We get our first feel of Icelandic summer and finally see the sun on day four of our trip. The temperature change is dramatic and when the wind subsides it’s actually quite pleasant. Free from jackets and rain we depart Selfoss in search of more southland adventure.
Continuing east on Ring Road from Selfoss to Vik we spot a massive waterfall from the highway. Standing approximately 211 feet tall with no obstructions in view Seljalandsfoss is impossible to miss and since we are here we might as well explore.
Our time in the sun is short lived as we suit up in rain gear once again, this time to brave the torrent spray from the backside of the waterfall. With no railings or fences keeping us in check, attention is heightened as we step gingerly along muddy rock. Supposedly officials close this path when it becomes slick with ice or excessive rain. Although it does look pretty slippery to me, people are climbing, so onward and upward we go!
Pausing on the rocky ledge behind the falls distractions deafen in the cadence of smooth serenity. A deluge of heaven’s scape sieved with silver and frothed with seraphic wonder dances in the pool below. Plumes of mist ascend, dampening my face with frosty dew as pure and delicate as an angel’s tears.
Perched at the southernmost point of Iceland is the Dyrhólaey peninsula. This tide-lashed projection provides panoramic views from the eastern lava columns of Reynisdranger to the western black sand beaches. Guard rails and well posted signs warning of falling rock and unpredictable surf keep visitors far from shore access.
The ferocity of contour and atmospheric condition permeates Dyrhólaey with a sense of perpetual motion and lingering trepidation. Savage tides seize fist fulls of tiny black rock by the thousands battering the cliffside in to submission with each angry roll. Angular basalts and precarious sea stacks provide evidence of its might. On one, a cluster of stone spires referred to as the troll and its three-mast ship. On the other a massive arch known as “the door.”
Surveying the landscape, I try to take it all in. It’s too beautiful to capture on film and yet too spectacular not to try. Tripods and cameras abound as steady eyes study the light and clouds through lenses for particularly photogenic moments. But this is something you have to enjoy in the moment. Hopefully with someone as wonderful as my sweet Paul. His photo a cherished reminder to put down the computer from time to time and just take it all in.
Traveling for Real 
Interesting and spectacular!