📷 Sveinn Nifl 📷 🇮🇸 Landscape and nature photos

@svenninifl.bsky.social

7183 Followers 3202 Following

A photographer and poet. I like sharing photos form Iceland my home country. #Pictureandpoem

The merlin (Falco columbarius) is a small species of falcon from the Northern Hemisphere,[2] with numerous subspecies throughout North America and Eurasia. A bird of prey, the merlin breeds in the northern Holarctic; some migrate to subtropical and northern tropical regions in winter. Males typically have wingspans of 53–58 centimetres (21–23 in), with females being slightly larger. They are swift fliers and skilled hunters which specialize in preying on small birds in the size range of sparrows to doves and medium-sized shorebirds. In recent decades merlin populations in North America have been significantly increasing, with some merlins becoming so well adapted to city life that they forgo migration; in Europe, populations increased up to about 2000 but have been steady subsequently.[3] The merlin has for centuries been well regarded as a falconry bird.
A yellow flower bush.
Vífilsstaðavatn is a serene lake surrounded by gentle hills and lush nature, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. Located near the historic Vífilsstaðir hospital and beneath the slopes of Vífilsstaðahlíð, this area is a favorite among locals for walking, birdwatching, and quiet reflection. Vífilsstaðavatn and its surroundings have been a protected nature reserve since 2007, thanks to their rich biodiversity. The lake is home to a variety of bird species and plant life, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. Whether you're planning a longer trek or just a short stroll, the area around Vífilsstaðavatn offers well-marked paths and stunning views year-round. This tranquil destination is perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone looking to experience Iceland’s natural beauty just minutes from the capital.
Lateevening sunset. Grass yellow blue sky.
A yellow and black wasp siting on a green leaf.
A view out a rain stain window..
An orange sunset in the clouds
Þórsmörk (often spelled Thórsmörk in English) is a lush, remote nature reserve in the Icelandic highlands, translates to "Thor's Valley". Surrounded by three mighty glaciers (Eyjafjallajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Tindfjallajökull) and bordered by roaring rivers, it is a world-famous sanctuary known for its rugged hiking trails and dramatic volcanic landscapes.Quick Facts & LegendName Meaning: Translates to "Thor's Woods" or "Thor's Valley". According to Norse mythology, the great valley was created when Thor's hammer, Mjölnir, struck the earth.Landscape: Unlike the harsh, barren highlands, Thorsmork features birch groves, green ravines, and dramatic black volcanic ash plains.Geography: It is tightly wedged between the Krossá, Þröngá, and Markarfljót rivers.Popular ActivitiesThe Laugavegur Trail: Thorsmork serves as the spectacular finish line for the famous multi-day Laugavegur trek (which starts in Landmannalaugar).Day Hikes: Shorter routes, such as the hike up Valahnúkur mountain, offer panoramic views of the entire valley, river crossings, and glaciers.Stakkholtsgjá Canyon: A stunning, narrow gorge that leads to a hidden waterfall, tucked away in the reserve.How to Get ThereBecause the reserve is surrounded by deep, unbridged glacial rivers, it cannot be reached by standard vehicles.4x4 Super Jeeps / Highland Buses: You can access Thorsmork via specialized highland buses (like the Reykjavík Excursions or TreX buses) or highly modified 4x4 super jeeps.Tours: If you don't want to drive or navigate the rivers yourself, guided day tours from Reykjavík are highly recommended.Accessibility: The road is strictly seasonal and typically only opens to modified vehicle traffic from mid-June to mid-October, depending on snowmelt and river levels.Where to StayThorsmork features several main base camps equipped with mountain huts and designated camping spots. Popular options include:Langidalur (operated by Ferðafélag Íslands)Húsadalur (operated by Volcano Huts)
White waterfall. Autumn colors all around it.
Street photo. Blue skay green gras.
Old rusty ship on a beach. Blue sky and green hill.
Steingrímsfjörður is a major, 28-kilometer-long fjord located in the eastern Westfjords region of Iceland. Known for its rich folklore and dramatic landscapes, its name translates roughly to "Steingrímur's Fjord" in English.Key highlights and details about the fjord include:Main Settlements: The fjord is home to two primary villages:Hólmavík: The largest settlement, famous for the Museum of Sorcery and Magic.Drangsnes: A small fishing village known for the natural geothermal hot tubs located directly on the beach.Landscape: The fjord opens out into the Húnaflói bay and is framed by rolling hills, rugged mountains, and the striking Strandir coast.Activities: The calm waters inside the fjord make it a popular and stable location for whale-watching tours.Steingrímsfjarðarheiði: This is the mountain heath and well-traveled highland road that crosses between Steingrímsfjörður and the town of Ísafjörður.
Snowy mountains on top the sun is shining.
Black and white photo of a landscape. A road leading into the distese. In the back moutains coverd in fog.
Reflecions on a lake