When I decided to take a different path in my career as a diving instructor, I was unaware that this decision would take me to such extremes in the world. I have witnessed places that I saw on social media and thought were not real. There are places in the world that are like something out of a fantasy movie. I am in just such a place today.
Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland!
When I walk to the shore, I see the Atlantic Ocean in all its glory with the wind at its back and pieces of ice spread out on the black volcanic sand. When you turn your back to the ocean, a glacial lake of blues and whites stands before you like a painting.
Now let’s take a journey in this beautiful geography.
Diamond Beach & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is located in the southeast of Iceland, about five hours (370 km) from the capital Reykjavik. If you are coming directly from Reykjavik, it is worth making an intermediate stop and staying overnight.
Where Glacier Meets Fire – Diamond Beach
Diamond Beach, Breiðamerkursandur in Icelandic. The name comes from the glittering glacier pieces laid on the dark sand like diamonds on velvet. Of course you will immediately wonder where these glacier pieces come from. These glaciers are not randomly found here. They are pieces of Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is part of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. The pieces break off from the glacier, pass through the lagoon, reach the ocean and are washed ashore by the tide.
Every time you visit here you will see a different beach. Sometimes the whole beach is covered with smooth ice crystals, sometimes with glaciers that look like huge frozen sculptures.
If you get the right angle of light, you can really see the glaciers shining like diamonds. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for light.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
When you turn your back to the ocean and head towards the lagoon, a completely different view will greet you. Jökulsárlón!!! One of the deepest lakes in Iceland, Jökulsárlón is a natural wonder. Jökulsárlón, which is 248 meters deep, was formed from the melting waters of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and is fed by huge pieces of ice breaking off the edge of the glacier.
The water is a deep, surreal blue mixed with ice-white and crystal-clear patches. Some icebergs are patterned with volcanic ash, a reminder of Iceland’s history with fire.
If you look carefully, you can often see seals swimming among the ice or lying on top of icebergs like lazy kings.
This is an important spot for birdwatchers. The area is home to Arctic terns, skuas and other seabirds.
If you come to this region in summer the longer days and warmer weather can make traveling easier. But the beauty of winter is different. It’s calmer, wilder and the potential to see the northern lights is higher.
For me standing among these ice giants and volcanic sands reminded me of the raw power and artistry of nature. It is a humble and otherworldly place. A place where time feels frozen, where earth meets ice and fire meets the ocean.
If you are planning a trip to Iceland, don’t just pass by. Stay, breathe and let the silence of the glacier penetrate you.
Good Health
