Iceland - Day 10

Grundarfjordur

5 miles

This will be a short one, promise :)

I woke up at a ridiculous hour, but I refused to stay awake. I made myself stay in the tent until an acceptably lazy hour. At 8 a.m., I changed, had a big breakfast, and headed to the landmark waterfall and mountain (Kirkjufell) that you can find on all postcards and Internet searches. I vaguely noticed a cruise ship in the port but simply ignored it. The walk was a leisurely 3 km, and I was in no rush. When I arrived, there were already a number of tourists milling around and taking pictures. After I'd taken my fair share, I found a cosy spot, made myself comfortable, and just enjoyed the view. A good book and Hazelnut wafers helped with this mentally exhausting task. Funnily I had a Kirjufell sunrise picture in my living room for some time - this will make it even more special.

On my way back I was hassled a bit by the local criminals, some Icelandic birds, that were either using me as target practice or just liked my hat. I laughed every time they 'swooped in' for a closer look :)

Next came a bit of reconnaissance of my official starting point tomorrow. It was easy enough to find, so even though there was a massive waterfall nearby, I turned around as I felt I needed the rest more. I'll be passing this waterfall on my way up so no worries.

Once I got into town, I realised a huge difference. People. Lots and lots of people. The cruise ship had 3,000 passengers and 1,000 crew, and most wanted to see everything in the short time they had. I was lucky enough to grab a good seat in a cafe, and I didn't move for the next 6 hours. I really want to enjoy the rest of my holiday and I can't do it if I'm exhausted. Reading and people-watching were my live entertainment for the rest of the night. I read half a book and spoiled myself with an amazing roast lamb for dinner for no apparent reason. The waitress also reassured me that my trek across the mountain won't be an extreme one, but a moderate hike. Now I just need to sort accommodation on the other side somewhere. I'll just have to go with the flow and don't worry about it yet. I went to bed just after 7 pm. as my eyes were dropping. It was a chilled day but boy did my body need the charge.