Things to do in Iceland
Things to do in Iceland A land of amazing contrasts, Iceland offers everything from ancient Viking ruins to soaring volcanoes and awe-inspiring
Read moreIceland’s name belies its stunning landscapes; the country’s smoking volcanoes, geothermal springs, spouting geysers and bubbling fumaroles offer an insight into the fiery beginnings of planet Earth. Landing on this remote island is like landing on another world.
The country is also covered in immense glaciers – some of Europe’s largest – and these only add to the dramatic terrain of a country where the raw power of nature overshadows all else. However, its small cosmopolitan capital offers a lively nightlife, trendy cafes, superb dining, galleries and designer boutiques.
In summer, Iceland offers beautiful walking opportunities and a chance to get back to nature, while the winter months bring the beautiful Aroura Borealis, snowmobiling and husky safaris. An exciting destination all year round.
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First settled by the Vikings in 874, Reykjavik is the world’s most northerly capital city and one of the smallest, making it easy to explore on foot. Framed by the majestic Mount Esja and Faxafloi Bay, the city enjoys a wonderful natural setting. Bristling with cafes and restaurants, the city has become well known for its superb dining options serving all manner of international and Icelandic fusion cuisine. Designated a Unesco City of Literature, Reykjavik is home to the country’s arts and literature scene as well as a number of interesting museums. There are also a number of important historical sites including the building in which Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev met for their 1986 summit and the impressive Hallgrimskirkja church.
The northern lights occur when highly charged particles from the sun hit gas atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere around the magnetic pole, causing these gas atoms to become energised and shine. They form an elliptical pattern around the magnetic pole, with the most common colour being light green. However, during particularly strong eruptions, violet and white colours can also be seen. Seeing the northern lights is not guaranteed as it is a natural phenomenon and weather dependent. However, with your experienced driver and guide you will have the best possible chance to watch the amazing natural light show during the autumn and winter months.
The popular Golden Circle around the south of Iceland includes Thingvellir National Park – a Unesco world heritage site and the point where the North American and European tectonic plates meet; Geyser, a hot spring that periodically ejects hot steam and water into the air and after which all such spouting hot springs are now named; and the mighty Gullfoss waterfalls.
Head to the volcanic marvels of Lake Myvatn, known as an area of outstanding natural beauty. A shallow eutrophic lake, it lies surrounded by many unique volcanic landforms, fumaroles and geothermal springs.
The southernmost village in Iceland, Vik’s stunning basalt beach has, in the past, been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Home to many seabirds such as puffins, the coastline around Vik is wild, with Antarctic rollers travelling thousands of kilometres before thundering into the beach.
Things to do in Iceland A land of amazing contrasts, Iceland offers everything from ancient Viking ruins to soaring volcanoes and awe-inspiring
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We received a wonderful range of images for this issue’s photography competition. See the winners here.
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Eleanor Lawrence picks the best hotels to stay in for uninterrupted views of the northern lights.
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Nigel & Elizabeth Jones wanted a holiday with a difference, so chose to drive around Iceland.
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