Solo Adventure to Askja Caldera: A Journey into Iceland's Wild Heart

A Day of Cultural Immersion and Volcanic Majesty

Today was a beautiful blend of Iceland’s rich cultural history and its dramatic natural landscapes. I ventured from the charming turf houses of the past to the imposing presence of a volcanic mountain range, experiencing the diverse beauty this island has to offer. It’s days like these that remind me why I set out on this solo journey in the first place – to connect with the world and its stories, one incredible place at a time.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Sjavarborg Restaurant. Fuelling up was essential, as I knew I had a day packed with exploration ahead. The restaurant offered a lovely view of the surrounding landscape, and I enjoyed a traditional Icelandic breakfast that set the perfect tone for the day.

Bustarfell Museum: A Journey into Iceland's Past

My first stop was the Bustarfell Museum, one of Iceland's oldest and best-preserved turf houses. As someone deeply interested in history and sustainable living, I was excited to explore this ancient manor. The drive to the museum itself was picturesque, with rolling green hills and the vast Icelandic sky stretching out before me. It’s about a 20-minute drive southwest from Vopnafjörður village.

Walking through the doors of Bustarfell felt like stepping back in time. The turf houses, with their grass-covered roofs and red gables, were incredibly charming. Inside, the museum showcased the history of farming in Iceland and how daily life evolved from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. The artifacts, mostly donations from locals, gave a real sense of the community's heritage.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

I wandered through the various rooms, each telling its own story. The kitchens from different eras were particularly fascinating, illustrating how technology and lifestyles changed over the centuries. It was easy to imagine families living and working in these spaces, their lives deeply connected to the land. The museum is active in hosting workshops to commemorate the ways and workmanship of past times, preserving the heritage of the region. The museum is under the protection of the National Museum of Iceland, and the farms were originally built in 1770.

Next to the museum, I discovered the Croft Café, a cozy spot where I enjoyed a cup of coffee and a traditional Icelandic pastry. There’s also a hiking path leading to the Álfkonusteinn, the Stone of the Elf Lady, a source of local folktales. While I didn’t have time for the hike today, I made a mental note to return and explore it further.


Discover the rich tapestry of Icelandic history at Bustarfell Museum, where vintage artifacts bring the past to life in a stunning natural setting.

Lunch at Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant

After immersing myself in history, I drove towards Dyngjufjoll, eager to experience Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. Along the way, I stopped for lunch at Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant, a charming place known for its traditional Icelandic cuisine. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients, and I savored a delicious meal while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant amidst breathtaking landscapes in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

Dyngjufjoll: Majestic Volcanic Peaks

As I approached Dyngjufjoll, the landscape transformed dramatically. The rolling green hills gave way to rugged, volcanic terrain. Dyngjufjoll, a towering mountain range, is home to the Askja caldera, a vast volcanic crater that has captivated travelers and scientists alike. The weather in June is relatively mild, making it an ideal time to visit, but it's still essential to be prepared for unpredictable conditions.

The roads leading to Askja are challenging and require a 4x4 vehicle, which I was grateful to have. As I drove, I was struck by the stark, otherworldly beauty of the landscape. Black lava fields stretched out as far as the eye could see, and the towering peaks of Dyngjufjoll loomed in the distance. The area is part of the Northern Volcanic Zone and consists of a central volcano rising to 1,516 meters above sea level.

I parked the car and took some time to hike around the base of the mountains, taking in the breathtaking views. The sheer scale of the landscape was awe-inspiring, and I felt a profound sense of connection to the natural world. The most significant event in Askja's history occurred in 1875 when an explosive eruption shook the region. The explosion brought large amounts of ash and steam. The ashfall poisoned land and killed livestock, causing economic hardship and forcing many Icelanders to emigrate.

Askja Caldera is a group of calderas, or large volcanic craters, nested in the central region of Iceland. The outer caldera of Askja is around 50 km², dating back to prehistoric times. It includes other unique calderas that have formed later, adding to the breathtaking scenery of Askja. The vast caldera of Askja is one of Iceland's most prominent volcanic landmarks, encompassing an area of 50 square kilometers. It includes a few volcanoes and craters, including the blue crater lake Öskjuvatn, or Lake Askja, and the iconic Viti crater, known for its vibrant turquoise waters.


Discover the awe-inspiring Dyngjufjoll peak in Iceland, a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking stunning views and unique geological wonders.

Evening Reflections and Tomorrow's Adventure

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to Kjarr Restaurant & Bar for dinner. The restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring local Icelandic dishes. I enjoyed a delicious meal, reflecting on the day’s adventures. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore such a unique and beautiful place.

Before turning in for the night, I decided to check out the local bar, Askja, for a nightcap. It was a small, unassuming place, but it had a friendly atmosphere, and I enjoyed chatting with some of the locals about their lives and experiences in Iceland.

Tomorrow, I plan to hike the Askja trail and explore the Askja caldera itself. I’m particularly excited to see Öskjuvatn lake and the Viti crater. I've heard the views are incredible, and I can't wait to capture some stunning photographs.

I also plan to visit the Agzu OnlineStore to pick up a few souvenirs before I head out. It's always nice to have something to remember my travels by, and I'm hoping to find something unique and locally made.

As I settle into my sleeping bag, I think about how different this trip is from my life back in Hamburg. As an urban beekeeper, I spend most of my days tending to my hives and promoting sustainable living in the city. This solo adventure to Iceland has been a welcome change of pace, allowing me to reconnect with nature and experience the raw beauty of the world.

The solitude of the Icelandic landscape has been both challenging and rewarding. It’s forced me to rely on my own resourcefulness and to appreciate the simple things in life. I’ve also learned a lot about myself and my capabilities. I feel more confident and independent than ever before.

As I drift off to sleep, I can’t help but feel excited about what tomorrow will bring. Askja caldera awaits, and I’m ready to explore its wonders.

The weather forecast for tomorrow is looking promising, with partly cloudy skies and mild temperatures. I'll be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. With my camera in hand, I'm ready to capture the beauty of Askja and share it with all of you.

Goodnight from the Icelandic Highlands! Tomorrow, I venture deeper into the heart of Askja, and I can’t wait to share the experience with you all.