Not all who wander are lost
Iceland Trip
It all started with a post-dinner discussion. Which are the remote places worth visiting? Which is the most remote place we would love to visit? In a few weeks time we found ourselves driving down the long and winding route 1 of Iceland…stopping by to enjoy the waterfalls and the beautiful scenery around. God took efforts to make this place look pretty…A small island nation, Iceland, is defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, lava fields and breathtaking phenomena of the Northern lights.
Next couple of days we were exploring the Vatnajökull glacier region of Iceland. There are many activities and adventures around including boat trip to see the icebergs, short trek to the glacier and exploring Glacier Caves.
The Svínafellsjökull glacier, an outlet glacier of the vast Vatnajökull ice cap, is a breathtaking destination for adventurers and nature lovers. The glacier offers an ethereal landscape of jagged ice ridges and deep crevasses that shimmer under the sunlight. The highlight of Svínafellsjökull is its mesmerizing ice caves, formed naturally as meltwater carves pathways under the glacial ice. Exploring these caves is both a thrilling and humbling experience; as you step inside, you’re surrounded by translucent blue walls of ice, hundreds of meters thick, creating a quiet, otherworldly atmosphere.
The serenity of the glacier contrasts with the adrenaline of walking on its surface, using crampons and guided ropes to navigate safely. Every step on the glacier feels like a journey through time, with ice that has taken centuries to form. Whether you’re captivated by the silence of the glacier or the thrill of its icy depths, Svínafellsjökull promises an unforgettable adventure.
Last night we were lucky…The Northern Lights were ON. Was so excited that aimed straight at the sky, missed to include a bit of horizon, it was bright and it was awesome…
One local legend claims that the shimmering green rivers of light were the glow or reflection of the Valkyrie’s armour and shields.
The Valkyrie were female warriors on horseback who chose who would die in battle, and who would survive to fight another day.
Monks on way from The Svínafellsjökull glacier
Reflection Lake on way to The Svínafellsjökull glacier
The frozen Lake
Soaking in the beauty while resting after the trek
Monks entering the magical Glacier Cave
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a wonderful serene place where massive icebergs, broken off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, float gracefully in a deep blue lagoon. Its ever-changing landscape, framed by the shimmering Vatnajökull ice cap and the North Atlantic Ocean, offers an ethereal experience for visitors seeking Iceland’s raw beauty.
Safety boat following us at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The Hvalnes lighthouse is situated amid rugged cliffs and long stretches of black sands. The surrounding landscapes are awe-inspiring, with the crashing waves and endless expanse of the sea creating a fascinating panorama. It is a vantage point to shoot the Eystrahorn mountains. The day we visited had gale winds and drones could not be deployed. Areal shots of this south-eastern peninsula of Iceland is awe inspiring – a reason to revisit the place another time…
Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic and perhaps most photographed waterfall, cascades majestically from a height of 60 meters. Its roaring waters create a fine mist, often forming a stunning rainbow when the sunlight hits just right — a magical sight that enchants travellers year-round.We reached there in the afternoon and nobody was in a mood to return till it was dark. At one point we had the site all to ourselves.
Legend has it that a treasure chest filled with gold is hidden in a cave behind the waterfall, left there by the first Viking settler in the area. While you might not find treasure, standing before Skógafoss is a reward in itself, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Located in the geothermal region of Iceland, the Strokkur Geyser is a powerful spectacle of nature’s raw power and beauty. Every few minutes, it erupts in a dramatic plume of steaming water that reaches heights of up to 30 meters (98 feet), thrilling visitors with its rhythmic display. Nestled in the Haukadalur Valley, Strokkur is part of a geothermal area surrounded by bubbling hot springs and mud pools, adding to its otherworldly allure. The geyser is a testament to Iceland’s volcanic activity, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the planet’s dynamic inner workings. Standing by Strokkur, you can feel the earth’s energy reverberate as it connects with the sky in a moment of sheer natural magnificence.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, located near the small fishing village of Vík on Iceland’s southern coast, is a place where nature reveals its raw, unfiltered power. As you set foot on its jet-black volcanic sands, you’re greeted by crash of the Atlantic waves against the towering basalt columns, creating a scene of untamed beauty.
The beach is a geological marvel, formed from millennia of volcanic activity. Its iconic basalt columns, resembling a giant’s staircase, are remnants of cooled lava flows. These formations are not only stunning but also steeped in folklore; legends tell of trolls turned to stone by sunlight while attempting to drag ships ashore. The dramatic Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise majestically from the ocean, adding an air of mystique to the already otherworldly landscape.
The ever-changing weather here enhances the beach’s charm. On a clear day, you can marvel at the stark contrast of black sand against the blue sky, while in overcast conditions, the beach takes on a moody, almost ethereal character. It’s a testament to the incredible forces of nature that shape our planet, leaving visitors in awe of its timeless splendor.
Standing before this stunning landscape, you are struck by the harmony between the rugged cliffs and the serene expanse of the sea. The dark, dramatic coastline whispers tales of timeless resilience. Every gust of wind carries a sense of freedom, reminding you of nature’s vastness and your place within it. It’s a perfect symphony of peace and wonder, leaving you both grounded and uplifted.
The smallest and as per the kids, the cutest waterfall we came across is named ‘Fossálar’. It makes up for its size with the beauty and serenity of the place.
After a short and scenic climb one of the first falls that we visited in Iceland was Öxarárfoss. The spot was a secluded one that urged us to pause and stay a while. Sitting on mossy rocks while watching the sunlight form rainbows in the water spray, as the butterflies flit around the flowers surrounding us, truly set the vibe right, kickstarting our adventure.
An abandoned film set it is but the landscape makes the imagination run wild. This Viking ship was designed to replicate the original ones known for cultural symbols with high artistic value. This one had a dragon head and likely was a war ship.
Standing stoic – every few miles, one comes across these cozy huts mostly brown or white with red roof tops. Initially thought the red was to stand out in the grey weather or snow season, turns out corrugated iron sheets were most commonly found in that color and also best suited for the climatic conditions.
If romance is your thing- then the nordics believed that red stood for passion, loyalty and fire while white for peace, purity and innocence.
Brother share your blubber!
I thought I lost a few fingers trying to click the humpback whales in Akureyri. The trip starts early and the winds howl but when the majestic whale appears it’s like time stands still and if you are very lucky, like I was, you can hear them sing.
Flamenco in the sky – Four nights of unsuccessful patrolling the sky. No trace of her despite the mobile apps indicating she is active. Then night of day five, she enthralled us with the flamenco. The three coloured Nordic lights over Hvitsekur.
She danced and how…
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We are no travel agent. However, if you are planning a trip to the places we visited and need some help, feel free to drop us a mail. We will try to reply as soon as we are back from our next trip.