Exploring the Wild Beauty of Þórsmörk, Iceland

A Final Icelandic Embrace

As our incredible journey through Þórsmörk draws to a close, I find myself overwhelmed with a mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment, having conquered challenging trails and witnessed nature's grandeur, but also a tinge of sadness knowing that this chapter is ending. Today was about savoring the last moments in this magical place and preparing for our departure back to Reykjavik and eventually home to Canmore.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at the Nordic Restaurant in Reykjavik. The weather was mild, with temperatures hovering around 59°F (15°C), a perfect setting for a final Icelandic breakfast. I opted for the *smørrebrød*, a traditional open-faced sandwich, while Liam enjoyed a comforting bowl of seafood soup. The restaurant’s warm and minimalistic environment provided a cozy start to our last day.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Nordic Restaurant in Seydisfjordur - where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After breakfast, we decided to do a little shopping at the Seljalandfoss Shop. We couldn't resist picking up a few handcrafted souvenirs to remind us of our time here. I found a beautiful hand-knitted wool scarf, perfect for the chilly Canmore winters, and Liam chose a small carving of an Icelandic horse. The shop was bustling with tourists, all eager to take a piece of Iceland home with them.


Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture at Seljalandsfoss Shop, where unique souvenirs and local crafts await near the breathtaking Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

Before leaving the south coast, we made sure to stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall one last time. Even though we've seen it multiple times throughout our trip, there's something about walking behind the cascading water that feels so magical. I took some final photos, trying to capture the unique beauty of this place, knowing that no picture could truly do it justice. The Seljalandfoss Shop offered a perfect opportunity to grab some last-minute gifts, and I picked up a canvas print of the waterfall at sunset, hoping it would capture the essence of our journey.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Kanslarinn. The cozy atmosphere and traditional Icelandic cuisine were exactly what we needed after a morning of exploring. We both decided to try the horse steak fillet, a local delicacy that came highly recommended. It was a unique and flavorful experience, perfectly complemented by a glass of local wine. Liam, ever the adventurous one, was particularly impressed with the dish.


Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Restaurant Kanslarinn in Hella – where tradition meets taste in every bite.

Our final dinner in Iceland was at Grillmarkaðurinn, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Icelandic cuisine. The Northern Eclectic decor created a cozy and classy environment, perfect for a celebratory meal. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a variety of local dishes, including lamb, beef, trout, and skyr. The meal was a culinary journey through Iceland, and every dish was expertly prepared and beautifully presented.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Grillmarkaðurinn - where fresh local ingredients meet traditional grilling techniques in Reykjavík.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped by Vöruhúsið in Vestmannaeyjar, a family-run restaurant known for its flavorful and fresh food. Though we weren't particularly hungry after our lavish dinner, we decided to have a light dessert to cap off our trip. The friendly atmosphere and delicious treats made it a perfect ending to our day.


Discover the authentic flavors of Iceland at Vöruhúsið, a charming restaurant in Vestmannaeyjabær offering fresh local cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.

Reflecting on our nine days in Þórsmörk, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such raw and untamed beauty. We hiked through lush valleys, crossed glacial rivers, and stood in awe of cascading waterfalls. We embraced the unpredictable weather, learned about the local flora and fauna, and connected with the Icelandic spirit.

The weather in Þórsmörk during our stay was typical for June, with average temperatures between 45°F and 55°F (7°C and 13°C). We experienced everything from sunshine to rain, and even a bit of mist, which only added to the dramatic atmosphere. The long daylight hours allowed us to explore late into the evening, and we often found ourselves hiking under the soft glow of the midnight sun.

One of the most memorable moments was our hike to Valahnúkur. The panoramic views from the summit were simply breathtaking. From there, we could see the vast expanse of Þórsmörk, with its braided rivers, towering mountains, and lush green valleys. It was a moment of pure awe and gratitude for the beauty of our planet.

Another highlight was our visit to Stakkholtsgjá canyon. Wading through the shallow stream to reach the hidden waterfall at the end of the canyon felt like stepping into another world. The moss-covered walls, the sound of the rushing water, and the sense of solitude created a magical and unforgettable experience.

Of course, no trip to Þórsmörk would be complete without mentioning the challenging Fimmvörðuháls pass hike. Although we didn't complete the entire trail due to time constraints, the portion we did hike was incredibly rewarding. The views of the newly formed lava fields and the surrounding glaciers were unlike anything I had ever seen.

As I sit here, writing this final entry, I am already dreaming of our next adventure. Perhaps we'll return to Iceland one day, or maybe we'll explore another corner of our beautiful planet. Wherever we go, I know that the memories and lessons we've gained in Þórsmörk will stay with us forever.

As we prepare to leave, I can't help but feel a sense of connection to this land. It's a place that has challenged us, inspired us, and humbled us. It's a place that has reminded us of the power and beauty of nature and the importance of protecting it for future generations.

And with that, our journey through Þórsmörk comes to an end. Thank you for joining us on this incredible adventure. Until next time, keep exploring, keep dreaming, and keep embracing the wild beauty of our world.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip as we head back home to Canmore, filled with incredible memories and photographs to last a lifetime. It's been an unforgettable experience, and I can't wait to share more of our adventures soon!

I'll always remember this trip, not just for the stunning landscapes, but also for the reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that take us furthest from our comfort zones. Þórsmörk, you've been an absolute dream.