Chasing the Northern Lights: An Icelandic Adventure at Deplar Farm

Iceland, a land of fire and ice, has always held a magnetic pull for adventurers and dreamers. But for a travel photographer and filmmaker like me, Ava Chen, it’s more than just stunning landscapes; it's about forging authentic connections with the land and its people. My journey to Deplar Farm, a remote and luxurious lodge nestled in the heart of Iceland’s Troll Peninsula, promised exactly that: a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and the chance to capture the elusive Northern Lights. From carving through untouched powder on skis to learning the secrets of photographing the Aurora Borealis, my experience at Deplar Farm was nothing short of extraordinary. This is my story of chasing the Northern Lights and discovering the magic of Iceland.

Section 1: Troll Skiing/Snowboarding Adventure

My Icelandic adventure kicked off with an adrenaline-pumping heliskiing experience on the Troll Peninsula. Deplar Farm’s expert guides led us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of this pristine wilderness. The anticipation was palpable as we prepared for our descent.

The helicopter blades churned, spitting snow as we ascended. Below, the Troll Peninsula unfolded in a tapestry of white peaks and frozen fjords. The air bit at my cheeks, a raw, invigorating kiss. Then, the drop - a rush of adrenaline as I carved through untouched powder, the only sound the whisper of my skis and the distant roar of the helicopter fading into the vast expanse. The fresh, crisp air stung my lungs as I made each turn. The specialized equipment provided by Deplar Farm ensured we were well-prepared for the challenging conditions, and the safety measures taken by the guides were impeccable, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience.

I had the chance to speak with Bjorn, one of Deplar Farm’s seasoned mountain guides, about what makes skiing in the Troll Peninsula so unique. "It’s the combination of untouched terrain, unpredictable weather, and the raw beauty of the landscape," Bjorn explained. "You feel like you're on the edge of the world."

Photography Notes: Focus on capturing the scale of the landscape by using wide-angle shots. Capture the action with a high shutter speed (at least 1/1000s) to freeze the movement of the skiers. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the snow.

Section 2: Northern Lights Photography Workshop

One of the highlights of my trip was the Northern Lights photography workshop, led by a local expert named Astrid. Iceland is famed for its Aurora Borealis displays. The workshop delved into the technical intricacies of capturing the dancing lights, as well as the cultural significance they hold in Icelandic folklore.

"The key to capturing the Northern Lights is long exposure, a wide aperture, and manual focus," Astrid explained, patiently guiding us through the process. "We learned how to adjust our settings to capture the dancing green and purple hues against the inky sky." It was a masterclass in low-light photography, and Astrid’s passion for the Aurora was infectious.

I asked Astrid about the most challenging aspect of photographing the Northern Lights in Iceland. “Patience,” she replied without hesitation. “The Aurora is unpredictable. You have to be prepared to wait, sometimes for hours, in freezing temperatures. But when it finally appears, it’s an unforgettable experience."

The Northern Lights hold a special place in Icelandic folklore. For centuries, they were seen as omens, spirits, or even reflections of the sun's light on the wings of angels. The workshop provided a deeper appreciation for the cultural context surrounding this natural phenomenon.

Photography notes: Use a tripod to ensure sharp images during long exposures (3-20 seconds). Shoot in RAW format to preserve as much detail as possible. Experiment with different white balance settings to accurately capture the colors of the Aurora.

Section 3: Icelandic Horseback Riding in Winter

Another unforgettable experience was riding Icelandic horses through the snow-covered valleys near Deplar Farm. These small, sturdy horses are a unique breed, perfectly adapted to the harsh Icelandic climate.

The small, sturdy Icelandic horse, sure-footed and gentle, ambled through the snow-covered valley. The only sound was the soft crunch of hooves on the snow and the rhythmic breathing of the horse. The wind whipped at my face, but the warmth of the horse and the stunning scenery made it a magical experience. It was a serene and intimate way to connect with the Icelandic landscape.

I spoke with Magnus, a local horse breeder, about what makes Icelandic horses so special. "They are descendants of the horses brought by the Vikings," he explained. "They are hardy, intelligent, and have a unique gait called the 'tölt', making them incredibly comfortable to ride." This special gait makes the ride incredibly smooth even across rough terrain.

The Icelandic horse is deeply intertwined with the country's history and culture. They played a vital role in transportation and agriculture for centuries, and they remain a symbol of Icelandic resilience and independence.

Photography notes: Capture the unique gait of the Icelandic horses (the 'tölt') using a fast shutter speed. Focus on capturing the horses against the backdrop of the Icelandic landscape. Use a shallow depth of field to isolate the horse and blur the background.

Concluding Section: Adventure, Luxury, and Connection at Deplar Farm

My time at Deplar Farm was a remarkable blend of adventure, luxury, and genuine cultural immersion. It was more than just a vacation; it was a transformative experience that deepened my connection to Iceland and its people. The combination of thrilling activities, luxurious accommodations, and the warmth of the Icelandic people created memories that will last a lifetime.

Deplar Farm's commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism is also commendable. They utilize geothermal energy to power the lodge, minimizing their environmental impact. They also actively support local communities by sourcing food and employing local guides, ensuring that tourism benefits the region as a whole. This commitment aligns with my own values as a travel photographer and filmmaker, making my stay at Deplar Farm even more meaningful. Learn more about Deplar Farm's sustainability practices here.

If you're seeking an adventure that combines luxury, cultural immersion, and the chance to witness the magic of the Northern Lights, I highly recommend booking your own Icelandic adventure at Deplar Farm. Prepare to be amazed by the raw beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the Icelandic people, and the unforgettable experiences that await you. Book your stay at Deplar Farm today!