Family Adventure at Vatnajokull National Park

Chasing Glaciers: A Day of Lagoon Exploration

Today was a day of icy marvels and stunning natural beauty as we delved into the heart of The Vatnajokull Region. The allure of Iceland's glacial lagoons had been calling to me, and I couldn't wait to share the experience with David and Jasmine. It was a day filled with boat tours, delicious food, and the kind of scenery that etches itself into your memory forever.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mia's Country Van - Local Fish & Chips. I know, fish and chips for breakfast might sound a bit unconventional, but after reading countless reviews raving about Mia's, I knew we had to give it a try. Located near Skógafoss, this little red food truck is unassuming but serves up some of the best fish and chips I've ever tasted. The fish, fresh from local fishermen, was perfectly cooked with a crispy, light batter. Jasmine loved the chips, which were golden brown and went perfectly with the Icelandic tartar sauce. It was the perfect fuel for our day of exploration.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The drive itself was breathtaking, with views of black sand beaches, glaciers, and lava fields stretching as far as the eye could see. Arriving at Jökulsárlón, the sight that greeted us was simply mesmerizing. Icebergs of all shapes and sizes floated serenely in the lagoon, their blue and white hues contrasting against the clear water. Seals lounged on the ice, adding to the magical atmosphere. We had booked a Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tour, and I was eager to get a closer look.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where towering icebergs meet tranquil waters for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

As we boarded the boat, the excitement was palpable. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the lagoon's formation and the surrounding landscape. Cruising between the giant icebergs was an unforgettable experience, and Jasmine was particularly thrilled when we spotted a few seals playing in the water. The sheer scale of the icebergs was awe-inspiring, and the silence, punctuated only by the gentle lapping of water against the boat, created a sense of profound peace.

Sometimes, the most breathtaking moments are the ones where nature's grandeur overwhelms you, leaving you speechless and utterly grateful.

After the boat tour, we spent some time wandering along Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash ashore, creating a stunning contrast against the black sand. Jasmine had fun posing for photos with the glistening ice formations, and David and I simply soaked in the surreal beauty of the scene.

Lunch was at the Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant, a spot recommended for its convenient location and good food. The hotel is close to the Thorbergur Center. I opted for the Arctic char, while David enjoyed the braised lamb. Jasmine, ever the adventurous eater, tried the schnitzel and declared it delicious. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and the staff were incredibly accommodating.

Our next adventure took us to Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tours. Fjallsárlón is another glacial lagoon, but it felt more intimate and secluded than Jökulsárlón. As we approached the lagoon, the towering Öræfajökull glacier loomed in the distance, creating a dramatic backdrop. We boarded a small boat and set off to explore the lagoon, accompanied by a guide who shared stories of local farmers and their struggles with nature's forces. The icebergs here seemed even more vibrant, with shades of blue and white swirling together in mesmerizing patterns.


Discover the breathtaking Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon with unforgettable boat tours exploring stunning icebergs and the majestic Vatnajökull glacier.

The boat tour on Fjallsárlón was a truly immersive experience, allowing us to get up close to the icebergs and appreciate their intricate details. Jasmine was fascinated by the way the sunlight filtered through the ice, creating an ethereal glow. We even saw a piece of the glacier break off and crash into the lagoon, a powerful reminder of nature's raw power.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at the Skaftafell Terminal - Tour Center. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs and gather information about hiking trails in the area. The Skaftafell Terminal serves as a hub for tourists exploring Vatnajökull National Park. The center offers guided tours, informational displays, and a gift shop. We bought a few postcards and a small Icelandic flag, mementos of our incredible journey.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park and embark on unforgettable adventures at Skaftafell Terminal.

Dinner was at The Vatnajokull Region restaurant. It was a fitting end to a day spent exploring the wonders of the region. We shared stories and laughed about our adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible natural beauty together.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, the sky was ablaze with the colors of the setting sun, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The day had been long, but our hearts were full of joy and wonder. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fjallsárlón again for some more iceberg viewing and then head to Stokksnes to capture its stunning landscapes. I'm also hoping we can squeeze in a visit to Kaffibarinn, a local bar, for a taste of Icelandic nightlife. I'm already excited for what tomorrow holds, but for now, I'll cherish the memories of this day spent chasing glaciers with my family.

I am so glad I remembered to pack my camera, but I am kicking myself for forgetting my sunglasses and a portable phone charger! I will need to remember to pick those up at the Skaftafell Terminal tomorrow.

The natural beauty of my birthplace, Bermuda, is something I carry with me wherever I go. However, witnessing the glaciers today reminded me of the powerful forces of nature that shape our world. It reinforced my commitment to environmental sustainability, both in my personal life and through my work with the local non-profit. I hope that by sharing our experiences, I can inspire others to appreciate and protect our planet's precious resources. I think I will write about it in my next blog.

Good night from Iceland!