Solo Adventure in Kerlingarfjöll: Embracing Iceland's Geothermal Wonders

Highland Majesty: A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of striving, of pushing my limits, and being rewarded with views that etched themselves into my memory. Kerlingarfjöll, with its dramatic landscapes and geothermal activity, has truly captured my heart. It was a day to explore Panorama Ridge and embrace the raw beauty of Iceland’s highlands.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Ásgarður. The familiar, comforting atmosphere of the Highland Base was most welcome this morning. I fueled up with some Icelandic skyr and strong coffee, knowing I needed the energy for the day ahead. I checked my gear one last time, making sure I had plenty of water, some snacks, and my trusty camera. I did regret forgetting my power bank, especially now that I have been taking so many pictures, but I am sure I will manage.


Experience breathtaking landscapes and cozy accommodations at Ásgarður in Kerlingarfjöll – an unforgettable Icelandic getaway.
The weather was crisp and clear, promising excellent visibility. The forecast predicted light snow at higher altitudes, a reminder of Iceland's unpredictable nature, even in June. I layered up, adding an extra fleece under my waterproof jacket. It is amazing how cold it can get, even in summer, in the Icelandic Highlands. I packed my hiking poles, knowing they would be invaluable on the steeper sections of the trail.

My destination for the day was Panorama Ridge, a viewpoint promising unparalleled vistas of the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range. From Ásgarður, the trail began gradually, winding its way through the valley. The landscape was already stunning, with the vibrant colours of the rhyolite mountains contrasting against the patches of snow. The air was clean and fresh, carrying the faint scent of sulfur from the nearby geothermal areas. Every now and then, a gust of wind would whip through the valley, reminding me of the untamed nature of this place.

As I started to ascend, the trail became steeper. The hiking poles proved their worth, providing extra stability on the rocky terrain. I passed several small streams, their waters crystal clear and icy cold. The sound of the rushing water was soothing, a constant companion on my climb. I paused frequently, not just to catch my breath, but to soak in the views. Each upward step revealed a new perspective, a new angle on the majestic landscape.

The trail to Panorama Ridge was well-marked, but there were still some challenging sections. Patches of snow covered parts of the path, making the footing treacherous. I carefully navigated these areas, testing each step before committing my weight. I am so glad I brought my hiking boots, they have been invaluable during this trip.

The higher I climbed, the more dramatic the scenery became. The geothermal areas below looked like miniature landscapes, their steaming vents and bubbling mud pools a testament to the earth's raw power. In the distance, I could see the glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull, their icy expanses gleaming in the sunlight. It was a breathtaking panorama, a reward for the effort of the climb.

I finally reached Panorama Ridge, and the view was even more spectacular than I had imagined. From this vantage point, I could see the entire Kerlingarfjöll mountain range, its peaks and valleys stretching out before me. The colours were incredible, a tapestry of reds, yellows, and browns, accented by the white of the snow and the blue of the sky. I felt a sense of accomplishment, of having conquered the mountain and earned this incredible vista.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

I spent a long time on Panorama Ridge, simply soaking in the view. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this place, but I knew that no image could truly do it justice. It was something that had to be experienced, felt, and breathed. I sat in silence, listening to the wind and the occasional call of a bird, feeling a deep connection to the natural world.

As I started my descent, I reflected on the day's journey. The climb had been challenging, but it had also been incredibly rewarding. I had pushed myself physically and mentally, and I had been rewarded with a view that would stay with me forever. Kerlingarfjöll had once again proven its power to inspire and amaze.

Back at Ásgarður, I treated myself to a well-deserved dinner. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with hikers and travelers sharing stories of their adventures. I ordered a hearty lamb stew, savoring each bite. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

I spent the evening at the bar in Ásgarður, chatting with some of the other guests. I met a couple from Germany who were on a similar solo adventure, and we swapped travel stories and tips. It was nice to connect with like-minded people, to share our experiences and learn from each other. I feel like I have learned so much during this trip, not just about Iceland, but about myself.

As I sit here in my tent, writing this blog post, I can still feel the burn in my legs and the wind on my face. Today was a day of pushing my limits and being rewarded with views that etched themselves into my memory. Kerlingarfjöll, with its dramatic landscapes and geothermal activity, has truly captured my heart.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Gýgjarfoss waterfall and Eyvindarhellir Cave. I am looking forward to discovering more of Kerlingarfjöll's hidden gems, to immersing myself in the natural beauty of this incredible place. I might even pop into the Highland Base shop and see if they have any power banks for sale.

For those planning a trip to Kerlingarfjöll, I would highly recommend a hike to Panorama Ridge. It is a challenging climb, but the views are well worth the effort. Just be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear, and be prepared for unpredictable weather. And most importantly, take the time to simply soak in the beauty of this place, to connect with nature and to appreciate the raw power of the Icelandic highlands. Kerlingarfjöll is a place that will stay with you long after you leave, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world.

This trip has been a wonderful experience so far, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to explore this incredible place. I am already looking forward to my next adventure, wherever that may be. But for now, I will cherish the memories I have made here in Kerlingarfjöll, a place that has truly captured my heart.

I am also reminded of a quote by the great Irish poet, William Butler Yeats, which seems particularly apt for this journey:

The world is full of magical things, patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.

Good night from Kerlingarfjöll!