Solo Adventure in Kerlingarfjöll: Embracing Iceland's Geothermal Wonders

Chasing Waterfalls on My Final Day

As my Icelandic adventure draws to a close, I wanted to soak in every last bit of this breathtaking landscape. Today was all about chasing waterfalls and finding a cozy piece of Iceland to take back home with me. It felt like the perfect way to bid farewell to this magical land.

My day began, as most of my days here have, with a hearty breakfast at Ásgarður in Kerlingarfjöll. The familiar comfort of the dining area and the friendly faces of the staff have become a comforting ritual. I fueled up with some skyr and freshly baked bread, knowing I had a day of exploring ahead.

First on the agenda was Hjálparfoss, a name that translates to Helpful Falls. It’s a fitting name, as the area around the waterfall once provided much-needed grazing land for travelers crossing the barren Sprengisandur highland. The falls themselves are a stunning two-tiered cascade where the rivers Fossá and Þjórsá meet. The water plunges into a serene pool surrounded by basalt columns, creating a scene of tranquil beauty. I spent some time simply sitting by the water's edge, listening to the soothing roar of the falls and feeling the cool mist on my skin. It was a moment of pure serenity, a perfect way to start the day.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hjálparfoss, a stunning waterfall nestled in Iceland's Þjórsárdalur valley, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Nature is not a place to visit, it is home.

Next, I set my sights on Háifoss, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls. Reaching Háifoss required a bit of a drive along a bumpy gravel road, a testament to the ruggedness of the Icelandic highlands. The journey was well worth it. As I approached the falls, the sheer scale of Háifoss became apparent. The Fossá river plunges 122 meters into a dramatic canyon, creating a thunderous display of nature's power. Nearby, the smaller waterfall Granni, the Neighbor, added to the spectacle.


Discover Haifoss, Iceland's breathtaking waterfall, where nature's beauty meets adventure in the heart of Þjórsárdalur valley.

I hiked to a viewpoint to fully appreciate the grandeur of Háifoss and Granni. The wind whipped around me, carrying the spray from the falls, and I felt an exhilarating sense of awe. The surrounding landscape was equally impressive, with the notorious volcano Hekla looming in the distance. It was a stark reminder of the raw, untamed forces that have shaped this island.

After a morning of chasing waterfalls, it was time to indulge in a little retail therapy. I had been wanting to purchase an authentic Icelandic wool sweater as a memento of my trip, and I knew just the place to go: Vinnustofan Rosin. Fortunately, it was open today, and I planned to stop by after lunch, which I again enjoyed at Ásgarður. I savored a hearty soup and a sandwich, knowing it would be my last meal there for this trip. I made sure to thank the staff for their hospitality and bid them farewell, promising to return someday.


Explore the charm of Icelandic craftsmanship at Vinnustofan Rosin, your go-to destination for authentic wool sweaters and goods.

Vinnustofan Rosin is a charming little shop that specializes in Icelandic goods, particularly wool sweaters. I had read about it online and was eager to experience it for myself. The shop was filled with colorful hand-knitted sweaters, each one unique and crafted with care. The staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share the stories behind the products.

I spent a good hour browsing the selection, admiring the intricate patterns and feeling the soft, warm wool. I learned that authentic Icelandic wool sweaters, known as *lopapeysur*, are made from the wool of Icelandic sheep and must be hand-knitted in Iceland. The wool has a unique dual-layer structure that makes it both water-resistant and insulating, perfect for the Icelandic climate. It was fascinating to learn about the history and tradition behind these iconic garments.

After much deliberation, I finally chose a beautiful sweater with a traditional Icelandic pattern in earthy tones. It felt like the perfect embodiment of my trip, a tangible reminder of the landscapes, the culture, and the warmth of the Icelandic people. I also picked up a few smaller souvenirs for Jan and Aoife, knowing they would appreciate a little piece of Iceland.

As I drove back to Kerlingarfjöll, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the highlands. I reflected on my week-long solo adventure, feeling grateful for the experiences I had and the connections I had made with nature. This trip to Kerlingarfjöll had been exactly what I needed: a chance to disconnect from the everyday, to immerse myself in the beauty of the natural world, and to find inspiration for my writing.

I'm a bit sad that this trip is coming to an end. Packing my tent and gear felt a bit like dismantling a temporary home. I enjoyed a final dinner at Ásgarður, savoring every bite and reminiscing about the past week. The staff, who had become familiar faces, wished me safe travels and expressed their hope that I would return someday. I promised that I would.

Tomorrow, I’ll be heading back to Reykjavik to catch my flight back to Warsaw. While I’m looking forward to seeing Jan and Aoife, I know I’ll miss the solitude and serenity of the Icelandic highlands. But I’ll be taking with me a treasure trove of memories, a renewed sense of inspiration, and a cozy Icelandic wool sweater to keep me warm on those cold Polish nights.

As I prepare to leave this extraordinary place, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience its raw beauty and tranquility. Iceland, you have captured my heart, and I know I will carry a piece of you with me always.