Iceland: Land of Fire and Ice
I’ve been working on a trip to Iceland this month and have really enjoyed discovering all the wonderful diversity that Iceland has to offer. Iceland has stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless adventures. With its dramatic volcanic landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights, Iceland is a traveler's paradise. Here are a few highlights:
Reykjavik will most likely be your first stop or hub when in Iceland – Keflavik International Airport is easily accessible from most cities, making it the logical place to start. Reykjavik has much to offer and is the heart of culture, history, and adventure. While the country itself boasts breathtaking natural wonders, Reykjavik offers a unique blend of urban charm and outdoor pursuits that make it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the globe. From its colorful streets to its lively arts scene and proximity to otherworldly landscapes, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy in this dynamic city.
1. Hallgrímskirkja: This iconic church is one of Reykjavik's most recognizable landmarks. Designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson, its striking design resembles the basalt lava flows of Iceland's landscape. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
2. The Sun Voyager (Sólfar): Located along Reykjavik's waterfront, this stainless steel sculpture resembles a Viking ship and symbolizes the promise of undiscovered territory, freedom, and hope. It's a popular spot for taking photos, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
3. Harpa Concert Hall: Known for its stunning architecture, Harpa is a modern concert hall and conference center located in the heart of Reykjavik. Its glass facade reflects the surrounding scenery, and visitors can enjoy guided tours or attend performances ranging from classical concerts to contemporary events.
4. Perlan (The Pearl): Situated on Öskjuhlíð Hill, Perlan is a unique landmark with a rotating glass dome offering panoramic views of Reykjavik and its surroundings. Inside, visitors can explore exhibitions on Iceland's natural wonders, including glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal energy.
5. National Museum of Iceland: For a deeper understanding of Iceland's history and culture, the National Museum is a must-visit. Exhibits cover Iceland's settlement, Viking heritage, medieval artifacts, and more, providing insight into the island's evolution from its earliest inhabitants to the present day.
After you’ve explored the city, there is much more to see in the surrounding areas. Some suggestions for day trips from Reykjavik include:
1. The Golden Circle: This classic day trip encompasses three iconic Icelandic landmarks: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Witness the site of the ancient Icelandic parliament at Þingvellir, marvel at the erupting geysers at Geysir, and admire the powerful cascades of Gullfoss.
2. The Blue Lagoon: Just a short drive from Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland's most famous attractions. Relax in the geothermal waters of this otherworldly spa, surrounded by lava fields and mineral-rich waters renowned for their soothing properties.
3. South Coast Adventure: Explore Iceland's stunning southern coastline, which features dramatic black sand beaches, towering waterfalls, and glaciers. Highlights include the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the volcanic Reynisfjara beach, and the Sólheimajökull glacier.
4. Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Journey to the "miniature Iceland" of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, known for its diverse landscapes, charming fishing villages, and the iconic Snæfellsjökull volcano. Explore dramatic cliffs, lava fields, and the picturesque town of Stykkishólmur.
5. Reykjanes Peninsula: Discover the unique geological wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula, located just a short drive from Reykjavik. Visit the otherworldly landscapes of the Gunnuhver geothermal area, marvel at the rugged coastline and sea stacks of Reykjanesviti, and explore the Bridge Between Continents, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
6. Northern Lights – The best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April – the darker the better. There are a number of options on where you can see the Northern Lights. It’s important to get away from ambient light so National/State parks, glaciers etc. are good places to start.
These day trips offer a variety of experiences, from natural wonders to cultural attractions, all within easy reach of Reykjavik. In addition, Iceland offers many types of adventures such as snorkeling, horseback riding, hiking on a glacier, and whale watching (to name a few).
General Information:
Weather: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear, no matter the season.
Transportation: While Reykjavik is easily navigable on foot, renting a car is the best way to explore the surrounding countryside. However there are plenty of private and shared tours available from Reykjavik if you’d rather not drive.
Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic króna (ISK), so be sure to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
Language: While Icelandic is the official language, most Icelanders speak fluent English, so you shouldn't have any trouble communicating.
It's also advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
There are many ways to pre-package your itineraries to make sure you have advance arrangements for the activities you’d most like to do while visiting Iceland. If some of these ideas sound exciting to you, I can help build the perfect itinerary to make sure you make the most of your time in this wonderland. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you are considering Iceland in your future.
*Thanks to Guide to Iceland and Visit Iceland websites for insights shared in this article
