Family Adventure at Vatnajokull National Park

Chasing Glaciers and Diamonds

Today was nothing short of magical, a day where the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland truly took my breath away. It's days like these that remind me why I started Evendo, to share these incredible experiences and inspire others to seek out the extraordinary in our world. From the serene blues of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to the sparkling ice sculptures on Diamond Beach, every moment felt like stepping into a dream.



The day started with a hearty breakfast at Glacier Goodies. David and Jasmine were excited, fueled by pancakes and the promise of adventure. I made sure to grab an extra coffee, knowing we'd need the energy to explore. The weather was crisp, a typical May day in Iceland, with temperatures hovering around 6°C (43°F) and a chance of light rain. Bundled in our warmest layers, we set off towards Jökulsárlón, the famed glacier lagoon.




Discover the breathtaking glacial lagoon of Jökulsárlón, where icebergs and serene waters create a mesmerizing natural spectacle in Iceland.

As we approached Jökulsárlón, the landscape transformed into something otherworldly. The lagoon itself was dotted with icebergs of all shapes and sizes, each one a unique sculpture carved by nature. The sunlight, even filtered through the clouds, made the ice shimmer with an ethereal glow. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the power of the glacier that feeds this lagoon. It's a humbling experience to witness such ancient forces at play.



We spent a good chunk of the morning simply wandering along the shore, taking in the views. Jasmine, ever the curious teenager, was fascinated by the seals lounging on the icebergs. David, with his software developer's eye for detail, was busy capturing the perfect shot of the ice formations against the dramatic sky. I found myself lost in thought, contemplating the sheer scale of the glacier and the journey these icebergs were taking from the glacier to the sea. I remembered my childhood in Somerset Village, Bermuda, where the ocean was a constant, comforting presence, but so different from this icy expanse. It was a stark reminder of the diverse beauty our planet holds.



For lunch, we drove to Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant. The restaurant offered stunning views of the glacier, and the big windows created a light and airy atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of fish soup and salads, refueling for the afternoon's adventures. The friendly staff made us feel welcome, and it was a perfect spot to warm up and recharge.

The beauty of Iceland lies not just in its landscapes, but in the way it makes you feel small yet connected to something vast and ancient.

After lunch, we made our way to Diamond Beach, just a short drive from Jökulsárlón. As we stepped onto the black sand, we were greeted by a sight that truly lived up to its name. Icebergs, having made their way from the lagoon to the ocean, were now scattered across the beach, glistening like diamonds against the dark volcanic sand. The contrast was striking, a visual feast that had us snapping photos from every angle. May is a great time to visit Diamond Beach, as the crowds are smaller and the lighting is soft and magical.




Explore Diamond Beach, Iceland's stunning black sand beach adorned with glistening icebergs and breathtaking natural beauty.

Jasmine and I walked along the shoreline, marveling at the intricate patterns in the ice. Some pieces were crystal clear, while others were streaked with blue and black volcanic ash. Each one told a story of its journey from the glacier, a testament to the power of nature's artistry. We even spotted a few brave souls attempting to surf in the icy waters, a testament to the adventurous spirit that Iceland seems to inspire.



As the afternoon wore on, we decided to treat ourselves to some cocktails at Jungle Cocktail Bar. Even though it meant driving back towards Reykjavik, I had heard good things about the bar and I was curious to check it out. The bar had a jungle vibe and a unique drink selection. I enjoyed a cocktail made with local ingredients while David sampled some of the local beer. Jasmine enjoyed the atmosphere.




Experience the lively ambiance and innovative cocktails at the Jungle Cocktail Bar in Reykjavík, Iceland's tropical drink haven.

For dinner, we decided to try Jon Riki. The restaurant is family run and has a brewery. The building used to be a tractor shed but has been rebuilt. The restaurant focuses on quality and seasonal food. I had the seasonal fish while David had lamb. Jasmine enjoyed the vegan options.




Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Jon Riki in Höfn – a culinary delight amidst breathtaking landscapes.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Despite the long day, we were all buzzing with energy, our minds filled with the images of ice and light. It was a day I know we'll cherish for years to come, a reminder of the incredible beauty that exists in our world and the importance of taking the time to experience it.



Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Svartifoss and the Svartifoss Trail [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. I've heard the waterfall is stunning, and I'm excited to see it for myself. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli) and dinner at Ishusid Pizzeria Restaurant [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”].



Even though I forgot my portable phone charger and sunglasses, I wouldn't trade today for anything. I am so glad I got to experience this with my family. It is important to make time for family [if last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”].