Exploring the Wild Beauty of Þórsmörk, Iceland

Embracing the Land of Thor

Day two in Þórsmörk was nothing short of magical. From the moment I woke up, surrounded by the raw, untamed beauty of this Icelandic paradise, I knew it was going to be a day filled with adventure and unforgettable moments. The crisp morning air, the sound of the glacial rivers, and the promise of breathtaking landscapes fueled my excitement.


Discover Þórsmörk, Iceland's breathtaking mountain peak boasting stunning hikes, lush valleys, and unparalleled natural beauty.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Volcano Huts Húsadalur. The spread was impressive, featuring homemade bread, eggs, ham, cheese, and a colorful array of fresh fruit and vegetables. It was the perfect fuel for a day of hiking. I made sure to grab an extra apple, remembering my forgotten sunscreen from yesterday – food for the body and a little bit of protection for the skin! With our bellies full and spirits high, Liam and I set off to explore the trails around Básar, Þórsmörk.


Discover tranquility and adventure at Volcano Huts Húsadalur, your gateway to Iceland's majestic landscapes and authentic local cuisine.

The hike to Básar was invigorating. The trails were well-marked, and the landscape was incredibly diverse, with lush valleys, rocky slopes, and panoramic views at every turn. I was in my element, camera in hand, trying to capture the essence of this extraordinary place. The vibrant green moss covering the mountains, the crystal-clear streams, and the imposing glaciers in the distance created a surreal and awe-inspiring backdrop.


Discover the natural beauty of Bálar in Þórsmörk, a premier campground offering adventure and comfort in the heart of Iceland's wilderness.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks. - John Muir

We decided to take the Básahringur trail, a loop known for its accessibility and stunning views from Réttarfell. The hike was perfect for both small and big feet, as they say, and it offered a great perspective of the surrounding areas, including the volcanic site at Fimmvörðuháls and the majestic Eyjafjallajökull glacier. Liam, ever the supportive husband, kept pace with my frequent stops to photograph every angle of the landscape. He even helped me scout out some unique perspectives, his software engineer's mind finding patterns and compositions that I might have missed.

Arriving at Básar, we decided to have our lunch amidst the natural beauty. The Travel Association Útivist began operating in this area around 1980, and it's easy to see why they chose this spot. It’s a serene location surrounded by trees, offering a sense of peace and tranquility. We enjoyed our packed lunch, reminiscing about the morning's hike and planning our adventures for the days to come. I made a mental note to check out the walking path map at the warden's office for more trail ideas.

After lunch, we relaxed for a while, soaking in the views and the surprisingly warm sunshine. I took the opportunity to jot down some notes in my travel journal, wanting to preserve every detail of this incredible day. Liam, meanwhile, was busy identifying different bird species with his binoculars, a hobby he picked up a few years ago and one that always adds an interesting dimension to our travels.

As the afternoon progressed, we made our way back towards Húsadalur, taking a slightly different route to explore more of the area. We passed by several small streams, their water icy cold and incredibly pure. I couldn't resist filling up my reusable water bottle, savoring the taste of Iceland's pristine wilderness.

Back at the Volcano Huts, we decided to treat ourselves to a little relaxation before dinner. I had heard about the electric sauna on the property and was eager to try it out. After a long day of hiking, the warmth of the sauna was incredibly soothing, melting away any lingering tension in my muscles. Liam, not usually one for saunas, surprised me by thoroughly enjoying it as well. We both emerged feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, ready for the evening ahead.

For dinner, we chose Hygge Restaurant & Bar, a short drive from Húsadalur in Hellishólar. The restaurant had been recommended to us, and I was intrigued by its fusion of Icelandic and international cuisine. The reviews I had read mentioned the breathtaking surroundings and the cozy atmosphere, and I was eager to experience it for myself.


Discover Hygge Restaurant & Bar: Where Latin American flavors meet fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere amidst Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.

The drive to Hygge was scenic, with stunning views of the Eyjafjallajökull and the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago. As we arrived, I was immediately struck by the restaurant's charming setting, nestled amidst lush fields and mountains. The atmosphere was indeed cozy, with warm lighting, comfortable seating, and a welcoming ambiance.

The menu at Hygge was a delightful mix of traditional Icelandic ingredients and global influences. We started with the baked brie appetizer, which was absolutely divine. For our main courses, I opted for the fresh-caught trout, while Liam chose the lamb chops. Both dishes were expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The portions were generous, and the quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite.

To end the evening on a sweet note, we shared the chocolate cake, which was rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible. The service at Hygge was exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff who made us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to cap off a perfect day.

After dinner, we decided to make a quick stop at Lundinn (Original Puffin Bar) for a nightcap. The bar was lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying drinks and games. We ordered a couple of local beers and soaked in the atmosphere, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience Icelandic nightlife.


Experience the lively ambiance of Lundinn (Original Puffin Bar), the go-to pub in Vestmannaeyjabær for drinks, games, and local culture.

As we headed back to our campsite, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had. Þórsmörk had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From hiking to Básar and savoring local cuisine at Hygge to unwinding at Lundinn, every moment had been special and unforgettable.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Stakkholtsgjá canyon and the Fimmvorduhals Trailhead. I'm already excited about the adventures that await us, knowing that Þórsmörk will continue to surprise and delight us with its natural beauty and charm.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” I am so ready for tomorrow's hike!

And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey and the opportunity to share it with Liam, my partner in life and adventure. Good night from Þórsmörk!