Iceland, a country known for its dramatic landscapes, offers a blend of cold-weather adventures, rich cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery. From the vibrant art scene of Reykjavik to the remote fjords and active volcanoes, Iceland provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through Iceland’s stunning landscapes and unique experiences, ensuring a memorable adventure in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
History of the Destination
Iceland’s history is deeply rooted in Viking traditions, dating back to its settlement in the 9th century by Norsemen. Throughout the centuries, Iceland developed a distinct cultural identity, heavily influenced by its isolation and the harsh natural environment. The nation’s saga-filled past is chronicled in ancient manuscripts that tell tales of family dynasties, political intrigue, and survival. Today, Iceland is known for its progressive society and its commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.
Information on the Location
Located in the North Atlantic Ocean, just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe. It boasts an array of geological wonders due to its location on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where volcanic activity is a common part of life. The landscape is characterized by waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and black sand beaches, making it a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to see and do:
- Summer (June to August): Features the Midnight Sun, providing nearly 24 hours of daylight. Ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and accessing highland roads.
- Winter (November to March): Offers the magical Northern Lights, as well as the beauty of snow-covered landscapes. Great for winter sports and hot spring experiences.
- Shoulder Seasons (April to May and September to October): Less crowded and often cheaper, these months offer mild weather and the chance to experience a bit of both seasons.
Best Sites to Visit
Iceland is full of must-visit sites that showcase its unique natural beauty and cultural heritage:
- The Golden Circle: This popular tourist route includes Þingvellir National Park, the Gullfoss Waterfall, and the geothermal area in Haukadalur, which contains the famous geysers Geysir and Strokkur.
- Reykjavik: Known for its vibrant arts scene, colourful houses, and historical significance as the capital of Iceland. Don’t miss the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture along the scenic waterfront.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A breathtaking lake filled with floating icebergs, located in southeast Iceland. Nearby Diamond Beach features ice chunks scattered across a black volcanic sand beach, creating a stunning contrast.
- Myvatn Area: Offers unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activity, including lava formations, craters, and hot springs. It’s also a great area for bird-watching, especially ducks.
- Vatnajökull National Park: Europe’s largest national park, where you can explore vast ice caves, glacier lagoons, and dynamic landscapes that have served as filming locations for many movies and TV shows, including ‘Game of Thrones’.
Best Excursions to Do
Embark on these exciting excursions to fully experience Iceland’s diverse offerings:
- Whale Watching Tours: Especially popular in Husavik, often considered the whale-watching capital of Europe.
- Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing: Available on many of Iceland’s glaciers, with professional guides to ensure a safe and informative experience.
- Northern Lights Hunting: Best pursued with a guided tour during the winter months for the best chance of witnessing this natural phenomenon.
- Hot Spring Hopping: Relax in natural hot springs scattered around the country, including the famous Blue Lagoon and the more secluded Landmannalaugar in the Highlands.
- Super Jeep Tours: Explore Iceland’s rugged interior, accessible only with specially equipped 4×4 vehicles that can handle rough terrain and river crossings.
Best Beaches to Visit
While Iceland is not known for its traditional sandy beaches, it offers some unique coastal experiences:
- Reynisfjara Beach: Near Vik, famous for its black sand and impressive basalt columns, along with powerful waves and views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
- Rauðasandur Beach: A rare red sand beach located in the Westfjords, offering a more tranquil beach experience away from the typical tourist paths.
- Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach: In Reykjavik, this man-made beach features a geothermal heated lagoon, which allows swimming even when temperatures are low.
Best Food & Drink Places to Visit
Iceland’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its maritime surroundings and traditional practices:
- Dill Restaurant in Reykjavik: The first Icelandic restaurant to receive a Michelin star,
offering New Nordic cuisine with a focus on Icelandic ingredients. - Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur: A famous hot dog stand in Reykjavik that has been serving delicious Icelandic hot dogs since 1937.
- Fiskmarkaðurinn – The Fish Market: Uses Iceland’s freshest ingredients to prepare innovative fish and seafood dishes, blending Icelandic and Asian culinary traditions.
