The Golden Circle
Travel Notes
As the morning rain gently tapped on the roof of our camper, it felt like nature itself was welcoming us to a new day of adventure. It was an unexpected delight, especially at this time of the season when rain is rather uncommon. Despite the uncomfortable confines of our camper, the first night seemed to be an adjustment for all of us. Sleeping together and feeling each other out on how we react in such a confined space. John decided to sleep in the passengers’ seat. I must say the camper was too small for 4 people, really uncomcomfortable specially for older people. I felt it right away. Nobody talked about it. .
Skogafoss is a stunning waterfall located in the southern part of Iceland, along the Skoga River. It is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in Iceland, standing at about 60 meters (197 feet) tall and spanning a width of approximately 25 meters (82 feet). The waterfall is renowned for its impressive volume of water, which cascades over a rocky cliff and creates a mesmerizing curtain of mist at its base.
Skogafoss is not only a popular tourist destination but also holds cultural significance in Icelandic folklore. According to legend, a Viking settler named Þrasi Þórólfsson buried a treasure chest behind the waterfall, though it has never been found. Visitors to Skogafoss can admire its beauty from various viewing platforms, and many also choose to hike to the top of the waterfall for a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Once at the top of Skogafoss, I followed the trail as far as I could while the rest were busy taking pictures.
Gulfoss
Iceland's natural beauty is unparalleled, almost like being in a continuous national park. Every moment of our journey is accompanied by stunning landscapes that leave us in awe. We feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to have the opportunity to experience this incredible place firsthand. The sheer magnificence of Iceland has a way of rendering everyone speechless.
After visiting Skogafoss, our adventure continued as we made our way to Vík. We took a break for lunch before heading to Reynisfjara Beach to soak in its unique beauty.
Travel Notes:
We got to visit Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon before wrapping the day. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder located in southeast Iceland, near the town of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Carved by the Fjaðrá River over thousands of years, the canyon stretches for about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) and reaches depths of up to 100 meters (328 feet).
What makes Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon so remarkable is its stunning geological features. The canyon walls are composed of steep, sheer cliffs adorned with lush greenery, creating a dramatic contrast against the blue waters of the river below. Visitors can marvel at the intricate layers of rock formations, shaped by the forces of nature over millennia.
Exploring Fjaðrárgljúfur offers an unforgettable experience, with several viewpoints along the rim providing panoramic vistas of the canyon's rugged beauty. Hiking trails allow visitors to venture down into the canyon itself, providing a closer look at its geological formations and the river winding through its depths.
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon has gained international acclaim for its awe-inspiring scenery, attracting photographers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers from around the world. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the natural wonders of Iceland.
Reykjavik: Start your journey in the capital city. Explore landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and the colorful streets of downtown Reykjavik.
South Coast: Head east along the Ring Road and explore the stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Don't miss the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara near Vík.
Vatnajökull National Park: Continue eastward and visit Europe's largest national park, home to Vatnajökull glacier, Skaftafell Nature Reserve, and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you can see icebergs floating.
East Fjords: Drive through the picturesque fjords of East Iceland, where towering mountains meet the sea. Stop in towns like Egilsstaðir and Seyðisfjörður for a taste of local culture.
Lake Mývatn: Head north to Lake Mývatn, known for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and abundant birdlife. Don't miss sights like Hverir geothermal area and the stunning Goðafoss waterfall.
Akureyri: Iceland's second-largest city, located in the north, offers charming streets, botanical gardens, and cultural attractions.
Return to Reykjavik: Complete your journey by circling back to Reykjavik, where you can reflect on your adventure and explore any sights you may have missed on your first pass.