Family Adventure at Vatnajokull National Park

Glaciers and Golden Coasts

Today was a day of stark contrasts and breathtaking beauty, a true testament to Iceland's diverse landscapes. From the shimmering icebergs of a hidden glacier lagoon to the dramatic black sand beaches and towering mountains of a coastal peninsula, every moment felt like stepping into a postcard. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog, to share these incredible experiences with all of you and hopefully inspire your own adventures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Glacier Goodies. We fueled up with some traditional Icelandic pastries and strong coffee, ready for another day of exploring Vatnajökull National Park. The kids were especially excited, and Jasmine, ever the photographer, had her camera ready to capture every stunning vista. David, as always, made sure we had all our gear in order, a task made slightly more challenging by my forgetting the portable phone charger. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

Our first stop was Fjallsárlón, a glacier lagoon that’s often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Jökulsárlón. But honestly, I think Fjallsárlón has a charm all its own. It's smaller, more intimate, and offers a uniquely serene experience. As we approached, the sight of icebergs floating in the turquoise water, with the imposing Fjallsjökull glacier as a backdrop, was simply mesmerizing. The kids were immediately captivated, pointing out the different shapes and sizes of the icebergs. Some were crystal clear, others streaked with grey from past volcanic eruptions.


Explore the stunning beauty of Fjallsárlón, Iceland's breathtaking glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs and stunning landscapes.

We decided to take a boat tour to get a closer look at the icebergs. Bundled up in warm layers, we climbed into a Zodiac boat and set off into the lagoon. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the glacier and the surrounding area. He explained how Fjallsárlón was formed, nestled in the shadow of Fjallsjökull Glacier, an outlet of the massive Vatnajökull. Unlike Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón isn't directly connected to the sea, so the icebergs remain until they melt.

As we cruised through the lagoon, we got incredibly close to the icebergs. Some were enormous, towering over our boat, while others were smaller, more manageable in size. The colors were incredible – vibrant blues, crystal whites, and streaks of black ash. We could hear the ice groaning and cracking as the icebergs collided, a symphony of natural sounds. Jasmine was in her element, snapping photos from every angle. Even David, usually more reserved, was visibly impressed by the sheer scale and beauty of the place. I felt a sense of peace and awe, a reminder of the immense power and fragility of nature.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its grand landscapes, but in the intimate moments of connection we experience within them.

After our glacial adventure, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at Jon Riki, a local spot known for its traditional Icelandic fare. I opted for the lamb soup, a hearty and flavorful dish that warmed me from the inside out. David tried the fish and chips, while the kids devoured their burgers. It was the perfect way to refuel after our chilly morning on the lagoon. I snuck a peak at tomorrow's itinerary, and I am very excited to visit Sólheimajökull and Kerid Crater.

With our bellies full, we set off towards our next destination: Stokksnes. Located on a peninsula in southeastern Iceland, Stokksnes is known for its dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Vestrahorn mountain, black sand beaches, and grassy dunes. The drive there was stunning, with views of the coastline and the vast expanse of Vatnajökull National Park. As we got closer, the imposing silhouette of Vestrahorn mountain came into view, its jagged peaks rising majestically from the black sand.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Stokksnes, where black sand beaches meet majestic mountains in stunning Icelandic scenery.

To access Stokksnes, you need to pay a small entrance fee, as the area is privately owned. We paid at the Viking Café, a charming spot with a cozy atmosphere. From there, it’s a short drive to the beach. As we stepped out of the car, we were immediately struck by the raw beauty of the place. The black sand beach stretched out before us, meeting the grey waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The wind was strong, whipping our hair and carrying the salty scent of the sea. In the distance, Vestrahorn mountain loomed, its dark slopes contrasting with the lighter sand.

We spent hours exploring Stokksnes, walking along the beach, climbing the dunes, and taking in the incredible views. The kids were fascinated by the black sand, running and playing along the shore. Jasmine, of course, was busy capturing the scenery with her camera, experimenting with different angles and compositions. David and I simply enjoyed the peace and quiet, breathing in the fresh, crisp air. The Stokksnes Peninsula has significant history behind it. It was one of Iceland's first farm settlements, dating back to the 9th century. During World War II, the British utilized the area as an army base.

One of the highlights of Stokksnes is the Viking Village, a replica that was originally built for a film but never used. It’s a bit eerie and surreal, but also incredibly cool to wander around. The kids loved exploring the old wooden structures, imagining what life might have been like for the Vikings who once inhabited this area. However, we made sure to stay out of the buildings because they were not maintained and could be dangerous.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon for dinner. The restaurant offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the food was delicious. I savored every bite of my Arctic char, while David enjoyed the lamb shank. The kids were happy with their pasta dishes. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.


Experience luxury at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon—your ideal base for exploring Iceland's stunning glaciers and natural wonders.

But the day wasn't over yet! On our way back to our guesthouse, we decided to make a detour to Kaffibarinn in Reykjavik. I know it's a bit of a drive, but I'd heard so much about this iconic bar that I couldn't resist. Apparently, it's one of the oldest bars in Reykjavik, serving thirsty people since 1993. It is known for its representation in the film 101 Reykjavik.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reykjavík at Kaffibarinn, where locals and tourists alike gather for great drinks and lively atmosphere.

Kaffibarinn is a cozy café during the day, but it turns into a cool party place at night. The place was packed with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the lively atmosphere and great music. The DJ was spinning a mix of electro-house and indie tunes, and the dance floor was packed. I ordered a local beer, while David opted for a whiskey sour. We soaked in the atmosphere, enjoying the energy of the crowd and the unique vibe of the place. It was a fun and unexpected way to end our day.

As I sit here now, reflecting on our adventures, I feel incredibly grateful for the experiences we've had today. From the serene beauty of Fjallsárlón to the dramatic landscapes of Stokksnes, every moment has been a gift. Iceland continues to surprise and inspire me, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Sólheimajökull and Kerid Crater, here we come!