The land of untouched nature, mountains, volcanoes, geysers and glaciers. The most beautiful scenery will pass you by during a journey through this special landscape. Sometimes an eruption of a volcano can partially shut down the aviation world in Europe. We experienced this in 2010. There is much to do and experience if you are a bit enterprising. Various excursions offer the opportunity to explore the islands in an original way. But there is also plenty to do here in terms of culture and science. Especially in places like Reykjavik there are several museums with many cultural and historical backgrounds. Check topmbadirectory for how to get to Iceland.
Top 10 Iceland Things to Do
#1. Reykjavik
The dynamic capital of Iceland has a diverse range of sights. There are many museums to visit such as the culture house, the art museum and the national museum. The beautiful and specially designed Hallgrimskirkja church with its 5275-counting pipes of the pipe organ attracts many visitors every year. But the city’s futuristic-looking hot water storage facility is also a real attraction. This is called the ‘Pearl’ and it is located on the Öskjuhlíð hill. Check simplyyellowpages for mass media and culture of Iceland.
#2. Snæfellsjökull National Park
In the west of Iceland lies this beautiful nature park with the ice-covered Snaefellsjökull volcano. The country’s newest national park covers an area of approximately 170 km². The trails with lava indicate that volcanic activity has taken place. The amount of lava has resulted in several caves and lava formations. There are also various archaeological remains to be seen, some of which are between 500 and 700 years old. Presumably from the first fisheries that took place there. It is recommended to traverse the area with a guide.
#3. Geysir in South Iceland
In the Haukadalur valley lies the most famous geyser in Iceland. During an eruption of this natural attraction, the boiling water can shoot up to 70 meters high into the air. Unfortunately it doesn’t happen that often anymore. The opening is about 18 meters wide. Geysir is often referred to as the ‘Golden Circle’ along with Þingvellir and Gullfoss. This is the most famous tourist route in the country.
#4. Westman Islands
It is sometimes said that if you have not seen the Westman Islands, you do not know Iceland. The fifteen islands are located about eleven kilometers off the southwest coast of Iceland. The largest island, Heimaey, is the only inhabited island of the group. On the island you will find many puffins and houses that have been built with great precision on steep rock walls. Since 1874, the island has been known among the youth for its Þjóðhátíð music festival, which often takes place in August and lasts from Friday to Monday.
#5. Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik
Thermal baths can be found in several locations in Iceland. Local people call them ‘the source of eternal youth’. Not entirely unjustified when you realize that the geothermal baths have special medicinal properties. For example, it is not only soothing for arthritis and rheumatism, it even heals various types of skin conditions. The thermal pools in Blue Lagoon are the most inviting, especially due to the unique environment. It is approximately 22 kilometers from Keflavik Airport.
#6. Northern
Lights Whoever travels to Iceland between September and April can witness the special natural phenomenon ‘northern lights’. This very special coloring of the sky (aurora borealis) has always caused a lot of interest. Several special routes are organized for this.
#7. Gullfoss
You will probably be deeply impressed by the fantastic waterfalls in Gullfoss. The gorge into which the water rumbles is 70 meters deep, 20 meters wide and about 2.5 kilometers long. Due to the drifting water, several rainbows can be seen in sunny weather. The waterfall is part of the ‘Golden Circle’, the most touristic route in Iceland to include Þingvellir and Geysir
#8. Dimmuborgir Rock Formations
The bizarrely shaped volcanic rocks in this nature reserve create a remarkable appearance. It seems as if you are walking here among the remains of an old and abandoned castle. The eruptions of about 3000 years ago caused the collapse of a lava roof and this created the special appearance. Similar lava formations have also been found at the bottom of the ocean off the coast of Mexico.
#9. Skaftafell National Park
This national park has been located in the south of Iceland between Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Höfn since 1967. The rugged landscape interspersed with glaciers and mountains has a magical attraction for many visitors to Iceland. Because there are no roads through the park, but only footpaths, it is an excellent place for walkers. There is also the possibility to camp. There are also organized walks with park rangers. More information can be found in the visitor center.
#10. Island of Grímsey
This small island in the north, about forty kilometers off the coast of Iceland, is named after its first inhabitant. It is the northernmost inhabited island of Iceland. Due to its amount of at least 60 species of birds that live there, it is a true paradise for bird watchers. The local inhabitants live mainly from fishing.