Visiting Iceland feels different from a typical European city break. The lack of trees and the stark, barren landscapes are unavoidable. It’s a place where much of the infrastructure is modern and efficient but your schedule is entirely at the mercy of the weather. Understanding this is key to enjoying a country that functions on its own terms.
Must-see highlights
While the entire country impresses, specific locations will leave you with an indelible appreciation of this volcanic island.
The Golden Circle
Most visitors start here, but you should look beyond the main car parks. At Gullfoss, thousands of tonnes of glacial water plunge into the canyon every second, creating a mist that soaks anyone getting too close.
Just six miles away is Strokkur, the main attraction of the Geysir geothermal area. Stand by as boiling water is sent towering 30 metres into the air. Closer to Reykjavik you can actually take a walk between the tectonic plates at Thingvellir to get a sense of the power of the continental drift shaping this land.
The south coast
The basalt columns that rise from the black sand at Reynisfjara beach will leave you in awe of nature. Further east, the Jokulsarlon lake is a surreal scene where blue icebergs break off the Vatnajokull glacier and drift toward the ocean. You might spot seals navigating the icy waters if you pause for long enough.
Reykjavik’s culture
There’s a surprisingly cosmopolitan atmosphere in downtown Reykjavik, where corrugated iron houses host world-class kitchens and design studios. Ascending the tower of the famous Hallgrimskirkja gives you a panoramic view of the colourful rooftops against the backdrop of the Esja mountain range.
Different ways to experience Iceland
How you traverse the landscape defines your understanding of it.
Self-driving the Ring Road lets you do your own thing, lingering wherever you wish. However, traversing gravel passes requires full concentration and confidence behind the wheel, especially when the weather turns.
For a greater appreciation of the island’s maritime heritage, an Iceland cruise circumnavigates the coastline to reveal deep fjords and remote fishing villages that can be inaccessible from the main highway. Watch puffins launch from cliffs while the ship glides through calm waters, removing the stress of mountain driving.
Alternatively, guided 4×4 tours allow you to access the highlands, where rivers cross the tracks and there’s always snow.
Tips for your trip
The weather can shift from sunshine to hail in minutes. A high-quality waterproof jacket will serve you better than an umbrella which the wind will make light work of.
Be sure to check road conditions and the latest traffic alerts regardless of the time of year, too.
Photo of Reykjavik by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels
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