by Alicja Zawadzka
PureTravel Writing Competition 2024
As a 23-year-old woman with a passion for adventure, I found myself on the precipice of an incredible journey that would take me across the highlands of Iceland on a quad bike. This trip, spanning three days, promised not just breathtaking views, but an experience that would shape my life in ways I couldn’t yet imagine.
The adventure began early one crisp morning as our group gathered at the starting point, a diverse collection of thrill-seekers from around the world. Among us was Arnar, a 25-year-old Icelandic guide, whose calm demeanor and expertise instantly put us at ease. We communicated in English, the common thread that connected our different backgrounds.
Our days were spent navigating the rugged, awe-inspiring terrain of Iceland’s highlands. The quads roared beneath us as we ascended rocky slopes, maneuvered through narrow passes, and coasted down hillsides that overlooked vast expanses of untouched wilderness. The thrill of the ride was unparalleled, but it was the scenery that truly took my breath away. Each peak we conquered unveiled a new, stunning vista – from emerald valleys to shimmering glacial streams.
Despite the exhilaration, some descents filled me with trepidation. One particularly steep and rocky descent loomed ahead, looking perilously steep. My heart pounded in my chest as I assessed the route. Sensing my hesitation, Arnar rode up beside me. With a reassuring smile and a few words of encouragement, he guided me down the slope, his presence a comforting anchor in the face of fear.
Our nights were spent camping under the vast Icelandic sky. As darkness enveloped us, the landscape took on a mysterious, almost eerie quality. We would gather around a crackling campfire, the warmth warding off the chill of the night. We sang songs, shared stories, and forged bonds that transcended language and culture. The camaraderie that developed was unlike anything I had experienced before. Under the stars, friendships blossomed that I knew would last a lifetime.
Mornings were a time of renewal and awe. As dawn broke, the landscape was bathed in soft, golden light, transforming it into a scene of ethereal beauty. The tranquility of these moments, the sheer untouched beauty of Iceland, filled me with a profound sense of peace and gratitude.
Over the course of the trip, Arnar and I grew particularly close. His guidance and support were invaluable, not just in navigating the challenging terrain, but in enriching the entire experience. By the end of our journey, we had formed a deep connection that continued to grow after we returned home.
Today, eight years later, Arnar and I are still together. We live in the UK and continue our passion for quad biking, now exploring the scenic trails of the Lake District. The landscapes here are different, but no less beautiful, and each ride is a reminder of that incredible journey we shared in Iceland. The friendships we made on that trip have endured as well. Our group stays in touch, often reminiscing about our adventures and supporting each other in various endeavors.
That journey across Iceland wasn’t just a thrilling adventure; it was the start of a lifelong love and enduring friendships. It taught me the value of courage, the beauty of nature, and the strength of human connection. My greatest journey, indeed.
Photo by Joshua Sortino on Unsplash
