Iceland: A Journey to Remember
- Mary Yesser
- Dec 30, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 23
Iceland, often known as the "Land of Fire and Ice," is a place we've had on our bucket list for years! We finally made the trip back in mid September and it was everything and more than we expected it to be. We believe whether you are an adventurer or a nature lover, Iceland is a place you won't want to skip out on. We took a 5-day trip to this Nordic paradise and want to share some highlights with you!
Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik - Golden Circle
After landing at KEF- Keflavík Airport at 4:55am, we grabbed our car rental, and eagerly headed towards the Golden Circle for our day's explorations.
Strokkur Geyser
It erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, hurling water as high as 30 meters into the air. We stood in awe of the bubbling earth below us while experiencing a geyser for the first time.
Gullfoss Falls
This waterfall is known for its two-tiered cascade. Standing at the edge of the canyon, we felt the mist on our faces as we gazed at its power and beauty.
Friðheimar Farm
We loved this unique tomato farm where you can enjoy a nice meal in a beautiful greenhouse with fresh tomatoes and basil growing all around you. If you want the full experience, I'd definitely suggest making prior reservations! We just stopped in and grabbed a phenomenal hot bowl of their famous tomato soup at the bar which comes with your choice of their fresh amazing bread. Friðheimar was a perfect little stop for us!
The Old Dairy Food Hall
This was the first dairy factory in Iceland, originally built in 1929. The Old Dairy was our last stop before driving to our Airbnb in Selfoss and resting for the remainder of the night. It was a great little food hall with 8 different restaurants & two bars. We ate at Samúelsson Matbar, the Nordic Bistro & Bar and we were not disappointed! The Plokkfishur (Fish Stew) was SO good & their Fish'n Chips were the best we've ever had!
Day 2: South Coast Exploration - Along Ring Road
Our journey continued on the second day along Iceland’s breathtaking south coast. This was a long jam packed day!
Seljalandsfoss
This is one if Iceland's iconic waterfalls that we could walk all the way around for a unique perspective. We received a misty shower but absolutely seized the moment! The serene beauty and the chance to snap photos and videos from behind the cascade was thrilling.
Gljufrabui
The waterfall is unique and only a 5-10 minute walk from Seljalandsfoss. It is not visible from the road or even from the path leading up to it. Once you approach the entrance of the small gorge, you will be met with all of its beauty. The entrance is approximately a 5 foot slot in the cliffside, be prepared to get wet if you decide to take it all in from the cavern center and be surrounded by Gljufrabui's waterfall.
Skogafoss Waterfall
A must see waterfall; its HUGE, powerful, and majestic. We witnessed the most beautiful rainbow that it typically produces on sunny days! We also hiked up the steep long staircase alongside the waterfall for an awesome view from the top. We continued along the underrated Skógá Trail which boasts of astonishing views of the canyon, distant views of glaciers, and 26 waterfalls along the way!
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
We explored this gorgeous beach, known for it's crashing Atlantic waves, unique rock formations, and the dramatic basalt columns that of course we had to take photos from.
Black Crust Pizza
Great pizza especially after a long day of adventuring and it was surely a hit! Black Crust Pizzeria is known for their unique and flavorful black crust pizzas. We would definitely recommend it if you're in the mood to try something new and different :)
We completed this day by driving the rest of the way to Hofn to check into our next Airbnb.
Day 3: Glaciers, Icebergs, & Hiking
On the 3rd day we embraced Iceland’s icy wonders and embarked on one unforgettable hike!
Diamond Beach
This is where icebergs chunks wash ashore and sparkle like diamonds against the black sand. It's such a beautiful area to take stunning photographs and just take in all the beauty surrounding you.
Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
A surreal scene landscaped with floating icebergs. We spotted so many adorable seals in the water as we walked all along the lagoon. We would have loved to do a boat tour which would have allowed us to get incredibly close to those stunning natural wonders (Next time!!).
Mulagljufur Canyon Hike
This hike was easily one of our favorite highlights of the entire trip! It offered the most incredible 360-degree views the entire way up which included waterfalls, glacier views, and stunning rugged landscapes. Once we reached the main lookout point, I felt as if I was in a magical fairytale movie. The entire canyon is covered with Icelandic moss and its truly a site to see.
Day 4: Mountains & Ice Caves
On our 4th day we headed up back towards Reykjavík with stops and an excursion along the way.
Vestrahorn Mountain & Stokksnes Beach
Vestrahorn is a remarkable mountain that rises 454 meters high from the coastal landscape. Its unique formations and striking sharp peaks create a stunning silhouette against the sky. Zack took his FPV drone up above those peaks to show you his view from his goggles! The rugged cliffs and slopes serve as a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop to the soft, black sands of Stokksnes Beach. The next chance we get to visit Iceland, we will surely be back to enjoy those sweeping landscapes as they did not disappoint!
Viking Village
Whether you're a history nerd, a film lover, or just looking for a unique attraction, the Viking Village will inspire your imagination. This was such a cool little stop. It made me step back into time as I walked around and explored the neat set that was created as a prop for an Icelandic movie that was never shot.
Katla Track Ice Cave Tour
We had a great experience on this tour! It started off with a scenic and bumpy drive in one of Katlatrack's off-road vans, while our guide (Ari - who was absolutely awesome) shared stories about the geological history of the area and how glaciers like Katla were formed. Once we arrived to the spot, Ari helped us get geared up and lead the way, while providing fascinating insights into the glacier ecosystem, the impacts of climate change, and how glaciers evolve over time. Once we reached the ice cave, Ari gave our group time to take pictures and go through to the other end of the cave. It was such an epic experience that I'll never forget.
Day 5: Blue Lagoon & Reykjavik
We went to the iconic Blue Lagoon and spent the rest of the day strolling the streets of Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
Blue Lagoon
Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters of Blue Lagoon while the sun was coming up was the perfect way to start our day and unwind after our busy travels from the days prior. I believe making it there during the very first time slot was what made it quite a lovely and memorable first time experience.
Reykjavik
The streets buzzed with energy, rich culture, and vibrant colors! We admired the striking architecture of Hallgrímskirkja Church (the iconic church that dominates the skyline) shaped like a basalt column. We also thoroughly enjoyed the Harpa Concert Hall, a unique glass structure that sparkles in the sunlight. After grabbing a delicious treat from Brauð & Co, sitting down to enjoy a great cup of joe from Reykjavik Roasters, and soaking in the sights, we met our friends for an phenomenal dinner at Messinn. The food was simply SO good! Everything we ate during our journey through this beautiful island was amazing. The next time we visit, doing the Reykjavik Food Walk tour is on the top of my list!
Iceland, with its mesmerizing beauty, fascinating history, and memorable experiences, left us in awe. This trip allowed us to explore diverse landscapes, immerse ourselves in rich culture, and enjoy the welcoming spirit of its people. From the lively streets of Reykjavik to the extraordinary sights off of the famous Ring Road of Iceland and the serene glaciers, every moment was a new discovery!
Overall, this trip was amazing! If you are on the edge of traveling to Iceland...just do it! It's truly a place like no other. Feel free to reach out to us about our experience as we would be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
Anyway, it's been well over a year since I've blogged but I'm excited to be back! I will say that 2024 was such a great year and I'm looking forward to share more of our adventures with you guys! Thanks for stopping by and we wish you guys the best year yet in 2025! Happy soon to be New Years!
Cheers,
Mary
Comentários