Inside Iceland’s Loftheillir: Natural Ice Sculptures In A 3,500 Year Old Lava Cave

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In the far north of Iceland lies a weird and eerie but beautiful world of ice and darkness. Enter Cave Lofthellir. Here, the underground boasts the greatest natural ice sculptures currently known in an Icelandic lava cave. Lofthellir is a 3,500 year old lava cave that extends around 370 meters long and boasts formations that will leave you in awe.

To get to the cave, you’ll drive to an area a mere 45 minute drive from Lake Myvatn.  You’ll cross the unique volcano Hverfell, through the crater row of Lúdentarborgir to the roots of Mt. Hvannfell.  After a 30 minute or so walk across a lava field, filled with unusual rock and landscape formations (see below), you’ll arrive at a ladder made from rope which you’ll descend in order to enter the cave.

You’ll likely be given rubber boots since although it’s likely to be dry on your hike, you’ll need protection for your shoes once you enter the ice cave. Remember, it’ll be very wet inside.

Once you descend the ladder with your weatherproof gear on, you’re greeted with crystal clear ice before you make your way into the core of the cave itself.

After a few shallow chambers, you need to use a rope to get to the larger chambers, pulling yourself up along a slick area of ice. If you’re claustrophobic, then this may not be for you but if not, it’s certainly an adventure. On the way back, I recommend just sliding down the ice holding onto the rope while you do so – it’s one way to feel ten years old again in a split second.

The colors inside the cave are stunning – vibrant and surreal at the same time.

Drama meets raw energy.

At one point while we were in the main chamber, Saevar, our guide turned off all the lights and asked us to dim the flashers on our helmuts. Suddenly, we were completely in the dark with the only sound to be heard, a mere drizzle of water from an icicle above. We sat quiet for many minutes listening to that soft drizzle and not uttering a word – silence meets serenity. It was a magical experience and something I’d recommend doing even if your guide doesn’t call for it.

Note: I was hosted by Saga Travel in North Iceland, a personalized adventure tour company that specializes in unique trips. All opinions expressed here are my own. I’d recommend taking one or more of their tours when you’re in the north of the country – ask for Saevar.  This tour is recommended or suitable for young children, people with claustrophobia or people that are not in reasonable physical condition. There is ice and water on the floor of the cave and the temperature inside the cave is around 0°C.

For more on Iceland, check out Iceland section / Travel to Iceland / Traveling to Iceland. All photos Renee Blodgett.

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