In Parts #1 and #2 of my Iceland adventure this summer with Simon, I shared highlights from our trips to Reykjavik and the Golden Circle and our stay at the awesome, I-must-come-back-again Hotel Ranga in Hella. On our third day, we did a mega drive from Hella to Kirkjubæjarklaustur and packed in more activities along the way than we typically do here at home in a week! Read on for the highlights … and giving a shout out to Iceland Travel for helping me organize the trip!
After breakfast at Hotel Ranga, Managing Director, Friorik Palsson, treated us to a helicopter ride over the surrounding countryside, compliments of Norðurflug Helicopter Tours. It was an unexpected thrill and an exciting way to start the day, to say the least.
The helicopter met us in a field. Friorik ran out to greet the pilot before he buckled us in and bid us a cheery farewell. It was surreal!
What a view. That’s Mount Hekla in the distance.
Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. Located in South Iceland, you can hike up behind it, getting wet along the way from the cold glacial spray.
Dashboard dining at its finest! Simon was ravenous 24/7 during the trip (growing teenage boy = “I need food”), and Iceland’s own Skyr yogurt saved the day.
It’s always worthwhile visiting the main attractions when you’re on vacation, but Simon and I decided to drive off the beaten path to check out Seljavallalaug, a geothermal swimming pool at the foot of the Eyjafjoll Mountains. It was built in the 1920’s right into the side of the rocky hillside. You have to drive down a gravel road, park your car, and then hike about 15 minutes to reach the pool.
Hanging out on the black, rocky beach just outside the seaside village of Vik.
After a day flying in a helicopter, hiking up waterfalls, swimming in a natural hot spring, and touring around Vik, we checked into Laki Hotel at the Efri-Vik Farm. And guess what? They had a 9-hole golf course on the premises. We rented a set of clubs, and Simon set out with mom as his caddy! It was 9:30pm by the time we finished, and it was still light outside. Notice the black, volcanic sand trap! 🙂 We loved this hotel. Cozy, clean, delightful staff, and a delicious breakfast.
Stay tuned for Part 4 of my Iceland adventure. I’ll tell you about our afternoon at the glacial river lagoon, Jökulsárlón, and why we’re laughing hysterically. Check back soon …
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