connection it offers.

Lake Askja itself was a sight to behold. The water was a deep, mesmerizing blue, reflecting the sky above. We spent some time simply admiring its beauty, contemplating the tranquility of this remote location. I remembered reading about Víti crater, a geothermal lake within the Askja caldera, where the water is warm enough to swim. We decided against taking a dip, but the thought of bathing in a volcanic crater was certainly tempting. Maybe next time!

For lunch, we had planned to visit Drangar Restaurant.


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

In my mind, I had planned a full three-course meal, but we were running behind on our hike, so we just stopped for a quick bite. I had a tasty cauliflower wrap. Drangar is known for its modern Icelandic cuisine, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. The restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients, and the menu features a variety of innovative dishes. It was a perfect way to refuel before continuing our exploration.

In the afternoon, we decided to visit Handverksskúrinn.


Discover authentic Icelandic souvenirs at Handverksskúrinn in Selfoss, where local craftsmanship meets unique artistic expression.

I was hoping to find a few souvenirs to take back home, something to remind us of our Icelandic adventure. Handverksskúrinn is known for its authentic Icelandic crafts, from hand-knitted sweaters to locally made jewelry. I found a beautiful hand-carved wooden bird, a perfect memento of our time in Askja. It reminded me of my knitting hobby and the connection to traditional Danish patterns. Hans, of course, found a practical use for the shop, buying a new hat because he had forgotten his!

For our final dinner in Iceland, we chose Sjavarborg Restaurant.


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

We wanted a special meal to celebrate the end of our journey, and Sjavarborg seemed like the perfect choice. The restaurant is located in Hvammstangi and is known for its delicious seafood and cozy atmosphere. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. The friendly staff and the charming setting made it a truly memorable experience.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had over the past nine days. Askja Caldera has exceeded all of our expectations, offering a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland. From hiking through volcanic landscapes to camping under the stars, we've created memories that will last a lifetime. I'm so grateful to have shared this adventure with Hans, my partner in life and travel. His support and companionship have made this journey even more special.

Tomorrow, we'll begin our journey back to Reykjavik, where we'll catch our flight back to Berlin. It's always bittersweet to leave a place as magical as Iceland, but I know we'll carry the spirit of Askja with us, wherever we go. The vast landscapes, the volcanic wonders, and the sense of peace we found here will stay with us long after we've returned home.

As I sit here, writing these final words, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, of embracing adventure, and of cherishing the moments we share with loved ones. Iceland, you've captured our hearts, and we'll be back soon !

Before I close this chapter, I wanted to make a note of some practical tips I have learned along the way:

• Always pack layers. The Icelandic weather changes quickly.
• A 4x4 vehicle is essential for exploring the highlands.
• Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
• Respect the environment and leave no trace behind.
• Be prepared for long drives and rough roads.
• Bring a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
• Learn a few basic Icelandic phrases.
• Try the local cuisine, even if it sounds a bit unusual.
• Be open to unexpected adventures and detours.
• Most importantly, enjoy the journey and embrace the magic of Iceland.

These are just a few things I learned on this trip. I hope they help you plan your own adventure to Iceland. And who knows, maybe our paths will cross in this beautiful country someday!

Until next time, takk fyrir and bless from Iceland!

P.S. I almost forgot! I couldn't leave without mentioning one last funny moment. As we were driving back from Handverksskúrinn, we saw a group of sheep crossing the road. They were completely unfazed by our presence and simply strolled along, blocking our way. It was a classic Icelandic moment, a reminder that nature always takes precedence here. We laughed, snapped a few photos, and waited patiently for the sheep to pass. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.