Iceland: Reykjavik to Vik
via Fagradalsfjall, Reykjadalur, Seljalandsfoss, Gljufrabui, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, and Dyrhólaey
Last year I was fortunate to spend eight days in Iceland in the middle of July. This is the first part of a photo series that every visitor is probably obliged to share.
Day 1 in Iceland was routine. Just taking a look around the capital city…
Having a pint while watching a football game…
And enjoying a swim at the local thermal pool.
On day 2, it was time to pick up the van.
First stop — Seltún geothermal area.
Vivid colors… and a vivid odor of sulfur.
For a moment I wondered if a torrent of scalding water might suddenly burst up. But apparently that isn’t a thing that happens here.
Beautiful, and perfectly safe for anyone who doesn’t fall into the boiling hot water.
On to the active volcano, Fagradalsfjall!
Look at those toasty fields of lava, just too cool to ooze.
Incredible how much heat is still emanating.
Hiking up toward the volcano despite the inclement weather. Almost all eruption activity had ceased a few days before.
Next, a quick drive and hike to the thermal river at Reykjadalur.
Perfect temperature to rejuvenate tired legs.
Day 3 and time for breakfast in the van. It’s important to keep the curtains closed all night because it doesn’t really get dark this time of year.
Made some new friends…
Time to hit the road.
Starting with the first gigantic waterfall of the trip: Seljalandsfoss.
Just a few hundred meters away, there’s a hidden cave that leads to Gljufrabui.
Feels like being in an Indiana Jones movie.
Onwards to Skógafoss, which is somehow even more massive. Back in the day, I’m told, the ocean would have come all the way up to the base of the falls.
After climbing some stairs you can see where it gets its power. Look at all that glacial runoff.
Next, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara. Those are the most stunning basalt rock columns imaginable.
Just a few kilometers down the coast, and up a treacherous road, awaits Dyrhólaey.
Finally, arrival in Vik. It’s the warmest place in Iceland, with an average summertime high of 39 degrees Fahrenheit.
After another scorching soak in a local thermal pool, time for sleep.
Ready for part 2?