Exploring Iceland: A Journey to Dettifoss and Beyond

sdhammond2
Oct 24, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Nov 10, 2025

When Weather Rules Iceland

We set out at dawn, driving through foggy, treacherous roads to reach Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. The sleet and wind made the drive harrowing. Yet, solitude magnified the experience. With visibility near zero, we could only hear the immense roar—proof that Iceland’s drama doesn’t always need sunshine. It was a bust, and it can happen. The weather report was good, but as expected, it was not reliable.

Visit my blog for the beginning of my Ring Road Journey here: Driving Iceland's Ring Road: Why It's the Best Way to Experience the Land of Fire and Ice

Beautiful rock monument to Icelandic here in the country side along the ring road — Icelandic Monument along the Road to Akureyri

From Isolation to Charm — Arriving in Akureyri

The transition into Akureyri felt like stepping through a portal between worlds. Fjords replaced whiteouts, and cozy cafés lined the streets. Known as Iceland’s “Capital of the North,” this town deserves more than just a pit stop. We visited Icewear, admired Akureyrarkirkja Church, and enjoyed views that rival alpine towns in Germany. The early spring light made it perfect for strolling the harborfront before heading east.

View down from the church of the city of Akureyri on a sunny day — Quaint European-style town view of Akureyri

Chasing Waterfalls: Goðafoss and Aldeyjarfoss

Fueled and ready, we chased one more photo opportunity: Aldeyjarfoss. But as expected in April, F-roads were closed. We turned back toward Goðafoss, which more than made up for it. Translating to “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is every photographer’s dream—easy access, broad flow, and golden light near sunset. The eastern side offers the best perspective for long exposures.

Waterfall of the Gods - Goðafoss — Waterfall of the Gods - Godafoss

The Geothermal Majesty of Mývatn

The day ended at Mývatn Nature Baths, recently renamed the Earth Lagoon. Here, warm mineral water met cold twilight. The area’s terrain—lava fields, Hverfell crater, and volcanic vents—made it feel like another planet. After soaking, we dined at the Mylla Restaurant inside the Myvatn Berjara Hotel, a standout for Arctic Char and Icelandic wine.

That night, a visit to Hverir sealed the experience. The geothermal field’s bubbling mud pits and sulfur steam painted a surreal final chapter to our northern adventure. Even without witnessing the aurora, Iceland’s natural light put on a show of its own. Tip: Always add your name at hotel desks for the Aurora Watch. Should one occur, they will wake you up.

Volcanic steam vent at Hverir — Volcanic Vent Steaming Sulphur Gas at Hverir

Suggested Sites & Travel Tips

Site	Why Visit	URL
Dettifoss Waterfall	Europe’s most powerful waterfall	https://maps.app.goo.gl/EtjiKnRLhfrWMfe29
Akureyri City Center	Beautiful fjord town with restaurants and vistas	https://www.visitakureyri.is/en
Goðafoss	Iconic waterfall named “Waterfall of the Gods”	https://maps.app.goo.gl/1ro7TZfrb4jYdimSA
Mývatn Nature Baths	Relaxed geothermal lagoon with mountain views	https://myvatnnaturebaths.is
Hverir Geothermal Field	Active volcanic mud pools ideal for photos	https://maps.app.goo.gl/KtEph7avW5Tn9NiWA