Dimmuborgir

I was initially drawn to their area by a description in my guidebook of a large vaulted cave known as The Church. Apparently, rock concerts have been held there. The surrounding area, Dimmuborgir, is a bizarre landscape of caves, pillars, cliffs. Carefully marked trails wind among the various levels, terraces, and caves. Some of the vertical features resemble human or animal forms. My visit was late in the day after most the other tourists had left, which made for a somewhat surreal, spooky experience alone within this unworldly place.

I came a cross a lone birch tree growing from a rift in the lava beds. As trees are rare in Iceland, I found it ironic that one would be growing here, of all places. One primary hindrance for tree growth is the wind. However, this area, with its walls and pillars is relatively protected.