Glacial Melt on Lava Fields

The Hraunfossar Falls in Iceland stretch for a kilometer — where glacier melt penetrates through layers of lava and flows into the Hvita River. I was captivated by the clarity of the flowing water against the black lava and the vibrant blue color of the glacial water when it pooled in the river.

Icelandic nature: glacial ice melting on the edge of a lava field, Hraunfossar.

Hraunfossar falls in Iceland, contrasting waterfalls.

Hvita River rushes beneath Hraunfossar falls. A study in black, white and blue.

When the Winter Sun Set by 4…

I knew I was in Iceland. The sun was up for just four to five hours during our stay, and the sun followed a low path along the horizon. So the light was golden all day, you might say. (In early January, the day was four hours long. The day got noticeably longer during the 10 days we were there.)

Enjoy this golden light in the foreground of these snow-covered mountains in West Iceland.

Afternoon in Snaefelssnes, West Iceland in January.

A Glacier called Fagurholsmyri

The Icelandic people really know how to name their glaciers! It might be better to call this glacier the one we visited on January 16 at sunset. Allow me to treat you to a wide view of this awesome sight and a detail of the icebergs on the frozen lake at the foot of this frozen giant.

Fagurholsmyri Glacier in Iceland at sunset. Golden light on blue ice.

Detail from the lower left of this scene, including two photographers near the lakeside icebergs.

Blue hue of the icebergs contrast the golden light of sunset on the frozen lake, while two photographers ponder the setting. Iceland in January, 2023.