- Matur og Drykkur: Specializes in classic Icelandic recipes with a modern twist, located in the Grandi area, a vibrant part of Reykjavik.
Hidden Gems to Visit
Explore off-the-beaten-path locations for a unique Icelandic experience:
- Westman Islands: Located off the south coast of Iceland, this small archipelago is known for its stunning natural beauty and birdlife, including the largest puffin colony in the world.
- Hvalfjörður Fjord: Offers a peaceful escape from the more touristy areas, with hiking trails to Glymur, one of Iceland’s tallest waterfalls.
- The Arctic Henge: A modern monument in the remote village of Raufarhöfn, designed to interact with the unique light conditions of the Arctic.
- Flatey Island: A serene island on the Breiðafjörður Bay known for its scenic beauty and bird watching, accessible by ferry during the summer.
Best Budget Hotels
Iceland offers various budget-friendly hotels that provide comfort without breaking the bank:
- Kex Hostel Reykjavik: A trendy hostel located in an old biscuit factory in Reykjavik, offering a quirky, social atmosphere and stunning views of the sea and mountains.
- Hotel Laxnes: Located in Mosfellsbaer, just outside of Reykjavik, this hotel is ideal for those looking to explore the natural wonders of the Golden Circle while staying in a budget-friendly location.
- Reykjavik Lights Hotel: A design hotel in Reykjavik that combines affordable luxury with a central location, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
For a comfortable stay that balances cost and convenience, consider these mid-range hotels:
- Fosshotel Reykjavik: This 16-story hotel offers comfortable accommodations and great views of the city and the sea, located in the heart of Reykjavik.
- Icelandair Hotel Myvatn: A comfortable base for exploring the Myvatn region, known for its unique volcanic landscape and rich wildlife.
- Hotel Klaustur: Situated in the southeast of Iceland, ideal for those visiting the Vatnajokull National Park and other natural attractions in the area.
Best Boutique Hotels
These boutique hotels in Iceland offer a unique and personalized lodging experience:
- Hotel Borg by Keahotels: A Reykjavik landmark, combines Art Deco elegance with modern luxury and comfort.
- Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre: Draws inspiration from the local area to create a unique and authentic experience, right in the heart of the city.
- 101 Hotel: A member of Design Hotels, this boutique hotel in Reykjavik features contemporary design and luxury amenities, along with its own art collection.
Best Luxury Hotels
Experience the ultimate in luxury at these top-tier hotels:
- The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland: Offers luxurious suites and exclusive access to the famed Blue Lagoon, complete with spa treatments that use mineral-rich waters.
- Hotel Ranga: Located near the southern town of Hella, this hotel is known for its excellent location for viewing the Northern Lights and its commitment to luxury hospitality.
- Tower Suites Reykjavik: Positioned high on the 20th floor of a prominent building, it offers panoramic views over the capital, with each suite providing a unique perspective of the city or the surrounding mountains.
Best Transport Options
Navigating Iceland is straightforward with several convenient transport options:
- Rental Cars: The most flexible option for exploring Iceland, especially for visiting the island’s more remote attractions.
- Buses: A reliable and affordable way to travel between cities and major tourist sites, although service can be infrequent in remote areas.
- Domestic Flights: An efficient way to travel between distant locations, with regular flights connecting Reykjavik to other parts of the island.
Currency Information
The currency used in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit cards are widely accepted, even for small transactions. ATMs are readily available in urban areas, but less so in remote parts of the country.
Finding the Best Flights on TravelZine Flight Comparison Site
To find the best flights to Iceland, utilise the TravelZine flight comparison tool:
- Compare multiple airlines: Look at various options to find the best deals.
- Flexible travel dates: Adjust your travel dates to find cheaper flights, especially if travelling in shoulder or off-peak seasons.
In conclusion, Iceland offers an array of experiences that range from exploring vast icy landscapes and enjoying rich cultural festivals to relaxing in geothermal springs and witnessing the magic of the aurora borealis. With its stunning natural beauty and unique geological phenomena, Iceland provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable journey filled with adventure and wonder. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your trip to Iceland will be filled with memorable experiences and breathtaking sights.
