Family Adventure in Skaftafell, Iceland

Saying Goodbye to Skaftafell
As our Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family in Skaftafell. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a journey of discovery, bonding, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. The raw beauty of Iceland, with its majestic glaciers and dramatic landscapes, has captivated us all, and I'm excited to share our final day with you.

Our last day in Skaftafell started, as most of our mornings here have, with a hearty breakfast at Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli). Lena opted for her usual skyr with berries, while Sophie devoured a stack of pancakes. I went for the adventurous option – a traditional Icelandic rye bread with smoked salmon. It was surprisingly delicious, a perfect blend of sweet and savory to kickstart the day. The restaurant was cozy as always, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.


Discover delicious local cuisine at Saatvik Restaurant while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell National Park.

After breakfast, we decided to make the most of our final hours in Skaftafell by visiting Stjórnarfoss. This waterfall was a bit off the beaten path, which made it even more appealing. The drive there was scenic, with the vast landscape unfolding before us. Patches of snow still clung to the higher elevations, a stark reminder of Iceland's glacial heart.

Reaching Stjórnarfoss required a short walk from the parking area. The falls weren't as towering as some of the others we'd seen, but they possessed a unique charm. The water cascaded down a series of rocky tiers, creating a mesmerizing display. Sophie was particularly fascinated, scrambling over the rocks to get a closer look. I had to remind her to be careful, of course, but her enthusiasm was infectious.

I managed to capture some beautiful photos of Stjórnarfoss, the volcanic rocks providing a dramatic backdrop. The sun peeked through the clouds, casting a soft light on the scene. It was a perfect moment, a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's amazing how the sound of flowing water can be so calming, washing away any stress or worries. Lena and I took a moment to simply breathe in the fresh Icelandic air, feeling grateful for this incredible experience.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stjórnarfoss Waterfall, a serene oasis in Iceland that captivates nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Sometimes, the most memorable moments are found in the quiet corners of the world, away from the crowds and the noise.

After our visit to Stjórnarfoss, we headed back towards Skaftafell, our thoughts turning to lunch. We decided to try Systrakaffi, a restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Icelandic dishes. As we walked in, the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering stews greeted us. The interior was rustic and charming, with wooden tables and warm lighting. It felt like stepping into someone's home.

Lena ordered the lamb soup, a classic Icelandic comfort food. Sophie, ever the pizza enthusiast, opted for a margherita. I decided to try the catch of the day, which turned out to be Arctic char, grilled to perfection and served with roasted vegetables. The food was delicious, hearty, and satisfying. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploring.


Discover Systrakaffi: A cozy restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur serving authentic Icelandic dishes with fresh local ingredients.

As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. Sophie's eyes lit up as she recalled our glacier hike, while Lena smiled as she remembered the breathtaking views from Svartifoss. I cherished the quiet moments, like watching the sunset over the mountains or simply enjoying a cup of coffee together in our cozy cabin.

With the afternoon stretching before us, we decided to pay a visit to Skaftafell Airport. Now, I know what you're thinking – an airport? As an attraction? But hear me out. Skaftafell Airport offers scenic flights over Vatnajökull Glacier, and I thought it would be an incredible way to get a final, breathtaking view of the region.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iceland at Skaftafell Airport, your gateway to glaciers, national parks, and unforgettable adventures.

Unfortunately, when we arrived, we learned that all flights were grounded due to the weather. The wind had picked up, and the skies were looking increasingly ominous. Disappointed but undeterred, we decided to grab a drink at Glacier Goodies, a small bar located near the airport.

Glacier Goodies turned out to be a hidden gem. It was a small, unassuming place, but it had a great atmosphere. We ordered some local beers and relaxed, chatting with the friendly bartender. Sophie enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate, complete with marshmallows. It was a cozy and comforting way to spend a rainy afternoon.


Experience the perfect blend of fast food and Icelandic flavors at Glacier Goodies in Skaftafell, a must-visit for every traveler.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hvönn Restaurant for our farewell dinner. Located a bit further afield, the drive itself was beautiful, passing through rolling hills and alongside glacial streams. Hvönn is known for its innovative Icelandic cuisine, and I was eager to experience it.

The restaurant was elegant and refined, with panoramic windows offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. We started with a selection of appetizers, including smoked puffin and gravlax. For our main courses, Lena chose the Arctic char, while I opted for the lamb shank. Sophie, surprisingly, decided to try the reindeer steak.

The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. The flavors were bold and complex, showcasing the best of Icelandic ingredients. The service was impeccable, attentive without being intrusive. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a perfect way to celebrate the end of our trip.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hvönn Restaurant in Skálholt – where local flavors meet contemporary dining.

After dinner, as we drove back to our cabin, a sense of contentment washed over me. This trip to Skaftafell had been everything I had hoped for and more. We had explored breathtaking landscapes, experienced unique cultural traditions, and, most importantly, strengthened our bond as a family.

Tomorrow, we'll be heading back to Reykjavik, ready to begin our journey home. But I know that a part of us will always remain in Skaftafell, amidst the glaciers, the waterfalls, and the vast, open spaces. This is a place that has touched our hearts, and we'll carry its memory with us wherever we go.

As I sit here now, writing these final words, I can hear the gentle sound of rain falling outside. It's a fitting soundtrack to our departure, a reminder of Iceland's ever-changing weather and its enduring beauty. Goodnight, Skaftafell. Thank you for the memories.