Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

A Day Amongst Giants

Today was a day of epic proportions, quite literally! We set out to explore the majestic Askja Caldera and the surrounding Dyngjufjoll mountains, immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's volcanic landscapes. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and, of course, delicious food to fuel our adventures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Systrakaffi in Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The drive there was scenic, with the Icelandic landscape unfolding before us in all its glory. Systrakaffi is a cozy, family-run bistro known for its warm hospitality and fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the Arctic char, which was simply divine – so fresh and flavorful, served with baby potatoes and a silky white wine sauce. Hans, ever the pizza enthusiast, couldn't resist the “Mother Superior” pizza, piled high with all sorts of toppings. It was a delightful start to our day, setting the perfect tone for the adventures ahead.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off towards Askja. The drive itself was an adventure, navigating the rugged F-roads in our trusty 4x4. I must admit, I was a little nervous about the river crossings, but Hans handled them like a pro. He always does. The landscape transformed into a lunar-like terrain as we approached Askja, a stark contrast to the lush green fields we had seen earlier in the trip.

Finally, we arrived at the Askja trail. The hike to the caldera was relatively easy, about 2.4 kilometers, but the views were anything but ordinary. The trail wound through volcanic rock formations, leading us closer and closer to the magnificent Askja Caldera. The weather was kind to us, with clear skies offering panoramic views of the surrounding Dyngjufjoll mountains.


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

The vastness of the caldera was truly awe-inspiring, a testament to the immense power of nature.

Reaching the caldera, I was struck by the sheer scale of it all. Öskjuvatn lake shimmered in the distance. We spent a good hour simply taking in the views, snapping photos, and marveling at the geological wonders around us. While swimming in Viti crater wasn’t recommended due to geothermal activity, just witnessing its milky blue waters was an experience in itself.

After our hike, we began our journey back, our thoughts drifting to sustenance. Lunch was at Restaurant Katla. I decided to try the Kebab, while Hans chose the grilled Piggvar. Katla's menu is a fusion of Nordic ingredients with Latin American and Asian flavors, which I found very intriguing. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming.


Experience exquisite Western cuisine at Restaurant Katla in Vik, Iceland—where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.

Our final stop for the day was Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its local cuisine, and we were eager to try their signature dish: grilled lamb from their farm. The lamb was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the accompanying vegetables were fresh and delicious. Hans opted for the Arctic char, eager for a second taste of this Icelandic delicacy. The restaurant itself was charming, with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant amidst breathtaking landscapes in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Before dinner, though, we popped into Thorvaldsens Bazar. I always enjoy finding unique, locally made items, and Thorvaldsens Bazar seemed like the perfect place. This charming boutique is known for its handmade crafts and traditional Icelandic wool products. I was particularly drawn to the hand-knitted sweaters, each one a unique work of art. I ended up buying a beautiful scarf, a perfect reminder of our Icelandic adventure. It felt good supporting local artisans and contributing to a good cause, as the Bazar supports children in need.


Explore unique Icelandic craftsmanship at Thorvaldsens Bazar, where hand-knitted knitwear and local artisanal goods await you in the heart of Reykjavík.

As we drove back to our campsite, the sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. We reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Iceland. The Askja trail and Dyngjufjoll mountains had challenged us physically, but also rewarded us with breathtaking views and a deeper appreciation for the power of nature. The delicious meals at Systrakaffi, Restaurant Katla, and Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant had nourished our bodies and souls, providing a taste of Icelandic hospitality and culinary delights.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Drekagil and Leirhnjukur, continuing our exploration of this fascinating volcanic region. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us, and I'm sure Iceland will continue to surprise and delight us at every turn.

As I sit here in our tent, the wind gently rustling outside, I feel a deep sense of contentment. Iceland has a way of stripping away the unnecessary, leaving you with a profound connection to the natural world. It's a feeling I'll carry with me long after we've left this magical island. And I'm so glad I get to share it all with Hans.

I did forget to pack sunscreen, though. Note to self: buy some tomorrow!