A convenient stopover from North America, Scandinavia, and Europe, Iceland is home to natural wonders, progressive culinary creations, and a buzzing nightlife in the nation’s capital.
The Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa
The Blue Lagoon is one of the world’s best-known spas. Naturally heated from underground lava flows located under the earth’s surface, the lagoon’s waters are not treated with chemicals with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 36 to 40 degrees C and is divided into several bathing areas. In-water massages and traditional spa treatments are also offered for a fee. The Blue Lagoon’s location makes it a convenient stop on the way to or from Reykavik’s Keflavik airport, and many tours depart daily from the airport and city centre.
Bæjarins Bestu- Iceland's Best Hot Dogs
Bæjarins Bestu literally mean’s “Town’s Best” and the name is definitely deserved. Icelanders love their hot dogs and no trip is complete without sampling this delicacy. 250 kr is the price for the highly recommended “one with everything.” Bæjarins Bestu Pylsur is located near ReykjavikBay, on the south of Pósthússtræti, but any local can point out the directions and the location is often included on maps in Reykjavik guidebooks.
Thingvellir Historic Site- Where Europe Meets North America
Þingvellir, or as it is commonly known in English, Thingvellir, is one of the premier historical, cultural and geographic destinations in all of Iceland. Thingvellir, which literally translates from Icelandic to mean “parliament meadows” is the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Thingvellir lies between the continental drift of the Eurasian and North American plates. The highly volcanic and tectonic region is in a state of constant movement as the continental plates continue to drift apart. The large cracks and valleys formed in the earth’s crust along the fault lines allow visitors to essentially travel between two continents in one location. Tours of the Golden Circle make stops here and is accessible via the Ring Road.
Gullfoss Waterfalls
Gullfoss or Golden Falls is a magnificent double cascading waterfall situated in a deep canyon on the Hivita River. Set in an astonishing crevice measuring 105 feet deep, 60 feet wide, and stretching 2.5 km southward, Gullfoss is one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. Viewing platforms and observation decks surround the waterfalls offering prime photo opportunities. A gift shop and cafeteria serving Icelandic delicacies can be found on site, and is a popular stop on South Shore tours.
Geysers- Geysir and Strokkur
The Haukadalur valley in South Iceland is a geothermically active region containing multitudes of geysers. The world’s oldest geyser, Geysir, can be found here, in a rough hewn natural viewing area along with several other active and inactive geysers and geothermically heated pools. Geysir- from which all other geysers are named- is one of the largest geysers on site, erupting hot water 60m into the air an average of three times per day. Erupting much more frequently than Geysir is Strokkur which will spew hot water into the air at an average of five minute intervals.
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier- Adventure Tours on Ice
Located in Southern Iceland, directly on top of the volcano Katla, Mýrdalsjökull glacier is perfect for adventure seekers and a great photo opportunity. Most SouthShore tour excursions include the chance to climb on the glacier and take photos. More in depth tours of the glacier including ice walks in search of blue ice, hiking, and snowmobiling trips can be booked separately through a number of adventure tour operators directly from Reykjavik.
Saturday Night Pub Crawl in Reykjavik
Act like a local and embark on an all night pub crawl along Reykjavik’s high street. Whether visiting in the middle of winter or in the near 24-hours of daylight summer brings, Icelanders know how to party. Hot spots including Kaffibarrin, the lounge-tcum-bar partly owned by former Blur/Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn, and numerous pubs, bars, and clubs, are open until the wee hours of the morning. Look for the trail of locals or listen to the thumping bass or live music coming from bar doors and windows, grab a drink of Icelandic Gull beer and enjoy the people watching.
Vidoy Island
Located in Reykjavik Bay, Vidoy island is a picturesque nature reserve and former Reykjavik settlement. Iceland’s second oldest chirch is located here on the island. Full of nature trails around the perimeter of the island, it is also possible to view the island on horseback. VidoyIsland is also home to the John Lennon Peace Memorial commissioned here by Yoko Ono. The round monument contains a spotlight which annually lights up the sky between Lennon’s brith and death dates (October 9 to December 8).
The Icelandic Horse: Horseback Riding
Smaller than an average horse, the Icelandic horse is an ideal riding horse with a unique gait helping it to overcome the country’s rugged terrain. All Icelandic horses are descended from the horses of the original Viking settlers in 874. Several tour companies offer horseback riding adventures including day-long riding tours which are often combined with hot spring excursions, countryside riding, highland tours, and round-up tours for gathering sheep.
Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon
Located on the South coast of Iceland, Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon is a natural marvel. Best viewed from the water, most tours include a boat cruise among the glaciers. Huge blocks of ice that have broken off Europes biggest glacier, Vatnajokull float around the lagoon. Accessible by the Ring Road, boat tours can be arranged upon reaching the lagoon, subject to seasonal availability.
Rachel West - Rachel resides in Toronto, Ontario and works as an Online Merchandiser for Entertainment, writing about the latest DVDs and CDs for a high ...
