Chasing Waterfalls and Wonder: Iceland Day 2

Iceland has a way of making even the most seasoned travelers feel like wide-eyed kids again. With my husband, our curious 7-year-old Micah, our spirited 4-year-old Millie, and my sister's family of 5 in tow, we set out to explore some of the Golden Circle’s most iconic stops.

1. Thingvellir National Park

Our morning began by realizing that the sun rises at 9:30am in the middle of November so we were a little late getting out the door. We wished we had gotten an earlier head start to the day because we were unable to stay at Thingvellir National Park for as long as we had hoped. Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like stepping into a storybook. The rift valley stretches between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

We walked about a mile in total, taking time to take in the scenery [and of course take some pictures] at each lookout. There was one small lookout that we were unable to explore because there were signs that said that crampons (best word ever) were required. Plus, after sliding down the main path slightly gave me enough reason to not push that boundary.

We let the kids explore safely for about 45 minutes while taking in the dramatic landscapes. It set the perfect tone: peaceful, impressive, and a little surreal.

2. Friðheimar Tomato Farm — A Greenhouse Oasis in the Middle of Iceland

Next, we headed to the Friðheimar Tomato Farm, one of Iceland’s famous geothermal-powered greenhouses. Walking inside felt like entering a warm Mediterranean bubble in the middle of a volcanic island.

Reservations are required (no cancellation fee associated if you need to cancel) because of it's popularity and of course, we were rushing to our time slot that they almost turned as away from. Naturally, my sister negotiated just eating the soup/bread, which was delicious and would be what I would choose to get by itself anyway if I returned. My husband and brother-in-law tried the schnapps in a tomato, while I enjoyed the "Healthy Mama." Call me crazy but I truly think it helped take away some of my congestion I was trying to get over for the last month.

After our lunch, we enjoyed the complimentary tea and coffee bar and walked around the greenhouse, admiring the rows of tomato vines stretching toward the glass ceilings. Micah, Millie, and my niece, Clare, were fascinated at the bee stations and even had a bee follow them around and enjoy a ride on their arm.

3. Gullfoss Waterfall

Fed and warm, we drove to the Gullfoss Waterfall, and nothing could have prepared my heart for its raw power. The double cascade roared into the canyon with such force that I could feel God's power and majesty. We walked the paths for different vantage points, each one more breathtaking than the last. It was humbling, exhilarating, and unforgettable. This was my favorite place we visited during the whole trip, because the beauty and strength of the waterfall made me reflect most on our Creator. So thankful to worship such a powerful God.

Gullfoss Waterfall is an absolute must see when planning a trip to Iceland! There was a sweet gift shop and cafe at the top of the hill as well. Crampons in November were not required, but at some points should be advised.

4. Strokkur Geyser

We ended our adventure at the ever-reliable Strokkur geyser, famous for erupting every 10-15 minutes. This stop brought the most laughter of the day.

We stood in a semicircle with other travelers, watching the surface bubble and swell. When it looked like it was about to blow, I couldn't hold in my loud Maryland voice, accidentally causing the crowd to frantically get their cameras out. But it was a false alarm and my blushing face was quickly hiding behind my sister's back. Woops.

Finally, Strokkur erupted, sending a steaming plume skyward. I'll be honest, both Micah and I were anticipating it to go much higher than it did, causing him to respond unusually loudly with, "That's it?"

Lol, between me causing the crowd to rush to their cameras and get their hopes up and Micah's response, it was time to go before our family became "those people." Might have been too late at that point though.

5. Jumping Pillow

On our way home, we drove by a jumping pillow that we could not pass up. All of us, adults included, slipped our way to the top of the pillow and jumped like we were kids again. Iceland has these jumping pillows throughout the country, which I would always recommend taking the time to enjoy to get your heart pumping and your muscles warm from the inside out again. How can we get more of these around the US?!

A Perfect Family Day in Iceland

We got back to our Blue Viking Luxury Cabin ready to enjoy the sauna and star gaze in hot tub. While the Northern Lights were not visible that night, we still were so thankful to see two shooting stars and the Milky Way Galaxy. And we felt that quiet, full-heart contentment that only comes from a day spent exploring something extraordinary and being together as a family, making core memories that I pray my kids hold on to for many years to come.

If you’re dreaming of a family adventure filled with magic and majesty, Iceland is ready to welcome you.