We’re back for a few days and it’s been fun taking some of the same routes, but seeing a completely different landscape. Last time everything was snow and ice covered; this time the lichen, moss, grass and lava rock are exposed.
The ponies are moving around more freely and grazing instead of standing huddled together for warmth.
Streams, rivers and lakes are running.
Last time the roads were impassable to Gullfoss falls; we are so glad we had the opportunity to visit this time and see these powerful waters rushing off the edge and dispersing through the narrow gorge.
The sweet little churches are often situated with commanding views of the valleys.
As we drove along rte 435 we followed the Nesjavellir pipeline that carries hot water from the Nesjavellir geothermal power plant to storage tanks east of Reykjavík for a distance of 27km – most of it above ground. The insulated pipeline can carry up to 40% of the hot water demand for space heating and domestic hot water in Reykjavik.
We ended the day with a soak in the warm mineral baths at Sky Lagoon situated on the coast south of Reykjavik.
Breathtaking as always. As life would have it, when I opened my computer this morning and the Bing browser window opened, it opened to dramatic cliffs and a carved out gorge below . . . yep, Iceland. Then I opened my email and their your were. I absolutely love the picture of you and Dennis, oh, and of course, the ponies. I cannot thank you enough for sharing your travels with all of us; personally, you make it possible for me to see the world and I am forever grateful.
Oh, and I forgot to add, the pipeline that delivers the hot water, is that not amazing that it delivers 40% of the hot water demand for heating and domestic hot water? The Nesjavellir geothermal power plant . . . could it not be emulated? Couldn’t a plant be built utilizing solar to heat the water and then use established established lines? Crazy question, I know, but it just seems there must be a way for humans to use systems like this to save the planet and every living thing on it.
Great as always; I would love a dip in the thermal springs. All’s well here, tossed a ball around with a good friend of yours yesterday. Dennis, love the hat!
Great photos! Glad you got to Gullfoss it’s amazing!