My Iceland travel plan began in 2021, however, the unforgettable journey through this natural wonderland start on March 2022.

After arriving in Reykjavik and meeting Dagur Jonsson, this alluring twenty-day journey kicked off and finally, it was time to embrace the iconic ring road, low winter sun, daily frozen temperatures, and evening darkness. The journey of a lifetime. Nature is a treasure for me and I was ready to get to know Iceland and its magnificence.

As we were heading south, I was thrilled. Surrounded by iced soil that stretched as far as the eye could see, I was able to take in the country’s beauty - and the iconic Icelandic horses. Dagur assured me these were robust animals, surviving frosts and low temperatures.

Following a short trip via ferry to the Westman volcanic island, we commenced our hike along the coast and I discovered some birds that lay strewn across the shore. Sadly, they didn’t survive the harsh environment and intense conditions. Still to me, and through the viewfinder, they looked alive.

Back on the mainland, the south coast showed me the majestic waterfall of Skógafoss. Afterwards, we stop and visit Reynisfjara - an unforgettable site of limitless black sand beaches, little icebergs on the shore and dense stormy skies.

The village of Vik was our next stop, with its precious church Eyvindarhólar and Myrdal with their iconic red roof. Wildlife is, and will always be my favourite subject. Therefore, I was pleased to encounter an amicable wild fox wandering across a grass field.

Persistent gusts of winds were approaching simultaneously as we approached the east. But this climate strength seemed natural, part of the deal, an unbelievable force. Our schedule was to explore and complete a short trek on top of Skaftafell Glacier. Then, the goal was to surface underneath the glacier, so I jumped on a modified jeep at Jökulsáralón and headed to the site. What greeted me was the stunning blue-green natural lava tube, with its perennial ice, and playful shapes, everlasting force. An image like no other.

We then set off towards the East Fjords. Serene fishing villages in sight, we continued our voyage, aside for moments of curiosity - investigating silent, abandoned houses. Later, it was a delight to contemplate the unforgettable views of the Eystrahorn mountains as the sunlight fell behind them.

We were welcomed by Myvatn and its surroundings with a powerful snowstorm. Iceland’s powerful nature is a force to behold. When it passed, our journey brought us to Skútustaðagígar with its pseudo-craters embraced by greener pastures. Soon afternoon, we made a charming stop at the well-known geothermal waters of Myvatn. To my delight, we were approached by a gaggle of geese that quickly surrounded our car with their typical clucking before disappearing into the wild. A treat for the senses, and the camera lens.

The next morning, we arrived at the broad Vatnajökull National Park. Here, our aim was to see the spectacular Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.

Next, in Akureyri, I was eager to visit an equestrian facility and spend the afternoon with the majestic Icelandic horses. Meeting the horses brought me personal joy and peace - a genuine connection with the striking Icelandic animals.

Being now in the northwest, we were able to grasp the area’s volcanic terrain, hot springs, effervescent geysers, silent mountains, and astonishing volcanic basalt formations. Hvitserkur offered a particularly breathtaking view, and here we took a precious moment of contemplation.

The following day we traversed and stopped at Stykkishólmur, a pretty fishing village overlooking Breiðafjörður Bay. I had the opportunity to photograph the port and the fresh catch from the sea. We also surveyed the shark museum at Bjarnhofn with an unexpected yet fabulous display of hanging meat.

We drove then a little further to the beach, where I spotted seals sitting on the rocks. The creatures sat very close to the sea and were very placid, enjoying the amiable weather. We then stopped to photograph one of the countless lighthouses representing the country’s coastal heritage and tradition.

As we came to the end of our island loop, the spectacular waterfalls and the Kirkjufell mountains began to appear. Late at night, and behind the back of the black church of Budir, the northern lights were dancing for me, a formidable ending to a remarkable voyage.

My gratitude goes out to Dagur for his in-depth tour, and knowledge of the country, its people, and culture - plus his excellent driving! I also must thank his parents, who warmly welcomed me for coffee at their family home in Akureyri.