Exploring Askja Caldera: An Icelandic Adventure with Hans

A Day of Fire and Ice

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a true immersion into the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's volcanic heartland. Hans and I embraced the day with open minds and sturdy hiking boots, ready to explore the unique landscapes around Lake Mývatn. It's days like these that remind me why we crave these adventures – the feeling of being dwarfed by nature's grandeur, the crisp air filling our lungs, and the shared moments that weave into the fabric of our marriage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Munkar. The cozy atmosphere and the smell of freshly brewed coffee were the perfect start to a day of exploration. I opted for a traditional Danish pastry, a little taste of home, while Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried the local Skyr with berries. Fortified and ready, we set off towards our first destination: Hverfjall Volcano Trail.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hverfjall Volcano Trail, a premier hiking destination in Iceland with stunning views and unique geological formations.
The drive itself was a scenic prelude, with the vast, open landscapes stretching out before us. As we approached Hverfjall, its imposing silhouette against the horizon was simply breathtaking. The sheer scale of the crater, a kilometer in diameter, is hard to fathom until you stand at its base.

The hike up Hverfjall was invigorating. The trail is steep in sections, but the panoramic views that unfolded with each step were more than worth the effort. Reaching the rim, we were greeted by a vista that stretched across Lake Mývatn and the surrounding lava fields. It felt like standing on the edge of the world, the wind whipping around us as we gazed into the immense crater below.

To walk on the rim of Hverfjall is to walk on the shoulders of a gentle giant, feeling the pulse of the earth beneath your feet.

We spent a good hour walking the rim, taking in the views and snapping photos. The landscape was stark yet beautiful, a testament to the powerful forces that had shaped this region millennia ago. The black volcanic sand crunched beneath our boots as we completed the loop, the wind carrying whispers of ancient eruptions.

Descending from Hverfjall, we felt a sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection to this incredible landscape. Our next stop was Lava field Dimmuborgir, a place that promised a different kind of adventure.


Explore the unique and mystical landscapes of Dimmuborgir, a captivating lava field in Iceland featuring breathtaking hiking trails and rich folklore.
Dimmuborgir, meaning Dark Castles, is a labyrinth of bizarre lava formations. As we entered the park, we were immediately transported to another world. Towering rock pillars, caves, and archways rose from the ground, creating an eerie and surreal landscape. It felt like stepping into a mythical fortress, a place where trolls and mythical creatures might lurk around every corner.

We spent the afternoon exploring the various trails, each turn revealing a new and fascinating formation. The scale of the lava field is immense, and it's easy to get lost in its maze-like paths. We marveled at the intricate shapes and textures, the result of lava flowing over a lake 2,300 years ago, the steam creating these unique pillars and formations.

According to local folklore, Dimmuborgir is connected to the infernal regions, a place where Satan landed when he was cast from the heavens. Whether you believe the legends or not, there's no denying the mystical atmosphere of this place. I could see why it was chosen as a filming location for Game of Thrones; it truly feels like a landscape from another world.

After hours of exploration, our stomachs began to rumble, reminding us that it was time for lunch. We headed to Sauðá, a local restaurant known for its traditional Icelandic cuisine. I decided to try the lamb soup, a hearty and warming dish that was perfect for the cool Icelandic weather. Hans opted for the fish of the day, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. It's these simple, authentic meals that I cherish most when we travel, a true taste of the local culture.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Kaffi Lára El Grillo Bar. Located by the lagoon, this charming bar and restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We decided to treat ourselves to some local brews. Hans, ever the beer enthusiast, was eager to try the house lager, El Grillo, brewed according to the owner's grandfather's recipe.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kaffi Lára El Grillo Bar, where local flavors meet cozy ambiance in Seyðisfjörður.
The story behind the beer is quite charming: the owner's grandfather, after one too many beers, dreamt that the ghost of Lára, a town legend, whispered the recipe to him. The name El Grillo comes from a British oil ship that was bombed in the fjord during World War II. It's these little stories and local legends that make a place truly special.

As we sipped our beers, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the heights of Hverfjall to the depths of Dimmuborgir, we had experienced the raw power and beauty of Iceland's volcanic landscapes. It was a day of exploration, discovery, and connection, a reminder of the incredible world we live in.

Before heading back to our campsite, we enjoyed a hearty dinner at Kaffi Lára El Grillo Bar. I ordered the salad in a mug, while Hans enjoyed the pork. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're excited to explore Sleðaásgjá and Leirhnjukur. I've heard that Leirhnjukur is an active volcanic area with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools, which sounds like another incredible experience. We'll be having breakfast at Gígur, lunch at Vogafjós Farm Resort, and dinner at Kjarr Restaurant & Bar. I'm particularly excited about Vogafjós, as it's located right next to a cowshed, and you can even sample fresh milk. Before heading to bed, we will quickly visit The Heart of Reykjavik shop.

As I write this, sitting in our tent with Hans snoring softly beside me, I can't help but feel grateful for these experiences. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about connecting with nature, with each other, and with ourselves. And as we drift off to sleep under the vast Icelandic sky, I know that tomorrow will bring new adventures and new memories to cherish.

I almost forgot to mention, I forgot to pack sunscreen! I hope the shop tomorrow has some, otherwise I might get sunburnt tomorrow. It's easy to forget something, even when you try your best to plan ahead.

Tomorrow, we delve deeper into Iceland's geothermal heart. Until then, goodnight from the land of fire and ice!