Exploring the Mystical Askja Caldera: A Solo Adventure

Iceland's Highland Majesty

Today was a symphony of volcanic landscapes and serene trails, a testament to the raw beauty of Iceland's highlands. This sixth day of my solo adventure was all about immersing myself in the heart of Askja Caldera, exploring its hidden gems, and letting the vastness of nature reshape my perspective. Every step was a reminder of why I needed this journey, a break from the digital world to reconnect with the earth beneath my feet.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sjavarborg Restaurant. Though the restaurant is actually located in Hvammstangi, I made sure to stop in for the breakfast, as I had heard rave reviews about the place. Fuelled up with a delicious meal, I set off towards the trails of Askja Caldera. The drive itself was an experience, the landscape transforming into a surreal, moon-like terrain as I approached the caldera. The weather was on my side, with mild temperatures hovering around 12°C, perfect for a day of hiking.

First on the agenda was Sleðáásgjá. The trail to Sleðáásgjá was relatively easy, a gentle introduction to the more challenging hikes ahead. As I walked, the silence was broken only by the occasional cry of a bird and the crunch of my boots on the volcanic gravel. The landscape was stark yet beautiful, with black sand stretching out to the horizon, punctuated by jagged rocks and the occasional patch of green moss. Reaching Sleðáásgjá, I was struck by its unique formation, a narrow gorge carved into the landscape by ancient glacial floods. The views were stunning, a panorama of the surrounding highlands that made me feel incredibly small yet connected to something immense. I spent some time there, simply absorbing the scenery and capturing the moment with my camera. I was careful to mind the essentials I had brought, though I did miss having insect repellent, as the area was quite buggy.


Discover the breathtaking fissure of Sleðáásgjá in Thingvellir National Park, where nature meets history in stunning Icelandic landscapes.

 

The earth has music for those who listen.

 

Next, I decided to tackle a portion of the famed Askja Trail. The Askja Trail is known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views. Given the limited time, I opted for a shorter segment that would still give me a taste of its grandeur. The trail was well-marked with yellow sticks, but the terrain was definitely more rugged than Sleðáásgjá. The path wound its way through lava fields and over rocky hills, requiring a bit of scrambling and careful footing. I was glad I had invested in good hiking boots; they made all the difference. The views along the Askja Trail were even more spectacular than before. From higher vantage points, I could see the vast expanse of the caldera, with Lake Askja shimmering in the distance. The sheer scale of the landscape was awe-inspiring, a testament to the powerful forces that had shaped this region over millennia.

During my hike, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this was from my everyday life back in Toronto. The quiet solitude, the physical challenge, and the stunning scenery were a world away from my software development job and the hustle and bustle of city life. It made me realize how important it is to step away from the familiar and immerse oneself in nature, to find that sense of peace and perspective that only the wilderness can provide. I remembered a conversation with Aisha before I left, where she expressed concern about me traveling alone. But I knew this was something I needed to do, a personal quest to reconnect with myself and find inspiration in the solitude of nature. I promised her I'd bring back stories, photos, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As the day wore on, I made my way back towards the main road, feeling a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The hikes had been challenging but incredibly rewarding, offering a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland's highlands. Before heading back to my campsite, I decided to treat myself to lunch at Kaffi Lára El Grillo Bar in Seydisfjordur. The cozy atmosphere and hearty food were just what I needed after a day of hiking. I opted for the El Grillo burger, which came highly recommended. It was juicy and flavorful, paired with a perfectly baked potato that was dripping in butter and salt. The perfect way to refuel.


Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kaffi Lára El Grillo Bar, where local flavors meet cozy ambiance in Seyðisfjörður.

For dinner, I had planned to visit Kjarr Restaurant. Located near the waterfall Systrafoss in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, it was a bit of a drive, but I had heard amazing things about its international cuisine and seafood dishes. Unfortunately, the drive took longer than expected, and I arrived just as the kitchen was closing. Disappointed but not defeated, I grabbed a quick bite at a local gas station and headed back to my campsite, eager to rest and recharge for the next day's adventure.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Despite missing out on Kjarr Restaurant, the day had been a resounding success. I had explored the stunning landscapes of Sleðáásgjá and the Askja Trail, challenged myself physically, and found a sense of peace and connection with nature. As I settled into my tent, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore Iceland's highlands on my own terms. The solitude had been both challenging and liberating, allowing me to reflect on my life, my relationships, and my aspirations. I knew that this journey would stay with me long after I returned to Toronto, a reminder of the importance of adventure, self-discovery, and the simple beauty of the natural world.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Askja itself, delving deeper into the caldera and hopefully taking a dip in the geothermal waters of Víti crater, though I've heard the acidity levels might be high. I'm also hoping to visit the Blue Lagoon Store Reykjavik, to pick up a few souvenirs for Aisha and Zayn. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel excited about what tomorrow would bring, another day of adventure and exploration in this incredible land.