There’s something magnetically cool about Iceland. A country sprawling with spectacular glaciers, lava formations, geysers and fjords, it’s no wonder it consistently tops the list as one of the best places to visit in Europe, if not the world.
Our advice? Move to the top of your bucket list ASAP…
Chase exotic waterfalls
Iceland is one of the best countries for chasing waterfalls. If you’re heading here, be sure to do the Golden Circle – 300km of beautiful landmarks that can be covered in a short period of time. From the majestic Gullfoss, known as the ‘Golden Waterfall’, to the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skogafoss waterfall and Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss, you’ll leave your holiday completely mesmerised by Iceland’s natural beauty and mind blowing formations.
See the Northern Lights
Iceland is a hot-spot for adventure seekers in search of nature’s finest – the Northern lights. The best time to visit this natural phenomena is in the cooler months of September and October, or March and April. Also, for the best time to witness it, try midnight. Remember, seeing the Northern lights isn’t always guaranteed. After all… you can’t control nature!
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BEST WAY TO GET TO ICELAND?
Icelandair offers a stopover in Iceland at no extra costs en route to some of Europe’s major destinations like London, Paris, Madrid, Milan etc. It also flies directly from seven major airport in the US including Seattle, Orlando, Toronto, Minneapolis and Denver.
Get up close with Icelandic Horses
They’re the horses you see in the postcards, with perfectly manicured manes and pony-sized bodies. If you’re a pony pro, you can even jump in the saddle and go for a ride but be warned – despite their short legs, these little guys can pick up quite a pace…
Bathe in the Blue Lagoon
A trip to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without bathing in the world famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. This natural wonder is one of 25 in the world and is situated in a lava field in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula, south-western Iceland. Float away your worries as you enjoy the warm soothing waters, perfect for a relaxing & re-energising soak.
Wander through world class and interesting museums
Discover the legacy of famous Icelandic writer, Thorbergur Thordarson (Þórbergur Þórðarson), who grew up on the farm Hali. During this cultural insight you’ll wander through the heritage museum, filled with a unique exhibition of the district Sudursveit and Thordarson’s work learning all about his life and what inspired his writing.
If you’re game, visit The Icelandic Phallological Museum, likely to be the only museum in the world to exhibit a collection of phallic specimens belonging to the various types of mammal found in a single country. Meaning… Penis museum. This museum contains a collection of 200+ penises and penile parts belonging to almost ALL land and sea mammals you can find in Iceland. For the love of science, right?
Photobomb a Geyser
Located in Iceland’s world-famous Glacier Area beside the Hvítá River is a popular fountain geyser, Strokkur. See the powerful geyser erupt and send a spectacular water and stream column into the air. Surrounded by underground springs and thermal pools, this is the perfect location for any photographer to capture.
The cool city of Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the hip capital in Iceland, packed with culture, art and activities. The stunning natural wonders are within distance, the air is fresh and rejuvenating and the quirky locals are a friendly bunch! Can you also believe that 60% of Iceland’s population live here?
If you’re wondering what to do in Reykjavik, you’ll be spoilt for choice with its array of museums, galleries, parks and fun nightlife to match. It’s also a great starting point for those who plan to do the Great Circle, which covers 300 km of natural landscapes from the strokkur geysers, national park of Þingvellir, and the golden waterfall Gullfoss.
WHAT TO EAT?
WTF is Nordic cuisine is what you’re probably asking yourself right? Iceland’s pretty famous for it’s traditionally weird delicacies, some of which include;
- Harðifiskur: dried fish cod
- Súrmatur: Pickled ram’s testicles
- Hákarl: Putrefied shark
- Hangikjöt: smoked lamb
Not convinced? Most Icelandic seafood is a safe and delicious bet in certain areas. Food connoisseur’s rejoice as Reykjavik also boasts a tasteful cafe culture, with delicious coffee to match. Be sure to try a local Icelandic hotdog and pizza.
Journey to the Centre of the Earth
How many people can say that they’ve travelled to the centre of the Earth? You can if you head to Snaefellsnes, an area filled with some of nature’s finest – volcanoes, lava fields, caves, springs and glaciers. The beautiful Snæfellsjökull glacier is found at the very end of the peninsula and also known as the location for famous novelist, John Verne for ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth.’
The furthest East you’ll be able to go is Jokulsarlon, an almost isolated glacial lagoon lined with icebergs in all different shapes and size. It’s like a scene straight from Titanic, minus the sinking boat.
