Upon our 8 am touchdown in picturesque Iceland, we hit the road by 10 am. Despite a 4-hour check-in wait, we seized the opportunity for a 12-day road trip grocery haul, targeting Bonus stores recognizable by their charming Yellow and Pink signs adorned with a cute piglet. Our impulsive buying tendencies led to a cart filled with essentials like milk, bread, Icelandic Skyr yogurt, as well as indulgent treats like chips, cookies and Icelandic Chocolates ( Icelandic chocolates are now our third most favourite after Belgian and Swiss chocolates). Post-shopping, our hunger led us to Kökulist Bakery and Café, a renowned local spot discovered through a timely Google search. Two sandwiches and coffee later, the freshness and flavor left a lasting impression.
By 12 pm, we contacted our hotel, Lighthouse Inn in Gardur (link here – https://www.lighthouseinn.is), inquiring about early check-in. A 30-minute drive revealed the charm of small townships distinct from large cities like Toronto, with narrow yet well-marked roads and scattered, beautiful houses. The hotel, strategically placed on the south-western edge, greeted us with smooth check-in, courteous staff, and comfortable rooms. Armed with a map of Reykjanes Peninsula, we explored a variety of landscapes – from lava fields and hot springs to lighthouses, beaches, and cliffs. The area’s famed windiness and dark skies make it popular for Aurora Tours. Our exploration included the Bridge between continents, Stafnes Lighthouse, Hvalsneskirkja Church, Stampar Lighthouse, Gunnuhver geothermal area, Fagradalsfjall Volcano Eruption site, and Brimketill Viewpoint. We recommend covering as much as time allows, with the flexibility to return later. Attaching a map below from one of the websites I referred to for the map and information about Reykjanes Peninsula.
The day concluded with a visit to Baejarins Beztu Pylsur (https://bbp.is), renowned for its unique hotdog featuring lamb sausage, Icelandic sweet mustard, and remolaði sauce. Pro tip: request the “all in” version for the ultimate taste experience. The day ended at 10 pm, eagerly awaiting the Northern Lights with a KP Index of 6. Sadly, untimely snow and rain mixed in, obscuring the sky, and we retired at 1 am, disappointed yet reflective on a day filled with Icelandic wonders.
Two Yellow Jackets 