THE NORDIC SERIES, DAY 13
ICELAND
Diving between two tectonic plates. So the storm is still here, the temperature is around 2C and the wind chill puts us into the minus so naturally we are going snorkelling and as per usual the other 3 are complaining and asking if I am mad, fair point.
THE WATER WAS CLEARER THAN THE MALDIVES!
There aren’t many places you can dive in super clear water as you get in this fissure (don’t google fissure). Add that to the fact you are diving between 2 tectonic plates (Eurasian and Americas) and you can see why I’ve signed us all up.
COLD
In terms of the heat, the worst part wasn’t swimming but standing around waiting for our turn. The organization wasn’t great; the park warden decides who goes next, not the company. We waited in our drysuits almost 2 hours before jumping in.
CRYSTAL CLEAR
But once in, it was epic. The water is remarkably clear for non-tropical. The channel, lined with walls on both sides, gives a sensation of diving between tectonic plates. Rarely do images match reality so closely!
Yes, the water was cold, but you’re too buzzing to notice, except for your freezing lips—a small price. We spent 30 minutes in perfect relaxation, not rushed, just enjoying.
WARM WATER
At the end of our swim, my toes were numb. We ditched the drysuits for hot chocolate and digestives, chatting about our epic experience! If you crave new, slightly uncomfortable adventures, I highly recommend it!
RAUFARHÓLSHELLIR LAVA TUNNEL
While the others napped, we headed to the Lava Tunnel. Have you realized how much Iceland offers? The Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel is a 1-hour tour, the 4th longest in Iceland, formed during the 5000-year-old Leitahraun eruption.
5000 YEARS OLD
You’re guided 50 meters from the meeting point to the cave entrance where lava once flowed to the sea. Over time, hundreds of stalactites formed, but since the 1950s, public discovery has depleted them.
In 2016, the tunnel closed for cleanup due to years of mistreatment, removing tons of waste. Lights and platforms were added before tours resumed.
BACK TO REYKJAVIK
Arriving in Reykjavik marked the end of our road trip. We planned a few days here before flying home Monday. We visited Hallgrimskirkja church, but the viewing platform was closed. Then we checked into Radisson 1919.
We ate at Sumac tonight, a middle eastern tapas style restaurant. If you are going get the flatbread and dips!
FINAL THOUGHTS
It was cold and at times I questioned if it was worth it but once in the water you knew it was worth all the pain!
NEXT UP
The financial crisis in 2008 all started here in Iceland so we have signed up to the tour, Walk The Crash. Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
138/229
This post is part of The Nordic Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.
