Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

First Impressions: Iceland, We've Arrived!

After months of planning and dreaming, Hans and I finally touched down in Iceland! The excitement was palpable as we stepped off the plane in Reykjavik, ready to embark on our nine-day adventure to Askja Caldera. The air was crisp and clean, carrying a hint of the volcanic landscapes that awaited us. Our journey began with a flight from Berlin to Reykjavik, where we picked up our trusty 4x4 vehicle, our chariot for navigating the rugged terrain ahead. With our bags packed and a sense of anticipation buzzing through us, we set off towards Mývatn, our first stop on this incredible journey.


The drive from Reykjavik to Mývatn was nothing short of spectacular. The landscape transformed dramatically as we journeyed north, from lush green fields dotted with sheep to stark volcanic plains stretching towards the horizon. The weather was kind to us, with the sun peeking through the clouds, casting a magical glow over the scenery. I couldn't resist stopping every so often to capture the beauty with my camera, trying to freeze those moments in time. Hans, ever the patient one, indulged my photographic whims, knowing how much these memories mean to me.

The journey itself is home.

As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on our decision to embark on this adventure. Both Hans and I crave experiences that take us away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The idea of exploring Askja Caldera, a remote and untouched volcanic region, resonated deeply with our desire to connect with nature and discover the raw beauty of our planet. It's also a chance for us to reconnect with each other, away from the distractions of work and daily routines.


Our first taste of Icelandic hospitality came at Vogafjós Farm Resort, where we stopped for breakfast. The resort is charming, nestled right beside a cowshed. It's the kind of place that instantly makes you feel at home. We indulged in a hearty breakfast, savoring local delicacies like homemade Geysir rye bread and creamy mozzarella made from the farm's own cows. I opted for the organic pearl barley with beetroots and grilled root vegetables. Hans chose the beef goulash soup, a savory soup full of root vegetables and beef from the farm, served with the traditional Geysir bread. The Vogafjós Restaurant takes pride in its “Farm to Table” concept, so we knew that we were eating the freshest, most authentic Icelandic cuisine. While we ate, we watched the cows being milked through a glass window, a truly unique and charming experience. It was a delightful way to start our day, connecting us to the land and the people who work it.


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

For lunch, we found ourselves at Grána Bistro, a cozy spot known for its delicious and innovative dishes. I decided on the Arctic char, grilled to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. Hans, always the adventurous eater, opted for the lamb burger, which he declared was one of the best he'd ever had. The bistro had a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff, who shared their local insights and recommendations for our trip.


Discover Grána Bistro in Sauðárkrókur for an unforgettable taste of Icelandic cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we made a stop at UNA Local Product / Sveitabúðin Una, a local shop in Hvolsvöllur that celebrates Icelandic craftsmanship. It was a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and hand-picked products, from hand-knitted sweaters to jams and spices made from Icelandic nature. I was particularly drawn to the intricate designs of the hand-knitted sweaters, each one telling a story of Icelandic heritage. We picked up a few small gifts for our family back in Berlin, wanting to share a piece of Iceland with them. The shop itself is located in a bright red, corrugated Nissen hut, adding to its quirky charm. The shop's name comes from a legend about Una Álfkona (UNA the elf woman) who lived by the farm Rauðafell nearby. It was a delightful experience, immersing ourselves in the local culture and supporting the talented artisans of Iceland.


Explore a treasure trove of authentic Icelandic goods at UNA Local Product in Hvolsvöllur, where local craftsmanship meets unique souvenirs.

As evening approached, we arrived at Kjarr Restaurant for dinner, located in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The restaurant is known for its modern take on Icelandic cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative and flavorful dishes. The atmosphere was elegant yet welcoming, with soft lighting and cozy seating. I chose the seafood pasta, a delightful combination of fresh seafood and perfectly cooked pasta. Hans went for the lamb, a classic Icelandic dish that was cooked to perfection. To end our meal, we shared a delicious apple crumble, a comforting and satisfying treat. It was the perfect way to cap off our first day in Iceland.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

With our bellies full and our hearts content, we found a secluded spot to set up our tent for the night. As we settled in, surrounded by the serene Icelandic landscape, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our first night under the Icelandic stars. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of the adventures that awaited us in the days to come, from exploring the volcanic landscapes of Hverfjall Volcano Trail and Lava field Dimmuborgir tomorrow to hiking through lava fields and discovering hidden waterfalls. I also realized I had forgotten to pack sunscreen and a portable cooking stove! Hopefully we can pick those up soon.


Hygge isn't just a word; it's a feeling, a way of life, and I felt it deeply as I snuggled into my sleeping bag, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Iceland. It was a perfect start to our Icelandic adventure, and I couldn't wait to see what tomorrow would bring.