Iceland, known as the land of ice, fire and water, has become a must-visit destination, with growing popularity in recent years. From extended layover options to cheap flights from the United States and Europe, Iceland is a stunning place to visit in both the winter and summer. Iceland has amazing winter activities and of course, the infamous Northern Light, but since our visit was over the summer the recommendations below are geared towards a summer trip to Iceland!
1. The Hot Springs
The Blue Lagoon is certainly the most popular and well-known hot spring in Iceland. Close to the airport, the Blue Lagoon boasts warm waters, facial masks, and beverages all to be enjoyed in the lagoon! Reykjadalur, a natural hot spring river, is also accessible with a short drive from Reykjavik but requires a 45-90 minute hike, mostly uphill. The reward pays off with a natural hot spring river! Note: there are no changing facilities, just a wood screen to change behind.
2. The Midnight Sun
While visiting in the winter brings the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, the summer brings a new phenomenon- the Midnight Sun. If you visit in the summer months, it hardly ever gets dark if at all. Main benefit, endless hours of sight-seeing! You can start as early as you want and plan your sight-seeing itinerary until nearly 10pm. Luckily most accommodations provide blackout curtains to still get some rest.
3. Waterfalls
Iceland is home to some of the most amazing waterfalls. While you take a drive around the Ring Road, you can see most of these with just a quick turn off the road. Top waterfalls include Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Gullfoss.
4. Food
In a country where hunting and fishing used to be the sole source of food, Iceland has always been creative with their food. Beyond their classic, seafood, Iceland has some of the most delicious food. From Tomato Soup in a greenhouse, Pylsa (hot dog stand) in Reykivek to Kanilsnúðar (cinnamon pastries), there is no shortage of food to appease your taste buds.
5. Glaciers
Iceland has glaciers that are home to a wealth of activities. Hiking, climbing, and snow mobile riding are popular activities year round! Many movies have been filmed on Iceland’s “Hollywood” Glacier Svínafellsjökull (Interstellar and Batman Begins to name a few).
6. Thingvellir National Park
Beyond being a huge Game of Thrones filming location, Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site and is also where the European and North-American tectonic plates move apart from each other. You can even take a snorkeling tour in the fissures of the tectonic cracks!
Everlasting Traveler 