Iceland is a place where you see nature in its full flourish. The Nordic island nation is full of scenic landscapes, majestic glaciers, geothermal springs, active volcanoes, geysers, and lava fields. The capital Reykjavik is a show stealer itself with a sea view and mountains surrounding it enhancing its beauty. The Land of Fire and Ice has all the features to qualify as the tourism capital of the world. Isolated from the rest of Europe, Iceland is unique in every way. The people here are very welcoming and traditional cuisine and unique culture makes Iceland stand apart. It is a dream destination for many travellers across the globe.
It is one of the few places in the world that look equally beautiful in the summers as well as the winters. The Northern Lights light up this beautiful island nation in the winter. We’re going to tell about 8 about best places to visit in Iceland
1. Reykjavik: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and nearly a third of the country’s population lives here. Whale-watching is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland and Reykjavik is the best place for the activity. The best time for whale-watching is during the summers. Apart from this, you can also enjoy watching these beasts while sitting on a ringside seat on boats. Bird watching is another popular thing to do in Reykjavik. Enjoying a meal in one of the small and rustic restaurants in the city is worth it.
2. Blue Lagoon, Grindavik: Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most popular and one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Iceland. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, it is just 40 minutes’ drive away from Reykjavik. Blue Lagoon is a manmade lake that is fed by superheated seawater that comes from nearby lava. The temperature of water here ranges between 37-39 degrees celsius and is highly beneficial for health and skin. The best way to reach here from Reykjavik is to take a day trip with an ATV.
3. The Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis: The northern lights add to the charm of Iceland. Apart from the Blue Lagoon, the Northern Lights is one such place in Iceland that you can’t miss. This is where you can witness nature in its full might. You can rent a room or hostel in Aurora Borealis and the operator there will inform you once the lights are visible as they are rare. The best place to stay here is the studios with transparent glass ceilings. It is advised to visit this place in the Winter as chances of seeing the light in Winter are more.
4. Skaftafell Ice Cave, Vatnajökull National Park: Located in South Iceland, Vatnajökull National Park is all about glaciers and ice. The ice caves here are the centre of attraction. The national park is divided into four sections. The Vatnajökull glacier surrounding the national park makes the view ethereal. Winter is the best time to visit the glaciers. People travelling in groups can try their hands at glacial trek which is an amazing activity to do for adventure junkies. You can get fresh and cold drinking water from small pools on the surface.
5. Dettifoss Waterfall: The 100 meter wide and 45-meter high waterfall in the north of Vatnajökull National Park is one of nature’s most powerful and beautiful creations. This is the most powerful waterfall in Europe and looking at it from the east side of River Jokulsa is a refreshing experience in itself. It is one of those places where you are stunned while looking at nature’s creativity so you just stand and watch in awe.
6. Kirkjufell Mountain, Grundarfjörður: Iceland is not just about glaciers and waterfalls. If you want to witness nature in its pure and untouched form, take a 2.5 hours drive from Reykjavik to reach the small town of Grundarfjörður. Lying on a narrow water body, the picturesque town has Mt. Kirkjufell guarding it. The place is full of several streams and waterfalls running through lush green valleys.
7. Husavik: Husavik is a tiny fishing village on the northern island. It is known as one of the best whale-watching spots in entire Europe. Minke, humpback, and blue whales can be easily spotted here. You can also see the extremely beautiful while-beaked dolphins here. The Whale Museum here showcases life-size skeletons and you can get to know about different types of whales in detail here. The wooden church of Husavik Kirkja is another famous place that you can visit in Husavik.
8. Landmannalaugar: Located 180 km south of Reykjavik, Landmannalaugar National Park is a nature reserve. The multihued rhyolite mountains here and the beautiful and heavenly landscapes here are some of the most important features of this natural escape. It is one of the most scenic hiking trails not only in Iceland but the entire world. It is situated at the edge of a lava field and also has some popular hot springs nearby. Taking a short hike through the lava field to climb up Mt. Blahnjukur is one of the most iconic things to do in Landmannalaugar.
