Good morning Miss Sun

Today, sun rays tickled us awake. It promised to be an outstanding day. Accordingly, we swung out of bed and to the breakfast table with euphoria. However, it took some time before we broke camp, so it was already raining again when we packed our luggage into the car.

We outsmarted the rain clouds, stepped on the gas pedal towards the north – following the sun. Soon, we caught up with it and could admire the wonderfully diverse and lush green landscape in a different light. On the way to Reykhólar, we organized a sexy swimwear photoshoot with our little travel mascot and guardian angel (at this point we greet our KOAla family at home). In the first larger town (by Icelandic standards), we had to make a U-turn in order not to miss another highlight: a cute woolen goods store. Overwhelmed by the selection, the choice was incredibly difficult. Since the long-awaited Icelandic sweaters exceeded our budget, we decided on the light version and bought cozy matching socks – because warm feet take precedence! But postponed is not canceled – perhaps the “Handknitting Association” in Reykjavík has a better offer in store for us.

When we arrived in Reykhólar, the streets were deserted and the hostel was empty – the World Cup match Iceland vs Argentina was already in full swing. During a short lunch, we had the opportunity to cheer on for a few minutes (Hu!!) before we set off again.

The longing for a relaxing visit to a “Hot Pot” (small jacuzzi basin fed by the underlying hot spring) led us to Drangsnes. There we found what we were looking for and made the experience that there is indeed something that is “free in life”: a hot pot in “infinity” style right by the sea. We were able to endure quite well there until a horde of elderly French people disputed the basin with us. At least we did not have to worry about getting out of the basin completely wrinkled. To add variety to our route, we chose an alternative route for the way back. However, nowhere was it indicated about the condition of the road, so that after a few kilometers we experienced quite a surprise: potholes, gravel, stones and rocks, snow and ice, strong wind and domes, which could not even be guessed what was hidden behind them. The beautiful panorama, however, made up for the sweat-inducing thrill, because the last stretch of the narrow road snaked steeply down the mountain ridge into the valley. At a maximum speed of 20km/h, the 21km seemed quite long. Not only our driver Yvonne was relieved when we arrived safely and without a flat tire below (quote: “Now let’s smoke one first”). Back at the beautiful hostel, we took on the next challenge. We attempted to make hand-scraped rye spätzle for the first time. After some initial difficulties, we succeeded exceptionally well. Enjoy your meal!